Saturday, January 21, 2012

Raven Concealment VanGuard 2


Raven Concealment system introduced their latest holster, Vanguard 2. This is update of their Vanguard holster replacing the string with a soft loop/strap and using slightly different material and production method(injection molding).

The idea of Vanguard holster is that it could be used in a cinch when having a regular holster is not a viable option. Instead of carrying a pistol in a bag, pocket or inside your belt without any protection for the trigger, VanGuard blocks the tigger from unwanted intrusions by shielding the trigger guard. It is a very minimalistic holster, and is not a complete substitution for a good traditional holster. But it does have its use, like for people who would carry their guns in a backpack or a purse.

The strap can be used to adjust the height. There are 3 heights available which can be adjusted. It can also cant as user wants to. The strap can also adjust to size of belt. My guess is 1.25 inches, 1.5 inches and 1.75 inches for each of the holes. It can also be adjusted for left-hand use.

Experience

I first tried to use the holster at 3 o'clock position, and drawing was not that difficult but I did feel as if I got a split-second hindrance since the loop tend to touch the web between index and middle finger. Holstering was not that easy for heavy set person like me.

Using this in AIWB(Appendix Inside Waist Band) proved to be much better. I was able to draw and holster much easier, despite my fat belly.

This is certainly not a replacement for a traditional holster, and even though no gun fights were won by fast holstering, it is something to be aware of.

For bags with MOLLE type setting it shouldn't be a problem, and for those who do not have such setting, there is a hole at the end of the holster where you can attach a string like the original VanGuard.

According to this link, price will be $35.99 - 40, and will be available in Spring 2012