Uncle Mike’s Reflex Holster

By Chad Adams

Developed for concealed carry, Uncle Mike’s Reflex holster is also a suitable choice for practical shooters looking for an affordable kydex-style unit that features an easy-to-use retention system.

Personally, I’m amazed more competitors don’t uses stronger retention systems in their holsters, especially in 3-gun. Steel Challenge is one thing, where presentation speed is essential. But in 3-gun, where there are so many skill sets being tested, and oftentimes so much ground must be covered, that all-out presentation speed of the pistol should be secondary to retention itself. I see it at every major match I go to—somebody disqualifies when a pistol comes out of the holster.

The Reflex can help prevent the dreaded DQ by means of its Integrated Retention Technology (I.R.T.), which utilizes a retention lug on the outer wall of the holster in combination with a press arm on the body side of the holster. To defeat the system, after acquiring a full grip, which is unencumbered by the holster itself, the shooter merely needs to turn the mag well of the firearm inboard, or toward the body.

The movement requires very little practice to become proficient; however, the pistol will not pull free unless this simple twist of the pistol is applied. Because the Reflex is designed for conceal carry, the movements required for defeating the retention system are based on gross motor skills. While fine motor skills diminish under stress, studies show gross motor skills remain. A very basic principle, but one that translates well to 3-gun, where the stress of the clock and the pressure of the situation itself can work heavily on a shooter’s nerves.

Over the past few months, I’ve shot a handful of local and national matches, using a full size Springfield XDM 9 mm out of a Reflex holster. Negotiating obstacles, including starting from within staged automobiles, and working from every conceivable shooting position, I’ve found the Reflex to be extremely reliable. For less than $40, I believe it represents an outstanding value, one suitable for conceal carry, competition or just a day on the range. You will likely never be faster out of this holster than some of the Open division shooters with their race gear. But you will probably not go home early either.

Reflex Models

MSRP: $38.95

For more information, go to www.unclemikes.com.

Posted on 12/16/2011