Lou Alessi, Respected Holster-Maker, Succombs to Cancer
Lou Alessi, one of America’s leading holster-makers for four decades, passed away this weekend in New York after a struggle with cancer. Lou was a great designer, and a master craftsman. He invented many holster designs that were copied by other holster-makers. Alessi’s classic ankle holster design was “the standard against which others are measured”, and the Alessi Talon, in this Editor’s opinion, is simply the best IWB (Inside Waist-Band) design ever. The Talon IWB is thin, comfortable, durable, easy-to-deploy, and affordable. This editor once asked Lou why he maintained affordable pricing on the Talon while other holster-makers were selling copy-cat designs for twice the price. Lou replied: “I’m not in this to get rich. I want to sell at a fair price so law enforcement officers can afford good equipment.”
D.M. Clark, moderator of the 911 Jobs Forum, noted: “Lou was well known to all those in law enforcement, who found his gear to be beautifully made and durable beyond belief. Almost all custom holster craftsman today credit their designs and skills to the generous advice and support of Lou Alessi. [He was] truly a real gentlemen. RIP Lou.”
Jim Shepherd of the Shooting Wire adds: “[Alessi’s] reputation among his fellow holster-makers was a man who led by example…. That’s the same kind of reputation Alessi had among fellow holster makers coming up in the past two decades; if there was a question about how to do something, Alessi was always willing to share his insights. Insights many others considered their trade secrets.”
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I first meet Lou as a teenager when I was living just a mile from his shop. He was nice to me then and every time I ever spoke with him. I had no idea I was standing in the presence of a legend in the gun business at that first meeting, but soon learned that I was. I have carried my guns in his holsters from Central America to Africa and Alaska and they have never failed me. My first was his original pull through high ride from a S&W M60, and I still have it.
God Speed Lou and it was a pleasure to have been able to meet and do business with you through the years.
Captain Dave Funk
http://www.BlaserPro.com
Would like a price on an ankle holster for a S&W Model 60 snub nose .38. I purchased the gun 24 years ago and can’t find a ankle holster that fits snug and secure.
I am so, so sorry about Mr.Alessi passing. I found out by coming here. I bought an ankle holster from him many, many moons ago. I was looking to buy another holster.
Please send my condolences to his family.
Thank you
Scott
I have know Lou since 1974 when I had purchased my first holster from him before entering the field of law enforcement. He treated every customer the same whether they were civilian or professional. Lou made the best but never acted like a “big shot”. My fondest memory was when I came back to have the snap on my first holster tightened. Lou took one look at what he considered an old and flawed design, took the “piece of junk” from my hand and summarily tossed it in the garbage. He then proceeded to give me the latest version of that holster….at no cost!! What a class act. Lou, God Speed to you and your family. You will be remembered fondly by all.
Alessi holsters has moved on to Walden ave and his daughter has taken over the business
So sad.
Danny
If Lou was still alive, he would shout “Let’s Go Brandon!” Also, F U for voting for Brandon