File this in the "wacky but true" folder...

After months of scouring both web and retail stores, evaluating and trying tons of different products, I finally found a suitable holster for my HTC Hermes (aka AT&T 8525). However, I didn't find it at a cell phone store, consumer electronics chain, or specialty web store. And believe it or not, it turns out the best case for my mucho-expensive high-tech modern cell phone would only cost me less than ten bucks on sale.

The BucketBoss brand cell phone holster was found merely by chance, tucked away a bin next to screwdrivers and drillbits at a local Menards (a midwest hardware/home improvement chain). The packaging makes it almost too easy to dismiss, given the photo of a construction worker/type person sporting the holster. Based on the phone shown in the photo (looks like a Nokia 5110 or something similar), I'd say this case was designed for what was considered "small" cell phones in the late 90s era.

However, the size of the case just so happened to look just about right for my far more advanced AT&T 8525 Pocket PC / phone hybrid. For fun, I clipped the case off its packaging then dropped my phone in. To use an old cliche, it fit like a glove. A case designed for phones made a decade ago... the best choice for my modern phone of today.

In all fairness, there are cases designed specifically for my phone. The main issue I've had is that nearly all PPC/Phone cases hold the phone horizontally at belt level. For some this works fine, for me however, I prefer to hang the phone vertically off my pants pocket (right). When the case is designed to be horizontal, it just won't work anywhere but on the belt.

What also impressed me about this case is the sheer amount of padding it provides. The sturdy construction and plush front flap and sides gives protection you won't find in most designer cases. Plus the metal clip on the back is much more durable than plastic. You won't have to worry about the clip breaking... ever.

As awesome as it is, there are two minor complaints I have. For starters, the velcro flap doesn't secure as well as I would like (occasionally the front flap goes flapping in the breeze). Second, since the phone ends up flush with the case sides, getting the phone out can be a little challenging at first. However, pinching the bottom of the case pops the phone out with relative ease once you get used to it.

It's not leather, it's not phone specific, and it's not really all that attractive (and people will poke a little fun at you for having "BucketBoss" on your phone case). Yet, this is the most durable case offering the protection and wear style I, and my high-tech PPC/Hybrid phone, have been looking for. It won't fit the iPhone and most Blackberries, but it should house the majority of HTC's lineup (the AT&T Tilt, Sprint Mogul, HTC Touch, etc.) with applomb. And you can buy three of them for the same cost as one designer case.

Look for it at a store near you, or order it for your phone at Amazon.

Lots more photos in the gallery

Read More In: Phones, Smartphones, and PDAs Accessories and Software