Saturday, July 7, 2012

Remora No Clip Holster

For those that carry, I'm sure you have had trouble finding that perfect holster. As far as I can tell, it doesn't exist. There are a few that come damn close, and Remora is one of those holsters. I have found over the last few years that you really do need a holster for every occasion, including the clothing being worn and the temperature outside. Are you headed somewhere that it won't be a big deal if you show a bit? Or will it be a major problem if your gun is showing? For me the big problem I always had was on the motorcycle. I was having so much trouble concealing my XD that I went out an bought a .38 for pocket carry.

At that time I was using an in IWB (in waistband) holster from Desantis. I dont want to knock that holster, it is incredibly comfortabe, and well made. The only problem is to carry on the hip you need to buy pants 1-2 sizes too big. To carry at the small of the back works well, but you cannot sit down as the gun sticks straight out. This holster was out of the question when riding the motorcycle as well for this reason. My second holster purchase for that gun was another Desantis, this one a leather outside the waistband. Another fine holster, but much harder to conceal. It can be hidden under a t-shirt, but there is a noticeable bulge. The average person wouldn't notice, but it is there. This holster is excellent for carry under a jacket or sweatshirt, but summer is here and that is not gonna work too well. The major downside I haven't mentioned yet is that I can't utilize any of my lights or lasers.

I have searched for years to find an IWB holster that will fit my gun with the light attached. There are many Kydex options for outside the waistband, but very few for IWB carry. I first heard of Remora from video reviews on Youtube, all of which were overwhelmingly positive. They have an interesting design, using a rubberized, grippy material for retention instead of clips. This allows you to place it in your waistband wherever you prefer and at any angle. It doesn't seem like it would be secure enough, but after the videos I saw I was sold. So I ordered one, amazingly it was only 35 dollars. Along with my order I inquired about 1911 holsters, as they didn't list a holster for the model I'm planning on buying.






I recieved an email from Alan (presumably the owner) within a day, thanking me for my order and my inquiry about the 1911 holster. He gave me the model number for the holster I would need, and told me to reference the email for a free mag holder for my trouble. I was amazed, it really was no trouble at all. So about 5 days later my XD holster arrived, with a personalized note from Alan. First impressions are very positive, high quality construction and nice look. I ordered the model to fit my XD 40 with a 4 inch barrel and light modification with the reinforced top. On my first try I actually had to put the holster in place before I buttoned up my jeans, it was that grippy. Once in place, it would not budge, draws nicely and had a good feel IWB. The only downside, my light didn't fit, The gun alone works just fine, but it was too tight with the light attached. I figured I must have ordered the wrong size, so I double check the part number. No luck, I ordered the right one and it doesn't fit. So I email them and used the holster without the light for the time being.

During daily carry it worked great, deep concealment even on the bike, and really secure. About two days later I recieve an email from Alan. He apologized for the problem and said it was most likely due to the reinforced top option. It stretches the material wider, making the clearance on the bottom smaller, only allowing the smallest of lights and lasers. He went on to apologize for the issue, and said he would send out a replacement that would work better. As far as the first one I got, he said to keep it in case I had a friend who could use it or I wanted to carry without my light. I was blown away by this, by far the best customer service I have recieved in a long time.

A few days later my replacement arrived, and it works great. The only downside is without the reinforced top, reholstering is a little tougher. A minor sacrifice to make for having my light at the ready. I suppose it's the draw that really counts anyway. I have carried with this holster for about a week straight and it has not so much as budged once. Draws cleanly and easily, and is very comfortable as I can put it wherever I want regardless of what I wear. The biggest surprise of all, was the 1911 holster included in the package. A free gift to make up for the inconvenience, what an amazing company. Now I really can't wait to get my 1911. Remora has certainly gained a customer for life.

http://remoraholsters.com/