Allison P. Michaels ("Uncle Mike") founded Michaels of Oregon in 1947. In 1982 Micheals of Oregon pioneered, and has become a major supplier of, synthetic (Nylon) holsters, belts, slings, and accessories.

In addition to hip holsters designed for use on a gun belt, Uncle Mike's offers a wide range of styles, including shoulder holsters, bandoleer holsters, belt slide holsters, pancake holsters, paddle holsters, tactical holsters, inside the pants holsters, belt pouch holsters, pocket holsters, belt (fanny) pack holsters, belly band holsters, and ankle holsters. I have used several of these types, but it is the conventional hip holsters that are the subject of this article.

The Sidekick holster line today comprises a wide selection of nylon pouch-type holsters and matching nylon belts. These are what I would call "field holsters" and they are available for an extraordinary array of revolvers and pistols.

Like all Uncle Mike's products, the Sidekick nylon hip holsters are functional, durable, and reasonably priced (MSRP $17.60 for a medium/large size revolver holster). Available colors are generally camo pattern or basic black. Here is a summary of the features, quoted from the Uncle Mike's web page:

THE LARGEST, BEST CONSTRUCTED AND HIGHEST QUALITY LINE OF NYLON HOLSTERS IN THE WORLD

• Patented SIDEKICK laminate of Cordura® nylon, water-proof closed-cell foam padding, smooth nylon lining
• Memory quality of laminate molds to the gun for an excellent fit, yet returns to original shape when gun is removed
• Medium high ride design, double-slotted molded belt loop lets you wear it on holster belt up to 21/4" wide or a standard trouser belt
• Tough nylon web retention strap has combination adjustment buckle and sturdy snap for easy draw
• Patented nylon web sight channel

I have used these holsters and the matching holster belt for over 20 years with a variety of pistols and revolvers with complete satisfaction. They are comfortable to wear for extended periods in the field. The holsters pictured at the top of this article are typical. The camo model is the Size 3 holster for medium and large frame revolvers with 5 1/2" to 6 1/2" barrels. It fits such revolvers as the 6" Colt Python or S&W "K" and "L" frame models.

At last count I own an even half-dozen Sidekick holsters, all of which fit on the same Uncle Mike's holster belt. My belt and holsters are all in basic black. I especially appreciate the nylon web sight channel, which really does save wear on the front sight's bluing. In fact, the nylon Sidekick holster is considerably easier on the gun's overall finish than an unlined leather holster. Uncle Mike's Sidekicks are my favorite inexpensive field holsters.