Side Guard Holsters
Review by Phil Elmore
I am proud to say that MN Burl, the man behind Side Guard Holsters, is a participant at The Martialist's online forum. He's a pleasant and approachable fellow who, when I described to him the ideal holster for my summer-carry Smith and Wesson 637, was more than happy to send me something to fit the bill. The resulting leather holster is representative of the SGH product line and of the craftsmanship you can expect when you purchase from the company.
The holster is a simple, black leather, friction-fit affair with no retaining straps. It is moderately flexible but I am able to reholster the revolver with only one hand after the gun is drawn. Smooth within and without, the holster retains the pistol firmly and positively while permitting an easy, fluid draw.
The simple belt loop has a snap closure and allows me to secure the holster inside the waistband (IWB). I can shift it slightly if I need to depending on sitting positions for comfort (always a consideration when you are a large mammal) but it does not move so much that my drawstroke is not consistent. The revolver rides relatively high and I am able to get a full, firm grip on the weapon while drawing it.
I have worn the holster for many months to see just how comfortable it is (not to mention how it holds up in daily use). Fit and finish are excellent throughout; the stitching is even and clean and the leather is free of flaws (or as free as a natural hide gets). While the holster has broken in somewhat over that time (as is to be expected) and the loop has become more flexible, it remains secure and the holster stays where it is fixed on my belt.
I am impressed with the quality and function of Side Guard Holsters and would recommend this brand to anyone. >>