El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry S&W Body AUTO Russet Review

Let’s Dive into El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry S&W Body AUTO Russet

The El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry S&W Body AUTO Russet holster promises a comfortable and versatile concealed carry experience for Smith & Wesson M&P owners. El Paso Saddlery is a renowned name in leather craftsmanship, and this holster aims to deliver on that reputation with its two-piece inside-the-waistband (IWB) design and focus on all-day comfort.

I was on the hunt for a new IWB holster for my S&W M&P Shield Plus after my previous hybrid holster started to wear out. I needed something that offered secure retention, comfortable all-day carry, and wouldn’t break the bank.

Upon unboxing, the russet leather of the El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry immediately caught my eye. The leather felt supple yet sturdy, exhibiting the kind of quality I associate with El Paso Saddlery. It was surprisingly lightweight and the design looked simple and effective.

I considered options from DeSantis and Galco, both well-known holster manufacturers. However, the El Paso offered a unique two-piece design, and the positive reviews regarding El Paso Saddlery’s leather quality swayed me. My initial impression was positive. The El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry appeared to be a well-made, comfortable, and practical holster.

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Real-World Testing: Putting El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry S&W Body AUTO Russet to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry at an outdoor shooting range during a slightly humid afternoon. I wore it in the appendix carry position, which is my preferred method for concealed carry. The holster felt surprisingly comfortable against my skin, and the rear flap effectively prevented any discomfort from the slide or hammer.

Drawing and re-holstering took a few repetitions to get used to, particularly given the two-piece design. However, I quickly found a consistent technique and the retention felt secure without being overly tight. There were no immediate issues, and the holster remained comfortable even after a few hours of shooting and moving around.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of daily carry, the El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry has proven to be a reliable and comfortable option. The leather has conformed nicely to my body, enhancing the comfort and concealability. I’ve worn it during various activities, from running errands to attending outdoor events, and it has held up remarkably well.

There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the stitching remains tight and secure. I’ve cleaned the holster with leather conditioner once a week to help maintain its finish and suppleness. The El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry definitely outperforms the cheaper nylon holsters I’ve used in the past, although it doesn’t quite reach the level of a custom-molded Kydex holster in terms of retention.

Breaking Down the Features of El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry S&W Body AUTO Russet

Specifications

The El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry S&W Body AUTO Russet boasts the following specifications:

• Manufacturer: El Paso Saddlery
• Color: Russet
• Gun Model: Smith & Wesson M&P (Compact-Full Size)
• Holster Material: Leather
• Hand: Right
• Holster Size: Compact-Full Size
• Finish: Leather
• Gun Type: Pistol
• # of Mag Pouch Compartments: 1

These specifications indicate a holster designed specifically for right-handed shooters carrying compact or full-size Smith & Wesson M&P pistols. The leather construction ensures a comfortable and durable carry experience.

Performance & Functionality

The El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry excels at its primary job: providing comfortable and concealed carry for a Smith & Wesson M&P. Retention is adequate for everyday use, and the two-piece design allows for versatile positioning. However, it may not be ideal for high-intensity activities where maximum retention is critical.

The holster’s strengths lie in its comfort and concealability. The leather construction and rear flap make it easy to wear all day, and the minimalist design minimizes printing. A slight weakness is the draw speed compared to a more rigid holster. It meets my expectations for a comfortable and concealable IWB holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry features a simple yet effective design. The two-piece construction allows the holster to conform to the body, enhancing comfort. The russet leather is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, providing a durable and comfortable surface.

The holster is very user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment or break-in. There is a slight learning curve to the draw stroke compared to more rigid holsters, but this is quickly overcome with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The leather construction of the El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry suggests a long lifespan with proper care. I anticipate it will last for years.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning with leather-specific products. The construction appears durable, and there are no obvious points of weakness.

Accessories and Customization Options

The El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry is a minimalist holster and does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available directly from El Paso Saddlery.

However, the holster is compatible with various aftermarket clips and attachments, allowing for some degree of customization. Some users might consider adding a wedge to enhance concealability.

Pros and Cons of El Paso EBGARR EZ Carry S&W Body AUTO Russet