Firearm: Diamondback DBPFDE (MSRP: $310)
For today’s episode, we’ve chosen the Diamondback DB9 9 mm in Flat Dark Earth. This is a single-stack pistol that’s quite small: 5.73 inches overall length, 3.1-inch barrel, 4 inches tall, .9 inch wide and weighing only 13.4 ounces. Because it’s a single-stack, capacity is 6+1 rounds total, giving the DB9 a similar capacity and size as what have traditionally been firearms chambered in .380 ACP like the Ruger LCP and KelTec P3AT.
Given the small size of the DB9, it can fulfill roles for which larger pistols are not well suited, like deep concealment or back-up duty. The slim size and light weight make it an excellent choice for an ankle holster that backs up a primary handgun or in a fanny pack or belly band carried while exercising, for example. Given the attractive price point, it’s also possible to have more than one DB9 for a “New York reload” for those who prefer that method of staying in the fight.
One note on the DB9 when on the range, though: Because of the small size, a traditional, high grip may need to be modified to prevent the slide from contacting the base of the strong-hand thumb. Because of the small size of the DB9, it’s possible that the bottom of the slide rail might impinge on this area; in my case, it was the same place where a Glock or other polymer-frame pistol will wear a bit over a lengthy range session. Not only does it run the risk of inducing a malfunction, it can also hurt. Be mindful of hand placement with smaller pistols in general.
There are numerous reasons to consider the Diamondback DB9 for your EDC needs: between the ease with which it can be concealed, the ability to use as a backup and the low barrier to entry, there’s a good case to be made for this small gun. Available in standard black and the FDE variant we have today, MSRP starts at slightly more than $300, meaning it should be available off the shelf for considerably less. While price should never be the only factor in a firearm purchase, it is a factor, and with the DB9, it’s certainly affordable.
Holster: Galco Pocket Protector (MSRP: $44)
Clearly, for a gun the size of the DB9, pocket carry is going to be a consideration, so we’ve opted for the Galco Pocket protector holster in today’s kit. Constructed of premium steerhide, the Pocket Protector has a metal-reinforced mouth for easier reholstering – and remember, best practices are to remove the holster from the pocket to facilitate reholstering. Of course, while we’re on the subject of best practices, don’t carry anything else in the same pocket as your holstered firearm.
Two of the reasons we’ve chosen the Pocket Protector as part of this kit have to do with the rough-out construction and hooked shape under the grip, both of which are engineered to help keep the holster in the pocket on the draw stroke. Pocket holsters that are too slick or do not present an edge or lip to catch inside the pocket run the risk of coming out of the pocket with the pistol, which will slow down the presentation when every second counts. Of course, practice the draw with an unloaded handgun until it becomes second nature.
Accessory: CRKT Stylus Frame Lock knife (MSRP: $195)
The last piece in today’s kit is the CRKT Stylus frame-lock knife. With a 3.2-inch, S35VN-steel blade, the Stylus’s blade will hold an edge and be easier to sharpen. The titanium handle keeps weight down, while the robust frame lock holds the blade open when needed for cutting purposes. A flipper projection opens the blade quickly, without assistance, using CRKT’s proprietary IKBS ball bearing system.
The Stylus is 7.38 inches long when open, 4.15 inches long when closed and weighs only 1.6 ounces. A small pocket clip is located at the rear of the blade, along with a lanyard loop, for tip-up carry in one’s pocket of choice. While the titanium scales are smooth, the knife offers excellent purchase in the hand. Small, lightweight, easy to open and close and rides low in the pocket – pretty much everything you could want in an EDC pocketknife.
