Let’s Dive into Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster
The Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster promises a blend of comfort, concealment, and adjustability in a classic leather package. Manufactured by Gould & Goodrich, this holster is designed for outside-the-waistband (OWB) carry, emphasizing a snug fit against the body and a customizable draw. Does it live up to the promise?
My journey to this holster began with a need for a comfortable and easily adjustable OWB option for range days and open carry scenarios. I was specifically seeking something that balanced retention with a smooth draw and offered a more traditional aesthetic compared to the plethora of polymer options available. The Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster’s leather construction and tension screw caught my eye.
Unboxing the holster revealed a simple, yet well-crafted piece of gear. The leather felt substantial, with clean stitching and a plain finish that exuded quality. It had that distinctive leather smell, a good sign. The weight was moderate, suggesting a balance between comfort and durability.
I considered the Galco Cop 3 Slot Holster and the DeSantis Mini Slide Holster before settling on the Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster. The Galco offered more carry positions, but at a higher price. The DeSantis was more compact, but I preferred the full coverage of the Gould & Goodrich model.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It looked and felt like a quality holster, but the proof would be in the wearing and drawing. I was eager to see how the tension screw would perform in a real-world setting and how well it concealed my firearm.
Real-World Testing: Putting Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster at my local shooting range. I used it with a Glock 19, a common and versatile handgun. The weather was sunny and warm, perfect for an afternoon of drills and target practice.
The holster performed well initially, keeping the handgun secure during moderate movement. The draw was smooth, but required a deliberate effort to overcome the initial tension. Adjusting the tension screw proved to be effective, although I found the sweet spot to be somewhat sensitive.
No major issues arose during the first range session, but I did notice some slight rubbing against my skin when seated. This was easily remedied by adjusting the position of the holster on my belt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster has proven to be a reliable, though not perfect, option. The leather has softened slightly, molding to the shape of my firearm for a more secure fit. It’s showing some minor scuffing on the edges, but this is expected with regular wear and tear.
Maintaining the holster has been relatively easy. I wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use and apply a leather conditioner every few weeks to keep it supple.
Compared to my previous experience with a cheaper nylon holster, the Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster is a significant upgrade in terms of comfort, retention, and overall quality. However, it falls slightly short of the molded Kydex holsters I’ve used in the past, which offer superior retention and quicker draw times, albeit with less comfort.
Breaking Down the Features of Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster
Specifications
The Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster boasts the following key specifications:
- Holster Type: Belt Holster, designed for OWB carry.
- Holster Material: Top Grain Leather, offering a classic look and feel.
- Light/Laser Attachment: No, this holster is not designed to accommodate lights or lasers.
- Accessory Attachment System: Belt Loop, designed for secure attachment to a belt.
- Finish: Plain, a traditional and understated aesthetic.
- Quantity: 1, standard single holster configuration.
- Belt Loop/Snap Width: 1.5 in, compatible with most standard belts.
- Fastener/Closure Type: Open Top, facilitating a quick and easy draw.
- Age Group: Adults, designed for adult users.
- Holster Finish: Plain, a classic and non-reflective finish.
- Fabric/Material: Leather, constructed from high-quality leather.
These specifications are important because they dictate the holster’s functionality, comfort, and compatibility with different firearms and belt systems. The leather construction offers a degree of comfort and molding that Kydex can’t match, while the tension screw allows for adjustable retention. The 1.5-inch belt loop is standard, but those with wider belts will need to look elsewhere.
Performance & Functionality
The Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster performs its primary job adequately. It securely holds a firearm on the belt and allows for a relatively smooth draw.
The strength of this holster lies in its adjustability and comfort. The tension screw works, allowing for a customized draw. However, the concealment is not as good as some other OWB holsters due to the firearm sitting slightly further from the body.
It meets expectations for a basic leather OWB holster. It’s a solid choice for range days or open carry, but not ideal for deep concealment.
Design & Ergonomics
The Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster features a classic, minimalist design. The top-grain leather is well-stitched and feels durable.
It’s reasonably user-friendly, although achieving the perfect tension adjustment can take some experimentation. The holster is generally comfortable, although extended wear can cause some rubbing, especially when seated.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its leather construction, the Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster should last for years with proper care. Leather is a durable material, but it requires regular conditioning to prevent cracking and drying.
Maintenance is simple: wipe down after use and apply leather conditioner regularly. Minor scuffs can be buffed out.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster doesn’t come with any accessories, focusing on a minimalist design. Customization is limited to adjusting the tension screw.
It’s compatible with standard 1.5-inch belts. Some users might opt to add a sweat guard for increased comfort and to protect the firearm from moisture. However, there aren’t other options like attaching lights or lasers to it because this is a minimalist design.
Pros and Cons of Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster
Pros
- Comfortable leather construction for all-day wear.
- Adjustable tension screw for a customized draw.
- Classic and understated design suitable for various carry scenarios.
- Durable materials ensure long-lasting use.
- Easy maintenance with regular leather conditioning.
Cons
- Concealment is limited due to the OWB design.
- Minimal customization options compared to modular holsters.
- The tension screw requires fine-tuning to achieve the perfect draw.
Who Should Buy Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster?
The Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster is perfect for:
- Range shooters seeking a comfortable and reliable OWB option.
- Individuals who prioritize comfort and a classic aesthetic over deep concealment.
- Those looking for an affordable and durable leather holster.
Who should skip this product? Individuals prioritizing deep concealment or those needing a holster compatible with weapon-mounted lights or lasers.
A good quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for using this holster. A sweat guard can also improve comfort, especially in warmer climates.
Conclusion on Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster
The Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster is a solid, reliable, and comfortable option for those seeking a traditional leather OWB holster. While it’s not ideal for deep concealment or customization, it excels in providing a comfortable and adjustable carry experience.
At $53.99, the price is justified for the quality of materials and construction. It offers good value for those who appreciate a classic leather holster.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a comfortable and reliable OWB holster for range days or open carry. If you value comfort, durability, and a classic aesthetic, the Gould & Goodrich Tension Slide OWB Belt Holster is worth considering. Give it a shot and experience the difference a quality leather holster can make.