First Thoughts on the Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″
The Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″ promises a comfortable and accessible way to carry your Bond Arms derringer while on the road. Bond Arms has built a reputation for quality and craftsmanship, and I was eager to see if this holster lived up to that standard. As someone who appreciates both the classic design of a derringer and the practicality of having a firearm readily available, a dedicated driving holster was something I’d been searching for.
For years, I’ve struggled to find a comfortable and secure way to carry my Bond Arms derringer while driving. Standard IWB (Inside the Waistband) holsters are simply not conducive to sitting for extended periods, and off-body carry can be slow and cumbersome. I needed a solution that would allow me to access my firearm quickly and discreetly, without sacrificing comfort or security.
Upon unboxing the Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″, my initial impression was positive. The leather felt thick and durable, and the stitching appeared to be well-executed. The smooth calf lining was a welcome touch, suggesting a smooth and easy draw. Compared to generic nylon holsters or makeshift solutions, this felt like a purpose-built tool, specifically designed for its intended use.
I considered a few other options before settling on the Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″. I looked at a universal cross-draw holster and a custom Kydex option. Ultimately, I chose the Bond Arms holster because of its tailored fit for Bond Arms derringers, the promise of a smooth draw, and the overall quality of the materials. I was excited by the potential of a holster designed specifically for my firearm, offering both comfort and quick access.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″ to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″ was on a long road trip through the Texas Hill Country. This trip involved several hours of driving in varying conditions, from sunny highways to dusty backroads. I mounted the holster in my truck in a cross-draw configuration.
The initial draw stroke felt smooth and natural, thanks to the calfskin lining. Accessing the firearm was significantly easier than when using a standard IWB holster while seated. However, I noticed that the holster required a bit of breaking in to achieve the desired level of retention; initially, the gun felt a little too tight.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, the Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″ has held up remarkably well. The leather has softened slightly, improving both comfort and draw speed. The stitching remains intact, showing no signs of fraying or loosening.
I’ve found the holster to be relatively low-maintenance. A quick wipe down with a leather cleaner every week or so is sufficient to keep it in good condition. Compared to other leather holsters I’ve owned, this one seems to be more resistant to scratches and wear.
Breaking Down the Features of Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″
Specifications
The Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″ is a right-hand, cross-draw holster designed specifically for Bond Arms derringers with a 3.5-inch barrel and non-polished finishes. The holster is constructed from premium leather, providing both durability and a classic aesthetic. It features a smooth calf lining, which facilitates a smooth and consistent draw.
The black-on-black stitching complements the overall design and adds to the holster’s durability. This holster is designed to be compatible with Bond Arms firearms that have a non-polished finish, ensuring a proper fit and preventing damage to the firearm’s finish. The fit and finish are crucial for a reliable and safe draw, especially in a stressful situation.
Performance & Functionality
The Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″ performs its primary function – providing a secure and accessible way to carry a Bond Arms derringer while driving – admirably. The cross-draw design allows for quick and easy access to the firearm while seated, a significant advantage over traditional IWB or OWB (Outside the Waistband) holsters in a vehicle. The smooth calf lining ensures a consistent draw stroke, minimizing the risk of snags or fumbles.
While the initial retention was a bit tight, it improved significantly with use. The holster offers a good balance of retention and draw speed. One area for potential improvement might be an adjustable retention screw, allowing users to fine-tune the holster to their preferences.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″ boasts a classic and functional design. The premium leather construction exudes quality, and the smooth calf lining adds a touch of luxury. The holster is relatively lightweight and doesn’t add excessive bulk.
The design is user-friendly, with a natural draw angle that requires minimal adjustment. The lack of sharp edges or uncomfortable protrusions makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods. However, some users with larger frames might find the cross-draw positioning less comfortable, depending on the vehicle’s interior.
Durability & Maintenance
The use of premium leather and quality stitching suggests that the Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″ is built to last. The leather is thick and resistant to wear, and the stitching appears to be robust. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning. Avoid exposing the holster to excessive moisture or extreme temperatures. Regular cleaning will help prevent the leather from drying out and cracking.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″ is a standalone product and does not come with any additional accessories. Since it’s a holster, customization is somewhat limited. However, users can explore options such as adding a leather conditioner or using different mounting hardware to adjust the holster’s position.
While the holster is designed specifically for Bond Arms derringers with non-polished finishes, it may be compatible with other similar-sized firearms, although this is not recommended. Using a firearm other than the intended model could compromise retention and safety.
Pros and Cons of Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″
Pros
- Specifically designed for Bond Arms derringers with non-polished finishes, ensuring a perfect fit.
- Premium leather construction provides excellent durability and a classic look.
- Smooth calf lining allows for a smooth and consistent draw.
- Cross-draw design offers quick and easy access while seated in a vehicle.
- Relatively low-maintenance and easy to care for.
Cons
- Initial retention may be too tight for some users.
- Cross-draw positioning may not be comfortable for all body types or vehicle interiors.
- Lacks adjustable retention.
Who Should Buy Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″?
Pros
- Specifically designed for Bond Arms derringers with non-polished finishes, ensuring a perfect fit.
- Premium leather construction provides excellent durability and a classic look.
- Smooth calf lining allows for a smooth and consistent draw.
- Cross-draw design offers quick and easy access while seated in a vehicle.
- Relatively low-maintenance and easy to care for.
Cons
- Initial retention may be too tight for some users.
- Cross-draw positioning may not be comfortable for all body types or vehicle interiors.
- Lacks adjustable retention.
The Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″ is perfect for Bond Arms derringer owners who frequently drive and want a safe, accessible, and comfortable carry solution. It’s also a good choice for individuals who prefer the cross-draw carry style. This holster is especially beneficial for long-haul drivers, commuters, or anyone who spends a significant amount of time behind the wheel.
This holster may not be suitable for individuals who prefer other carry positions, such as IWB or OWB. It’s also not ideal for those who do not own a Bond Arms derringer with a 3.5-inch barrel and non-polished finish. If you own a derringer with a polished finish, this specific holster isn’t recommended due to potential damage to the finish.
A must-have modification would be finding the optimal mounting location in your vehicle for comfortable and quick access. Experimenting with different positions will maximize the holster’s effectiveness.
Conclusion on Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″
The Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″ is a well-designed and well-executed holster that delivers on its promise of providing a comfortable and accessible way to carry a Bond Arms derringer while driving. The premium leather construction, smooth calf lining, and cross-draw design make it a standout product in its category. While the initial retention may be a bit tight for some, this issue typically resolves itself with use.
At $94.49, the price is justified by the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and the holster’s specific design for Bond Arms derringers. This isn’t a generic, one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a purpose-built tool designed to enhance the comfort and safety of carrying a firearm while driving.
I would personally recommend the Bond Arms Smooth Lined Driving Holster RH 3.5″ to any Bond Arms derringer owner looking for a dedicated driving holster. It’s a worthwhile investment that provides peace of mind and easy access to your firearm when you need it most. If you’re tired of uncomfortable and inconvenient carry methods while driving, give this holster a try – you won’t be disappointed.