Let’s Dive into El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster
The El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster is a classic piece of leather craftsmanship designed for concealed or duty carry of a Glock 19 or 23 with a 4-inch barrel. Made by El Paso Saddlery, a company steeped in tradition and known for quality leather goods, this holster promises a comfortable and secure carry. It’s a blend of old-world charm and practical functionality that caught my eye.
I needed a reliable and comfortable holster for my Glock 19 that wouldn’t break the bank or sacrifice quality. I wanted something that could serve double duty for both concealed carry and occasional range days. The El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
Upon unboxing, the rich russet leather immediately impressed me. The holster felt solid and well-constructed, with tight stitching and a reassuring weight. The leather felt stiff, but I knew that was typical of a new leather holster and would break in nicely with use.
I considered a Kydex holster for its durability and slim profile, and also looked at some hybrid leather/Kydex options. I ultimately chose the El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster for its classic aesthetic and promise of long-term comfort molded to my body. The other options felt too tactical or impersonal.
My first impression was positive and I was genuinely excited to start breaking it in and putting it to use. I was eager to see if it lived up to the reputation of El Paso Saddlery and its promise of comfortable, secure carry.
Real-World Testing: Putting El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster at an outdoor shooting range on a sunny afternoon. I wanted to see how it performed under normal conditions and get a feel for the draw and re-holstering. The temperature was around 75 degrees Fahrenheit and the air was dry.
The holster performed admirably. Drawing was smooth and positive with the thumb break disengaging cleanly. I needed to adjust the tension screw slightly to find the sweet spot between retention and ease of draw. After adjusting the tension screw, it felt comfortable and safe and I never thought about it for the rest of the day.
It took a little getting used to at first. Leather holsters require a break-in period to properly conform to the pistol, but even fresh out of the box, the El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster was comfortable enough for a full afternoon of shooting.
The only minor issue was the initial stiffness of the leather around the thumb break, which required a bit of extra effort to disengage at first. This improved significantly after just a few draws and re-holstering.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster has proven to be a reliable and comfortable carry option. The leather has molded nicely to my Glock 19 and my body, making it feel like a natural extension. It has seen everything from everyday concealed carry to hikes in the woods.
The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The stitching remains tight, and the leather has only developed a slight patina, adding to its character. Regular cleaning and conditioning with leather preservative products is required to keep the leather from drying out.
Maintenance is simple. I wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use and apply a leather conditioner every few weeks to keep it supple. The holster has held up remarkably well compared to some of my previous nylon holsters, which tended to fray and wear out quickly.
Compared to a Kydex holster I previously used, the El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster offers superior comfort and concealability, but is a bit slower on the draw. The Kydex holster was faster but less comfortable for all-day carry.
Breaking Down the Features of El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster
Specifications
The El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster is designed for the Glock 19 and 23 with a 4-inch barrel. It is constructed from high-quality russet leather and features a Flat-Back construction for enhanced comfort. It includes a thumbreak retention strap, a high-ride design for concealment, and full pistol and sight coverage.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The 4-inch barrel compatibility ensures a snug and secure fit for the intended firearms. Russet leather offers both durability and a classic aesthetic. The Flat-Back construction minimizes printing and maximizes comfort against the body. The thumbreak provides an added layer of security, and the high-ride design aids in concealment under clothing.
Performance & Functionality
The El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster performs its job effectively and reliably. The pistol is held securely in place, and the thumbreak provides peace of mind against accidental dislodgement. The draw is smooth and consistent with practice, and re-holstering is equally straightforward.
The holster’s strengths lie in its comfort, concealability, and secure retention. The only weakness is perhaps the slightly slower draw compared to open-top Kydex options. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a concealed carry leather holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The russet leather is thick and durable, with precise stitching and well-finished edges. The holster is surprisingly lightweight considering its construction. It’s comfortable to wear for extended periods.
The El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster is relatively user-friendly. The break-in period is minimal, and the tension adjustment screw allows for fine-tuning the draw. There is a small learning curve associated with mastering the thumbreak release, but it becomes second nature with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust leather construction, the El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster should last for many years with proper care. The thick leather and reinforced stitching are built to withstand daily wear and tear. The key to longevity is regular cleaning and conditioning to prevent the leather from drying out and cracking.
Maintaining the holster is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use and periodic application of a leather conditioner are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. Minor repairs, such as re-stitching a loose seam, can be easily performed by a leather craftsman, extending the holster’s lifespan even further.
Accessories and Customization Options
The El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster doesn’t come with any specific accessories beyond the holster itself. However, its classic design lends itself well to customization with aftermarket grips or sights on the compatible Glock 19 or 23. The holster is compatible with most standard-size belt loops, allowing for the use of a variety of gun belts for added stability and comfort.
The El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster is designed to accept the Glock 19 and 23, it is not necessarily compatible with weapon-mounted lights or lasers without modification. Adding a light or laser would likely require significant alteration of the holster, potentially compromising its structural integrity.
Pros and Cons of El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster
Pros
- Exceptional Comfort: The Flat-Back design and high-quality leather provide all-day comfort, even during extended wear.
- Classic Aesthetics: The russet leather and traditional design offer a timeless look that appeals to many shooters.
- Secure Retention: The thumbreak retention strap ensures the firearm stays securely in place, providing peace of mind.
- Durable Construction: The thick leather and reinforced stitching are built to withstand years of use.
- Excellent Concealability: The high-ride design allows for easy concealment under clothing.
Cons
- Slightly Slower Draw: The thumbreak retention can slow down the draw compared to open-top Kydex holsters.
- Break-In Period Required: The leather requires a break-in period to fully conform to the firearm and the wearer’s body.
Who Should Buy El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster?
The El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster is perfect for individuals who value comfort, concealability, and classic aesthetics in a concealed carry holster. It’s ideal for everyday carry, range use, or anyone who appreciates the timeless appeal of leather craftsmanship. It would be a great choice for law enforcement personnel who want a more traditional look than the modern polymer options.
This holster might not be the best choice for competitive shooters or anyone who prioritizes speed over all other factors. Those who prefer weapon-mounted lights or lasers might also need to look at alternative options.
A high-quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to provide a stable and comfortable platform for carrying the holster and firearm. A leather preservative to keep the holster in excellent condition is also recommended.
Conclusion on El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster
The El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster is a well-crafted and reliable concealed carry option that offers a blend of comfort, security, and classic style. Its high-quality leather construction and thoughtful design make it a pleasure to wear and use.
The price of $95.99 is justified by the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and long-term durability. While it may not be the cheapest holster on the market, it offers excellent value for the money considering its lifespan and performance.
I would definitely recommend the El Paso Saddlery Strong Side Select Holster to anyone looking for a comfortable and reliable leather holster for their Glock 19 or 23. If you appreciate quality craftsmanship and value a holster that will last for years, this is an excellent choice. Take the plunge and experience the difference that a well-made leather holster can make!