Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster Review

What I Wish I Knew Before Buying the Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster

For years, I’ve been carrying various firearms, and the one constant struggle has always been finding the perfect holster. The Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster caught my eye with its promise of comfortable, concealed carry at a reasonable price. Made by Rounded, it boasted features like adjustable cant, click retention, and a full sweat guard, all crafted from Kydex.

I was on the hunt for a slim, reliable IWB (Inside the Waistband) holster that wouldn’t break the bank. My existing leather holster was comfortable but lacked retention, and the hybrid holster I tried was bulky and uncomfortable. I wanted something that offered a secure fit, easy draw, and all-day comfort, and this Kydex holster seemed like it might be the answer.

Upon unboxing, the holster felt lightweight and rigid, a good sign for Kydex. The molded shape looked precise, and the edges were smooth, suggesting decent quality. The Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster was noticeably thinner than my previous hybrid holster and seemed much more concealable.

I considered a similar Kydex holster from a competitor, but the Rounded model was more affordable and had better reviews regarding its retention system. Another option was a more expensive, custom-molded holster, but I wasn’t ready to commit to that price point without trying something more budget-friendly first. The Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster appeared to offer a good balance of features and price, so I pulled the trigger.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The holster seemed well-made for the price, but I was eager to see how it performed in real-world carry. Would it be comfortable? Would the retention be secure? These were the questions looming in my mind.

Real-World Testing: Putting Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test run with the Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster was at the local shooting range. I wore it during several hours of practice drills, focusing on drawing and re-holstering. The weather was dry and mild, ideal for assessing the holster’s basic functionality.

The initial draw felt smooth and consistent, and the “Posi-Click” retention system gave me confidence that the firearm was secure. There were no immediate issues, but the holster did take some getting used to. I needed to adjust my belt and find the optimal position for comfortable carry.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of using the Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster in various scenarios, I have a better understanding of its performance. I’ve carried it during everyday activities like running errands, as well as during longer periods of outdoor activity such as hiking. The holster has held up reasonably well.

There are some minor scuff marks on the Kydex, but no major signs of wear or cracking. The belt clip remains secure, and the retention system still functions as intended. Compared to my experiences with other budget holsters, the Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster has proven to be surprisingly durable, though definitely not the most durable I’ve used.

Maintenance is simple: I occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove sweat and debris. Overall, I’m satisfied with its reliability for the price.

Breaking Down the Features of Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Rounded
• Gun Make: Smith & Wesson
• Holster Material: .08 Kydex
• Holster Type: Inside the Waistband Holster
• Quantity: 1
• Accessory Attachment System: Belt Loop
• Finish: Kydex
• Belt Loop/Snap Width: 1.5 in
• Attachment Type: Belt Loop/Slot

The holster is constructed from .08 Kydex, providing a rigid and durable shell for secure carry. The 1.5-inch belt loop accommodates standard belts, ensuring compatibility with most EDC (Everyday Carry) setups. These specifications are crucial because they define the holster’s robustness, compatibility, and overall suitability for concealed carry.

Performance & Functionality

The Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster performs its primary function reasonably well, providing secure retention and a relatively smooth draw. The adjustable cant allows for fine-tuning the carry angle for optimal comfort and concealment. However, the Kydex material can be slightly abrasive against the skin, particularly during extended use.

The holster’s biggest strength is its secure retention, thanks to the adjustable ‘Posi-Click’ system. A notable weakness is the lack of padding or extra comfort features, which can lead to discomfort during prolonged wear. Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly Kydex holster, but it doesn’t exceed them.

Design & Ergonomics

The Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster has a minimalist design, prioritizing functionality over aesthetics. The build quality is acceptable for the price, with smooth edges and a well-molded shape. The holster’s lightweight design contributes to comfortable carry, but the lack of padding can be a drawback.

The user-friendliness is good; the holster requires minimal setup and is easy to use. However, finding the optimal carry position and cant angle may take some experimentation.

Durability & Maintenance

The .08 Kydex construction should provide reasonable durability for everyday carry. However, Kydex can be prone to cracking under extreme stress or impact. Maintaining the holster is straightforward; simply wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.

The holster should last for several years with proper care, although the belt clip may eventually need replacement.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster doesn’t come with any included accessories beyond the standard belt clip. Customization options are limited to adjusting the cant and retention. The over-cut open face can accommodate threaded barrels but may not be ideal for all barrel lengths.

It is compatible with most 1.5-inch belts, but beyond that, there are few ways to modify or accessorize the holster. The lack of accessory options might be a drawback for users who prefer to customize their gear extensively.

Pros and Cons of Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster

Who Should Buy Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster?

The Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster is perfect for budget-conscious individuals seeking a reliable and concealable IWB holster for their Smith & Wesson firearm. It’s well-suited for everyday carry and occasional range use. It can work well for new gun owners who want to try IWB carry without a large initial investment.

Those who prioritize maximum comfort, extensive customization options, or extreme durability should skip this product. Individuals who require a holster for heavy-duty use or demanding environments might consider a higher-end option.

Must-have accessories include a high-quality 1.5-inch belt for secure and comfortable carry.

Conclusion on Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster

The Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster is a decent option for those seeking an affordable and functional IWB holster. While it lacks some of the premium features found on higher-end models, it provides a secure fit, adjustable cant, and reasonable durability for the price. The value proposition is good.

I would personally recommend it to individuals who are new to concealed carry or those who are on a tight budget. If you’re looking for a no-frills, reliable Kydex holster for your Smith & Wesson, the Rounded Smith & Wesson IWB KYDEX Holster is worth considering. Try it out, and experience the balance of affordability and functionality for yourself.