First Thoughts on the U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black
The U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black is a deceptively simple piece of gear. At first glance, it’s a black nylon hip holster, nothing particularly flashy or groundbreaking. But sometimes, the best tools are the ones that perform a vital function without drawing undue attention.
I was in the market for a no-nonsense, reliable holster for my collection of snub-nosed revolvers. I needed something that wouldn’t break the bank, offered decent retention, and could stand up to some moderate wear and tear. I had previously relied on leather holsters, which can be pricey and require significant break-in. The U. Mike’s holster presented an affordable alternative.
Upon unboxing the holster, my initial impression was positive. The Kodra nylon felt reasonably durable, and the stitching appeared solid. The holster is surprisingly lightweight, which is always a plus for comfortable all-day carry. Compared to some of the molded Kydex options I considered, the U. Mike’s seemed like a less bulky, more forgiving choice for accommodating different small revolvers. I chose this holster specifically because of the positive user feedback referencing multi-gun compatibility and its reported quality for the price. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism, given the low price point, but I was eager to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black primarily at my local shooting range and during a weekend camping trip. The range provided a controlled environment to assess draw speed and retention, while the camping trip offered a chance to evaluate its comfort and durability in a more demanding outdoor setting. I primarily used my Taurus 85 2″ ultra-lite .38 Special for these initial tests. The U. Mike’s holster performed admirably, providing a snug and secure fit for the revolver.
Even during light rain on the camping trip, the Kodra nylon resisted moisture effectively. The draw was smooth and consistent, requiring minimal effort to acquire a solid grip. I found that drawing from concealment under a light jacket was also surprisingly easy. There were no immediate issues or surprises during the first use, giving me confidence in its basic functionality.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. The Kodra nylon has shown no significant signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to friction from daily wear and exposure to the elements. The stitching remains intact, and the holster retains its shape well. Regular cleaning involves simply wiping it down with a damp cloth.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper nylon holsters, the U. Mike’s has significantly outperformed them in terms of durability and retention. The holster maintains a secure fit for the revolver. It inspires confidence even during activities that involve a fair amount of movement.
Breaking Down the Features of U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black
Specifications
The U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black is a no-frills, right-hand hip holster designed for small-frame, 5-shot revolvers with hammer spurs. It is constructed from durable black Kodra nylon, commonly known as Cordura, offering decent resistance to abrasion and moisture. The holster is designated as size 36. This size is intended to accommodate revolvers like the Taurus 85, Charter Arms Undercover, and similar models with 2-inch barrels.
The textured finish provides a non-slip surface for better grip and retention. The holster is designed solely for belt carry, featuring a single, robust belt loop. This simple design prioritizes ease of use and affordability. The absence of adjustable retention or a clip-on mechanism keeps the cost down. It focuses on securely carrying a specific type of firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black performs its primary function admirably: securely carrying a small-frame revolver. Its strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. The revolver sits snugly within the holster, providing adequate retention for everyday carry. The draw is relatively smooth and intuitive, although it may not be as fast as some more specialized competition holsters.
The holster’s main weakness is its lack of adjustability. The user must accept the fit and retention as-is. The absence of a retention strap may also concern some users, especially those who engage in rigorous physical activity. However, for its intended purpose as an affordable, basic carry option, it meets expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black features a minimalist design focused on functionality. The Kodra nylon construction provides a comfortable and lightweight carry experience. The textured finish enhances grip and prevents slippage. The holster’s simple design means there’s virtually no learning curve.
It is intuitive to use from the moment it’s attached to the belt. However, the lack of padding or reinforced edges may cause some discomfort during extended wear. The single belt loop design, while robust, limits adjustability.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kodra nylon construction suggests reasonable durability, capable of withstanding daily wear and tear. The stitching appears solid and well-executed. The holster should last for several years with proper care. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Given its simple design and lack of moving parts, there’s little that can break or require repair. This holster is designed to be a workhorse, not a showpiece.
Accessories and Customization Options
The U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black comes with no accessories. There are no real customization options available due to its basic design. Users could potentially modify the belt loop for a different cant angle. However, such modifications would likely void any implied warranty. The holster is designed as a standalone unit, focusing solely on its core function.
It is intended as an inexpensive and reliable carry option for specific small-frame revolvers. It is not built for modularity or extensive customization.
Pros and Cons of U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black
Pros
- Extremely Affordable: This is hands-down the holster’s biggest selling point; it’s an incredibly inexpensive option.
- Lightweight and Comfortable: The Kodra nylon construction makes it comfortable for all-day carry.
- Durable Enough: The Kodra nylon and solid stitching offer respectable durability for the price point.
- Multi-Gun Compatibility (Within Size): Accommodates various small-frame revolvers, as noted in user feedback.
- Simple and Easy to Use: No complicated adjustments or mechanisms to learn.
Cons
- No Adjustable Retention: The fit and retention are fixed, which might not be ideal for all users.
- Limited Customization: Very few options for modification or adding accessories.
- Basic Design: Lacks the features and refinement of higher-end holsters.
Who Should Buy U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black?
The U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black is perfect for individuals seeking an affordable and reliable holster for occasional carry of a small-frame revolver. This includes budget-conscious gun owners, those looking for a backup holster, or individuals who need a simple, no-frills option for range use. It’s also a good choice for those new to concealed carry who want to experiment with different carry methods without making a significant investment.
This product should be skipped by individuals who prioritize adjustable retention, extensive customization options, or require a holster for rigorous tactical applications. It also isn’t ideal for those who prefer clip-on holsters.
A must-have accessory for this holster is a sturdy belt. A good gun belt is essential for comfortable and secure carry.
Conclusion on U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black
The U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black is a testament to the fact that effective gear doesn’t have to be expensive. While it lacks the bells and whistles of higher-end options, it delivers solid performance and reliability at an incredibly affordable price point. The Kodra nylon construction provides reasonable durability. The simple design makes it easy to use for anyone.
The value proposition is undeniable. For just over $12, you get a functional and dependable holster that will serve its purpose well. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly option for carrying a small-frame revolver.
If you need a holster that won’t break the bank and will reliably carry your firearm, give the U. Mike’s HIP HOLSTER RH 36 Black a try. You might be surprised by how much performance you can get for so little money.