First Impressions of Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster
The Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster immediately caught my eye as a seasoned professional constantly seeking reliable and comfortable carry options. Tagua Gunleather promises a high-quality, open-top OWB holster made with the best leather available. It’s a claim I’m eager to investigate.
My search for a dependable OWB holster intensified after a frustrating experience with a flimsy nylon model during a recent training exercise; the retention was poor and the material quickly degraded in humid conditions. I needed something robust, comfortable for all-day wear, and that offered a secure hold. I was particularly drawn to leather’s inherent durability and classic aesthetic.
Upon unboxing the Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster, I was immediately struck by the rich brown color and the evident quality of the leather. It felt substantial without being overly bulky, and the stitching appeared precise and robust. My initial impression was one of quality craftsmanship.
Compared to cheaper, mass-produced nylon holsters, the Tagua Gunleather exudes a sense of quality and longevity. Against a molded Kydex holster, it offers a more traditional aesthetic and the promise of a custom fit that molds to the firearm over time. I chose the Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster hoping for a blend of classic design, lasting durability, and a comfortable carry experience. I was initially excited by the potential for a high-quality leather holster at a reasonable price point, but also held some reservations about potential break-in periods and leather’s susceptibility to moisture.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster during a day at the shooting range, followed by an afternoon hike in moderate terrain. The holster was used with a Glock 19, a common and versatile handgun suited for both recreational shooting and self-defense scenarios. The open-top design allowed for a smooth and rapid draw.
Despite a relatively warm day, the leather remained comfortable against my skin, and the holster maintained its shape well. There was a slight initial stiffness, typical of new leather, but the firearm was securely held. I was pleased that the holster didn’t shift or rub excessively, even during the more active hiking portion.
Initially, the draw was a little tight, requiring a firm pull to clear the holster. However, with a few practice draws, the leather began to loosen up slightly, promising a smoother draw with further use. No immediate issues or malfunctions arose.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, incorporating daily wear around town and a few more range sessions, the Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster is showing promise. The leather has molded nicely to my Glock 19, providing a more custom fit and improved retention. The holster still looks new, but a nice patina is developing.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear, although I’ve been diligent about conditioning the leather with a quality leather conditioner every few days. The stitching remains tight and secure, and the leather is holding its shape well. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and leather conditioning keeps the holster supple and prevents cracking or drying.
Compared to my previous experience with a similar leather holster from a different manufacturer, the Tagua Gunleather seems to be holding up much better. The leather is thicker and more robust, and the stitching appears to be of higher quality. So far, the holster has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and comfort.
Breaking Down the Features of Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster
Specifications
The Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster is an open-top, outside-the-waistband holster crafted from high-quality leather. It is designed for right-hand draw and comes in a brown color. The holster features a multifit design and is optics ready.
The fact that it is an open-top design is important because it allows for a fast and unencumbered draw. The multifit design is significant, allowing for a degree of compatibility across different firearm models, although a precise fit is always preferable for optimal retention. The holster’s optics-ready design is crucial for modern shooters who use red dot sights or other mounted optics.
Performance & Functionality
The Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster performs its primary function of securely holding a firearm very well. The retention is firm without being overly tight, and the open-top design allows for a relatively quick draw. The holster is comfortable to wear for extended periods.
A strength of the holster is its combination of secure retention and relatively easy draw. A potential weakness is that leather, while durable, can be affected by prolonged exposure to moisture, requiring regular maintenance. The holster meets my expectations for a quality leather OWB holster, offering a good balance of comfort, security, and ease of use.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster features a classic, streamlined design. The Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster uses high-quality leather and sturdy stitching. The holster’s weight is reasonable, and it distributes the weight of the firearm evenly, contributing to comfortable carry.
The holster is relatively user-friendly. There’s a slight break-in period typical of leather holsters.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster should last for many years. The quality of the leather and stitching suggests long-term durability.
Maintaining the holster involves regular cleaning with a damp cloth and periodic conditioning with a quality leather conditioner. This keeps the leather supple and prevents cracking.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster does not come with any additional accessories. However, users can enhance the holster’s performance by using a quality gun belt designed for OWB carry.
The holster’s optics-ready design makes it inherently compatible with firearms equipped with red dot sights or other optics. While not a customization option per se, the leather will naturally mold to the specific firearm over time, creating a more custom fit.
Pros and Cons of Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster
Pros
- High-quality leather construction ensures durability and a classic aesthetic.
- Open-top design allows for a fast and unencumbered draw.
- Optics-ready design accommodates firearms with mounted red dot sights.
- Comfortable for all-day wear, even in moderate climates.
- Multifit design can accommodate a range of similar-sized firearms.
Cons
- Leather requires regular maintenance to prevent drying or cracking.
- Initial break-in period required for optimal fit and draw.
Who Should Buy Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster?
The Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster is perfect for individuals seeking a durable, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing OWB carry option. It is also suitable for range shooters and law enforcement personnel who need a reliable open-carry holster. The optics-ready design will be especially appealing to those who use red dot sights or similar optics on their firearms.
Individuals who prioritize minimal maintenance or those who frequently operate in extremely wet environments might prefer a Kydex or nylon holster. Those seeking maximum concealability might want to consider an IWB (inside-the-waistband) option. A high-quality gun belt designed for OWB carry is a must-have accessory to ensure proper support and stability.
Conclusion on Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster
The Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster offers a compelling combination of quality, comfort, and classic design. The use of high-quality leather and sturdy construction suggests long-term durability, while the open-top design and optics-ready feature make it a practical choice for modern shooters.
The price of $71.99 is justified given the quality of materials and craftsmanship. It represents a good value for those seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing leather OWB holster.
I would personally recommend the Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster to anyone looking for a dependable and comfortable OWB carry option. If you appreciate quality craftsmanship and the feel of genuine leather, the Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster is an excellent choice. Invest in a Tagua Gunleather Colorado Elite OWB Leather Holster and experience the difference a quality holster makes!