BlackHawk Leather Check-Six Holster for S&W M&P 9/40: In-Depth Review

In the vast landscape of personal defense and firearm carry, the quest for the ideal holster often leads enthusiasts and professionals alike through a maze of options. Comfort, concealment, and quick access are paramount, especially when carrying a full-sized handgun like the S&W M&P 9/40. For those who demand a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern functionality, the BlackHawk Leather Check-Six Holster emerges as a compelling solution, meticulously engineered to address the critical needs of everyday carry, tactical readiness, and seamless multi-weapon integration.

This premium leather holster is specifically designed for the discerning individual who prioritizes discreet carry without compromising on the ability to draw swiftly and effectively. It’s an answer to the common user question: "What is the best leather holster for my S&W M&P 9/40 that offers both comfort and deep concealment?" By understanding the unique challenges of carrying a firearm day in and day out, BlackHawk has crafted a holster that not only holds your handgun securely but becomes an extension of your body, minimizing its presence while maximizing its accessibility. Whether you're a civilian carrying for personal protection, an off-duty law enforcement officer, or a professional who requires a reliable secondary weapon solution, the Check-Six Holster from BlackHawk, available through reputable retailers like DEGuns, sets a new standard.

Unparalleled Comfort for All-Day Wear

One of the most frequent dilemmas for firearm owners is finding a holster that remains comfortable for extended periods. Many holsters chafe, dig in, or create pressure points, leading to discomfort and an increased likelihood of leaving the firearm at home. The BlackHawk Leather Check-Six Holster directly addresses this with its thoughtful design elements, making it an excellent choice for daily carry. The holster features high-quality, contour double-stitched leather. This isn't merely an aesthetic choice; the double-stitching significantly enhances the holster's durability and ensures it maintains its shape even after years of use. The natural contouring of the leather is designed to mold to the wearer's body over time, providing a custom-like fit that distributes the firearm's weight evenly, preventing hot spots and discomfort.

• Ergonomic Contour: The meticulous shaping of the leather allows the holster to naturally hug the curve of your waist, integrating seamlessly with your body's natural lines. This reduces the bulk often associated with outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters.
• Flat Holster Back: A crucial comfort feature, the flat holster back protects the body from sharp edges of the firearm. This thoughtful design prevents the slide, sights, or beavertail of your S&W M&P 9/40 from digging into your side, ensuring a smooth, comfortable interface between the weapon and your body, even during prolonged wear or active movement.
• Premium Leather Construction: Crafted from high-grade leather, this holster offers a supple feel against the skin while remaining rigid enough to facilitate re-holstering. Leather also boasts natural breathability, which can be a significant advantage in various climates compared to synthetic materials.

Superior Concealment: The Check-Six Advantage

For many, the primary objective of carrying a firearm is concealed protection. The question "How can I achieve deep concealment with a full-size handgun?" is a common one. The BlackHawk Leather Check-Six Holster excels in this area, living up to its "low profile design" promise. Its engineering is specifically geared toward minimizing the firearm's footprint, making it virtually disappear under a typical covering garment. This makes it an optimal solution for professionals and civilians who require discretion without sacrificing accessibility.

• Dual Belt Slots: These strategically placed slots are critical to the holster's exceptional concealment. They pull the gun incredibly tight to your body, reducing the "printing" effect that occurs when the outline of the firearm is visible through clothing. The tighter the firearm is held, the less likely it is to print, even with lighter jackets or untucked shirts.
• Low Profile Design: Beyond the belt slots, the overall slimness and careful molding of the holster contribute to its low profile. It's designed to add minimal bulk, allowing for a more natural drape of clothing over the firearm. This is particularly beneficial for those who dress in business casual attire or who simply prefer not to wear bulky outer layers.
• Optimized Position: The "Check-Six" name itself suggests a position that is slightly behind the hip, which naturally aids in concealment. This placement, combined with the holster's design, allows the firearm to ride high and tight, making it extremely difficult to detect. Even when the covering garment is open, the holster's cut and placement work in unison to keep your S&W M&P 9/40 out of sight.

Optimized for Speed and Accessibility

Beyond comfort and concealment, the ability to draw your firearm quickly and cleanly is paramount in a defensive situation. Users often ask, "What features ensure a fast and reliable draw from a leather holster?" The BlackHawk Leather Check-Six Holster incorporates several intelligent design features that contribute to its "speed" capability, ensuring that your S&W M&P 9/40 is ready when you need it most.

• Combat Grip from the Start: The holster's cut is specifically engineered to allow for an immediate and full combat grip on your S&W M&P 9/40 while the firearm is still holstered. This means your hand can wrap around the grip perfectly before you even begin to draw, eliminating fumbling and shaving critical seconds off your draw time. This is a significant advantage in high-stress scenarios where every fraction of a second counts.
• Molded Sight Track: The precise molding around the sight channel ensures that the front and rear sights of your M&P 9/40 clear the holster without snagging or dragging. This smooth, unobstructed path is essential for a clean, consistent draw and prevents wear or damage to your firearm's sights over time.
• Adjustable Tension Screw: Retention is key for safety and security. The adjustable tension screw allows you to customize the level of friction holding your S&W M&P 9/40 in place. You can tighten it for maximum retention, perhaps during active movement, or loosen it slightly for a faster, smoother draw. This personalized retention ensures your firearm is secure but accessible, tailored precisely to your preferences and operational needs.

Seamless Integration with Primary Weapons

For professionals, hunters, or tactical enthusiasts who frequently operate with a long gun as their primary weapon, the question of "Which handgun holster won't interfere with my rifle sling or gear?" is a critical consideration. The BlackHawk Leather Check-Six Holster addresses this specific operational requirement with remarkable foresight. Its strategic positioning is meticulously chosen to ensure it complements, rather than impedes, the deployment and manipulation of a long gun.

When employing a carbine, shotgun, or rifle, the positioning of your secondary handgun is crucial. A poorly placed holster can snag on slings, interfere with magazine changes, or obstruct proper shooting stances. The Check-Six Holster's design prevents these issues:

• Optimized Handgun Position: The holster's placement, typically behind the strong-side hip, keeps the handgun clear of a chest rig, plate carrier, or backpack straps. More importantly, it ensures that your primary long gun's sling (two-point or single-point) can rest naturally without pressing against the handgun or causing the holster to shift.
• Unrestricted Movement: During dynamic movements, such as transitioning between primary and secondary weapons, moving through obstacles, or assuming various shooting positions, the Check-Six ensures your handgun remains secure and accessible without getting in the way. This is vital for maintaining fluid operations and reducing potential snags or hang-ups that could compromise safety or effectiveness.
• Enhanced Versatility: This feature makes the BlackHawk Leather Check-Six Holster an invaluable asset for multi-gun training scenarios, tactical operations, or even hunting trips where both a rifle and a handgun are carried. It allows for quick, unencumbered transitions, ensuring that your secondary weapon is always available as a backup or for close-quarters engagements.

Craftsmanship and Durability: The BlackHawk Standard

When investing in personal defense equipment, durability and reliability are paramount. The BlackHawk brand is synonymous with high-quality tactical gear, and the Leather Check-Six Holster is no exception. It's built to withstand the rigors of daily use and harsh environments, offering a long service life. The choice of premium leather, coupled with robust construction techniques, ensures this holster will serve you faithfully for years.

• Longevity of Leather: Unlike some synthetic materials that can become brittle or lose shape over time, high-quality leather develops a unique patina and molds even further to your firearm and body with continued use. This creates a truly custom fit that improves with age.
• Reinforced Stitching: The double-stitching is not just for comfort; it provides superior strength at stress points, preventing rips or tears that can occur with lesser quality holsters. This attention to detail ensures the holster maintains its structural integrity through countless draws and re-holsters.
• Material Resiliency: The robust nature of the leather means it can resist abrasions, minor impacts, and the general wear and tear of being an everyday carry item. Proper care, such as occasional conditioning, will further extend its lifespan, making it a sustainable choice for your S&W M&P 9/40.

Who Benefits Most from the BlackHawk Check-Six Holster?

This holster is designed for a diverse range of individuals who demand excellence in their carry solution. If you've ever wondered, "Is this holster right for my lifestyle or profession?", consider these scenarios:

• Everyday Carry (EDC) Enthusiasts: For those who carry daily, comfort and concealment are non-negotiable. The Check-Six offers a reliable, low-profile way to carry a full-size S&W M&P 9/40 without feeling cumbersome.
• Off-Duty Law Enforcement/Plainclothes Officers: The need for deep concealment combined with quick access is critical. This holster provides the discretion required while ensuring the officer's secondary weapon is always readily available.
• Competitive Shooters (e.g., IDPA, USPSA Production Division): While primarily designed for concealment, the "combat grip" and "adjustable tension" features make it a viable option for certain competition divisions where an OWB leather holster is permitted, offering a smooth draw.
• Hunters and Outdoorsmen: When carrying a rifle or shotgun for hunting, having a reliable and unobtrusive handgun backup that doesn't interfere with field operations is invaluable.
• Individuals Seeking a Timeless Look: Beyond functionality, the aesthetic appeal of a quality leather holster is undeniable. It offers a classic, professional look that many prefer over more modern synthetic options.

The BlackHawk Leather Check-Six Holster effectively solves common problems associated with concealed carry, such as printing, discomfort during extended wear, and slow draw times. Its design proactively addresses these concerns, providing a reliable and comfortable solution for your S&W M&P 9/40.

BlackHawk: A Legacy of Trust and Innovation

BlackHawk has established itself as a leading name in tactical and outdoor gear, renowned for its commitment to innovation, quality, and performance. Products like the Check-Six Holster reflect this legacy, built on insights from military and law enforcement professionals. When you choose a BlackHawk product, you are investing in a brand trusted by those who depend on their gear in the most demanding situations. This holster, like all BlackHawk offerings, undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets the highest standards of reliability and user satisfaction.

For those seeking a superior carry experience for their S&W M&P 9/40, the BlackHawk Leather Check-Six Holster, available at DEGuns, offers a compelling combination of comfort, concealment, and rapid deployment. It's more than just a place to store your firearm; it's an integral component of your personal defense strategy, designed to perform when it matters most.

This isn't merely a product; it's a solution crafted for individuals who understand that effective firearm carry hinges on seamless integration with their lifestyle and operational needs. Experience the difference that quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design can make with the BlackHawk Leather Check-Six Holster.

Product Specifications & Features Summary

Feature	Description
Holster Fit	Specifically molded for S&W M&P 9/40 models.
Material	Premium, contour double-stitched quality leather.
Concealment Design	Low profile with dual belt slots to pull the gun tight to the body for outstanding concealment.
Draw & Retention	Cut to provide a combat grip from the start; includes an adjustable tension screw for customized retention. Features a molded sight track for a smooth, unobstructed draw.
Comfort & Protection	Designed to hold the handgun close to the natural contour of the waist; flat holster back protects the body from sharp edges of the firearm.
Compatibility	Positioned to not interfere with the operation of a primary long gun, making it ideal for multi-weapon carry scenarios.
Hand Orientation	Right-hand draw (SKU: 420718BK-R indicates Right-hand, Black).
UPC	648018140143