The Ultimate Guide to the Galco Fletch High Ride Leather Holster for Glock 43/43X: Uncompromising Carry and Craftsmanship

For discerning firearm owners seeking an optimal balance of secure retention, swift accessibility, and unparalleled comfort for their Glock 43 or Glock 43X, the Galco Fletch High Ride Black Leather Holster (model FL800RB) stands as an exceptional choice. This meticulously crafted outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster is more than just an accessory; it's a testament to superior American leather craftsmanship designed to meet the rigorous demands of everyday carry, range training, and professional use. But what makes this holster truly stand out, and why should it be at the top of your list when considering a reliable carry solution?

Why Choose a High-Ride OWB Leather Holster for Your Glock 43/43X?

Many gun owners grapple with the challenge of finding a holster that offers both concealment and quick drawing capabilities without sacrificing comfort. While inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters are popular for deep concealment, OWB options, especially high-ride designs like the Galco Fletch, offer distinct advantages for those who prioritize comfort during extended wear, ease of access, and a natural, unencumbered draw stroke.

Who is this holster for?

• Everyday Carriers (EDC): Individuals who carry a Glock 43 or 43X daily and seek a comfortable yet secure OWB solution, often worn under a jacket or an untucked shirt.
• Range Enthusiasts: Shooters looking for a dependable holster for target practice, tactical drills, and competition shooting where quick, repeatable draws are essential.
• Law Enforcement & Security Professionals: Personnel who require a durable, secure, and rapidly accessible holster for their compact duty weapon or off-duty carry.
• First-time Gun Owners: Those new to firearm ownership seeking a user-friendly and highly secure carry method that instills confidence.
• Leather Aficionados: Anyone who appreciates the timeless aesthetics, tactile comfort, and legendary durability of premium leather goods.

What problem does it solve?

• Compromised Comfort: Many holsters can cause discomfort, pinching, or rubbing, especially during prolonged wear. The Fletch's ergonomic design and premium leather mold to your body, offering superior comfort.
• Insecure Retention: A common concern is a firearm accidentally falling out or being easily snatched. The Fletch's precision molding and thumb break retention system provide exceptional security.
• Slow or Difficult Draw: A holster that hinders a smooth, swift draw can be dangerous in critical situations. The Fletch's high ride and butt-forward cant optimize the draw angle for rapid deployment.
• Lack of Durability: Cheap holsters can quickly wear out, losing shape or failing to retain the firearm. Galco's robust construction ensures years of reliable service.
• Subpar Concealment (for OWB): While OWB isn't inherently as concealed as IWB, the Fletch's high ride design keeps the firearm tight to the body, making it surprisingly concealable under appropriate cover garments.

Unpacking the Features of the Galco Fletch High Ride Holster

The Galco Fletch isn't just a piece of leather; it's a meticulously engineered system designed for optimal firearm carry. Its design incorporates several key elements that contribute to its reputation as a top-tier OWB holster.

Premium Steerhide Leather Construction

Crafted from top-grain saddle leather, the Fletch holster exemplifies Galco's commitment to quality materials. This isn't just any leather; it's chosen for its natural strength, rich texture, and ability to hold its shape while molding to your firearm and body over time. The inherent properties of premium leather provide:

• Superior Durability: Resistant to wear and tear, ensuring longevity even with daily use.
• Comfortable Against the Skin: Unlike synthetic materials that can cause irritation, leather breathes and softens with use, offering a comfortable feel against the body or clothing.
• Elegant Aesthetics: The deep black finish of the leather provides a classic, professional look that complements any attire.

Precision Molding for a Custom Fit

Each Galco Fletch holster is individually hand-molded to the specific contours of the Glock 43 and Glock 43X. This precision molding ensures a glove-like fit that firmly cradles the firearm, preventing any rattling or unwanted movement. This bespoke fit is critical for:

• Enhanced Retention: The precise contours create a natural friction fit, holding the pistol securely in place.
• Smooth Drawing and Reholstering: The custom shape guides the firearm effortlessly into and out of the holster, minimizing snagging or fumbling.
• Protection of Firearm Finish: The smooth interior of the leather helps protect the firearm's finish from scratches and abrasion.

High-Ride Design for Optimal Concealment and Accessibility

The "High Ride" designation signifies that the holster positions the firearm high on the wearer's belt line. This strategic placement offers several advantages:

• Improved Concealment: By raising the firearm, it reduces the amount of the grip and slide that protrudes below the belt, making it easier to conceal with a jacket, vest, or even a loose shirt.
• Comfortable Sitting: A high-ride position typically means the firearm's muzzle is less likely to dig into car seats or chairs when sitting, enhancing comfort during commutes or long periods of sitting.
• Natural Draw Stroke: The higher position allows for a more natural, less obstructed draw stroke, especially for those with longer torsos or arms.

Butt-Forward Cant for Superior Draw and Concealment

The Fletch holster features a significant "butt-forward cant" (also known as a forward rake or angle). This means the grip of the firearm is angled slightly forward, away from the wearer's body. This angle is not arbitrary; it's engineered to:

• Optimize Draw Speed: The forward tilt positions the grip perfectly for a natural and efficient hand placement, allowing for a faster and smoother draw. Your hand naturally sweeps to the grip from this angle.
• Aid Concealment: By tucking the grip closer to the body, the butt-forward cant further minimizes printing (the outline of the firearm showing through clothing), enhancing the holster's concealability.

Reinforced Thumb Break Retention

Security is paramount in firearm carry. The Galco Fletch addresses this with a robust and easily accessible reinforced thumb break. This strap snaps over the hammer or slide of the pistol, securely locking it into the holster until intentionally released. Key benefits include:

• Positive Retention: Provides an additional layer of security beyond friction fit, preventing the firearm from dislodging during strenuous activity or accidental bumps.
• One-Handed Operation: The reinforced thumb break is designed for intuitive, rapid, one-handed disengagement during the draw. A quick, natural downward press of the thumb releases the strap as your hand grips the firearm.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing your firearm is securely retained offers significant peace of mind, especially in crowded environments or when engaging in active pursuits.

Double-Stitched Seams for Unrivaled Strength

Attention to detail is evident in the Fletch's construction. All critical seams are double-stitched, reinforcing the structural integrity of the holster. This robust stitching prevents unraveling, tearing, and deformation, ensuring the holster maintains its shape and retention capabilities over years of use. It's a hallmark of quality craftsmanship that contributes directly to the holster's longevity and reliability.

Tunnel Belt Loop and Rear Belt Slot

The Fletch features a combination of a tunnel belt loop at the front and a rear belt slot. This design ensures the holster stays firmly anchored to your belt, preventing shifting or sagging.

• Stable Carry: The two-point attachment system distributes the weight of the firearm evenly and keeps the holster from moving around your waist.
• Close to Body Fit: This design pulls the holster and firearm tightly against the body, further improving both concealment and comfort.
• Fits Common Belt Sizes: Designed to accommodate belts up to 1.75 inches wide, covering most standard gun belts and everyday belts.

Real-World Use Cases and Scenarios

The versatility of the Galco Fletch makes it suitable for a multitude of applications:

• Daily Concealed Carry: Wear it under an untucked shirt, jacket, or vest for discreet carry that offers quick access when needed. Its high ride and butt-forward cant make it surprisingly effective for OWB concealment.
• Range Training and Practice: Ideal for honing your drawing skills, practicing reholstering, and participating in shooting drills. The secure retention ensures your firearm stays put during dynamic movement, while the smooth draw allows for efficient practice.
• Outdoor Activities: Whether hiking, fishing, or camping, the Fletch keeps your Glock 43 securely on your hip, easily accessible for personal defense or protection against wildlife.
• Home Defense: While primarily an OWB carry holster, it serves as an excellent "staging" holster for home defense, allowing you to quickly don your firearm when alerted to a threat.
• Competitive Shooting (Non-Pro Classes): For certain casual or practical shooting competitions, an OWB leather holster like the Fletch can be a comfortable and functional choice.

Elevating Your Carry Experience with Galco

Galco is a brand synonymous with quality in the firearm accessory industry. With decades of experience, they have perfected the art of leather holster making, blending traditional techniques with modern design principles. When you invest in a Galco Fletch holster, you're not just buying a product; you're buying into a legacy of:

• Unwavering Quality Control: Every holster undergoes rigorous inspection to meet Galco's exacting standards.
• American Craftsmanship: Proudly made in the USA, supporting skilled labor and ensuring superior production.
• Designed by Shooters, For Shooters: Galco's product development is often informed by feedback from law enforcement, military, and civilian shooters, ensuring practical and effective designs.
• Long-Term Value: A Galco leather holster is an investment that, with proper care, will last for many years, often outliving the firearm it carries.

Caring for Your Galco Leather Holster

To ensure your Galco Fletch holster provides decades of reliable service, proper care is essential. Leather is a natural material that benefits from occasional attention:

• Keep it Clean: Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Condition Periodically: Just like any leather product, holsters can dry out over time. Use a quality leather conditioner (such as Galco's Leather Lotion) to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. Apply sparingly and buff gently.
• Avoid Excessive Moisture: While it can handle light rain, prolonged exposure to water should be avoided. If it gets wet, let it air dry naturally away from direct heat sources like radiators or sunlight, which can cause cracking.
• Proper Storage: When not in use, store your holster in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Finding Your Galco Fletch Holster

The Galco Fletch High Ride Black Leather Holster for Glock 43/43X, Right Hand, model FL800RB (UPC: 601299002271), is a prime example of a premium carry solution. This exceptional holster, designed for durability, comfort, and quick access, is readily available from reputable firearm accessory retailers. For those seeking a trusted source for their firearm needs, including the full range of Galco products, you will find this model and many others available at DEGuns.

Investing in a quality holster like the Galco Fletch is as important as choosing the right firearm. It's an integral part of your personal defense system, ensuring that your Glock 43 or Glock 43X is always secure, accessible, and ready when you need it most.

Product Specifications: Galco Fletch High Ride Holster (FL800RB)

Feature	Description
Model	Galco Fletch High Ride (FL800RB)
Firearm Fit	Glock 43, Glock 43X (with or without RDS)
Hand Orientation	Right Hand
Carry Type	Outside the Waistband (OWB)
Material	Premium Steerhide Leather
Color	Black
Retention	Precision Molded, Reinforced Thumb Break
Cant	Butt-Forward Cant
Belt Fit	Fits belts up to 1.75 inches wide
Key Features	High-ride design, double-stitched seams, custom molding, optimal concealment, rapid draw capability
UPC	601299002271
Origin	Made in USA