Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster, Duty S&W M& – 1 out of 19 models Review

What Makes Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster, Duty S&W M& – 1 out of 19 models Stand Out?

In the world of duty holsters, reliability, retention, and rapid access are paramount. The Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster, Duty S&W M& – 1 out of 19 models enters the arena promising exactly that, specifically tailored for the popular Smith & Wesson M&P series. Hogue is a well-respected name in the firearms industry, known for its grips and accessories, and the ARS (Active Retention System) Stage 2 aims to bring their expertise to the duty holster market.

As a seasoned gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each claiming to be the best. My interest was piqued by the “Stage 2” designation, suggesting an advanced retention system, and the Hogue name instilled a sense of confidence. This holster promised an improvement in firearm security without sacrificing speed of draw, a problem I’ve encountered frequently with other retention holsters.

Upon unboxing, the Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster presents a solid, no-nonsense design. The polymer construction feels robust, and the black finish is clean and professional. The weight is substantial, hinting at the reinforced build, but not excessively heavy. The initial impression is one of quality and durability, suggesting it can withstand the rigors of duty use.

Comparing it to a Safariland ALS holster and a Blackhawk! Serpa, the Hogue ARS Stage 2 stands out in its simplicity of design. It seems less bulky than the Safariland and avoids the trigger finger placement issues that sometimes plague the Serpa. I chose this particular holster because of Hogue’s reputation for quality and the promise of a smooth, reliable retention system.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The design appeared sound, and the materials felt durable, but the proof would be in its performance under pressure. This feeling quickly grew into confident excitement upon inspecting the quality more closely.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster, Duty S&W M& – 1 out of 19 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster took place at a local shooting range, simulating a duty environment. I ran drills involving drawing, firing, and re-holstering with my S&W M&P 9mm, focusing on speed and consistency. Conditions were sunny and dry, providing an ideal environment for familiarization.

The holster performed admirably. The retention system was secure, preventing accidental firearm release during movement, but the draw stroke was surprisingly smooth and intuitive. It only took a few practice runs to become comfortable with the release mechanism. There were no malfunctions or unexpected issues during the first range session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including training sessions in varying weather conditions, the Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster has proven to be a reliable piece of kit. The polymer construction has held up well, showing no signs of cracking or deformation. The holster has been exposed to rain, mud, and dust with no adverse effects.

Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Compared to previous duty holsters I’ve used, the Hogue ARS Stage 2 requires less frequent cleaning and lubrication. It consistently outperforms cheaper, less robust holsters in terms of durability and retention.

Breaking Down the Features of Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster, Duty S&W M& – 1 out of 19 models

Specifications

• Product Name: Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster, Duty S&W M& – 1 out of 19 models. This is a specific model designed for S&W M&P handguns.
• Manufacturer: Hogue. A reputable company known for firearm grips and accessories.
• Material: Durable Polymer. This ensures longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
• Retention: Active Retention System (ARS) Stage 2. A thumb-activated release mechanism provides secure firearm retention.
• Hand Orientation: Right Hand. This particular model is designed for right-handed users.
• Color: Black. A standard, professional color for duty gear.
• Compatibility: S&W M&P 9mm, .40 S&W, .357 SIG. Designed specifically for these models.

These specifications are important because they dictate the holster’s suitability for specific firearms and users. The active retention system, in particular, is a crucial feature for duty use, ensuring the firearm remains secure unless intentionally released. The durable polymer ensures the holster can withstand daily wear and tear in demanding environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster excels at its primary function: securely holding and rapidly deploying a firearm. The retention system is positive and reliable, preventing accidental dislodgement. The draw stroke is smooth and natural once the release mechanism is mastered.

The main strength lies in its balance of security and speed. The retention system provides peace of mind without significantly hindering draw speed. One area for potential improvement could be the addition of adjustability to the retention force. Overall, it meets and slightly exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The holster boasts a functional, no-frills design. The polymer construction is robust, but not overly bulky. The weight is manageable, even with a fully loaded firearm.

The holster’s ergonomic design facilitates a natural grip and draw stroke. The placement of the release mechanism is intuitive, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw. There is a minimal learning curve associated with the retention system.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the robust polymer construction, the Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster is built to last. It shows no signs of wear and tear after weeks of consistent use. The holster is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster does not come with extensive accessories. However, it is compatible with a range of mounting platforms, allowing users to adapt it to their specific duty belt or tactical vest. There are no readily available customization options for the holster itself. It’s built to be a functional, reliable unit straight out of the box.

Pros and Cons of Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster, Duty S&W M& – 1 out of 19 models

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Who Should Buy Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster, Duty S&W M& – 1 out of 19 models?

Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize firearm retention and rapid deployment. This holster is also excellent for range use when retention is a safety consideration.

Who should skip this product? Those seeking extensive customization options or those requiring a left-handed holster (depending on the specific model within the “1 out of 19”).

Must-have accessories or modifications? A sturdy duty belt is essential for proper support and stability. The user may also want to consider purchasing a compatible mounting platform for optimal positioning and comfort.

Conclusion on Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster, Duty S&W M& – 1 out of 19 models

The Hogue ARS Stage 2 Duty Holster, Duty S&W M& – 1 out of 19 models is a solid and reliable duty holster that offers a compelling balance of security, speed, and affordability. Hogue has delivered a product that meets the demands of professional use without breaking the bank.

At a price of $84.96, the Hogue ARS Stage 2 offers excellent value for money. The price is justified by its robust construction, reliable retention system, and smooth draw stroke.

I would confidently recommend this holster to anyone seeking a dependable duty holster for their S&W M&P. If you need a no-nonsense, reliable holster for your M&P, the Hogue ARS Stage 2 is definitely worth considering.