Gunfighters Inc Kenai Chest Holster: Bear Defense and Beyond

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Years ago, I was planning a hunting and fishing trip to Alaska and asked several experienced hunters which handgun and holster they recommended for bear defense. Handgun suggestions varied, but everyone agreed on one thing: carry your bear gun in a Gunfighters Inc. Kenai chest holster.

I did just that, and for over a week my Rock Island Armory TAC Ultra FS 10mm remained tucked close to my body secure in my new Kenai chest holster from GunfightersINC. I was never uncomfortable throughout a week of around-the-clock carry with a 40-ounce 10mm 1911, and I was also never far away from my backup gun.

I was so impressed with the Kenai holster that I contacted company president Adam Harris to discuss what inspired him to create the Kenai chest holster. Harris, a U.S. Army veteran, was mountain biking in Washington when he rounded the corner of a trail and found himself within three feet of a black bear. Thankfully, the bear did not attack but instead scrambled away; Harris knew he needed to build a functional, comfortable holster that would provide instant access to a large-bore handgun, and that’s what inspired him to develop the Kenai.

There are several key aspects of this holster that set it apart from its long (and growing) list of competitors. First, the Kydex/nylon holster shell is carefully molded to exactly fit a particular firearm. There’s no wiggle, no fear that your gun might fall out when needed most. The holstered handgun is accessible with either hand, and in Alaska I even wore it while I slept. The broad, comfortable straps allow for a custom fit and provide excellent comfort, and the Kenai is compatible with waders. With most handguns it’s also easy to conceal under a jacket.

Comfortable Backcountry Carry

The Kenai also does an exceptional job of handling heavy guns like my 10mm 1911 and big-bore revolvers. I was convinced for many years there was no comfortable means to carry a large-caliber revolver all day in steep country, but I’ve found it is possible with the Kenai chest holster and that makes this a good option for handgun hunters as well.

There are plenty of imitations, but I haven’t found any that are as well-designed, comfortable and durable as the Kenai holster. Prices start at $159, but this holster offers exceptional peace of mind and instant access to your handgun when you need it most.

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