TFB Review: Amazon EDC Gun Belt? - Daltec Force Leather

Patrik O
by Patrik O

Many years ago, I was looking at Amazon for a new EDC gun belt to hold up my pistol. At the time $100 for an EDC belt seemed like all of the money in my checking account, so I was trying to save as much money as I could but still wanted a product that would work as a gunbelt but also looked somewhat normal. As I scrolled through the endless belts from China, I finally found one that looked half decent and was exactly what I was looking for price wise. While the name was a bit strange, the Daltec Force steel core reinforced leather gun belt promised to be what I needed.


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I purchased the Daltec Force steel core reinforced leather gun belt several years ago and I have no relationship with the company. Daltec Force has not been allowed to preview this article prior to its publication. Daltec Force is not just an Amazon brand and has their own site that sells their items privately. MSRP for the belts currently ranges between $69.99 and $105.00.


Launched in 2009 by the Michigan-based Daltech Force team, this belt was originally engineered for a corporate executive needing discreet support for his carry gun. “We sandwich a piece of steel core between a solid strap of distressed American Bison and a solid piece of full grain leather to back it, then stitch it together with a lighter wheat color to create this unique gun belt.” - Daltec Force.

In terms of quality and build, this belt feels purpose-built from the moment you unbox it. It comes coiled neatly, ready to go, with that subtle heft signaling it's not some lightweight mall find. The steel core is the standout feature here and is certainly what drew me to the belt initially. The belt provides just enough flex to follow your movements without creasing or rolling, which meant during a full day of hybrid work (half desk, half outdoor activities), my pants stayed level without the usual midday hike-up. I recently carried it on a two-week stretch of varied activities. Work, grocery runs, and a 5-mile trail loop and it held steady, even when I tossed my Glock 43X onto it.


The full-grain bullhide resists scuffs very well. After brushing against a car door and some desk-edge rubs, it showed minimal marks, developing that earned-look character rather than looking beat-up. Compared to standard leather belts I've rotated through, this one's core gives it an edge in maintaining shape, and I think of it like the difference between a soft glove and a reinforced work mitt. That said, the thickness does add noticeable weight, around 8-10 ounces, which registered more on longer walks than in stationary setups. It's not cumbersome like some tactical overloads, but if you're sensitive to extras around the waist, it might feel a touch more present than a basic nylon strap.

Comfort is where the belt reveals its personality, and it's a mixed bag that improves with time. Out of the gate, the rigidity can come across as something I was not very keen on.


During initial wears, including a few hours seated for meetings, it pressed a bit into the hips, reminiscent of breaking in stiff boots. But after 7-10 days of consistent use, the leather softened just enough to mold without losing structure, turning those desk sessions into something more forgettable. The double-stitched edges help distribute pressure evenly.


In warmer October weather here in 2025, it breathed decently for leather, though I wouldn't call it airy; a light sweat built up faster than with synthetics during active moments. For comparison, it's not as plush as an elastic hybrid for all-day lounging, but it outperforms flimsy options in even wear distribution. One practical note from my tests was that if you're layering under a jacket for cooler days, the profile stays low-key, blending into casual or semi-professional outfits without drawing eyes.

The 1.5-inch width slots nicely into most pant loops, and the hole spacing allows for precise sizing. I went with a 34 and had room to trim if needed. It's modular in small ways: the removable buckle opens doors to custom looks, like switching to a matte finish for dressier chinos, and Daltech offers a slimmer 1.25-inch Italian leather variant for tighter loops on slacks. In my rotation, it paired well with straight-leg jeans for errands, holding my pistol securely without shifting, but felt a shade overbuilt under slim-fit shirts. For travel, I would not recommend this belt as it's just a bit clunky and overbuilt for my preferences. I like to travel slim and light, and this belt is pretty much anything but, so I would leave it at home if you're getting on a plane.

Pros

  • Rigid core delivers consistent no-sag performance
  • Full-grain leather builds character over time, with even stitching that stands up to daily use
  • Affordable at under $80, USA-made quality that punches above its weight in durability.
  • Versatile buckle and sizing make it adaptable for casual to work rotations.
  • Holds a gun pretty good

Cons

  • Initial stiffness requires a break-in, which is frustrating during the first week of seated work.
  • Added weight feels more present during extended movement compared to lighter options.
  • The thickness of the belt will print your CCW more than a thinner belt.
  • Not the most breathable in heat,

Final Thoughts

In the end, the Daltech Force Belt is a well-rounded tool that delivers on what it's sold to do. It's just a bit too bulky for my personal style. It's not the softest or lightest on the market, and in 2025, there are definitely a lot more and probably better options out there. Competitors like Kore Essentials offer more adjustability, and basic leathers win on subtlety. But for those who want a good-looking overall belt and are fine with a bit more bulk, this could be a pretty good, affordable option. If your days lean toward steady rather than super-light, it's worth threading through your loops; otherwise, test a slimmer sibling first. Overall, a capable belt that earns its keep through honest build, even if it's not perfect for every waistline.

Patrik O
Patrik O

-Former Army Photographer / Videographer -Current Aviation Student -Future in debt due to Firearm collection

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  • Mark N. Mark N. 20 hours ago

    I have three DalTech Force belts, and I am still wearing the first I bought (which is double thick leather, no steel), it looks great, show little wear, and is comfortable. The second also shows minimal wear years on. I do have the narrow 1" steel core dress belt, but do not wear it often as it is quite stiff. That said, I heartily recommend DalTech belts

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