SmartCarry Gun + Mag Holster Review

Gun + Mag Holster (image from the manufacturer's site)

Back in September 2023, I posted a link to a video review of a SmartCarry concealment holster. The producer of this video, Steve Clifford, echoed a common complaint of mine: that most concealment holster reviews involve people generally in extremely casual clothing--e.g., an untucked T-shirt--that made it much easier to conceal a weapon, but were unrealistic for an office environment. While the Suited Shootist covers concealment for those wearing standard business attire--a suit or jacked with a button up shirt and tie--Clifford's video intrigued me because he was wearing the same type of outfit that I generally wear to the office: pleated slacks and a polo or golf shirt. 

    However, life happens and I was generally content with my other concealed carry options, so I put off obtaining a SmartCarry system. But one of my son's gave me one a few months back and I finally got around to trying it out. I have to say that I wish I had started using this product years ago.

    SmartCarry offers a variety of styles, including certain models cut for women. But all of them can essentially be described a fanny pack type pouch with an elastic band or belt that goes around the waist or hips. It uses hook and loop fasteners to fasten the belt. They have different configurations: single gun (i.e., a pocket for the firearm only); the gun + mag model (shown above with a pocket for the firearm and a smaller pocket for a magazine or speed strip); the gun + mag + valuables (same as the gun + mag model with the addition of a secondary pocket at the waist line for carrying cash); and a double pocket model with side-by-side pockets each large enough for a firearm or bulkier items like wallets. 

    From what I can tell, the holsters are mostly set up for the right-handed shooter. That is, I don't see any specific left-handed options. A single pocket model would probably work, but if you are interested in carrying a firearm and a magazine, it looks like the best option would be the double pocket model, and simply carry the firearm in the left side pocket.

    In addition, they sell a Kydex type trigger guard that simply slides over the trigger guard of select models or makes of striker fired handguns. This can be purchased separately or already set up in a holster. 

    The holster is available in different colors, as well as a leather option. 

    Apparently the most popular model is the Gun + Mag holster, which is what I have, in the basic black.  Prices vary depending on the configuration and material. But the basic model I have sells for $62, not including any shipping costs or taxes. 

 

The front of the SmartCarry Gun + Mag Holster

    As you can see from the photograph above (or maybe not, since it is pretty dark), the holster features open top pockets and an attached belt that goes around your waist. At one end is a hook part of the hook and loop fasteners, and then there is a generous length of the loop portions to which it attaches, which makes it easy to adjust to your specific size. The end goes through the plastic loop, which allows you to cinch it down before securing it. The belt portion is also elastic, so it will stretch with you as move or sit, making it fairly comfortable.

The end of the belt fits through the plastic loop and then pull back to cinch the belt and secure it.

     The front of the SmartCarry holster is made of a fairly heavy duty nylon fabric as far as I can tell, but the back is of a different, smoother weave, which I assume was chosen to make it more comfortable to wear against your skin, should you choose to wear it that way.

Back of the SmartCarry Gun + Mag holster

     I have been using the holster for a couple weeks, wearing it 5 or 6 days out of the week to the office and at church on Sunday. The two handguns I have used with it are: (1) the S&W Model 638 (what used to be called the "Bodyguard") with a shrouded hammer and Ergo Delta grips; and (2) a Sig P238 semi-auto. When carrying the revolver, I keep a Bianchi speed strip in the magazine pocket with the tab up so I can easily pull it out; and with the Sig, I carry an extra magazine.

    The concealment with both weapons appears excellent when wearing the pleated pants. My wife claimed she could see a bit of printing of the holster because she was looking for it, and I've noticed that women seem a little more friendly when I've worn it, but I don't think anyone can tell it is a holster with a firearm. 

    It is also comfortable. The only issue I've had comfort-wise has nothing to do with the holster, but the more pokey bits of the Sig digging into my belly when seated. The revolver, however, is so comfortable that it is easy to forget that I'm even carrying it. 

     I learned quickly, when putting on the holster, that it is best if you put it on over the tucked-in part of your shirt or the shirt tails. This keeps the shirt from fouling access to the firearm, and incidentally helps keep your shirt tucked in. If you have adjusted the holster and don't wear saggy jeans, it and its belt should be covered from view even with it going over the bottom of the shirt.

    For men relieving themselves while standing up, it can be a little awkward because you will have to lift and push the holster a little to the side to get your "peter" out to urinate. But again, this shouldn't be a big deal if there are privacy shields between urinals; or use a closed stall. 

    The holster top is open, like a big pocket. I haven't had any issues with the firearm or the extra ammo working their way out while walking, but on one occasion when taking off the holster when changing into more casual clothes after work, I wasn't paying attention and inverted the holster, and the firearm fell out onto the floor. Just something of which to be aware.

    I've practiced a bit with drawing. The primary thing to remember is to pull your belt or waistline of your slacks forward with the off-hand to give plenty of room for your gun hand to insert into the top of your slacks, grip the firearm, and withdraw it. You probably could still dip in with the gun hand only, but using the other hand to assist will make it easier. 

     Overall, I'm pleased with the holster. It actually solves two of my concealed carry problems: something I can use with the business-casual clothing I normally wear at work, especially in warmer weather when I won't have a coat or other outer garment to assist with concealment; and with my suits, which I wear with just suspenders, and no belt.