I usually like a pocket holster for the j frame, but am starting to like the IWB and am trying to find one I like. I was wondering if you all have ran across the same issue I'm about to describe.

I have the style in the first pic for my K frame. I like that the top of the clip is even with the top of the holster, and that the gun rides deep, with the handle just above the belt. It doesnt feel bulky, but it's thin flimsy leather.

I just got the one in the second pic in the mail today, it's form fitting, and well made, but the reinforcing strip around the top makes it feel bulky, and the clip is so low, that everything rides over an inch above the beltline. Better access to the gun, but more uncomfortable to me, esp when sitting down.

To me, a cross between the two would be excellent. A single piece of heavier leather, with the suede on the outside, no strip around the top, and the top of the clip even with the top of the holster. If anyone knows of one, or if any leather workers here can make one, pls let me know.

I haven't used them enough to know for sure what I like, so if you all have reasons to like one over the other, let me know. I'm thinking of returning the new higher riding one in a few days, unless someone wants to trade it for one that may work for me. Its well made, and was $25.

JT

I too like IWB carry, and can concur with your observations. I carry a 642 in a Don Hume IWB and it is designed so that there is more bulk above the beltline that below due to the short barrel of the revolver. Due to that, I have been carrying my Kahr PM9 in a Blade Tech IWB because to rides lower and just "feels" more secure. I know that is subjective, and the J frame will not fall out, but I don't want to risk loosing it!

I carry my 642 in a Wraith IWB holster by Seth's Gun Leather. It is perfect for me. I had them customize it with a lower ride than their standard model. The rear of the cylinder is just slightly below the top of my belt. However, it doesn't impede the draw at all. It has a reinforced mouth so it doesn't collapse when the gun is drawn, but the outboard belt loops reduce the overall thickness. It also spreads the belt pressure over a wider area for good comfort as well as helping keep the holster and gun stable. It pulls the grip in for better concealment, too.

I rave about this holster every chance I get.



Another, less expensive option, is to check out Sideguard holsters. They make a couple of holsters that might meet your requirements. The Quick Clip has a reinforced mouth and the Minimal Clip doesn't, so it's a little thinner. They both seem to offer the ride height you're looking for. I'd actually like to add the Quick Clip to my collection in case I need a holster for frequent off/on situations.

I believe Bell Charter Oak also offers similar style holsters. I'm not as familiar with their line but I've read many good reviews about their holsters.

Thx Op, that looks very nice. And yes, Bell Charter has the style I'm looking for. Much appreciated.

JT

Check out Tucker Gunleather. I got their Coverup Plus for my 3d Gen Smiths a few weeks ago and was very impressed with both the design and quality. There is a model for a small revolver that may be just what you're looking for.

Bianchi Professional at about 4:00-4:30...

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I just searched some Bianchi models and found this one that looks interesting.
JT

i agree. if the iwb holster rides too high it feels like the gun will squirt out of the holster when i bend over. obviously not good. i have used a galco "stow and go" on a daily basis for the last 3 years. it has the correct low ride for me.

one other thing i have been thinking about is retention in iwb holsters. i am pretty slender and i wonder if i fell or was knocked down if my revolver would stay in the "stow and go". may be this is over analysing but i am thinking about an iwb rig with a retaining screw for my m60. i would like to hear other's opinion on this.

I have the same concern and I like a holster with good retention. I do a quick retention test on holsters when I first get them and periodically over their lifetime. I triple-check to make sure the gun is unloaded, insert it in the holster, hold it a couple of inches over my bed, and give it a couple of light shakes. The shakes don't need to be vigorous, just so it slightly moves. If the gun doesn't come out, the holster passes. I figure this plus belt tension when carrying IWB will keep the gun in the holster should I fall, get knocked down, or have to run.

As for the retaining screw, I think it's a good idea as you can adjust the retention to your liking as well as tighten it up if the holster loosens over time. I would prefer a retaining screw to a thumb break.

I have a friend who had a shoe repair guy install a basic leather retention strap with a regular snap which retains the gun. Not for me, but works well for someone who is more active.

JT

I still think my Remora no-clib IWB is one of the best $25 investments I've ever made. The only time I've had the holster pull out with the gun is when I was wearing very loose athletic shorts. It holds my 60 or my BG380 tightly until I want to pull the weapon. Heck, the holster doesn't even fall out when I unbuckle my belts and pants to take a leak. If you can't tell, I'm a fan.

Attached Images

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I don't think an IWB holster really needs a retention strap. For normal daily activities belt tension does just fine. The Bianchi holster I posted earlier is very secure, the gun never shifts even when getting in and out of the truck or sitting for extended periods of time.

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Me too. PERFECT for my 642. I just switched over to my "new"
Colt Agent snubby and it worked for that one, also!

Wow, I just checked out the Remora website, and several youtube demo vids, and I'm very impressed, and lifetime warranty too! For $25, I think I'm gonna try one.

Have you guys used them in the pocket also, or just IWB?

JT

DEFINITELY pocket carry on a J Frame or my P238, when I have deep enough pockets.
I "dress" for work in a shirt, tie, and slacks. No way to IWB carry, so pocket-carry is my only option. Works perfectly.

For now, I am using the Remora for my 340 M&P.
the 340 is light enough to get away with no clips...

but ultimately, I will get leather from TT Gunleather or Seth's Gunleather..

I like to invest in good belts and gunleather..as it makes concealed carry a breeze!

Both the Pocket and IWB holsters are so inexpensive, I don't think there is much of a market to design one holster to do both tasks. They usually run under 25 bucks, and even though they do share some similarities, are still different.

I IWB carried for a bunch of years (and 30 pounds ago). I am right handed and carried in an IWB holster at the 9 o'clock position - cross draw. Much more comfortable for me, and much easier to sit and access the weapon in a vehicle. Give it a shot.

Contrary to what a lot of people say and prefer, I always liked the inexpensive soft suede type of IWB holster because of their light weight, lack of bulk, and softness against my side. True it's harder to re-holster, but that was not a top priority to me. My feeling is that once the gun is out, there is no secret or speed needed in re-holstering anyway.

For pocket carry, the DeSantis Nemesis or the Mika Holsters are quite good. Never cared much for leather pocket holsters.

Chief38

As we speak I have this tucked into my belt. Works just fine for my 640-1. For my model 36 I have a very old leather Bucheimer 14C-11 that dates to the 70's.

I've had one of these. You cannot re-holster unless you remove the holster from your pants first. This is not a big deal for civilians (we don't normally handcuff suspects), but would be a big deal for a cop.

I just ordered the Bianchi 100 professional. It should arrive later this week. I was planning on using it for appendix carry. We'll see.

i like having the ability to do a one hand reholster. the "sto and go" sort of allows this.

i am starting to think that having lobo build exactly what i want is the way to go.

Well, it may have taken 3 pages to figure it out...but at least you're there now...

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When I IWB carry, I use the hip grip. I have used one since about 1973. Never had any type of problem. I carry at the kidney or four o'clock position. The M38 is for ankle holster or belly band carry.

OP here, and no I haven't figured it out yet, I'm still trying different ones... and thanks for all of the suggestions folks. The guys at theholsterstore dot com are great, and are currently making one for me according to some alterations I made to their in-house design. Personally, I need the top of the belt clip level with the top of the holster, and most of the well made ones have the clip too low for me. I can see how high riding ones would be good on the OWB, but not for IWB, with a snub, for me.

I tried a hard, form fitting one that felt like a rock in my pants. The one I have for my K frame snub is thin flexible suede material, rides low, and I hardly know it's there, and that's similar to how my custom one is being made, but with better leather. The gun comes out relatively easily, and the holster rides even with the top of the pant line. Will post pics when I get it.

JT ... Also, I am going to get one of those Remoras too. Looks well worth it.

I think these are out of production now. DeSantis is marketing his own version. I had one squirt out from my pants onto the ground. I think a longer barrel would work for my body type. In any event this is a proven carry method that works for some body types and not for others.

I've always been jealous of those who could carry like this. It makes for so much flexiblity.

I agree that one hand holstering is nice. But in the real world (if you are not cuffing someone) it is not much of an inconvenience. And those holsters tend to be lighter and less bulky.

The Barami Hip Grip Co. has a web site, they are still going strong. There have been some showing up on eBay as well.

It looks like a Milt Sparks VM2 type clone - kinda like the Galco V-Hawk. I've been in the market for a hostler like this for my 649-5; I'll check Seth out, thanks!

I sometimes carry a J Frame AIWB at about 1 oclock. For that, I use the clipdraw coupled with a good belt.



I also use this one by Side Guard

Photoman 44 what kind of holster is that?
I like It

I also use the Remora IWB at 4 o'clock. I was carrying it with a 642, and now I use my 640 Pro with it. The only problem I had was when I first got it I kept thinking it was going to fall out of my pants. I doesn't budge no matter what I do.

I use a horsehide Lobo IWB holster with offset clip. I purchased it originally for a 640-3; however my other J's fit just as well. I currently use it for either the 640 or my 642. If intended to carry an exposed hammer J-frame, a hammer shield can be specified.

Ray makes a great product. I've ordered several holsters from him and have been satisfied with every one.

Attached Images

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For my 442 I very much like Desantis soft- tuk at 4 oclock. It has an adjustable clip for cant and height. I like mine to ride a little high and I can do this with this holster. Tighten the belt and the gun is very secure in the holster.and reholster is reasonably easy. If you are not concerned about cant adjustment or reholster, I would suggest The Holster Store .Both are very comfortable.

I use a Galco "Summer Comfort" IWB with my 642..works great. Though most of the time I pocket carry in a Mika or Desantis Nemises. If I can IWB I generally carry the M&P.

I use the Remora for my 642 and I have one for my Shield. I can move it where I want and can change the depth and position to any thing I need to be comfortable. It stays put and I really do forget it is there. Also have the mag holder that is easily concealed.

I've got two. A Galco Tuck & Go and a Crossbreed QwikClip. They both work, but IMHO, I've also got a Tagua belt slide OWB that doesn't present/print any more than the IWB's and is a hell of a lot more comfortable.

It seems the Seth's Gunleather website is down or they went out of business, cause I liked your holster and looked them up. The domain looks like it is up for sale.

Lobo should be able to fix you up as other
Leather makers here can also.
I've been using Remoras lately and am impressed with how they stay put and can be moved anywhere on the belt line. It's been one of the most comfortable IWBs I've used.
I still have reservations about retention, although, so far I've had no problems.
If you want solid retention without worrying about it I would recommend a horsehide IWB with a good clip.
Be prepared to own more than 1, it will happen!

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