Holster recommendation

[byteheed]

I just bought a model 17-3 with an 8-3/8 inch barrel. What do you recommend for a holster? I'd be using this mainly for hunting critters and plinking outdoors, so a shoulder holster might be best.

The 17 is a K-frame with a square butt, right? (Still in my agonizing 10-day waiting period, or I'd just look).

Thanks

 

[SuperMan]

If you like shoulder holsters it is probably the way to go. I never had a 8 3/8" S&W till a few years ago but rarely carry it. For what I do with it a simple belt holster works fine but if I was hunting or 4-wheeling with it I would go shoulder holster.

Look in the used bins...I just saw a nice Bianchi for a 8 3/8" gun for $30.00 in one shops used bin.

Bob

 

[gagunner 2]

Check E-xxx also.Long barrel holsters don't sell well.I got a Bianchi X2100 "Phantom' for a 8 3/8" for less than $20.Works great for my 25-5 long barrel in the field.Too big to hang fron the hip.

 

[H Richard]

With the long barrel, the shoulder holster is the way to go. Check out Simply Rugged website. They make good stuff at good prices.

I find in the cold months, I carry in a shoulder holster under my coat to keep it out of the weather, but you have to check on your local laws to make sure is legal.

 

[bluesteel]

I second that recommendation for Simply Rugged, they are top notch,

I just ordered my fifth holster from them today.

 

[thomashoward]

If you want a light weight shoulder holster try Uncle Mike's. I know there are some well made leather holsters out there but for ease of carry i use Uncle Mike's with my 7 1/2 Redhawk and it's comfortable and inexpensive

 

[au2183]

I like Uncle Mike's holsters also. Inexpensive, and seem to me to be a little easier on bluing than leather.

 

[byteheed]

Thanks for the replies. I checked out some of the places you mentioned (Simply Rugged's stuff looks great!) and I think what I'm looking for is more of a bandoleer. I carry a backpack, and most of the shoulder rigs have dual straps that might interfere.

Galco's got a nice model: http://www.bianchi-intl.com/product/Prod.php?TxtModelID=4100, but it's pretty expensive. There were a couple on eBay that are a third the price, so I might try one of those and add some shoulder padding of my own.

 

[mrwildroot]

<snip>There were a couple on eBay that are a third the price, so I might try one of those and add some shoulder padding of my own.

I have purchased several holsters thru ebay, and have been pleased with most.
Also sold several, and those buyers were lucky!
Read the descriptions carefully, and look closely at the photos. Ask questions, and check feedback, especially recent transactions.
Most sellers, I've found, are honest and want you to be happy with your purchase...However, "Buyer Beware" still applies...

Mrwildroot

I still have my "box" of holsters that I tried for CCW and don't really use much any more, but some are just too nice to part with.

 

[29aholic]

Bandoleer holster

If you like the bandoleer here is a great one I saw at one of the Tulsa shows.

http://www.davidjohnstonleather.com/Pages/GuidesChoice.html