Let’s Dive into Gould & Goodrich Yaqui Slide Concealment OWB Belt Holster
The Gould & Goodrich Yaqui Slide Concealment OWB Belt Holster is a classic, minimalist leather holster designed for outside-the-waistband (OWB) carry. Crafted by Gould & Goodrich, a company with a solid reputation in law enforcement and tactical gear, this holster offers a blend of simplicity, comfort, and surprisingly good concealment for OWB. This holster has the ability to fit a wide range of pistols, making it a versatile option for gun owners.
I was looking for an OWB holster that could offer decent concealment without the bulk of a full-size pancake holster. The Yaqui Slide design appealed to me because of its simplicity and reputation for being adaptable to different firearms. I needed something comfortable for all-day wear that wouldn’t break the bank, and could easily switch between different pistols.
Upon unboxing, the holster had that distinct, pleasant smell of quality leather. The stitching was clean and consistent, suggesting a well-made product. It felt sturdy but not overly rigid, hinting at a comfortable break-in period.
Compared to a more traditional pancake holster or a Kydex OWB rig, the Yaqui Slide stands out for its streamlined design. I was initially considering a Galco Combat Master, but the Gould & Goodrich offering was significantly more affordable. I was also debating between this and a Blackhawk Serpa, but wanted the benefits of leather instead of a plastic retention holster for everyday concealed carry use.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the minimalist design and the potential for comfortable concealed carry. I also wondered how well it would actually retain my firearm during more active movements, especially given its open-top design.
Real-World Testing: Putting Gould & Goodrich Yaqui Slide Concealment OWB Belt Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Gould & Goodrich Yaqui Slide Concealment OWB Belt Holster at my local shooting range and during a weekend hiking trip. The range provided a controlled environment to assess draw speed and retention, while the hiking trip offered a chance to evaluate comfort and concealment during moderate physical activity. The weather during both tests was dry and mild.
The draw was surprisingly smooth and natural, requiring minimal practice to achieve a consistent grip. The open-top design allows for a full firing grip on the weapon before drawing, which is a huge plus for speed and accuracy. I did notice that adjusting the retention screw made a significant difference in the smoothness of the draw, so experimentation was key.
The holster performed admirably, even with some light jogging. The holster stayed snug against my body. There were no noticeable issues after the first range session or hike.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Gould & Goodrich Yaqui Slide Concealment OWB Belt Holster continues to hold up well. The leather has softened slightly, conforming even better to my body and firearm. Regular cleaning and conditioning have prevented any cracking or excessive wear.
The holster shows some minor scuff marks, which is expected with leather, but the stitching remains intact and the retention is still reliable. I typically clean it every couple of weeks with a leather cleaner and apply a leather conditioner to keep it supple.
This Yaqui Slide has exceeded my initial expectations. It is more comfortable and concealable than I initially anticipated. I have used other leather holsters that have quickly lost their shape or become too loose, but this one has maintained its integrity.
Breaking Down the Features of Gould & Goodrich Yaqui Slide Concealment OWB Belt Holster
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Gould & Goodrich
- Holster Type: Belt Holster
- Holster Material: Leather
- Light/Laser Attachment: No
- Accessory Attachment System: Belt Loop
- Finish: Plain
- Quantity: 1
- Belt Loop/Snap Width: 1.75 in
- Fastener/Closure Type: Open Top
- Condition: New
- Age Group: Adults
- Holster Finish: Plain
- Fabric/Material: Leather
These specifications are critical to the holster’s design and functionality. The leather construction provides a balance of comfort and durability. The 1.75-inch belt loop width is compatible with most standard gun belts.
Performance & Functionality
The Gould & Goodrich Yaqui Slide Concealment OWB Belt Holster excels at providing a secure and accessible OWB carry option. The open-top design allows for a quick and natural draw, while the adjustable retention screw provides some control over the tightness of the fit. The holster is suitable for concealed carry under a loose-fitting shirt or jacket.
The primary strength of this holster is its simplicity and versatility. It accommodates a wide range of firearms within its specified size categories. The main weakness is that the minimalist design offers less protection for the firearm than a fully enclosed holster.
Overall, the holster meets expectations, especially considering its price point. It performs its intended function effectively and offers a comfortable and concealable OWB carry solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Yaqui Slide design is inherently minimalist, consisting of a single piece of leather folded and stitched to create a secure pouch for the firearm. The Gould & Goodrich holster is well-constructed with clean stitching and a smooth finish. The holster weighs very little.
The holster is generally user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The open-top design allows for a natural draw stroke. The adjustable retention screw allows users to fine-tune the fit to their specific firearm.
Durability & Maintenance
The Gould & Goodrich Yaqui Slide Concealment OWB Belt Holster is constructed from quality leather. With proper care, it should last for many years.
Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning with leather-specific products. Minor scuffs and scratches can often be buffed out with a soft cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Gould & Goodrich Yaqui Slide Concealment OWB Belt Holster does not come with any included accessories. It does not offer much in the way of customization options beyond adjusting the retention screw.
The minimalist design is not really designed for attaching lights, lasers, or other accessories directly to the holster. Aftermarket belt clips or loops could potentially be added with some modification.
Pros and Cons of Gould & Goodrich Yaqui Slide Concealment OWB Belt Holster
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Minimalist design enhances concealment.
- Versatile fit accommodates a wide range of firearms within specified size categories.
- Adjustable retention screw allows users to fine-tune the fit and draw resistance.
- Comfortable for all-day wear, especially after a short break-in period.
Cons
- Minimalist design offers less protection for the firearm than a fully enclosed holster.
- Retention relies primarily on friction. May not be suitable for extreme activities without a retention strap.
- Limited customization options. Not designed for use with lights, lasers, or other accessories.
Who Should Buy Gould & Goodrich Yaqui Slide Concealment OWB Belt Holster?
The Gould & Goodrich Yaqui Slide Concealment OWB Belt Holster is perfect for individuals seeking a simple, comfortable, and affordable OWB carry option for concealed carry. It is especially well-suited for those who own multiple firearms within the compatible size ranges. It is also perfect for everyday range use, or light duty tactical applications.
This holster is not ideal for those who require maximum firearm protection or who need to carry a weapon with lights or lasers attached. It would also not be a good fit for users who engage in extreme physical activities.
A high-quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for using this holster. It is also recommended to experiment with different carry positions to find the most comfortable and concealable setup.
Conclusion on Gould & Goodrich Yaqui Slide Concealment OWB Belt Holster
The Gould & Goodrich Yaqui Slide Concealment OWB Belt Holster is a solid, no-frills holster that delivers on its promise of comfortable and concealable OWB carry. Its simple design and versatile fit make it a great option for those who appreciate minimalism and value.
The price is very reasonable, making it an accessible choice for budget-conscious gun owners. I believe it represents an excellent value for the money.
I would definitely recommend this holster to anyone looking for a basic, reliable OWB carry solution. If you are seeking a comfortable and concealable way to carry your firearm, the Gould & Goodrich Yaqui Slide Concealment OWB Belt Holster is a worthy contender. Give it a try and experience the simplicity and comfort of a classic design.