The Story Behind the Garuda
Back when I started making holsters, I had no clue how to work leather. I knew woodworking, as I grew up with a grandfather and father who were skilled cabinetmakers, and I figured I would just apply those same techniques to leather.
Sometimes it worked. Other times, not so much. But I was learning by doing, which is the best way to learn.
The business grew through contacts in the blogging world, gun forums, and the like. That led to being noticed by prop masters in Hollywood, and as I designed for specific needs, the best of those designs became the Valkyrie, and the Executive.
The Garuda was born the same way . . . working on a yet-to-be-disclosed project, I was asked to resurrect an old style design reminiscent of Yaqui, and bring it into the 21st century.
I'm sure folks are wondering how I settled on the name. Well, a lot of my holsters use mythology for names . . . the Valkyrie named after Valkyries of Norse mythology. The Chimaera and Wyvern holsters named for mythical beasts, the Talon named for the claw (talon) of birds of prey like eagles, hawks, etc.
Garuda is the name, in Hindu mythology, of the giant, divine king of birds and an apex protector. He moves so quickly that his wings are said to alter the rotation of the worlds.
It is also a nod to my father, who was the lead cabinetmaker and designer for a high-end audio company called Garuda Electronics, which was based out of Philadelphia PA, and was in business from 1972 thru 1976. It was during a long session of researching various mythological names I saw Garuda, and I instantly said "That's it!"
For me, it's a connection in some small way to the man who used his skills to provide for a family, and taught me those same old-world skills of working with my hands . . . skills that allow me to do the same as he did.
Features
- New Orpaz paddle system allows for easy-on / easy-off of the holster, yet keeps the entire rig stable and secure.
- Front and back holster panels double-layered leather, all edges stitched.
- Orpaz paddle provides 360-degree rotatable cant positioning.
- Orpaz Defense system allows swapping out the paddle mount for an optional molded belt loop.
Custom Designs
When you place an order for a Garuda, you'll have a few choices. Standard paddle or optional belt loop? Plain leather, or exotic skin? Solid color, or airbrushed burst?
Below are a few samples to help you visualize the design of your one-of-a-kind holster.
Ordering
The Garuda starts at a price of $169, with many additional add-on options available. Current lead time for assembly & shipping is 30 days, with Accelerated (21 day) and Rush (10 day) options available below. We do not export to foreign countries.
Build Your Garuda
By purchasing a Dragon Leatherworks holster or accessory you hereby acknowledge that you have read the Warranties and Disclaimers, you understand that firearms are dangerous, and release Dragon Leatherworks, its owners, its associates, and employees from any and all liability for injuries or accidents relating to the use of the holster or any firearm. If purchasing as a gift, you acknowledge that the recipient/end user is knowledgeable in the safe handling and use of firearms.