If you read this blog much, you know I dearly love to shoot. As much and as often as possible. I’m also the thrilled owner of one of Ruger’s finest New Vaquero’s. The problem was that I had nothing but a nylon holster for it. That is a horrible thing to do to a fine Single Action sidearm! As soon as I knew this revolver was for me I went on a search for a holster, (or holsters), for my baby.
Enter Terry Savanich of Our Bandit Leather Crafters in Rootstown, Ohio.
Sound familiar? Yes, I’ve written about him before, but always from a more-or-less inexperienced point of view. I had seen one of his full-flap designs at a local SASS event, but had never seen the half-flap I was more interested in for my own use. I wrote to Terry just as I had several other makers. Of all the replies, his was the most personal and personable. Over several weeks we discussed every detail, from right or left hand (I shoot both ways) to the color of the thread to be used. All of this even though I really just wanted a plain-Jane field holster.
Well, being on a set income (disability) really crimps one’s style. It took longer than expected for me to accumulate the necessary funds - despite Terry’s amazingly low prices. Never the less, Terry stuck to his quoted price. When I wrote to him and said the funds were be on the way I didn’t expect what happened next. The usual story is a four to six week wait. Sometimes four to six months! With Our Bandit Leather Crafters the wait was five days. Yes, days!
I posted the photos Terry sent to me in an earlier post. Believe me, they do NOT do the craftsmanship justice! That’s why I took a few myself in the evening light of my backyard here in Mobile, AL. I’m no professional, but I hope the natural light gives a better view of the fit and finish of this fine half-flap holster.
Folks, notice the fine stitching and the even coloring. Everything is snug and well stitched by hand. Something that is becoming more rare each day that passes. Also notice the design of the flap. It allows for the solid brass snap, (nickle plated is also an option), to be opened vey quickly with the fall of a thumb while allowing a great grip on the handle and access to the trigger. The hammer is totally covered until the gun is drawn. While not a “speed rig”, it is very much faster than any other “flap” holster I’ve used in the past. I can tell Terry loves his guns as much as I love mine as even without a lining, the design protects over 95% of the revolver and does not allow any part of the snap to come in contact with the firearm. The leather itself is a solid, strong, high quality leather, but is of the “range” variety. The Bull’s personal favorite! I like to find a range mark, a fly bite, or a bit of a scar on my leather. While this is of that type, my holster shows absolutely nothing that takes away from its appearance in any way. Look for yourself.
Why the “Big Name” writers, like John Taffin, have not seen and written about Terry Savanich’s work before now is simply beyond me. I intend to write to JT myself on this subject. Terry is a skilled leathercrafter and diligent, honest businessman. He deserves the recognition. This, Dear Reader, is simply the best in holsters for the outdoorsman. Consider Our Bandit Leather Crafters for your next field holster. Check out their website and find one right for you!
Until later,
Bull, out! 
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Oh yeah, that leather gun holder thingy is HOT!