Sneaky Pete Holsters

It’s been four years since Guns & Ammo’s editors first evaluated Sneaky Pete holsters. Since then, the company has expanded its offerings to include virtually any small and mid-­sized handgun as well as more material options, spare magazine pouches, belts and accessories.

Sneaky Pete holsters remain popular as a solution for those of us who may not live in an open-­carry state or are unable to dress around a concealed handgun for quick access. Regardless of weather or dress code, the Sneaky Pete holster allows us to hide a compact pistol or revolver in plain sight within a formal-­ or casual-­appearing pouch that looks more like a smartphone case, battery power pack or medical kit than a holster. In fact, Sneaky Pete even offers covert holsters with deceptive insignia and colors. Onlookers don’t give these a second glance.

Secured by rare earth magnets, the lid is quick and quiet to lift when the holster is attached to a belt. They can be ordered with either belt clips or double belt loops that accommodate belts measuring up to 13/4 inches wide.

60-­Day Carry

For this evaluation, a complimentary brown leather holster was ordered to carry a new Glock 42 in a Davidson’s exclusive Flat Dark Earth color. I also opted for a holster featuring dual belt loops rather than spring-­steel belt clips reviewed earlier. (There is no price difference.) Compared to G&A’s previous evaluation, the riveted belt loops enhanced security and improved the presentation of the firearm for each draw. With the belt loops, the holster can’t slide, come off or move along the belt, which is a distinct advantage that earns it our recommendation.

Unlike most leather goods, Sneaky Pete holsters don’t require a break-­in period. A custom polymer insert properly orients the handgun vertically for safe and easy access. The holster’s boxed-­in design perfectly traps the top of the handgun and the bottom of the grip or magazine. Establishing a full-­firing grip isn’t possible until two fingers remove the pistol well above the holster. Therefore, the shooter must establish a grip with the pistol removed, which slows the draw.

Due to the size of the pouch, the Sneaky Pete holster is most practically worn in front of the hip. (It could be positioned behind the hip while standing.) Though holsters are available for larger pistols such as a Glock 19 and Smith & Wesson M&P9, I would only recommend this product for carrying smaller pistols due to the size of the holster and unbalanced weight. A larger holster also attracts attention.

Sneaky Pete holsters are easy to live with. Models accommodating pistols equipped with lasers or lights are available. Though a handgun is slower to draw from when compared to a conventional holster, Sneaky Pete’s products are a comfortable and practical solution for everyday concealment outside the belt.