I'm looking for recommendations for a holster for my new Model 69. I prefer the Bianchi 5BHL style, but they don't make one that i can find on there site that fits the 69. My bbl is the 4-1/4" version, not the snubby. HELP!

You might try the custom makers, such as Lobogunleather, who is a member of the forum.

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H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244

Pancake style which is different than the 5BHL but a very nice product from a good kid.
Holster Revolver – Page 2 – MD Whitefield Leather Holsters (TIME TO SHIP: 3 WEEKS)

The 4" GP100 sized 5BH fits the 69, though the molded cylinder flutes don't line up. I have not tried the lined version.

I wound up getting the Triple K Carrylite for 4" K/L frames and like the fit of it. Not lined though, and I trimmed a bit of the thumbstrap to make fastening a bit smoother.

I have a Lobo Gunleather Original Pancake holster made for a 4 inch M686, and it works just as well for the M69. Both are the "L" frame. The holster is just long enough to cover the extra 1/4 inch of barrel length.
I have ordered a new holster from the new owners of Lobo Gunleathers for my new M66-8, with the 2.75 inch barrel. They quoted 4 to 5 weeks production time. I really like their holsters.

Best,
Rick

I have a Simply Rugged Pancake Holster for my M69. I've owned it and carried for the past 3 years. It's held up great to field use in both South Texas and Central Kentucky. I have favorite Holster makers, and none have done one specifically for the M69, so the pancake will see continued use until I pass it to one of my sons.

I have the S&W Model 69 .44 Magnum with the 4.25-inch barrel and I bought the Bianchi Model 5BHL Thumbsnap Suede Lined Belt Holster for S&W .44 Magnum for it. Superb fit and finish (mine is an older, vintage holster.) I couldn't be happier with it! It might not show up as being a supported a model on their website, but it fits like a glove.

I also use the bianchi holster that fits my 686 4” for my 4.25” 69. Fit is fantastic. For the snobby 69, I love my L frame pancake holster from simply rugged. This holster has a lot of west and character over the years and furs the smaller 69 fantastic and makes for quick draw if need be.

Both of my 69’s see use when in the woods which is a lot and often.

Rick

5-26-2017 !!!! Do they still need a holster?

Well, I'm the original poster and I found a black cordura type called KNJ that fits perfectly and has a strap that fits over the hammer for security.
However it is not the same as the Bianchi 5BHL's that I do use on my 629-4 Mtn Gun, my 329PD and my 629-5 std bbl'd 4"44mag. As most folks know, the "nominal 4" bbl'd 69, is truly a 4-1/4" bbl'd revolver and the Bianchi 5BHL WILL NOT fit this gun perfectly. The 1/4" difference in length precludes the trigger guard from resting at the back of the holster opening like it does on the 4" guns. Therefore the fun kinda rocks in the holster. I've been looking for a Bianchi 5BHL that is made for the K or L framed 6" bbl revolvers and have a shoemaker trim off the end and maybe even sew it up! The 5BHL that I use for my 629-3 Classic DX 5"ers is too sloppy of a fit for the smaller 69 on the L frame.

I also have a M69,4.25" bbl.I have two holsters that work,both Bianchi. Shadow II,right hand,black,size 4,part # 18624 and a 111 Cyclone,right hand,tan,size 3,part #12678. The Cyclone is for a K frame because I also have a 617/6,4" bbl.and I wanted my holsters to interchange.Hope this helps.

I am looking for a vintage holster that will fit my 329PD. I tried a Safariland 29 holster marked for the large frame S&W, but the full lug and tall sight of the 329PD keep it from fitting. Is the Bianchi 5BHL that you use for your 329PD an older one, or newer (marked Mexico)? Looking for leads on an older, quality holster that will fit the 329PD. Thanks.