Is the Hype Real? Gunmate Black Inside The Pant Holster w/Reversible Belt Clip 21320 Reviewed
Concealed carry is a serious business, and finding the right holster is paramount. The Gunmate Black Inside The Pant Holster w/Reversible Belt Clip 21320 promises a blend of affordability and functionality for those seeking a discreet carry option. Designed by GunMate, it touts an ambidextrous design, synthetic construction, and compatibility with smaller frame firearms, making it a seemingly versatile choice.
My journey to find this holster began with a need for a minimalist solution. I’ve always preferred inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry for its concealment.
Upon unboxing, the Gunmate Black Inside The Pant Holster w/Reversible Belt Clip 21320 felt surprisingly lightweight. The synthetic material felt sturdy enough for its intended purpose, and the reversible belt clip seemed practical.
Compared to my usual leather IWB holster and a rigid Kydex option, the Gunmate felt less substantial. It was chosen for its affordability and the promise of ambidextrous compatibility.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. Could a holster at this price point actually deliver on its promises?
Real-World Testing: Putting Gunmate Black Inside The Pant Holster w/Reversible Belt Clip 21320 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Gunmate Black Inside The Pant Holster w/Reversible Belt Clip 21320 was at the local indoor shooting range. I carried a compact 9mm pistol.
The initial draw felt a bit stiff, requiring a deliberate tug to clear the firearm. I noticed a slight amount of movement from the holster during re-holstering.
The range environment was controlled and dry, so conditions were ideal. I did find myself adjusting the holster more than usual.
After the first few draws, I was concerned with the retention and overall comfort. The synthetic material, while lightweight, didn’t breathe well against the skin during extended wear.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of incorporating the Gunmate Black Inside The Pant Holster w/Reversible Belt Clip 21320 into my daily routine, my concerns solidified. The holster showed minimal signs of wear on the external surfaces.
The belt clip remained securely fastened, and the stitching held up despite constant use. However, the internal lining began to show some fraying.
Cleaning was simple – a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth. But the synthetic material retained a noticeable odor after prolonged contact with sweat.
Compared to my higher-end holsters, the Gunmate fell short in both comfort and reliability. It served a basic function but lacked the refined feel and consistent performance I expect from a dedicated carry system.
Breaking Down the Features of Gunmate Black Inside The Pant Holster w/Reversible Belt Clip 21320
Specifications
- The Gunmate Black Inside The Pant Holster w/Reversible Belt Clip 21320 is designed by GunMate. Its primary purpose is inside-the-waistband concealed carry.
- It comes in black, with a synthetic holster material and textured finish.
- It is ambidextrous. This makes it suitable for both right- and left-handed users.
- It accommodates firearms with a 2.5-inch barrel length. This limits its use to smaller, compact pistols.
- It is classified as a size 20 holster. This likely refers to a specific firearm compatibility chart within GunMate’s product line.
- It includes one holster and belt clip, packaged in a box. The belt clip is reversible.
These specifications indicate a budget-friendly holster designed for concealed carry of small-frame firearms. The ambidextrous design offers flexibility.
Performance & Functionality
The Gunmate Black Inside The Pant Holster w/Reversible Belt Clip 21320 functions adequately for basic concealment. Its lightweight nature makes it easy to carry, but it lacks retention.
The primary strength is its low cost and ambidextrous design. The weaknesses are its poor retention, uncomfortable material, and limited firearm compatibility.
The holster barely meets expectations. While functional, its drawbacks outweigh its benefits for serious concealed carriers.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price point. The synthetic materials are lightweight, but lack the durability and comfort of leather or Kydex.
It is relatively user-friendly, requiring minimal setup. The learning curve is almost nonexistent, but consistent draw and re-holstering practice is required due to retention issues.
Durability & Maintenance
The holster’s lifespan is questionable. It may endure daily use for a year or two, but the material’s tendency to fray limits its long-term viability.
Maintenance involves simple cleaning, making it easy to maintain. However, the material’s tendency to retain odors is a persistent issue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Gunmate Black Inside The Pant Holster w/Reversible Belt Clip 21320 includes only the holster and reversible belt clip. Customization options are nonexistent.
It is not explicitly designed for compatibility with aftermarket accessories, such as lights or lasers. Due to its generic design, compatibility with larger firearms or those with attachments is unlikely.
Pros and Cons of Gunmate Black Inside The Pant Holster w/Reversible Belt Clip 21320
Pros
- Low cost makes it an accessible option.
- Lightweight design enhances portability.
- Ambidextrous configuration provides flexibility for different users.
- Simple design requires no complex setup or adjustment.
- Decent concealment for smaller firearms.
Cons
- Poor retention creates safety concerns.
- Uncomfortable synthetic material causes irritation.
- Limited firearm compatibility restricts usage.
Who Should Buy Gunmate Black Inside The Pant Holster w/Reversible Belt Clip 21320?
Perfect for: Individuals seeking an extremely budget-friendly, temporary solution for carrying a small-frame firearm. Also, a good choice for those experimenting with IWB carry before investing in a higher-quality holster.
Who should skip this product? Anyone prioritizing comfort, security, and reliability in their concealed carry setup.
Must-have accessories or modifications? None. Its limited design and materials do not support customization or modifications.
Conclusion on Gunmate Black Inside The Pant Holster w/Reversible Belt Clip 21320
The Gunmate Black Inside The Pant Holster w/Reversible Belt Clip 21320 offers an affordable entry point into the world of concealed carry. However, its shortcomings in retention, comfort, and durability make it a less-than-ideal choice for serious users.
The value proposition is questionable. While the price is appealing, the sacrifices in quality and performance may not justify the cost savings in the long run.
Personally, I cannot recommend this holster for everyday carry. The safety concerns surrounding retention outweigh the convenience of its low price.
If you’re on an extremely tight budget and need a holster in a pinch, the Gunmate might suffice temporarily. But for serious concealed carry, investing in a higher-quality, purpose-built holster is a necessity.