First Impressions of Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II
The Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II promises a convenient and secure way to carry a handgun equipped with a rail-mounted light or laser. Fobus is a well-known name in the holster industry, recognized for their durable polymer construction and functional designs, so my expectations were relatively high. I needed a holster that could accommodate my Glock 19 with a Streamlight TLR-7A, and the Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II seemed like a viable option.
I’ve struggled with finding a reliable holster for my Glock after adding a weapon light. Many holsters are either too bulky or don’t offer a secure fit for the light-equipped handgun. Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the lightweight design and the simple, no-frills construction. The polymer felt sturdy, but I was initially concerned about how well the open design would retain my firearm.
Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa holster and a Safariland ALS holster I own, the Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II appeared less bulky but also less feature-rich. The Serpa offers a more secure locking mechanism, and the Safariland ALS boasts superior retention and adjustability. I picked the Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II because of its streamlined design and promise of accommodating virtually any under-barrel light/laser.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited about the potential for comfortable and light-weight carry, but I remained skeptical about the retention and overall security due to the open design.
Real-World Testing: Putting Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II at my local shooting range. I was conducting drills involving drawing and re-holstering my Glock 19 while incorporating the use of my weapon light. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing the holster’s performance in a controlled environment.
The draw stroke felt natural and smooth, thanks to the unique hinge design. However, re-holstering required more deliberate action to ensure the retaining strap was properly secured. The open design allowed for easy accommodation of the weapon light, but the handgun felt slightly less secure than in holsters with more active retention.
The biggest initial issue I noticed was the retaining strap occasionally interfering with my draw. It took a few practice draws to get used to sweeping the strap out of the way quickly and efficiently.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II during daily concealed carry and range sessions, it has held up surprisingly well. There are minor scuff marks on the polymer from regular use, but no significant signs of wear and tear. The holster still retains its shape and function.
Cleaning and maintaining the holster is very simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The paddle remains securely attached to my belt, even during rigorous movement.
Compared to my previous experiences with more complex holsters, the Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II offers a welcome simplicity. While it may not provide the same level of active retention as some other models, its comfort and ease of use are definitely advantages.
Breaking Down the Features of Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II
Specifications
The Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II is designed to accommodate handguns with a light or laser mounted on the under-barrel rail. This is a key feature for users who rely on weapon-mounted accessories.
It features an open holster body design allowing for compatibility with virtually any light/laser system. This versatility makes it a good choice for those who frequently change or upgrade their accessories.
The holster is constructed from lightweight, reinforced polymer. This material provides durability without adding unnecessary weight.
It includes a polymer retaining strap for added security. While not active retention, it does provide an extra layer of safety.
The unique hinge design allows for a straight, upward draw. This design promotes a smooth and efficient draw stroke.
The fact that Fobus explicitly states “DO NOT USE the RBT Tactical Series holster without a tactical accessory attached to the firearm as it is designed to work only with the rail accessory attached” is critical. This limits its usability to only light/laser equipped firearms.
Performance & Functionality
The Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II performs its core function adequately. It securely holds a handgun with a weapon light attached and allows for a relatively quick draw. Retention is acceptable for everyday carry, but it may not be sufficient for high-intensity activities.
The primary strength of this holster is its versatility in accommodating various light/laser combinations. A significant weakness is the reliance on the retaining strap, which can be cumbersome and slow down the draw if not properly trained. It meets expectations for a basic, no-frills holster designed for weapon-light equipped handguns, but it doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for a polymer holster in this price range. The polymer feels durable, but it lacks the refinement of higher-end materials. The holster is comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to its lightweight design and smooth edges.
The Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II is user-friendly with minimal learning curve. However, mastering the draw with the retaining strap takes some practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer construction should provide reasonable longevity, especially with proper care. The lack of complex mechanisms minimizes the risk of mechanical failure. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II does not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited due to its simple design. It is primarily designed to be compatible with a wide range of weapon lights and lasers.
Pros and Cons of Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II
Pros
- Accommodates virtually any handgun with a rail-mounted light/laser.
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day carry.
- Simple design with minimal learning curve.
- Durable polymer construction.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Relying on the retention strap can slow down the draw.
- Designed only to work with a rail-mounted accessory.
- No active retention mechanism.
Who Should Buy Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II?
The Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II is perfect for:
- Law enforcement or security personnel who require a holster that can accommodate a variety of weapon lights.
- Concealed carriers who prioritize comfort and simplicity.
- Firearm owners on a budget who need a functional holster for their light-equipped handgun.
Who should skip this product?
- Individuals requiring a high level of active retention for open carry or tactical applications.
- Those who prefer a holster with more adjustability and customization options.
- Users who do not utilize a weapon light on their handgun.
A must-have modification would be practicing drawing and re-holstering repeatedly to master the use of the retention strap. A quality belt designed for concealed carry is also recommended.
Conclusion on Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II
The Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II is a functional and affordable option for carrying a handgun with a weapon light. While it lacks some of the advanced features found in higher-end holsters, its simplicity, comfort, and versatility make it a worthwhile choice for many users.
At a price of $48.73, the value proposition is reasonable. It provides a decent level of performance for the price point. I would personally recommend it to those seeking a basic, no-frills holster for their light-equipped handgun, especially if they are on a budget.
Overall, the Fobus Paddle Holster w/Lighthouse II is a solid entry-level option that gets the job done without breaking the bank. Consider it if you need a simple, versatile, and affordable solution for carrying your weapon-light equipped handgun.