If I used a 4" holster with a 3" gun, is there any ill-fitting issues (other than an extra inch at bottom? Will this work fine as most weight is distributed at trigger guard and cylinder, correct?

Not as far as I'm concerned. The pancake holster that Bianchi produces for the SP101 Ruger is the same for the 3.0625" as the 2.25". My son's fills up the leather while my shorter barrel leaves a little leather. I would rather have it that way as to have the end of the barrel and sights unprotected.

I asked the folks at Milt Sparks Holsters that same question a few years ago and was told that, over time, the last inch of the holster might collapse.

Regards, Smooothpull

quote:

the last inch of the holster might collapse

It will collapse to some degree, but I have been wearing the Bianchi pancake for over 4 years. I can still get my finger in the end of the holster. Nothing gets traped in there, if that's the concern. Mine gets warn everyday. I won't use a holster that does not protect the muzzle.

It's not a big deal.

I've got one 4" leather generic pancake that's carried 2.5", 2.75", 3" and 4" revolvers equally well for quite a number of years.

Even if the last inch collaspes a bit, it will open back up the second you holster a 4" gun.

MOONDAWG