I undertand that Smith value line pistols, like the 457, have slides less contoured than their counterparts. Smith machined and milled them to a lesser extent to reduce cost. I have never held them side-by-side and cannot determine if this a significant difference.
Why does it matter? Well, I usually carry AIWB and have a local company (Watchdog Tactical) that molds AIWB holsters for my third-gen pistols. Have a 4553 and likely buying a 457. The Kydex holsters are molded precisely and less likely to accomodate variation than leather. That said, I suspect that a holster molded to fit 457 square edges would work just fine with a contoured 4553, 4516, etc...if I undersand the difference in shape. It may be insignificant.
Could somebody post a side-by-side to show the difference?
Also, feel free to hijack this thread with any comments, photos, or other information about the 457 generaly or as compared to the 45XX models. Thanks.
Why does it matter? Well, I usually carry AIWB and have a local company (Watchdog Tactical) that molds AIWB holsters for my third-gen pistols. Have a 4553 and likely buying a 457. The Kydex holsters are molded precisely and less likely to accomodate variation than leather. That said, I suspect that a holster molded to fit 457 square edges would work just fine with a contoured 4553, 4516, etc...if I undersand the difference in shape. It may be insignificant.
Could somebody post a side-by-side to show the difference?
Also, feel free to hijack this thread with any comments, photos, or other information about the 457 generaly or as compared to the 45XX models. Thanks.
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Looking forward to your range report! Regards 18DAI
