Vanguard 2 Lanyard Kit
VanGuard 2 Lanyard Kit
A Made in USA holster for $24.99. A platform you can build from there.
Made in USA | Unconditional lifetime warranty | Used by plainclothes professionals operating where concealment failure has consequences
Key Features
- Covers trigger guard only — adds no width to the pistol
- Supports tethered IWB and off-body carry
- Anchors to belt, bag interior, vehicle console, nightstand, or any fixed point
- Clears all slide-mounted optics
- Threaded and extended barrel compatible
- Fully ambidextrous — no modification required
- Administrative loading and unloading with pistol holstered
- Upgradeable — add overhook ($19.99) for IWB carry, RCS Claw ($19.99) for grip concealment
- Same shell as Standard Kit and Advanced Kit
- Made in USA | Unconditional lifetime warranty
- $24.99
What Is the VanGuard 2 Lanyard Kit?
The VanGuard 2 Lanyard Kit is the entry configuration of Raven Concealment Systems' minimalist trigger-guard holster platform. It includes the VanGuard 2 shell and a static-line lanyard — everything needed for tethered IWB carry, off-body carry, and safe administrative handling. The same shell upgrades directly to Standard Kit capability with the addition of the tuckable overhook, or to Advanced Kit capability with the overhook and RCS Claw.
Best For / Not For
Best for:
- Tethered IWB carry with a round safely chambered
- Off-body carry in bags, purses, fanny packs, sling bags, and vehicle consoles
- Nightstand and home access configurations
- Optics-equipped pistols without weapon-mounted lights
- Carriers who want to try the VanGuard 2 platform at the lowest entry point
- Existing VanGuard 2 shell owners who need a replacement or additional lanyard
Not for:
- Pistols with weapon-mounted lights — see VanGuard 3
- Carriers who require one-handed in-waistband reholstering
- Sig Sauer P365 Macro
- Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ / Equalizer
- Carriers who prefer a full-shell holster
Choose Your Configuration
| Kit | Price | What's Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lanyard Kit | $24.99 | Shell + lanyard | Tethered IWB and off-body carry. Entry point to the VanGuard 2 platform. |
| Standard Kit | $39.99 | Shell + lanyard + 1.5" tuckable overhook | Full IWB and tuckable carry. Saves $5 versus buying Lanyard Kit and overhook separately. |
| Advanced Kit | $49.99 | Shell + 1.5" + 1.75" overhooks + RCS Claw (no lanyard) | Maximum grip concealment. Saves $15 versus building up from the Lanyard Kit. |
Start with the Lanyard Kit if tethered or off-body carry is your primary use case, or if you want to experience the VanGuard 2 platform before committing to a full kit.
Add the tuckable overhook ($19.99) at any time to bring your Lanyard Kit to Standard Kit capability.
Add the RCS Claw ($19.99) at any time to add maximum grip concealment to any VanGuard 2 shell.
See VanGuard 2 Accessories for all compatible add-ons.
Quick Scan
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Carry Position | Tethered IWB / Off-Body / Universal |
| Compatible With | Full-size, compact, and subcompact pistols |
| Fitments | See compatibility table below |
| Optics Ready | Yes — clears all slide-mounted optics |
| Light Compatible | No — See VanGuard 3 PDP |
| Threaded Barrel Compatible | Yes |
| Tuckable | No — add tuckable overhook ($19.99) to enable |
| Hand Orientation | Ambidextrous |
| Kit Includes | VanGuard 2 shell, static-line lanyard |
| Upgrades Available | Tuckable overhook ($19.99) | RCS Claw ($19.99) |
| Upgrade Kits | Standard Kit ($39.99) | Advanced Kit ($49.99) |
| Colors | Black, Coyote Brown |
| Price | $24.99 |
| Made in USA | Yes |
| Lifetime Warranty | Yes — unconditional, follows the product |
The Standard
The VanGuard 2 is built around a single design decision: cover only the trigger guard, and add nothing else.
A pistol carried safely in a bag or vehicle console with a round chambered. A firearm secured on a nightstand, instantly accessible, trigger protected. A carry solution that works in clothing and contexts that defeat every conventional holster.
Conventional wisdom says a holster has to enclose the pistol.
The VanGuard 2 does not enclose the pistol.
It covers the trigger guard — the only coverage a safely chambered pistol actually requires — and stops there. Everything the typical holster adds beyond that point is bulk the VanGuard 2 refuses to carry.
Injection molded from a proprietary polymer blend engineered for long-term use, the VanGuard 2 delivers consistent fitment and retention from unit to unit and year after year.
For more than two decades, Raven Concealment Systems has focused on a single problem: carrying serious handguns discreetly and predictably in the real world.
Good gear disappears from behavior.
What Makes a Minimalist Carry System Work
| Requirement | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Trigger guard coverage only | The trigger is the critical point of mechanical discharge risk. The VanGuard 2 isolates it without enclosing the entire pistol — covering more than the trigger guard adds bulk without adding safety. |
| Zero added width to the pistol | The firearm's own geometry becomes the concealment envelope. A minimalist system that increases the pistol's cross-section defeats its own purpose. |
| Optics clearance | Modern carry pistols increasingly use slide-mounted optics. A trigger-guard system that conflicts with them forces a compromise between the carry solution and the pistol configuration. |
| Multiple carry configurations | A system limited to a single carry method fails the user whose mission, clothing, or environment changes — the carry solution must adapt without requiring a different product. |
| One-handed deployment regardless of tether status | A carry system that cannot be cleared with one hand creates a failure mode the carrier may not discover until the worst possible moment. |
| Clear, unambiguous reholster protocol engineered into the product | Minimalist carry requires a deliberate reholster process that prioritizes safety and consistency over speed of reholstering. |
The VanGuard 2 was built around those requirements from the beginning.
The Minimalist Carry Compromise
Every carry method is a negotiated compromise. Minimalist carry gives up one-handed in-waistband reholstering, the body shield protection of a full holster shell, and the consistent indexing geometry of a full holster mouth. What it gains is a level of concealability and accessibility that full-shell holsters cannot reach — and a range of carry contexts they cannot enter.
The VanGuard 2 is reholstered outside the waistband — seat the VG2 on the pistol first, then return both to the waistband together.
This is the intended use, not a workaround.
What minimalist carry gives back is access to clothing, situations, and environments where conventional holsters stop being practical. Off-body carry where a loaded firearm needs to be stored safely and accessed rapidly. Vehicle and nightstand configurations where a conventional holster creates unnecessary bulk and complexity. The choice that has historically been between carrying nothing and carrying something that creates more problems than it solves.
It also gives back speed. The VanGuard 2 can be donned or removed in seconds with far less adjustment and bulk than a conventional holster. It delivers most of the convenience and immediacy of simply tucking a pistol into the waistband, while preserving the trigger protection and retention that unholstered carry completely lacks. For carriers who move between armed and unarmed environments throughout the day, that difference is not marginal.
Because the VanGuard 2 covers only the trigger guard and leaves the rest of the pistol fully accessible, administrative loading and unloading can be performed while the pistol remains holstered — something impossible with a conventional full-coverage holster.
The magazine can be inserted or removed. The slide can be cycled. The chamber can be visually and physically verified clear. The trigger remains protected throughout.
The VanGuard 2 is not a replacement for a full holster in every situation. It is purpose-built for the situations a full holster cannot solve.
Minimalist carry is not a lesser choice. It is a more demanding one.
The Profile
The VanGuard 2 minimalist holster adds nothing to the width of the pistol it carries. The shell seats over the trigger guard only, leaving the grip, slide, and muzzle fully exposed and the pistol's cross-section unchanged.
Most carry systems impose their geometry on the pistol and then on the body. The VanGuard 2 imposes nothing. The pistol rides exactly as it would without a holster — same profile, same width, same weight distribution — with the trigger protected and the lanyard as the only interface to the carrier's belt, bag, or anchor point.
The result is a carry experience that is less about managing the holster and more about managing the pistol.
How the Lanyard Works
The VanGuard 2 Lanyard Kit uses a simple static-line cord to tether the holster shell to a fixed anchor point. When the pistol is drawn, the lanyard retains the shell rather than allowing it to come free with the firearm. The pistol clears the shell cleanly. The shell stays where it is.
If the lanyard or attachment point fails, the nose of the shell can be caught against a surface and pried free with one hand. One-handed deployment is always available regardless of tether status.
The lanyard can anchor to a belt, a belt loop, an interior anchor point inside a bag, purse, fanny pack, or sling bag, a fixed point in a vehicle console or door pocket, a nightstand, or any other fixed point the carrier chooses to configure. The VanGuard 2 does not prescribe the anchor configuration — that is the carrier's decision based on their specific use case.
The Upgrade Path
The VanGuard 2 Lanyard Kit is a complete carry system at $24.99. It is also the foundation of the full VanGuard 2 platform — the same shell that runs through the Standard Kit and Advanced Kit without modification.
Add the tuckable overhook ($19.99) and you have Standard Kit capability — full IWB carry, adjustable ride height and cant, tuckable beneath dress clothing. The Lanyard Kit plus the overhook totals $44.98. The Standard Kit bundles both for $39.99, saving $5.
Add the RCS Claw ($19.99) to any VanGuard 2 shell and you add maximum grip concealment — the Claw levers the grip closer to the body using the belt as a fulcrum, eliminating the printing that defeats concealment in close-quarters environments.
The Advanced Kit bundles the shell, both overhooks, and the Claw for $49.99 — saving $15 versus building up from the Lanyard Kit with both add-ons.
Start where the Lanyard Kit serves you. Build from there when it makes sense.
See VanGuard 2 Accessories for all compatible add-ons.
Built for Professionals Operating Where Concealment Matters
The VanGuard platform earned its reputation in environments where the consequences of discovery extended far beyond embarrassment, inconvenience, or violating a workplace policy.
It was built for situations where printing was unacceptable, conventional holsters were too bulky, and maintaining complete visual discretion was inseparable from the task itself.
Over time, the platform found favor among personnel operating in plainclothes, surveillance, protective, and other discreet professional roles where a conventional belt holster often created more problems than it solved.
Its minimalist architecture made it particularly effective for deep concealment, non-traditional carry methods, off-body applications, and environments where even minor visible carry hardware could compromise freedom of movement, access, or the mission itself.
The VanGuard was never intended to be theatrical gear.
It was built for people who needed to carry a fighting pistol in places where they were not supposed to be armed, not supposed to be noticed, and sometimes not supposed to be there at all.
The VanGuard 2 in the RCS Ecosystem
Raven Concealment Systems designs and manufactures professional-grade concealment holsters, accessories, and carry systems for military, law enforcement, and civilian concealed carry markets.
The VanGuard 2 Lanyard Kit is the entry configuration of the VanGuard 2 platform — the shell and lanyard, nothing more.
The VanGuard 2 Standard Kit adds the tuckable overhook, enabling full IWB and tuckable carry from the same shell. The Standard Kit bundles the shell, lanyard, and overhook for $39.99.
The VanGuard 2 Advanced Kit is the maximum-concealment configuration — shell, tuckable overhooks, and RCS Claw — for $49.99. The Advanced Kit does not include the lanyard.
The VanGuard 3 is the weapon-light-compatible continuation of the VanGuard concept. Where the VanGuard 2 interfaces with the trigger guard, the VanGuard 3 interfaces with the weapon-mounted light — currently the SureFire X300 and Streamlight TLR-1.
The VanGuard 2 platform is not hardware-compatible with Phantom, Perun, Jake, or Copia attachment systems.
Optics and Pistol Compatibility
The VanGuard 2 is a non-light-bearing minimalist holster. For weapon-mounted light configurations, see VanGuard 3.
The VanGuard 2 trigger-guard shell clears all common slide-mounted optics including:
- Trijicon RMR
- Trijicon SRO
- Trijicon RCR
- Aimpoint ACRO P-2
- Holosun 507C
- Holosun EPS
- Holosun 509T
- Steiner MPS
- Leupold DeltaPoint Pro
The open design accommodates threaded and extended barrels with thread protectors installed.
Firearm Compatibility
The VanGuard 2 Lanyard Kit is currently available for Glock 17, 19, 22, 23, 26, 31, 32, 42, 43, 43X, 43X MOS, 48, 48X, and 48X MOS pistols; Sig Sauer P320 X-Frame, P320C, P320F, M17, M18, P365, P365X, and P365XL pistols; and Smith & Wesson M&P Full Size, M&P Compact, and M&P Shield 9mm and .40 caliber pistols. The VanGuard 2 Lanyard Kit was designed to support the primary duty, concealed carry, and service pistol platforms currently in professional circulation across law enforcement, government, and civilian defensive use.
| Firearm Brand | Compatible Models | Exclusions & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Glock | 17, 19, 22, 23, 26, 31, 32, 42, 43, 43X, 43X MOS, 48, 48X, 48X MOS | No exclusions within listed models |
| Sig Sauer | P320 X-Frame, P320C, P320F, M17, M18, P365, P365X, P365XL | Does not fit P365 Macro |
| Smith & Wesson | M&P Full Size and Compact, M&P Shield 9mm/.40cal | Does not fit M&P Shield EZ or Equalizer |
Additional fitments available. Select your pistol above to confirm compatibility.
Current RCS Customer Note
The VanGuard 2 platform supports a range of optional belt attachment configurations available separately, including the tuckable overhook and RCS Claw. Note: Phantom, Copia, Perun, and Jake attachment hardware is not compatible with the VanGuard 2 platform. Current VanGuard 2-compatible attachment options are available here: [LINK: VanGuard 2 Accessories — to be populated before launch].
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the VanGuard 2 Lanyard Kit?
The VanGuard 2 Lanyard Kit is the entry configuration of the VanGuard 2 minimalist trigger-guard holster platform. It includes the VanGuard 2 shell and a static-line lanyard for $24.99. The same shell upgrades directly to Standard Kit capability by adding the tuckable overhook ($19.99), or to Advanced Kit capability by adding the overhook and RCS Claw ($19.99 each).
How does the lanyard work?
The static-line lanyard tethers the VanGuard 2 shell to a fixed anchor point — a belt, belt loop, bag interior, vehicle console, nightstand, or any other point the carrier chooses. When the pistol is drawn, the lanyard retains the shell rather than allowing it to come free with the firearm. If the lanyard or attachment point fails, the nose of the shell can be caught and pried free one-handed. Deployment is always available.
Where can the lanyard be anchored?
The lanyard can anchor to a belt, a belt loop, an interior point inside a bag, purse, fanny pack, or sling bag, a fixed point in a vehicle console or door pocket, a nightstand, or any other fixed anchor point. The VanGuard 2 does not prescribe a specific anchor configuration — the carrier configures it for their specific use case.
Is the VanGuard 2 a real holster?
Yes. The VanGuard 2 covers the trigger guard, supports tethered and off-body carry with a round safely chambered, and performs the essential safety and carry functions a holster is required to perform. The VanGuard 2 does not enclose the pistol — that is the design decision, not a limitation. The trigger is the critical point of mechanical discharge risk, and the VanGuard 2 isolates it without enclosing the entire firearm.
What is the difference between the Lanyard Kit, Standard Kit, and Advanced Kit?
The Lanyard Kit ($24.99) includes the shell and lanyard — the foundation of the platform. The Standard Kit ($39.99) adds the tuckable overhook for full IWB and tuckable carry, saving $5 versus buying components separately. The Advanced Kit ($49.99) includes the shell, tuckable overhooks, and the RCS Claw for maximum grip concealment, saving $15 versus building up from the Lanyard Kit. The Advanced Kit does not include the lanyard.
Can I upgrade the Lanyard Kit to Standard or Advanced Kit capability?
Yes. Add the tuckable overhook ($19.99) to bring the Lanyard Kit to Standard Kit capability. Add the RCS Claw ($19.99) to any VanGuard 2 shell for maximum grip concealment. The same shell runs through all three configurations without modification.
Can I carry a full-size pistol with the VanGuard 2 Lanyard Kit?
Yes. Because the VanGuard 2 adds nothing to the width of the pistol, full-size pistols carry with the same cross-section they would without a holster. There is no holster bulk compounding the gun's own footprint. The pistol's geometry is the only variable.
Is the VanGuard 2 optics compatible?
Yes. The VanGuard 2 shell covers only the trigger guard and clears all common slide-mounted optics. Supported optics include the Trijicon RMR, SRO, and RCR, Aimpoint ACRO P-2, Holosun 507C, EPS, and 509T, Steiner MPS, and Leupold DeltaPoint Pro. Optic-equipped pistols carry and draw without modification or accommodation.
Is the VanGuard 2 left-hand compatible?
Yes. The VanGuard 2 is fully ambidextrous without modification. The lanyard configuration functions identically for left- and right-handed carriers. No additional hardware or adjustment is required.
Can I reholster the VanGuard 2 while it is in my waistband?
No — and this is by design, not a limitation. The VanGuard 2 is reholstered outside the waistband — seat the VG2 on the pistol first, then return both to the waistband together. Attempting to reholster with the VG2 inside the clothing is not recommended under any circumstances.
Can I perform administrative loading and unloading with the VanGuard 2 holstered?
Yes. Because the VanGuard 2 covers only the trigger guard and leaves the rest of the pistol fully accessible, the magazine can be inserted or removed, the slide can be cycled, and the chamber can be visually and physically verified clear — all while the pistol remains holstered. The trigger remains protected throughout. This is something a conventional full-coverage holster cannot accommodate.
What is the difference between the VanGuard 2 and VanGuard 3?
The VanGuard 2 interfaces with the trigger guard of the pistol and supports standard and optic-equipped configurations without weapon-mounted lights. The VanGuard 3 interfaces with a weapon-mounted light — currently the SureFire X300 and Streamlight TLR-1. If your pistol carries a weapon-mounted light, the VanGuard 3 is the correct platform.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Price | $24.99 |
| Carry Position | Tethered IWB / Off-Body / Universal |
| Material | Injection-molded polymer |
| Optics Compatible | Yes — clears all slide-mounted optics |
| Light Compatible | No — See VanGuard 3 PDP |
| Threaded Barrel Compatible | Yes |
| Tuckable | No — add tuckable overhook ($19.99) to enable |
| Hand Orientation | Ambidextrous |
| Kit Contents | VanGuard 2 shell, static-line lanyard |
| Available Upgrades | Tuckable overhook ($19.99) | RCS Claw ($19.99) |
| Upgrade Kits | Standard Kit ($39.99) | Advanced Kit ($49.99) |
| Colors | Black, Coyote Brown |
| Warranty | Unconditional lifetime warranty |
| Country of Origin | USA |
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