Can I post a review here even though I'm not BBF staff?
Lets steal Seattle18's format, since I like it the best.
Product: OEM RIM BlackBerry holster (for 8700g)
Price: varies (not available directly from RIM yet, but probably will be $26.99 like all the other OEM carrying cases)
URL: None yet...
Review:
This is the OEM case provided to every other market except North America. We get the "launchers", which are both insecure and harmful to the device. I took everyone's advice and decided against using the OEM clip-in holster when I first got the device and avoided the initial abuse of the 8700g. I purchased this holster on eBay from a user in the UK that had replaced his holster with an aftermarket product.
I've avoided the barrage of aftermarket holsters and pouches made available for the 8700 series for the sole reason of usability. After using the 7100t for a year, I had grown accustomed to easy access to the device, and worry-free usage of the holster, knowing the BB wouldn't accidentally jump out of my pocket. Fortte has produced a similar holster called the STiL holster, but the one designed for standard batteries lacks an elastic. Also, leather isn't really my "style".
The belt clip is ratcheting, and in incredibly strong. Its very similar to the 7100 series clip in terms of strength and width, but it does ratchet, and its covered in leather. The clip itself is very low profile, and might be slightly uncomfortable for those who do wear it on their belt (depending on where they clip it...whether it be the pants or actually the belt), since the device will hug your skin pretty closely.
Unlike the 7100 holsters, the inside of the holster is covered in felt. This is a HUGE improvement, since the screen won't scratch after repeated use as did my 7100t.
The stitching is first rate, and looks like it will easily outlast the device.
The elastics on the holster are decently strong, and hold the device securely. There's almost zero chance that the device will pop out on its own, as it requires some force to remove the device. Although there is a possibility of UV damage to the elastics, slowly destroying the elasticity of the bands, its held solid so far for the month that I've used it. The elastics on the side cover the escape and convenience button, so silencing an incoming call or other alert may require feeling around a bit initially, but its easy to remember. The mini-USB is exposed, so it can be charged while being in the holster.
The case features a cutout for the speaker so you'll get your ringtone in full glory. Its shaped to match the shield shape of the 8700g. It may work on 8700c's as well, but the external speaker won't fit as intended with its trapezoidal shape.
Rating: I give this cases 5 out of 5 Berries.
Conclusion: The case is of OEM quality and is deserving of the BlackBerry/RIM badge. This is easily the best case I've seen for the 8700g, in construction and durability for those who desire a standard holster without a locking strap/clasp. The hydrofoam doesn't scratch or show scratches. The belt clip is absolutely solid, and will not unintentionally ratchet on you since it requires a significant amount of force to rotate the clip. The sleeper magnet works as expected.
Initially, I had purchased a Milante hydrofoam case, which had the promise of being a decent case, but being not specifically designed for the 8700 series, it was slightly loose and the sleeper magnet failed to function correctly. The Milante case also relied on a slight lip on the top edge of the case to keep the device from falling out, making it difficult to remove the device. This OEM case relies on the elastics to keep the device secure, making it much easier to use. The belt clip, while ratcheting, was not nearly as strong as it should have been, and as a result escaped from my pocket multiple times. However, this OEM case fits the bill perfectly.
Pros: OEM quality, bulletproof design and materials, easy access to device.
Cons: None! Perhaps its not as stylish as other leather offerings out there, but the hydrofoam has a more "hip" feel to it.
REVIEW: OEM RIM hydrofoam holster
> 8700
