Let’s Dive into Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster
The Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster is a classic, leather, outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster designed for comfortable and discreet carry. Made by Gould & Goodrich, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, this holster aims to provide a secure and accessible platform for your handgun. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of leather and the practicality of small-of-back carry.
I was on the hunt for a reliable and concealable holster for my compact 1911. I wanted an OWB option that wouldn’t print easily under a light jacket or untucked shirt. I needed something comfortable for all-day wear and secure enough for peace of mind.
Unboxing the holster, the first thing that struck me was the smell of genuine leather. The chestnut brown color was rich and appealing, and the stitching appeared clean and robust. The holster felt solid in my hand, hinting at good build quality despite its reasonable price point.
I considered a Kydex holster from a newer company, but the classic appeal and proven reputation of Gould & Goodrich won me over. I also briefly considered a pancake-style holster for more traditional hip carry, but the small-of-back position offered a unique concealment advantage I wanted to explore. Ultimately, the reputation and value of this holster is what caught my eye.
My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism. I’ve had mixed experiences with small-of-back carry in the past. However, the quality of the leather and the adjustable tension screw gave me hope that this holster would be a game-changer.
Real-World Testing: Putting Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster at my local shooting range. I practiced drawing and re-holstering drills with my compact 1911. I also wore it around the house for several hours to get a feel for its comfort and concealment.
The holster performed well in the dry, controlled environment of the range. The draw was smooth and consistent, and the tension screw allowed me to dial in the perfect level of retention. However, I noticed that the leather was a bit stiff at first, requiring some breaking in.
After the first use, I found the holster to be comfortable enough for short periods. However, I realized some getting used to would be required for all-day carry. The positioning behind my back felt a bit awkward at first, particularly when sitting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few weeks of consistent use, the Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster began to conform to my body shape and firearm. The leather softened up, and the draw became even smoother. I’ve used it for training scenarios, camping trips, and even some casual hikes.
The durability has been impressive so far. The stitching remains intact, and the leather shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The holster still looks great and retains its shape even after being exposed to some light rain and dusty conditions.
Maintaining the holster has been simple. I wipe it down with a leather cleaner and conditioner every few weeks to keep it supple and prevent cracking. Compared to some of the other leather holsters I’ve owned, this one seems to be holding up exceptionally well. Its simple design is easy to clean and maintain.
Breaking Down the Features of Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster
Specifications
The Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster is constructed from high-quality, genuine leather. It’s designed for outside-the-waistband carry in the small-of-back position, accommodating belts up to 1.5 inches wide. The holster features an adjustable tension screw for customized firearm retention and comes in a chestnut brown finish.
The leather construction ensures durability and a classic aesthetic. The adjustable tension screw allows for a secure and personalized fit for different firearms. The small-of-back design aids in concealment, especially under loose-fitting clothing.
Performance & Functionality
The Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster performs its primary function of concealing and securing a handgun effectively. The adjustable tension screw allows for a tailored fit, preventing the firearm from shifting or falling out. The draw is relatively smooth and intuitive, especially after the holster has been broken in.
The holster’s strength lies in its simplicity and classic design. It securely holds the firearm and offers decent concealment. The main weakness is the small-of-back carry position itself, which can be slower to draw from and potentially uncomfortable for some users.
The holster meets my expectations for a basic, leather OWB holster. However, I wouldn’t expect the retention or speed of draw to match that of a custom-molded Kydex holster. Given its price point and intended use, it performs admirably.
Design & Ergonomics
The Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster features a simple, functional design. The leather is thick and durable, providing a sturdy platform for the firearm. The holster is lightweight and doesn’t add significant bulk to the overall carry profile.
The build quality is solid, with clean stitching and well-finished edges. The holster is comfortable enough for occasional wear, but extended use can be a bit fatiguing due to the small-of-back positioning. There is a small learning curve associated with drawing from this position.
The holster’s user-friendliness is decent, although drawing from the small-of-back requires practice. It is simple enough to quickly put on and take off as needed. Getting used to the draw stroke and re-holstering safely will take practice.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its all-leather construction, the Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster should last for years with proper care. The thick leather and reinforced stitching are designed to withstand daily wear and tear. It is important to note, leather is a natural material and needs to be conditioned to avoid cracking.
Maintaining the holster is straightforward. Regular cleaning and conditioning with leather products will help keep it supple and prevent cracking or drying out. Minor scuffs and scratches can be buffed out with leather polish.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster doesn’t come with any specific accessories. Its simple design doesn’t lend itself to extensive customization. However, the adjustable tension screw provides a degree of personalization in terms of firearm retention.
The holster is compatible with most standard 1.5-inch belts. Some users might choose to add a sweat guard or comfort pad to the holster’s back for added comfort, but these are not included. No additional customization options are available, however the simplicity adds to its value and ease of use.
Pros and Cons of Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster
Pros
- Excellent Concealment: The small-of-back design allows for deep concealment under a jacket or loose shirt.
- Durable Leather Construction: The genuine leather is tough and long-lasting.
- Adjustable Retention: The tension screw allows for a customized fit and secure firearm retention.
- Affordable Price: The holster offers great value for the money.
- Classic Design: The traditional leather look is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Cons
- Small-of-Back Draw: Drawing from the small-of-back position can be slower and more awkward than other carry methods.
- Comfort Issues: Prolonged wear can be uncomfortable for some users, especially when sitting.
Who Should Buy Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster?
The Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster is perfect for individuals who prioritize deep concealment and are comfortable with the small-of-back carry position. It’s a good option for law enforcement officers, security personnel, or licensed concealed carriers who need to keep their firearm hidden from view. This holster is great for people who conceal carry in colder weather climates.
Those who prefer a faster draw or experience discomfort from small-of-back carry should skip this product. This product is not a good fit for competitive shooters or those who need immediate access to their firearm. The holster requires a sturdy belt.
A good quality belt is a must-have accessory for this holster. Some users may also benefit from adding a sweat guard or comfort pad to the holster’s back. Holster maintenance is simple but must be completed to ensure the longevity of the Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster.
Conclusion on Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster
The Gould & Goodrich Small of Back Concealment OWB Belt Holster is a solid, reliable, and affordable option for those seeking deep concealment. While the small-of-back carry position may not be for everyone, the holster itself is well-made and performs its intended function admirably. The Gould & Goodrich name carries weight in the industry.
The price is definitely justified for the quality and durability you receive. This is a great option at this price point. You will find a hard time finding this same level of quality and performance for the money.
I would personally recommend this holster to anyone looking for a simple, effective, and budget-friendly concealment solution. It is a high-quality holster. Take the plunge, give it a try, and experience the peace of mind that comes with a reliable and well-made holster.