I have a 3913 with a fist 1a IWB holster. Does a good belt really make a difference with this combo. It seems like on a OC carry it would but I just cant see how it would make a difference IWB. I'm trying to justify not spending big bucks on a belt. Its really comfortable now and doesnt move around or anything with my normal everyday belt.

Believe me a good strong gun belt is a definate necessity.Even with IWB carry your pants will droop with a flimsy belt.

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Anchors

While I agree that a decent belt is more necessary with an OWB holster than an IWB holster, you'll still see quite the difference if you go with a quality gun belt along with your IWB gear.

Besides, it's a good investment anyway. Rather than spending $10-$20 a year on a new cheap belt from Wal-Mart of JC Penneys, you can spend $40-$70 on a high quality custom gun belt that will last you a lifetime.

Holster will still move around on a belt that does not fit the loops on the holster.

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the world is round everywhere

A heavier (gun belt) will spread the weight of the gun across a wider area of your waist, thus relieving pressure in one spot.

That decreases fatigue and discomfort after many hours of carrying the gun.

Think snow shoe.

Night and day. Agree with above. Much more comfortable.

They last until you out grow them.

Just a reminder, a proper belt for IWB or OWB need not look like a gun belt.

Coach and Trafalgar belts are more than suitable and are always fashionable. Nope, not a stockholder in either company but wear these belts exclusively.

Be safe.

Very true. When I refer to a "gun belt", I'm talking about a custom made double thickness leather belt, made for carrying a handgun. Not a police duty belt or the old Western belts with bullet loops. The vast majority of custom "gun belts" look identical to the 1.5" casual or 1.25" dress belts sold in department stores, but are much higher quality and much stiffer.

Many of the custom holster manufactureres also produce belts. In addition, there are places like Gun Belts by The Belt Man and Custom Gun Belts, Custom Leather Belts from A & G Custom Gun Leather that specialize in producing only quality belts for carrying.

With a good belt you will feel the weight of the gun much less even IWB. It will also shift less in your pants.

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OK you have convinced me. Now does anyone have a size 38 belt they want to sell? I cant afford a high $ one right now! PM me if so. Thanks SP

Something in the back of my brain says that Looper Leather, or Simply Rugged might be affordable for you.

Perhaps Lobo would make you a great belt at a great price. I know his holsters are reasonable (and that I probably just made an understatement) so my guess is that his belts are very affordable.

Don't forget to size it for the IWB....you might need an extra inch or two than you normally get...btw, I had the Fist 1a for my P7...there's not a lot of room between the clip and the holster so a too thick gun belt may stretch out the clip..

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FWIW, FIST clips clear my dual layer bullhide Beltman belt perfectly. I see Sip's point. Anything thicker might not work so well.

[/QUOTE]Perhaps Lobo would make you a great belt at a great price. I know his holsters are reasonable (and that I probably just made an understatement) so my guess is that his belts are very affordable.[/QUOTE]

You are correct Flop...His belts start at $34.99...I would call that very reasonable..

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My pant size is 36, thats why I said 38. I'll check with Lobo.

Try a 511 to get you by until you can afford a true gunbelt. They are very good belts for the money, but will not last a lifetime. Make sure you measure it according to the manfacturers instruction as you will be adding inches to it over your regular belt size for the holster and weapon, especially if carrying IWB. You may also gain a few inches over the years in the old gut.

The Beltman makes the best out there IMO and they are not too much more than 511's prices. I have one of his and an HBE and they were worth every penny.

I prefer leather as they blend in with civies and don't scream GUNBELT like the tactical nylon models.

Always good to keep a low profile and stay alert IMO.

Here are their links:

Leather Casual Belt - 1.5" | Belts | 5.11 Tactical

Gun Belts by The Belt Man

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Roger / SG

I found a nice thick belt in the local western boot shop.Their sometimes pricey but good quality.

Just "thick" isn't what you are looking for. A double layer like Beltman's has the grain running in different directions (like plywood) which prevents the belt from stretching.

I've had my Beltman for years and wear it daily.

my new basketweave Beltman will be here in two weeks, and I am fairly excited

And don't forget to visit pantsman.com to get the right pants for your IWB!

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Also worth a look, the Frequent Flyer belts from The Wilderness(.com) --- available in various widths, with velcro adjustable length with lots of latitude, and they'll add extra stitching to stiffen the belt, on request. These are not dress belts, but utilitarian day-to-day accessories, and not very expensive...