Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster Review

Let’s Dive into Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster

The Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster promises a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality, a synthesis that often determines success in the demanding world of law enforcement and tactical professionals. Gould & Goodrich are aiming to provide a duty holster that not only secures a firearm but also allows for a rapid and reliable draw when seconds count. This holster caught my attention due to its double retention system, a crucial feature for open carry in high-risk environments.

Having spent years navigating the varied terrains of tactical operations and training scenarios, I’ve grown acutely aware of the pivotal role a holster plays. My existing holster, while adequate, lacked the added security I desired for certain situations, specifically patrols in crowded urban areas where weapon retention is paramount. The Gould & Goodrich offering seemed to address this concern directly.

My first impression upon unboxing the Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster was that of a well-considered, professional piece of equipment. The “Hi-Gloss” finish gave it a polished, authoritative look, and the feel of the weatherproof polymer was reassuringly robust. Its weight felt substantial, but not cumbersome, hinting at a balance between durability and comfort.

Compared to a Safariland ALS holster I’ve previously used, the Gould & Goodrich holster opted for a different approach to retention, utilizing two distinct mechanisms instead of the single ALS system. Another holster I considered was a Blackhawk Serpa, but I ultimately shied away due to concerns about the draw stroke under stress. I chose the Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster for its seemingly intuitive and reliable retention system combined with the professional aesthetic.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic; its blend of classic looks with modern materials presented an interesting proposition. I was excited to see if it could truly deliver on the promise of secure retention and rapid deployment in real-world scenarios.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster occurred at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. This environment allowed me to simulate real-world scenarios, focusing on drawing and re-holstering under pressure. The weather was clear and dry, providing optimal conditions for evaluating the holster’s performance.

The double retention system took some getting used to, requiring a deliberate motion to release both mechanisms before drawing. However, after a few repetitions, the draw stroke became fluid and intuitive. I found the mid-ride height of the holster to be comfortable, allowing for a natural grip on the firearm during the draw.

One minor issue surfaced during the initial testing: the locking screws on the belt loops required tightening after several draws to prevent slight movement. Other than that, the first use was promising, demonstrating the holster’s potential for both security and accessibility.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of incorporating the Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster into my daily training routine and occasional duty carry, I gained a deeper appreciation for its durability. Despite frequent use and exposure to varying weather conditions, the scuff-resistant polymer showed minimal signs of wear. The holster maintained its shape and retention capabilities, even after repeated draws and re-holstering.

Cleaning the holster was straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth was sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Compared to my experience with leather holsters, the Gould & Goodrich model required significantly less maintenance and was far more resistant to moisture. It outperforms other synthetic duty holsters I’ve used in terms of retention reliability and build quality.

Breaking Down the Features of Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster

Specifications

The Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster is constructed from a scuff-resistant, weatherproof polymer laminate molded with Kydex for enhanced durability. It features a double retention system for secure weapon retention. It’s designed for outside-the-waistband (OWB) carry on a duty belt up to 2.25 inches wide.

Available fits include: Springfield XD 9mm (4″ barrel), Springfield XD .40/.45/.357, Glock 17/22/31, Glock 19/23/32, S&W M&P 9mm/.40, and S&W M&P .45. The holster has a mid-ride height for comfortable carry and ease of draw. An anti-blade device is integrated into the design, along with belt locking screws for added security.

These specifications are crucial because they dictate the holster’s performance in demanding environments. The polymer construction ensures resistance to the elements and physical damage, while the double retention system provides peace of mind in high-risk situations. The specific firearm fit ensures proper retention and a smooth, reliable draw stroke.

Performance & Functionality

The Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid draw. The double retention system provides a high level of security, preventing unauthorized access to the weapon. The draw stroke, while requiring initial familiarization, becomes efficient and reliable with practice.

One of the holster’s strengths is its robust construction, capable of withstanding the rigors of daily duty use. However, the double retention system can be slightly slower to disengage compared to single-retention holsters. Overall, the Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster meets and often exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster features a classic duty holster design with a modern twist, thanks to the polymer construction. The build quality is excellent, with precise molding and attention to detail. Its weight is substantial, but not overly burdensome, providing a sense of security without sacrificing comfort.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, although the double retention system requires some initial training. The mid-ride height is comfortable for most users, allowing for a natural draw stroke and minimizing interference with movement.

Durability & Maintenance

The Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster is built to last, thanks to its durable polymer construction and robust design. With proper care, it should withstand years of daily use without significant wear or degradation.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The simple design makes it easy to inspect and maintain, ensuring reliable performance over time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster doesn’t come with many included accessories beyond the basic belt locking screws. Customization is limited to selecting the correct model for your specific firearm.

While there are no direct Gould & Goodrich accessories for this holster, the standard belt loop design allows for compatibility with various aftermarket belt attachments. This provides some degree of customization for ride height and cant.

Pros and Cons of Gould & Goodrich Double Retention Duty OWB Belt Holster