Let’s Dive into Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster
The Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster aims to provide a comfortable and versatile option for concealed carry. Gould & Goodrich designed this holster to be ambidextrous and accommodate various firearms, offering both front and back carry positions. Its elastic construction promises a snug fit, making it suitable for different body types and clothing styles.
I’ve always struggled to find a comfortable and truly concealable holster for deep concealment, especially when wearing athletic wear or during physical activity. I needed a solution that wouldn’t print or shift during movement, offering both security and accessibility. I was also looking for a holster that could accommodate different firearms, as my carry choices vary.
Upon unboxing, the Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster felt surprisingly lightweight and flexible. The 4-inch wide elastic seemed durable, and the hook and loop closure appeared robust enough for secure fastening. The material had a slight give, suggesting it would conform to the body well.
I considered other belly band holsters from Alien Gear and ComfortTac, but the Gould & Goodrich model’s reputation for ambidextrous use and its additional pockets for a magazine and cuffs tipped the scales. These features seemed to offer greater versatility than the competition. The price was also appealing, making it a worthwhile gamble.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The design seemed practical, but I was concerned about the elastic stretching over time and how well it would truly conceal larger firearms. Only real-world testing would reveal its true capabilities.
Real-World Testing: Putting Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster at an outdoor shooting range during a moderate temperature day. I carried a Glock 19 in the holster, positioning it in the appendix carry position. I also ran some drills requiring movement, such as drawing from seated and prone positions.
The elastic construction allowed the holster to conform to my body, minimizing printing even under a relatively thin t-shirt. The hook and loop closure held firmly, preventing the holster from shifting during movement. However, drawing the weapon required a deliberate and practiced motion to overcome the elastic retention.
After the first use, I noticed that the elastic was slightly damp from sweat, which could become an issue during extended use in warmer climates. I was also surprised that the magazine pocket wasn’t quite large enough for a standard Glock 19 magazine without significant stretching.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster has proven to be reasonably durable. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the elastic or the hook and loop closure. The stitching has remained intact, showing solid construction.
I have used the holster while hiking, running, and even during some light grappling drills. It holds up well under moderate physical activity, but excessive sweating can cause discomfort and slippage. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and air drying helps maintain its elasticity and prevent odors.
Compared to my previous experience with a leather IWB holster, the Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster offers superior concealment and comfort, especially when wearing athletic clothing. However, it sacrifices some speed and ease of draw compared to a more rigid holster design.
Breaking Down the Features of Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster
Specifications
- The Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster is made of a durable 4-inch wide elastic material. This elastic provides a snug and comfortable fit, conforming to the body’s contours for better concealment.
- It features an adjustable hook and loop closure system. This closure allows for a customized fit and secure retention, accommodating different waist sizes within the specified range.
- The holster is designed for ambidextrous use. This allows for both right and left-handed draw, making it suitable for a wide range of users.
- It offers both front and back carry positions. This provides versatility in carry options, depending on the user’s preference and clothing.
- It includes one pocket for a magazine or knife and one pocket for cuffs. These additional pockets enhance the holster’s functionality, providing storage for essential accessories.
Performance & Functionality
The Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster excels at deep concealment, particularly when wearing clothing that makes traditional holsters impractical. It minimizes printing effectively, offering a low-profile carry solution.
The holster’s retention is adequate for most activities, but a practiced draw is necessary due to the elastic material. The magazine pocket could be larger to accommodate standard-sized magazines more easily. It also works as a great location for carrying a folding knife or multi-tool.
Overall, the holster meets expectations for comfort and concealability, but it falls slightly short in terms of speed and ease of access compared to more rigid holster designs. The retention strap is a needed feature for extra peace of mind.
Design & Ergonomics
The Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster features a simple yet functional design. The 4-inch wide elastic band is comfortable against the skin, and the hook and loop closure is easy to adjust.
The holster is lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk. There is a slight learning curve to mastering the draw stroke from concealment. Be sure to practice your presentation on an empty weapon until confident.
Durability & Maintenance
The Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster appears to be reasonably durable, with solid stitching and robust materials. With proper care, it should last for several years of regular use.
The holster is easy to clean with mild soap and water, and it air dries quickly. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent odors and maintain the elasticity of the band.
Accessories and Customization Options
- The Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster comes with built-in magazine and cuff pockets. These pockets increase the holster’s functionality, offering additional storage options.
- There are no significant customization options for this holster. The design is relatively fixed, limiting the user’s ability to modify it.
- The holster is compatible with most compact to mid-size firearms, depending on the size selected. However, it may not be suitable for larger firearms or those with attached accessories.
Pros and Cons of Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster
Pros
- Excellent deep concealment, minimizing printing even with light clothing.
- Ambidextrous design accommodates both right and left-handed users.
- Comfortable for extended wear, especially during physical activity.
- Adjustable hook and loop closure ensures a secure and customizable fit.
- Additional pockets provide storage for a magazine, knife, or handcuffs.
Cons
- Slower draw compared to rigid holsters due to elastic retention.
- Magazine pocket may be too small for some standard-size magazines.
- Can become uncomfortable in hot weather due to sweat retention.
Who Should Buy Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster?
The Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster is perfect for individuals who prioritize deep concealment and comfort, particularly when wearing athletic clothing or engaging in physical activities. It’s also suitable for those who need an ambidextrous carry option.
This product might not be ideal for competitive shooters or anyone who requires a rapid draw. Individuals who live in extremely hot climates might find the sweat retention uncomfortable and should seek alternative options.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality undershirt to wick away moisture and improve comfort during extended wear. Practice drawing with an unloaded firearm at home.
Conclusion on Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster
The Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster provides a valuable solution for those seeking deep concealment and all-day comfort. While it may not be the fastest option for drawing, its concealability and versatility make it a worthwhile choice.
The price is justified by the quality of materials and the functionality it provides. It’s a good value for those prioritizing comfort and concealability over speed.
I would recommend the Gould & Goodrich The Body Guard Concealment Belly Band Holster to anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable deep concealment option. It is well worth the investment. Consider this holster if you are looking for deep concealment and comfortable carry.