The Urban Carry LockLeather Holster vs the Mavado Holster

While the LockLeather Holster and the Mavado Holster both utilize our patented Retention Clip, there are a few key differences between the two holsters. 

1. What is the difference between the Leather used for the LockLeather Holster vs the Mavado Holster?

- The LockLeather Holster is made from premium "Saddle Grade Leather" from a Steer. "Saddle Grade Leather" is natural vegetable tanned leather with a softer quality then English Bridle Leather. "Saddle Grade Leather", due to its softness, will develop an individual patina to the shape of your firearm quickly. Ultimately, the "Saddle Grade Leather" will break in faster and has a more supple feel and shinier sheen to it in comparison to the Mavado holster. Our "Saddle Grade Leather" is "Dry Veg Tanned" without a wax coating meaning it absorbs water and is easily wet molded thus allowing for it to be form fitted.

- The Mavado Holster is made from what is known in the industry as "Crazy Horse Leather. "Crazy Horse Leather" gets its name because it’s physically capable of holding a crazy/wild/out-of-control horse back without the leather giving away. It’s not about being made from a crazy horse or anything like that! "Crazy Horse Leather" is a Vegetable Tanned leather with a wax coating. This is the reason why the Mavado Holster is not pre-molded in comparison to the LockLeather Holster. The wax and water do not mix making the "Crazy Horse Leather" water resistant but preventing pre-molding during the manufacturing process. 

2. Why does the LockLeather Holster have imprints of a firearm on the inside of the holster whereas the Mavado Holster does not have these imprints?

- Great question! As slightly touched upon in the first question above, the "Crazy Horse Leather" that is used for the Mavado Holster, is coated with wax which does not allow us to wet mold the leather like we are able to do with the leather we use in our LockLeather Holsters. This is by design and this actually allows for you to fit the holster exactly to your firearm with break-in. Ultimately, this gives you the fit of a custom holster without the custom holster price. With that being said, the Mavado Holster will take a bit longer to break-in compared to the LockLeather holster. Please refer to our standard leather break-in procedure for help with breaking in your LockLeather or Mavado Holster.


3. Can I use the same conditioner on the Mavado Holster as I do on the LockLeather Holster? Is maintenance the same between both holsters?

- Yes, we recommend using Bick4 Leather conditioner on both the Mavado and LockLeather holster to keep the leather hydrated and prevent cracking or drying out. You may also use a damp cloth regularly to remove dirt and dust as needed. Additionally, you may notice from time to time the occasional scratch on your Mavado Holster. These may easily be buffed out by using the natural oils from your fingers however these scratches do give your holster character and can be expected with daily use. You may also use a dry soft cloth in circular motion on scratches to help remove them. DO NOT USE harsh chemicals or detergents that can strip oils as this will ruin the finish on your holster. Lastly, never put your holster away wet. If the holster gets wet, leave it out to dry. Never put the holster in the oven or in direct sunlight. 

4. Are the Mavado and LockLeather holsters made from "Top Grain" leather or "Full Grain" leather?

- We get this question quite a bit and understandably so, as both have their differences. "Top Grain" Leather is typically sanded to remove imperfections, while "Full Grain" Leather retains the hide's natural grain. Both are considered quality leathers, but "Full Grain" is generally considered to be the highest grade leather available, especially when it comes to holsters. At Urban Carry we exclusively use "Full Grain" Leather so that we are able to retain the true qualities of real leather for ALL of our holsters. Mavado leather specifically, is a full grain leather providing a more rustic, almost vintage, distressed look. The sheen tells a story with each scratch, fold and curve contributing to its charm.