I saw the Overwatch holster...
...and was immediately intrigued. It didn't hurt that they are made by our own PastureOMuppets (Ian). I was a little turned off by the large "wings" fore and aft of the gun. While I'm sure it fits fine, this is not my style.
Then I saw the Treadstone by Overwatch:
This is more to my liking. It's svelte, yet sturdy. Alas, this version is IWB only and I prefer OWB because I'm fat and don't want to buy new pants.
So, I contacted Ian and begged him to make me a Treadstone, but to move the clip to the other side so I could wear it OWB. Then, he didn't have a form for a 1911 which is the gun style I use most. Well, it took some convincing, but he finally acquiesced and a new holster was born:
This is made from Kydex like many holsters out there. However, Ian has chosen to use a much thicker material than what is normally seen. This makes for an extremely sturdy holster.
The quality of construction is amazing. No rough or incomplete edges here. The fit to the gun is amazing:
It turns out that Ian is obsessive with how the gun fits the holster. He wouldn't send me a holster until it was perfect and he got it right.
This holster fits all the criteria of a proper holster:
It covers the trigger.
It won't flop around on the belt.
It holds the gun securely, but releases it when drawn properly.
It stays open for easy one-hand reholstering without looking.
The clip looks small, and it is, which concerned me at first. I thought it wouldn't hold the gun securely to my belt; I was wrong. It is easy to install on or remove from the belt and indeed does hold the gun in place quite securely.
I specifically requested a straight drop. This is better for firearm presentation because it allows wear at 9 o'clock (for us lefties, 3 o'clock for right handers) and an easy, straight up draw. For instruction I find this is a better holster position.
Here you can see the holster in action:
The holster does conceal nicely under a loose shirt, but does allow the grip/handle of the gun to stick out a little. This would be mitigated with a 15° cant. Even so, I wanted this for teaching classes so, concealment was not my first consideration. (A new design is imminent.)
As good as this holster is, all is not perfect. The clip has a slight flaw:
The little tab that allows the holster to be so easily attached, also protrudes just a little. This has a tendency to poke me in the hip. It is not bad and after a while I don't notice it, but it is there. I think I will break out my Dremel and cut it back a little.
Now, I'm super picky. I can find fault with just about any product I've ever purchased. Being able to only find that one flaw (clip tab) tells me this is one nice holster. Because I'm so picky, I only rarely recommend products. However, if their other holsters are even close to this one, I have no hesitation in recommending them. I've only got about 100 presentations from this holster, but I only see it getting better as I become more familiar with it. If you're looking for a holster, give Overwatch a try. You won't be sorry.
Being something of a neophyte here (long time gun owner, but new to the forum, new to Smith & Wesson, new to the M&P Shield, and new to concealed carry) I am going to ask a couple of what may be dumb questions:
1 - The "Body Guard" options are "full", "medium", and "none". I am guessing that this is material that extends above the holster to protect one's body from part of all of the unholstered weapon's slide/frame. Though there may be one somewhere, I couldn't find a picture that clearly shows the differences. I've not used an IWB holster before and wonder what the most popular option is. I might rather have the gun ride against my body or t-shirt if the guard is going to stick me in the back or the ribs.
2 - I'd be buying this for a 9mm Shield which I anticipate I will carry at around the 4:00 position. Wouldn't that be likely to require the forward cant?
It looks like a nice piece of gear at a fair price
1 - The "Body Guard" options are "full", "medium", and "none". I am guessing that this is material that extends above the holster to protect one's body from part of all of the unholstered weapon's slide/frame. Though there may be one somewhere, I couldn't find a picture that clearly shows the differences.
This picture, from the OP (which I took off the Overwatch site), is of an IWB holster with a full body guard.
The body guard won't stick you in the side. In fact, it's likely you won't notice it at all because it doesn't extend beyond the gun. If you intend to wear the gun against your skin, I recommend the body guard.
My holster, this one...
...is an OWB and has no body guard. I always wear a t-shirt between me and the gun so, I don't really need one.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Ryburn
2 - I'd be buying this for a 9mm Shield which I anticipate I will carry at around the 4:00 position. Wouldn't that be likely to require the forward cant?
Not just likely, absolutely will need the forward cant. From that position it will be difficult to draw without the cant. Further, the cant helps conceal the gun a little more.
Just for the record Ryburn, there are no dumb questions here. The only dumb questions are those that are never asked. We can't help if you don't ask.
Rastoff - Thanks very much for the instant and informative reply!
I wonder how heat resistant these are. The kydex is pretty thick so I doubt they would deform easily, but I live in Mississippi and if I had to leave it (yes, even here there are some places your firearm isn't allowed) in the truck on a hot summer day...
I read another Overwatch review in the M&P Pistol forum that was as enthusiastic as yours. These must be the real deal.
That thread also contained some banter about Treadstone and Blackbriar. Having read the posting rules, I know religious comments are frowned upon - still I have to wonder... maybe, Bourne again?
You'll have to ask PastureOfMuppets about the names.
I have used Kydex holsters in some really hot conditions. They are formed by heat, but should be able to withstand normal temps in the car. Just don't leave them in the direct sun.
Of course PastureOfMuppets should be able to give a better answer for that.
You'll have to ask PastureOfMuppets about the names.
I have used Kydex holsters in some really hot conditions. They are formed by heat, but should be able to withstand normal temps in the car. Just don't leave them in the direct sun.
Of course PastureOfMuppets should be able to give a better answer for that.
Yep, that's about right.
I really wouldn't leave it in direct sunlight for an amount of time inside a car in the summer - the temperature inside a car can go to anywhere between 30 and 50 degrees above the outside temperature.
That thread also contained some banter about Treadstone and Blackbriar. Having read the posting rules, I know religious comments are frowned upon - still I have to wonder... maybe, Bourne again?
Heh, I reckon if I used Bourne I would have a trademark issue I can't afford!
I do still need some names for upcoming holsters. For the appendix specific one I was considering the Touchstone...
If you start making all the great holsters for everyone, how will the Kydex herds of the Great Plains be impacted? And aren't certain species of Kydex on the endangered species list?
If you start making all the great holsters for everyone, how will the Kydex herds of the Great Plains be impacted? And aren't certain species of Kydex on the endangered species list?
I'm just going to pretend it's not an issue and let future generations deal with the fallout...
Overwatch Treadstone- Rastoff Edition
Linear Mode
