The DeSantis Nemesis is a synthetic pocket holster designed for a wide number of concealed carry firearms. I’ll save you from the suspense: the Nemesis is an excellent holster that is also inexpensive, making it a great value.
I previously reviewed the Nemesis in August of 2009, but did not realize at the time that the Nemesis had undergone a few design changes to fix the problems I identified in that review. I had the original-style Nemesis, but DeSantis released a new version of the holster a few months before I wrote my review.
In May, Gene DeSantis sent me a note letting me know the company updated the Nemesis. He was kind enough to send me a current sample of the Nemesis for review, and I am happy to say that the holster meets all of my expectations.
The Basics
As in the original review, I carried a Smith & Wesson 642 revolver in the Nemesis holster. Due to it’s ‘hammerless’ design, the 642 is one of the most popular handguns for pocket carry. I carried the 642 in the Nemesis for more than four weeks, conducting regular dry fire drills in addition to CCW duties.
Like the original Nemesis, the pocket holster is designed with a ‘grippy’ neoprene exterior. The neoprene acts to increase friction to hold the holster in place while in the pocket. This helps hold the gun in a stable position, rather than shifting around as you move throughout the day. Also, the neoprene helps keep the holster in the pocket when you draw the handgun.
The interior of the holster is slick, allowing for a smooth draw. The interior did not mar or blemish the surfaces of my revolver.
The padding in the new Nemesis seems to be slightly thicker than in the older style. While I thought the original did a good job in breaking up the ‘print’ of the revolver, the new version seems even better. In cargo pants or Dockers, the gun disappears. In something slightly tighter, like blue jeans, the bulk of the gun may be noticeable, but the outline is sufficiently broken up to conceal the nature of the pocket’s contents.
The quality of the workmanship is top notch. The original Nemesis I purchased from a local dealer, while the new one was sent to me from the factory. Both showed the same high-quality level of double stitching and finish. I could not find any problems with the construction of the holsters.
One huge advantage the Nemesis has over its more expensive, leather competitors is the ability to switch between pockets. When I carry only the J-frame Smith, it rides in my strong side pocket. But, when I add my Glock 19 in an IWB holster, I move the Smith and Nemesis to my reaction side. This allows both hands to have immediate access to a firearm. The great thing about the Nemesis is it instantly adapts to the change.
Prior Problems Fixed
In my original review, I identified two specific issues I experienced with the Nemesis. The first was the holster tended to come out of the pocket during a draw, and the second was I had problems obtaining a full grip on the gun while it was in the Nemesis. I was pleased to find both of these problems were solved.
With the new model Nemesis, I did not have a single incident of the holster coming out of the pocket while drawing the firearm. It appears DeSantis made the Nemesis slightly wider, giving the holster a critical size increase to ensure it grips the pocket and stays there.
I was also able to obtain the proper grip each time I drew the holster from the new version Nemesis. There appears to be a slight (and I mean very slight) difference in the cut around the mouth of the holster. It seems crazy that this minor change would make any difference, but, for me, it really did.
Final Verdict
The DeSantis Nemesis is a lightweight, comfortable pocket holster that works very well. It holds your gun in place, and doesn’t come out with the gun during a draw. It does a very good job at concealing your firearm. Add to the mix that it is extremely afforable, and the new model Nemesis is a winner.
If you need a pocket holster, give the Nemesis a look. It is worth every penny.
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Essential information on concealed carry. This book has just the basics - not a lot of fluff to get bogged down in. Easy to read, Surviving the Street introduces the reader to the important information you need as an armed citizen.
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Is there a DeSantis Nemesis for the new Ruger LC9. If there is, what is the model number. Does this material cause any moisture to the gun while sweating in the summertime or in the rain. Does it cause any tears to the pants pocket and block foreign debris from the gun. What’s the cost. And what is your 800 phone number.
Thank You,
Mike
Hi Mike,
I don’t know if DeSantis makes a Nemesis for the LC9 yet, but I’m sure they will. I’ve never had any problems with sweat, but obviously being out in the rain the gun can get wet as in any holster. The holster does not ruin, tear, or damage your pants.
Give them a call at: (800) 424-1236. I’m sure they would be happy to help you out with a LC9 holster.
-Richard
Richard, Thank You
I have tried a number of pocket holsters for my BodyGuard .380 and none of them compare to the Nemesis. It’s the perfect pocket holster for that gun. In fact, the gun never leaves that holster whether it’s in my pocket or not.