Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder Review

Let’s Dive into Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder

The Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder is a seemingly simple piece of gear, but in the world of law enforcement and security, it’s a critical component of a well-equipped duty belt. Crafted by Gould & Goodrich, a trusted name in law enforcement equipment, this holder promises durability and reliable access to a PR24 baton or similar tools, like a Streamlight Stinger flashlight. Its focus on simplicity and durability immediately caught my attention.

Having spent over a decade in roles requiring a duty belt, the need for reliable and readily accessible equipment is paramount, and a baton holder is no exception. My previous experiences with flimsy, poorly designed baton holders led to frustrating moments when I needed my baton most, either struggling to retrieve it or worrying about it falling out during a foot pursuit. The Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder aimed to solve these issues.

Upon receiving the holder, I was immediately impressed by the robust feel of the Phoenix Duty Nylon. It’s immediately apparent that this isn’t some cheap, flimsy nylon; it’s a tightly woven, durable material. The stitching is clean and reinforced at stress points, giving the impression that this holder is built to withstand daily abuse.

I was considering baton holders from Bianchi and Safariland, both reputable brands. However, the Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder offered a more streamlined design and a more appealing price point. I wasn’t looking for anything fancy, just something that worked reliably and held up over time, and the Gould & Goodrich appeared to fit the bill perfectly.

My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism, a trait honed by years of using and abusing tactical gear. While the construction seemed solid, the true test would be how it performed in real-world scenarios. Would it retain my baton securely? Would it be easy to draw quickly under pressure? Time would tell, but my first impression was cautiously optimistic.


Real-World Testing: Putting Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test involved several shifts patrolling a local event, providing ample opportunity to evaluate the Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder in a dynamic environment. I used it in conjunction with my standard duty belt, which is 2.25 inches wide – well within the stated 2.25-inch belt loop capacity. The weather conditions were mild, but included a brief period of light rain.

The holder performed admirably. The retention was secure enough to prevent accidental loss of the baton during walking, running, and even some light grappling scenarios. Drawing the baton was smooth and intuitive, requiring only a deliberate tug. There was no fumbling or struggling, even with wet hands.

Initially, the tightness of the nylon against the baton made drawing slightly stiffer than I preferred. However, after a few practice draws, the nylon loosened up just enough to provide a perfect balance of retention and accessibility. I didn’t experience any unexpected issues, which is always a plus.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being subjected to daily use, including exposure to sun, rain, and the occasional bump against hard surfaces. The nylon has retained its shape and rigidity.

Cleaning the holder is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The DuraWeb Nylon Finish seems to resist staining and doesn’t easily absorb moisture.

In comparison to other nylon baton holders I’ve used in the past, the Gould & Goodrich significantly outperforms them in terms of durability and retention. Some cheaper holders I’ve encountered stretched out or became flimsy over time, leading to a loose fit and unreliable retention. The Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder has avoided those pitfalls entirely, maintaining its integrity and functionality even after months of heavy use.

Breaking Down the Features of Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder

Specifications

  • Finish: Black DuraWeb Nylon. The black color provides a professional, non-reflective appearance, while the DuraWeb Nylon is designed for long-lasting durability.
  • Fit: Holds PR24, PR24S, standard wood baton, or Streamlight Stinger flashlight. This versatility makes it useful for various duty applications.
  • Manufacturer: Gould & Goodrich. Gould & Goodrich is a reputable company with a long history of producing quality law enforcement equipment.
  • Accessory Attachment System: Belt Loop. This simple and secure attachment method allows for easy integration with standard duty belts.
  • Color: Black. A standard color for law enforcement and security professionals.
  • Fastener/Closure Type: No Closure. The absence of a closure simplifies access to the baton, allowing for rapid deployment.
  • Fabric/Material: Nylon. Known for its strength, abrasion resistance, and water resistance.
  • Attachment Type: Belt Loop/Slot. Securely attaches to a duty belt up to 2-1/4 inches wide.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the functionality and reliability of the holder. The DuraWeb Nylon’s durability ensures it will withstand daily wear and tear, while the open-top design allows for quick and easy access to the baton when needed.

Performance & Functionality

The Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder excels at its primary function: securely holding a baton while providing rapid access. The open-top design, combined with the snug fit of the nylon, creates a balance between retention and ease of draw.

One of the strengths of this holder is its simplicity. There are no complicated straps, buckles, or closures to fumble with, allowing for immediate deployment of the baton in a critical situation. The only slight weakness I’ve noticed is that, depending on the size of the baton or flashlight, the fit can initially be very snug, requiring a break-in period.

The holder meets and, in some ways, exceeds expectations. Its durability and reliability have been particularly impressive, surpassing many other nylon holders I’ve used in the past.

Design & Ergonomics

The Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder features a straightforward, no-frills design focused on functionality. The DuraWeb Nylon feels substantial and well-made, providing a secure grip on the baton without being overly bulky. It integrates seamlessly with a duty belt and doesn’t interfere with movement or other equipment.

The user-friendly design requires virtually no learning curve. It is simply a matter of sliding the baton into the holder and securing it to the belt.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder is expected to last for several years with proper care. The DuraWeb Nylon is resistant to abrasion, tearing, and fading, ensuring it will maintain its appearance and functionality over time.

Maintaining the holder is extremely simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as its primary function is simply to hold a baton. However, it is compatible with a wide range of standard duty belts and accessories from other brands.

While there are no specific customization options for the holder itself, users can personalize their setup by choosing different batons or flashlights to carry within it. The holder’s versatility in accommodating various baton sizes and the Streamlight Stinger flashlight makes it adaptable to individual preferences.

Pros and Cons of Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder

Pros

  • Exceptional Durability: The DuraWeb Nylon construction ensures the holder can withstand daily wear and tear, providing long-lasting reliability.
  • Secure Retention: The snug fit of the nylon provides secure retention of the baton, preventing accidental loss during movement.
  • Rapid Access: The open-top design allows for quick and easy deployment of the baton in critical situations.
  • Simple and User-Friendly: The straightforward design requires no learning curve, making it easy to use for professionals of all experience levels.
  • Versatile Compatibility: Accommodates various baton sizes and the Streamlight Stinger flashlight, making it adaptable to individual preferences.

Cons

  • Initial Tight Fit: Depending on the size of the baton, the initial fit can be very snug, requiring a break-in period.
  • Basic Design: The no-frills design may not appeal to users who prefer more elaborate or feature-rich equipment.


Who Should Buy Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder?

The Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a reliable and readily accessible baton or similar tool. It is especially well-suited for professionals who work in demanding environments and need equipment that can withstand daily wear and tear.

Individuals who prefer more complex or customizable baton holders with additional features may want to explore other options. Also, those who require a baton holder with a specific retention mechanism (such as a snap or locking system) may find this open-top design insufficient.

A must-have “accessory” is a properly sized baton. It’s also worth considering adding a small amount of lubricant (like silicone spray) to the inside of the holder to ease the draw, especially during the initial break-in period.

Conclusion on Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder

The Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder is a simple yet effective piece of gear that delivers on its promise of durability and reliable access. While it may lack the bells and whistles of more expensive baton holders, its robust construction and user-friendly design make it an excellent choice for professionals who need a no-nonsense, dependable tool.

At a price of $13.99, the value proposition is undeniable. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in terms of safety and efficiency.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Gould & Goodrich PR24 Baton Holder to anyone in law enforcement or security. It’s a reliable, durable, and affordable piece of equipment that will stand up to the rigors of daily use. If you’re looking for a simple, effective baton holder that won’t let you down, this is it. Upgrade your duty belt today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your baton is always securely within reach.

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