JM,
Being like you, a good holster is near indespensible for carrying (range or otherwise). I don't mess with thumb breaks, as I have never carried them (outside of my LEO duty rig for my 1911s).
At any rate, try Dillon Precision. They carry the Mitch Rosen Express line. The best holster for your Model 22-4 (I have two 21-4s) is the 5JR-DL black leather holster for the light barreled N-Frame guns (Dillon Stk # F73-18824). At $75, they are priced well. They will last a lifetime. They WILL retain the revolver with a tight friction fit.
No offense to Bianchi folks (my brother-in-law works for them in Kalifornia), but their leather is soft and loses its shape rather quickly (1-2 years of use), hence the thumb break. The Milt Sparks is one of the best holsters around...if you want to wait for 4-6 months. I have two and waited around 6-months...well worth the wait, mind you.
I've never had El Paso stuff (looks great, by the way). If you want a holster (and a good one at that), get the Mitch Rosen Express. you won't be sorry! While you're at it, get their 1-1/2" belt. It's a dandy! BTW: The holster is slotted for 1-1/2" belts.
Hope this helps!
-Greg
Cross-draw option would be nice - but anything that fits would be OK.
