Let’s Dive into Gould & Goodrich Inside Pants IWB Holster
The Gould & Goodrich Inside Pants IWB Holster is a classic, no-frills concealed carry solution crafted from Gould & Goodrich’s renowned leather. With its open-top design and secure strap attachment, it promises comfortable and reliable all-day carry, particularly for compact handguns.
My journey to this holster began with a simple, yet crucial, need: deep concealment. I wanted a holster that virtually disappeared under clothing, offering maximum discretion without sacrificing accessibility. I was looking for something reliable, comfortable and suitable for my Sig Sauer P250 Compact.
Upon unboxing, the Gould & Goodrich holster exudes a traditional, high-quality leather feel. The Chestnut Brown leather is smooth and supple, hinting at a comfortable break-in period. The stitching is clean and even, indicating careful craftsmanship, and the overall weight feels reassuringly solid without being bulky.
Compared to hybrid Kydex/leather IWB holsters and all-Kydex options, I chose the Gould & Goodrich for its promise of classic comfort and minimal printing. I found that Kydex tends to be too rigid against my body and hybrid models sometimes offer more bulk than concealment. I was also drawn to Gould & Goodrich’s reputation for quality leather products.
My first impression was one of understated confidence. It wasn’t flashy or tactical looking, but its simple design and quality materials suggested a reliable and comfortable carry experience. I hoped it would live up to its promise of disappearing under clothing and provide easy access to my firearm when needed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Gould & Goodrich Inside Pants IWB Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Gould & Goodrich Inside Pants IWB Holster at the shooting range, followed by a day of running errands around town. I carried my Sig Sauer P250 Compact in the 3 o’clock position, under a light t-shirt.
The holster performed surprisingly well in moderate conditions, with a temperature of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The leather conformed to my body quickly, providing a comfortable fit with minimal printing. Drawing and re-holstering were smooth and intuitive, even after several practice repetitions at the range.
No time was needed for adjustment, the holster’s simple design required no getting used to. I found it to be comfortable from the first moment I put it on. I initially found the retention to be a bit snug, requiring a firm tug to draw, but it loosened up slightly after a few practice draws, which gave me more confidence in its security.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Gould & Goodrich Inside Pants IWB Holster has proven to be a reliable, if somewhat basic, concealed carry option. I wore it during various activities, including hiking, driving, and everyday tasks.
The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear after weeks of usage. The leather has developed a nice patina, adding to its character, and the stitching remains tight and secure. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only occasional wiping down with a leather conditioner to maintain its suppleness.
Compared to other leather holsters I’ve used, the Gould & Goodrich holds its shape well and doesn’t become overly stretched or loose. I found it to be a good solid holster. I did wish, however, for a little more adjustability in terms of cant and ride height to truly optimize my draw.
Breaking Down the Features of Gould & Goodrich Inside Pants IWB Holster
Specifications
- Gun Make: SIG Sauer: This holster is specifically molded for SIG Sauer firearms, ensuring a snug and secure fit.
- Gun Model: SIG Sauer P250 Compact: Designed specifically for the P250 Compact, providing optimal retention and draw. A proper fit is critical for both safety and ease of use.
- Holster Material: Leather: Genuine leather construction offers classic comfort, durability, and a professional appearance. Leather conforms to the body over time for a personalized fit, reducing discomfort and improving concealment.
- Holster Type: Inside the Waistband Holster: IWB design maximizes concealment by positioning the firearm close to the body. This is especially beneficial for compact firearms like the Sig Sauer P250 Compact.
- Color: Chestnut Brown: This classic color blends well with a variety of clothing and offers a traditional aesthetic. It offers a more discreet look compared to brighter colors.
- Accessory Attachment System: Strap: A simple leather strap loops around the belt to secure the holster in place. This is a time tested design for IWB carry.
- Finish: Plain: The plain finish offers a clean and professional appearance. It minimizes glare and enhances the holster’s discreet nature.
- Fastener/Closure Type: Open Top: An open-top design allows for a fast and unrestricted draw. This is crucial for self-defense scenarios where quick access to the firearm is essential.
- Attachment Type: Strap: The belt strap provides a secure and stable attachment to the user’s belt. This ensures that the holster remains in place during movement and draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Gould & Goodrich Inside Pants IWB Holster does its primary job of concealing a handgun effectively. The open-top design allows for a relatively quick draw, and the retention is adequate for everyday carry.
While the holster performs adequately, it does have some limitations. The single strap attachment can allow for some movement of the holster, and the lack of adjustable cant and ride height makes it difficult to fine-tune the carry position for optimal comfort and draw speed. It meets expectations for a basic leather IWB holster, but lacks the advanced features found in more modern designs.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent, with the leather being of reasonable thickness and the stitching being generally well-executed. The Chestnut Brown color gives it a classic look.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, requiring minimal break-in time. The leather softens and conforms to the body with use. The lack of adjustability, however, limits its ergonomic customization for individual users.
Durability & Maintenance
The leather construction suggests reasonable durability, and with proper care, the holster should last for several years. However, leather is susceptible to moisture and requires regular conditioning to prevent cracking and drying.
Maintenance is relatively simple, involving occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and application of a leather conditioner. Regular care is necessary to maintain the leather’s suppleness and prevent premature wear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Gould & Goodrich Inside Pants IWB Holster is a simple, straightforward design with limited customization options. It does not come with any additional accessories and is not designed to accommodate any aftermarket attachments.
The holster’s compatibility with accessories is limited by its basic design. It is not designed to accommodate lights, lasers, or other firearm accessories. The only real customization option is to potentially adjust the strap length for different belt widths.
Pros and Cons of Gould & Goodrich Inside Pants IWB Holster
Pros
- Comfortable Leather Construction: The genuine leather conforms to the body for all-day comfort.
- Effective Concealment: The IWB design allows for deep concealment, minimizing printing.
- Fast Draw: The open-top design enables a quick and unhindered draw.
- Durable Build: The quality leather and stitching provide reasonable longevity.
- Classic Aesthetic: The Chestnut Brown leather offers a traditional and professional look.
Cons
- Limited Adjustability: Lack of cant and ride height adjustment limits customization options.
- Basic Retention: The leather strap may not provide sufficient retention for very active situations.
- Susceptible to Moisture: Leather requires regular maintenance to prevent damage from moisture.
Who Should Buy Gould & Goodrich Inside Pants IWB Holster?
This holster is perfect for individuals who prioritize comfort and deep concealment for their compact handgun. Casual carriers, those who appreciate the traditional feel of leather, and anyone looking for a simple, no-frills IWB holster will find value in this product.
This product might not be ideal for users who require a high degree of adjustability, prefer active retention, or need to accommodate firearm accessories like lights or lasers. It may also not be suitable for those who operate in very demanding environments where a more rugged and secure holster is necessary.
Must-have accessories would include a high-quality leather conditioner to maintain the holster’s suppleness and prevent drying. A good gun belt is also essential to provide a stable and secure platform for the holster.
Conclusion on Gould & Goodrich Inside Pants IWB Holster
The Gould & Goodrich Inside Pants IWB Holster is a solid, if somewhat basic, choice for concealed carry. Its comfortable leather construction, effective concealment, and fast draw make it a viable option for everyday carry.
At $69.99, the price is reasonable for a quality leather IWB holster, though there are more feature-rich options available at a similar price point. It’s well-suited for people who want simplicity and leather comfort above all else.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable leather IWB holster for their compact handgun. If you value classic design, comfortable carry, and discreet concealment, this holster is worth considering.