Fanny pack carry has gained popularity in recent years
because it makes carrying in various environments more comfortable. However,
this introduces the challenge of retaining the pistol, providing proper trigger
protection, and doing so affordably without buying multiple holsters.
The M.A.R.S (patent pending) by Tight Chutes stands for
Magnetic Adaptable Retention System. It is designed to help you retain your
pistol in fanny pack carry and provide proper trigger protection.
Back in the day, I made several holsters with hook-and-loop
fabric to work with fanny packs. While not a new carry method, Tight Chutes has
a unique approach with M.A.R.S.
Design and Functionality
What is different about M.A.R.S from many pack
retention methods or holsters is the M.A.R.S. wraps around the trigger
guard from one side of the pistol to the other and uses magnets on both sides
of the slide to retain the pistol. The magnets on one side of M.A.R.S move up
and down in a channel, allowing it to adapt to different pistol sizes. The
retention is very good. It draws firmly, but smoothly. It feels different than Kydex,
but in terms of a shake test, the pistol stays put very well… but not too well.
The “Adaptable” means it can be adjusted for different size
pistols. For instance, it works equally well with a larger steel frame pistol
like a Staccato 2011, Sig M11-A1 etc, or smaller sub compacts like the M&P
Shield or Sig P365. It’s a ‘toolless”
design that allows you to adjust the magnets to fit the pistol properly. One
feature I appreciate as a former holster maker is the clearance for your middle
finger during the draw stroke. M.A.R.S, made from Kevlar-reinforced fabric, which
flexes just enough to be comfortable when you grip the gun, allowing for a
strong purchase and complete trigger protection without tearing your skin up
like Kydex can.
Compatibility with Accessories
M.A.R.S adapts well to lights, lasers, and accessories. For
example, it fits perfectly with a Glock 19 equipped with a large light like the
TLR-1. The compatabilty is one of the big areas of value as you don’t need to
get a new holster if you get a new light or laser. It will worth with any light in the TLR series,
or products from companies like Viridian or Surefire without an issue. As well, it’s very low profile: Unlike
traditional Kydex holsters that require a wide light channel molded firmly into
the plastic, M.A.R.S’s fabric material allows smooth drawing from a fanny pack
without a lot of thickness because it flattens slightly when in use.
Mounting and Compatibility with Fanny Packs on the Market
The M.A.R.S. mounts using hook-and-loop mounting (Velcro being the most common brand of hook and loop) which ensures the pistol stays in place and creates an offset allowing a clear thumb grip for an efficient draw. Tight Chutes states they recommend mil-spec loop fabric for mounting. I tested with many packs that I have including the Sig Rose pack, Blue Alpha pack, Snack Pack by Spiritus Systems, AWS gear pack and they all held the M.A.R.S. very cleanly. The only pack I did not get great performance with was the Eberlestock Bando Bag. The Bando Bag I have is a couple of years old, but in very good condition. Not a knock on Eberlestock, just be aware. If they have upgraded the Loop Material in the meantime it may address this.
I did not test in any backpacks or other style bags.
Steel Slide Requirement
M.A.R.S requires a steel slide for proper retention.
Aluminum or alloy slides, like those on a Ruger SR22, lack the necessary
magnetic retention.
Additional Carry Options
Where M.A.R.S really starts to add value is it can convert
to an IWB holster with the Tight Chutes “Riggs”. The Riggs is a belt-threaded
soft loop that attaches to the M.A.R.S., providing a secure and smooth draw
without pulling up your belt like Kydex does. The Rigs accessory costs around
$20. The Riggs works both right and Left hand.
The other option is “The Strap,” a carry chassis that allows
for right or left-hand orientation with a loop panel inside, similar to the Riggs.
The build quality and fit and finish of these accessories are very good.
Value
Priced at $59 plus shipping (as of early 2025) M.A.R.S
offers performance and VALUE. Being able to use it with multiple pistols,
lights, lasers, and accessories, saves you from buying several holsters. As holster maker, who has made customers multiple
versions of the same holster for different setups, I can say there is a TON of
value in the M.A.R.S. Even more value when you consider it can be an IWB/OWB
carry option with the Riggs or The Strap.
If you are looking for performance and value for fanny pack carry
you will find it with M.A.R.S by Tight Chutes.
