Reviewing the Best DeSantis Holsters

The DeSantis slogan says it all: “We didn’t invent concealment, we just perfected it.” DeSantis Gunhide, more commonly known today as DeSantis Holster, can trace its roots back to 1972, when their founder first began making holsters by hand at his kitchen table. 38 years later they’ve become a leader in the industry not only for quality and durability but also due to their nearly unmatched innovation.

They’re the original creators of such widely-used styles as the “gunny sack” and have a line specifically made for women. When you think “holster,” think DeSantis.

They are well known for their pocket holsters and we’ll review the Nemesis, the Pocket Shot and the Super Fly below, before we get into their other top options.

 

The Best DeSantis Pocket Holsters

Pocket holsters are a must for concealed carry shooters with pocket pistols or other small-frame firearms capable of being tucked into a pocket. Simply putting a firearm into your pocket loose is not only potentially dangerous but leads to printing, uncontrolled shifting, and lint and other debris collecting in your gun’s barrel. DeSantis has nearly a dozen styles to keep your pocket pistol concealed and correctly positioned for a quick draw.

 

1. DeSantis Nemesis Pocket Holster

Desantis Ambi Nemesis Holster - N38BJ
  • The Nemesis has revolutionized pocket holsters
  • This pocket holster absolutely will not move out of position in your pocket
  • The inside is made of a slick pack cloth for a no-friction draw, and the core has just the right
  • Ambidextrous
  • Made in USA

Dimensions: 5.4”x8.7”x1” and weight: (shipping) 10.1 ounces

DeSantis NemesisThe DeSantis Nemesis is a fantastic option for concealed carrying your pocket pistol. Whereas many pocket holsters made by other companies utilize only a narrow non-slip strip, the Nemesis’ entire exterior is made of an incredibly tough, tacky-to-the-touch material.

Inside is slick pack cloth for an easy draw, and the combination of the materials means you’re going to draw your gun, not the holster.

When you carry with this holster, you can be assured it isn’t going anywhere; it literally stays in place as though it was glued there. An internal foam layer not only firms up the entire holster but also masks what it is to make printing concerns a thing of the past.

Shape is also an important feature, and the Nemesis’ “L” shape ensures it fits the existing outline of your pocket, allowing for even greater security. Best of all, the Nemesis fits a variety of firearms: DeSantis lists almost 2 dozen manufacturers and more than 100 models: from Beretta to Glock to Walther, they’ve got your pocket pistol concealed.

The original Nemesis is joined by the Ammo Nemesis and Cargo Nemesis, both of which include an extra pocket for a spare mag, while the Cargo is meant for cargo pants’ pockets. Overall, a superior pocket holster with serious versatility and an everlasting grip.

Cons: There is a break-in period for this holster due to its stiff, thick design, but that’s more of a pro, because it means this is one tough holster that will fit your specific gun even better.

Fits the following firearms (amongst others):
– Keltec P3AT, PF9, P11
– Beretta 9000s, 84, 85, 85F
– Ruger LCP, LC9 Nano Gun, SR9C, LCR/SP101
– Taurus TCP, 85 2-Inch, 709 Slim
– Sig P238, Colt Pony, Colt Detective Special 2-Inch, Mustang
– Kahr PM9, PM40, MK9, MK40
– Glock 17, 26, 27, Diamondback DB9
– 2.75″” S&W Bodyguard .380, S&W J-Frame/Bodyguard .38 Special, M&p 9/40 Compact and Shield,
– HK P2000, Springfield EMP
– Walther PPS, PK380

 

2. DeSantis Pocket Shot

Weight: 3 ounces

DeSantis Pocket ShotThe DeSantis Pocket Shot is just what you need if you want to shave what could be a potentially life-saving handful of seconds off your draw time.

It’s a truly unique design, rectangular in shape with an open space over the trigger and a large circle punched through so you can insert a finger for a more secure hold.

The holster itself is made of good-quality leather and has heavy-duty stitching for durability. Your firearm sits in the Pocket Shot with the grip inserted and the slide exposed for free movement, because the genius behind this DeSantis pocket holster is that you don’t need to remove your gun from it in order to fire.

It rests in your pocket easily, the sturdy leather giving it the appearance of a wallet or cell phone to anyone who cares enough to stare at your pocket. Should the need arise, you simply draw the entire thing from your pocket, take aim, and shoot.

That’s right, with the Pocket Shot you can fire your gun while it’s still holstered. It’s ambidextrous and currently is made for half a dozen manufacturers and a dozen models. When seconds count, you want a DeSantis Pocket Shot.

Cons: This holster is illegal in the state of California.

Fits the following firearms:
– Colt: Pocket Lite, Mustang, Pony
– Kahr: P380, PM40, PM9
– Kimber: Solo
– Ruger: LCP 380, LC380 W/CT LG-431
– SIG Sauer: P238, P238 Equinox
– Smith &Wesson: Bodyguard 380

 

3. DeSantis Super Fly

Dimensions: 5”x 6”x”2” and weight: (shipping) 16 ounces

DeSantis Super FlyThe DeSantis Super Fly is a pocket holster that doesn’t just sit tight in your pocket, it hangs on like there’s no tomorrow. DeSantis created it as a cousin to the Nemesis, and it is a terrific pocket holster in its own right.

The Super Fly is made of a material with even more grip than the Nemesis; the exterior is a super-sticky, rubberized substance with a viscous quality that lends it fantastic hold. Not unlike the winged insect it’s named for, it clings to the user’s pocket whatever angle you may be at, meaning it won’t slide free just because you sit down or lean back.

When DeSantis says secure, they mean it. The interior has the same slick pack cloth the Nemesis has, giving it a low-friction draw for speed and efficiency of time. The edges are double-stitched for durability. This is a thick holster, which is good because it prevents printing, and it has an extra feature: a removable flap that attaches with Velcro to cover the entire profile for increased concealment.

This incredibly gripping material won’t slip, so you can draw your firearm from its hiding place without fear of the holster coming along for the ride. This is a great choice if you want an extra-sticky pocket holster with optional increased concealment.

Cons: This is a bulkier pocket holster than the company’s Nemesis design, especially when you add the concealment flap. However, the added bulk can offer better concealment for certain guns and even some pants, and it absolutely has fantastic grip.

Fits the following firearms:
– Ruger LCP, LC9, LCR, SR9C, SP101, Keltec P3AT, P32
– S&W Bodyguard 380, M&P Compact and Shield, J-Frame
– Glock 26, 27, 33
– HK P2000, Kahr K9, K40, MK9, MK40, P9, PM9, PM40, P380
– Sig P238, P290
– Colt Pony/Mustang, Kimber Solo
– Springfield XDS 3.3″
– Beretta 84, 950, Minx, 21A, Bersa Thunder 380

 

The Best DeSantis Holsters

DeSantis has many options for gun owners who are particular to the DeSantis’ lineup of holsters. They are all made in the USA and you can choose from many types — belt holster, IWB holster, thigh holster, ankle or shoulder rig — all made with comfort, style, and safety in mind.

 

1. DeSantis Cozy Partner

Weight: (shipping) 16 ounces

DeSantis Cozy PartnerThe DeSantis Cozy Partner is a top-tier IWB (Inside the WaistBand) holster. It’s made of thick, quality leather with heavy-duty stitching throughout and double stitching for reinforcement at pressure points.

The shield at the back side of the holster, which touches the wearer’s body, made of extra-thick leather, which helps to keep the mouth of the holster open and away from clothing, allowing for a quicker, unhindered draw. It also has a memory band for improved shape retention, which assists in faster re-holstering.

The Cozy Partner IWB holster has a split belt loop, meaning there are two separate, narrow loops to hold it firmly in place on your belt. The loops are made for a 1 ¾” belt; this holster has to be worn with a belt and doesn’t come in other widths. The belt loops have snap-top closures which are intentionally directional so they won’t come undone on accident. This is a high-quality leather IWB holster with precision molding so it fits your handgun specifically.

Cons: The thickness of the leather shield that helps to keep clothing out of the way is uncomfortable for some users, however, although the rigidity may take some getting used to, it’s worthwhile because that feature helps to ensure a safe, clean draw.

Fits the following firearms:
– S&W M&P Shield, S&W J-Frame, Cs40/45,990L,M&P Cpt 3 1/2″, Bodyguard 380
– Springfield Xds 45, 3-Inch XD9, XD40
– Kahr PM9/40/45/1911 3-Inch
– Ruger LC9
– Sig Sauer P220, P238, P290
– Glock 17, 26, 27, 29, 30, 33, 39, 42
– Beretta 9000S
– Taurus PT85

 

2. DeSantis SOF-TUCK

Dimensions: 5.4”x 8.7”x 1” and weight: 3 ounces

DeSantis SOF-TUCKThe DeSantis SOF-TUCK is a versatile IWB holster, so you can have just one holster for a variety of cants rather than needing several to suit the day and need.

And, as the name implies, it is tuckable holster, meaning you can tuck your shirt around it. It’s made of high-quality suede, so it’s amazingly soft, which makes for significantly more comfortable carry.

And because it’s non-slip, it won’t slide around once you position it. At the top of the holster is a wide strip of premium saddle leather, which both reinforces the mouth for durability and also aids in keeping it open for easier re-holstering.

And speaking of positions, the SOF-TUCK can be worn strong side, cross-draw, and at the small of the back. The metal clip affixes it securely to your waistband and, as mentioned above, rotates slightly, allowing for an adjustable cant. Not only is that great for personal preference but it also adjusts as needed according to different styles of clothing.

This also comes in additional styles: Mattress-TUK, Flex-TUK, and Pocket-TUK. If you’re in the market for a tuckable IWB holster, and you want one that is both impressively versatile and exceedingly comfortable, you’ve found it.

Cons: The added thickness at the mouth of the holster may seem unnecessary and uncomfortable, but it simply takes getting used to, and it’s worthwhile because it does make re-holstering a far smoother motion.

Fits the following firearms:
– S&W Shield, M&P Compact, S&W J-Frame, Bodyguard .380
– Ruger SR9C, LCR, LC9, LCP
– Glock 19, 23, 26, 27, 36
– Walther PPS, PK380
– Sig Sauer P220, P226, P229, P238, P239
– Springfield XD9, 40, XDM3.8, XD 3-Inch
– Kahr PM9/40, 45, Keltec P11, P3AT
– Colt Pony/Pocketlite/Mustang, Kimber Solo
– H and K P2000SK, 1911 with 3-Inch Barrel

 

3. DeSantis Intruder

INTRUDER Desantis Inside The Waistband (IWB) Holster – Glock 17, 19, 22, 23, 26, 27 and 36
  • IWB Holster
  • Right Hand Draw
  • Lightweight & Concealable
  • Fabricated from high quality leather & kydex
  • Made in the USA!

Weight: 8 ounces

The DeSantis Intruder is an exceptionally bold, tough tuckable IWB holster that provides a level of security not often seen in the world of IWB holsters. This holster boasts just about every feature you could possibly want for concealed carry, and all in one attractive-yet-sturdy package.

The back is made of top-grainDeSantis Intruder premium steer-hide, so it’s rigid enough to provide reliable support but has enough flex to shape to your body.

The front has leather with a special, high-quality polyurethane film to extend its life, resists wear and tear, and maintain its beauty, because this really is a beautiful holster.

The actual holster component that holds your gun doesn’t just hold on, it grips with the kind of custom molding only Kydex can offer. Kydex is a unique formula of thermoplastic acrylic-polyvinyl chloride that is heated to take the shape of your specific firearm for superior security and impressive durability.

The Intruder has two wide metal belt clips that hook over your waistband with not one but two innovative features: a carefully-modulated rotation for adjustable cant and adjustable height. That’s right, not only can you alter the cant of the Intruder, you can adjust the height as needed. If that isn’t impressive, we don’t know what is. This holster has a tendency to exceed expectations and allows you to conceal not only compact but full-frame firearms.

Cons: This is a bulky holster, however, it is still highly concealable and surprisingly comfortable and can be used by both small and large shooters.

Fits the following firearms:
– Glock 17, 19, 22, 23, 26, 27, 42
– S&W M&P Shield 9/40, Bodygaurd 380
– Kimber Solo, Springfield XDS 3.3″
– 1911 3.5″, 4-5″
– Sig Sauer P226, P229
– Ruger LCP, LCR, LC9

 

4. DeSantis Speed Scabbard

DeSantis Speed Scabbard Holster Fits Shield Right Hand
  • Speed Scabbard Holster
  • Fits SW Shield
  • Black in color

DeSantis Speed ScabbardThe Speed Scabbard by Desantis is well-designed and well-built leather holster developed to bridge the gap for concealed carry professionals who would rather carry a holster without a thumb break, but at the same time, also offering firearm retention.

There’s is an included adjustment screw that helps modify the holding tension on the firearm. The belt slots are approximately 1.75″ wide. This holster model fits a variety of handguns.

 

5. DeSantis Pro Stealth

Desantis Ambi Pro Stealth Holster - N87BJ
  • The Pro Stealth holster is made of premium padded ballistic nylon
  • The 1-3/4 sturdy power coated black spring clip keeps this beauty securely anchored to your belt
  • A spare magazine pouch is standard for the auto loader models and they are ambidextrous
  • The clip may be removed and inserted on opposite side for left hand carry
  • Made in USA

DeSantis Pro StealthThe DeSantis Pro Stealth is an ideal starting holster for gun owners who are just getting into concealed carry. Made with premium padded ballistic nylon, the Pro Stealth offers unparalleled comfort.

Included is 1.75″ strong black spring clips that can be placed on either side of the holster fastened to your belt, perfect for carrying on the left or right side. Any auto loading models included a spare magazine holder that is adjacent to the holster.

Fits the following firearms:
– Glock 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 36, 37
– S&W M&P Compact, M&P 9/40/45c, Bodyguard .380
– Sig Sauer P220, P226, P229R, P230, P232, P238, P239, P250SC, P224
– Walther PPS, PK380, PPK, PPKS
– Beretta 84, 85, 9000s, Cougar, Bersa Thunder 380
– HK P2000, P200SK, HK USP, USP Compact
– Springfield XD4-Inch/XDM3.8-Inch, XDM45
– Ruger SR9, LCP, LC9
– Walther P99, Diamondback DB380
– KAHR P380/Keltec P3AT, PM9, PM40

Take a look at the following DeSantis ankle holster to see if it’s a good fit for you.

 

The Bottom Line

DeSantis carries a full line of firearms to suit every need you could possibly have as a firearm owner. They take care to produce high-quality holsters and even offer customizable options. The company is now in its second generation of management. The DeSantis name is truly synonymous with reliability, and that’s a quality you can’t get too much of in the firearms industry.