Previously, I had blogged that I didn't think that my Wilderness 5-stitch belt was as good balancing the weight of a heavy pistol as a heavy-duty leather belt. I few people questioned that statement pointing out that they regularly carry a 1911 with one. I don't doubt that, in fact I have also, so I decided to do a followup test.

The setup:
S&W 1066 10mm pistol (39.5oz unloaded)
Crossbreed IWB holster (actually for an M&P)
With and without a loaded spare mag in a Galco OWB mag pouch
Jeans
Wilderness 5-stitch vs Galco SB2 belt (both 1.5" width)

The scenarios:
Walking the dog along trails, not heavy trekking but up and down hills quite a bit
Driving

I started with Wilderness because that is what I was wearing. The weight of the pistol quickly was noticeable. Within 10 mins my back began to hurt. I took the spare mag off and moved it to my jacket. It was marginally better. Not something I want to try again purposefully.

The next day I switched to the Galco belt and did the same trek. Much more comfortable. I was able to do the entire trek (about an hour) before feeling back pain. I did not have to remove the spare mag. However, again not my favorite carry method - far from comfortable.

Now the driving test was pretty much a wash. They both were comfortable (as much as driving with an IWB holster can be) up until they weren't. I didn't particularly like either after about 1/2 hour. I can't imagine having to draw IWB while seated in a car but it was a convenient comfort test.

I have not yet gotten a reinforced Wilderness Belt but I suspect that would fare much better. Again the 1066 is a pretty heavy pistol so your mileage may vary, but I think an all steel pistol is better served comfort-wise with a good thick leather belt. However, I don't hesitate carrying a Glock or M&P on the Wilderness.

Anyway, I stand by my initial evaluation.