I've recently received my enhanced pancake from Ray at Lobo Gunleather for my S&W 642. This is my first holster from Ray and I'm blown away by the comfort of this holster. I have an offset IWB horsehide on order for the wife's 642 and we can't wait to receive it. Should be real soon.

I've been so impressed and happy with this holster that I now want to order an OWB holster from Ray for my M&P 40c.

So my question is as follows: Do you find the enhanced pancake to be superior compared to the standard model 1 pancake? I really like the tunnel loops of the enhanced design but I'm just wondering if it offers added comfort, stability, and does the enhanced version ride higher?

Or will the model 1 suit my needs just as well and save me a little cash.

Thanks for the help.

I will be posting a review of the enhanced pancake with hammer shield for the 642 after I get some more time with it. So far it's been beyond outstanding from day one. I just want to wear it more before reviewing.

Point Number One: Anyone familiar with my website or anything I have ever written about the subject of ride height will understand the difference between "highest possible ride" and "highest practical ride". I design and pattern each Enhanced Pancake Model for the "highest practical ride" on the belt.

The concept of ride height must take into consideration the overall size, weight, and weight distribution of the subject handgun (including ammunition load). The balance point for that specific handgun must be kept at or very near the upper belt line, otherwise gravity will take over and the holstered handgun will tip out away from the body, thus compromising both concealment and security (retention).

Point Number Two: The Enhanced Pancake Model, as compared to the Model 1 Pancake and other two-panel pancake designs, is unique on the market, utilizing welted seam construction (a third layer of leather between the inner and outer holster panels in the fore-and-aft "wings" where the belt attachment points are located). This provides significantly greater strength and rigidity to the finished holster, while also allowing for tunnel-style belt loops.

Point Number Three: The tunnel-style belt loops provide a smooth and uninterrupted outer holster shell that allows the cover garment to move over the holstered handgun without snagging or printing, eliminating the lumps created by the two-panel pancake design's belt slots.

There is nothing wrong with the Model 1 Pancake, which follows the lead provided by Roy Baker's original work. The Model 1 continues to serve many people very well, providing a very good holster at a modest price.

Comparing the Enhanced Pancake Model to the Model 1 Pancake is a bit like comparing a Cadillac to a Chevrolet or Oldsmobile. Much higher degree of function, considerably more in materials and workmanship to produce, and suitable only for the person who has decided that the level of performance is worth the increase in price.

Best regards.

So would you say with the added rigidity of the 3rd layer on the enhanced that it allows for a higher practical ride on the belt?



Thanks Ray for the explanation. I didn't even consider this aspect of the enhanced version as this is my first leather OWB holster. That makes sense I can see how the design of the enhanced would be better in this case.

I only have the enhanced models. Absolutely superb in every aspect. Don't short change yourself. It is a one time purchase. Spend the extra money and get the top of the line. You won't regret it.

So would you say with the added rigidity of the 3rd layer on the enhanced that it allows for a higher practical ride on the belt?
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The added rigidity certainly contributes to stability, including support of the holstered handgun at any ride height.

Determining ride height of a particular holster design for a specific handgun depends more on the handgun in question than the desires of the customer or holster maker for a certain result. The size and weight of the handgun, and balance point of that weight (including ammunition load) all place limitations on how the holstered pistol can be carried and effectively stabilized. The overall size of a 2" J-frame revolver (balance point of the loaded revolver being near the rear of the cylinder) allows very little deviation in position on the belt-line. A 6" full-lug N-frame revolver not only has greater weight, but the balance point is further forward (roughly on line with the front of the cylinder), as well as a much greater area to work with in placing the belt attachment points onto the belt-line. A compact polymer-framed semi-auto with large capacity magazine may have a balance point much closer to the grip-frame (ammo weight must be considered, which may be half or more of the weight of the empty pistol), and the grip-frame must be relatively clear of the leather in order to grip and draw the pistol, so there is very little latitude available.

There is no simple rule applicable to all handguns. The only constant is the need to support and balance the weight in line with the belt, because when the majority of the weight is above the upper belt-line gravity will do what gravity always does, regardless of our ideas about how we want the holster to perform.

I have three enhanced pancake holsters from Ray; a Colt Commander with sweat shield, a full size 1911 with thumb break, and a Walther PPS. They are the best holsters I have.

I have 2 of the enhanced holsters and would not trade them of any other style. My daddy once told me " Son, never be afraid to buy quality.... you only have to buy it once." I have several other brands.... I do not use now.