Kev Reeves : Speedy Spanky Review


		CZ Forum May 2008

	Due to the recent gun press coverage of the 327 Federal Magnum that seems to adorn every gun magazine, and the general re-surge of revolver interest, I thought that I'd review some of the products that would go well with a new Ruger SP101 in .357 Magnum. So, the most common question, where can I get a Holster? You can look towards mainstream sources that are not mass produced, but without the typical wait of 4 to 14 months for custom leather. Companies like High Noon Holsters seem to be popular for the SP-101. I've never seen these holsters in shops, but you can order them online, or find them used among the classifieds in various gun related discussion boards- such as Ruger Forum.com and The High Road.org and others. The holster that was sent to me for Review is the High Noon Holster-Speedy Spanky paddle design, expressly crafted for the 2 ¼ inch Ruger SP-101 in natural horsehide. Arriving almost a week ago, I wanted to wear the holster for more than a few days and then submit my observations. Firstly, the paddle is well constructed and among the most comfortable of any paddle devices that I've ever encountered.

It's a Rock-Solid hold in your waistband, as you go about your daily duties, but with total comfort. No gouging or otherwise painful issues with this excellent paddle. Easy on and off-once you get the hang of it. As I said before, very comfortable. I'll add that some people fear a paddle holster because they think that the paddle will set the holster to far out and compromise concealment. Most holster manufactures make them this way, offset and sticking out. Something kind of difficult to explain, but still a well grounded fear. High Noon Holsters paddle is the complete opposite. This paddle sticks the gun close to your body. A piece of paper could not separate you.

The HIGH NOON Speedy Spanky wasn't much of a problem to conceal under any jacket, and I feel that the holster wasn't projected on my strong side, to any greater degree, than my High Noon Slide Guard for my RAMI.Constructed of premium horsehide, the holster was a joy to work with and carry. Easy draw and re-holster, without the need for a metal band at the top.

In my experience, while 'Horsey' is more expensive than comparable cowhide, it offers more advantages. Unlike a cowhide holster, Horsehide requires no time period for breaking in! You can wear it from day one, without the creaking and other noises that emit from a new cowhide holster. Lighter and often thinner than leather, Horsehide is also Very durable. Won't stretch or be come soft with age. It is in the opinion of many a shooter, a superior material.This holster was hand boned by the craftsmen at HN, and conforms to my gun very nicely. As stated before. The holster delivers a very quick draw, with good retention. There is even an adjustable tension screw if needed.

The Speedy Spanky has the usual HIGH NOON attention to detail and features of elegant stitching with what some would describe as golden thread. This appears to be unique to High Noon Holsters, but you can see and feel the quality in every HN product you see (and hopefully handle) that features this thread.Looking at the rear of the holster, the paddle is securely mounted with two large hex head screws. The user can adjust the paddle for height by these screws. Something that I didn't have the call for, but still an interesting feature.The view from the top to bottom on the inside: There is rubber like sight channel sewn into the holster. This seems to further reinforce an already sturdy holster. Again, there should be no issues with the holster closing on you before re-holster.

Like other products that I've owned and reviewed in the past, I think the Speedy Spanky for the SP101 is well thought out and perfectly executed. The material is fantastic. The platform is rock-solid and the ease of draw is amazing.I like this HN paddle so much, that I will be saving my pennies to replace my current High Noon RAMI holster. Of course, I'll order it in horsehide. Same for the single magazine pouch! Should you desire such a holster for your handgun, whether it be a pistol or revolver.. High Noon can accommodate you.