IWB Holster for 4” Regulation Police

SmithSwede · Apr 26, 2023

I have a 4” S&W Regulation Police in .38 S&W that I’d like to set up with a comfortable IWB holster. Preferably appendix. But strong side (right hand) or cross draw on left side would be ok as well.

I routinely carry a 2” Colt Detective Special in a Lefty Lewis AIWB rig at 1:00, so I’m used to that layout. It seems like the I-frame would be even thinner and lighter than the Colt, and with the proper cant it would be comfortable with the 4” barrel. Maybe move it to 11:30 and have the barrel cant cross over the left thigh?

Any holster suggestions? Google does not return many suggestions for this older I frame revolver.

Is the I-frame close enough to a J frame that J frame holsters would fit close enough?

Thanks !

wheelgun610 · Apr 27, 2023

SmithSwede said:
Is the I-frame close enough to a J frame that J frame holsters would fit close enough?

The frame itself would fit just fine, but finding a ready made holster for a 4" I or J frame isn't going to be easy - assuming you want the barrel covered. Personally, I'd rather go with a 2" J frame in .38 Special than a Regulation Police. You'd be giving up one round of ammo as compared to your Colt, but you'd have a more compact piece to carry.

Mark

chief38 · Apr 27, 2023

My honest opinion is that even the smaller I frame is negated because of the 4" barrel. In the appendix carry position I don't see the advantage of increasing barrel length 2 inches - especially while seated. Barrels not longer than 2" - 2.5" are the way to go for what you want to do, IMO.

If your Dick Spl. is a bit too heavy, then you might want to slim down to a M60, M36, etc. with 2" bbl. You should also look at a Sig P365, Hellcat, or other new line up of Micro 9's. Not only are they smaller, flatter and lighter, they hold more than twice the capacity. If you are not into considering a new gun, then I'd simply stick with your Dick Spl. and call it good. I feel the 4" barrel (even on a small I Frame) will be a deal breaker for appendix carry.

URIT · Apr 27, 2023

Turner Leatherworks in Rockwall, TX is just up the 205 from y'all.

I suggest you call them about your holster project. You may have to bring your i-frame to them, because you want a holster molded to your revolver if you plan to carry AIWB.

SmithSwede · Apr 27, 2023

Wow, thanks very much for the tip about the Rockwall place. I’ll have a chat with them.

FYI, I’ve got lots of guns to carry, and there is nothing really wrong with the Colt DS I usually use. I just really like the little RP and wanted to figure out a way to comfortably tote it. It is so small and light that this seems like a doable project.

Alk8944 · Apr 27, 2023

Buy a holster for a 4" Model 34, The Kit Gun. Here is a link to a company that will have it in stock and you will have it in, probably, less than a week: Smith & Wesson Model 34 - 4" IWB Holsters - 6 Options | Craft Holsters(R)

The link takes you right to the page for 4". but the pictures are for 2" guns. Don't worry, they will ship the item you order.

Not inexpensive, but no holsters are these days. I have bought from them and am extremely satisfied with their products

Neumann · Apr 27, 2023

I occasionally carry a 4" L frame in a Sparks VM3 holster. That's about the length limit for comfort, and 3" or less is better. I'm no stranger to carrying a 4" N-frame (.44M) in a VM2, hiking west of the Mississippi.

IWB Holster for 4” Regulation Police

SmithSwede

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wheelgun610

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chief38

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URIT

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SmithSwede

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Alk8944

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Neumann

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