Bianchi 5BHL Holster Thoughts?

[jambie]

Optics planet has this holster for $49, and I'm thinking of trying it. I usually use Simply Rugged holsters, but I thought I might try thr Bianchi. Any thoughts on its use for a 4" L frame regarding quality, comfort, etc?

Thanks,
Tom

 

[Alk8944]

Excellent general purpose/field holster at an excellent price.

 

[jdh]

I've got one for a 4" N frame that has served me well since the 80s.

 

[brucev]

I have had two of these holsters. They are very good. The quality of materials and construction is excellent. The suede lining is kind to the finish of blued revolvers. The thumb snap is easy to manipulate and the holster fits good and tight on a belt. JMHO.

 

[ISOM]

5BHL holster for $49

Before I would spend $49 for the holster I would type:
eBay - New & used electronics, cars, apparel, collectibles, sporting goods & more at low prices
Bianchi leather holsters

You will find lots of holsters and maybe the one you want CHEAPER.

 

[Dump1567]

Own several. Good holster if you like OWB.

 

[-db-]

From what I understand, the newer ones are made in Mexico. If this is true, how does one differentiate between a US-made one and a newer one, say, on the used market where there's no packaging? Does anyone know if there are any visual clues, etc.?

 

[Dump1567]

From what I understand, the newer ones are made in Mexico. If this is true, how does one differentiate between a US-made one and a newer one, say, on the used market where there's no packaging? Does anyone know if there are any visual clues, etc.?

My new one actually has "Made in Mexico" branded into the leather on the belt slide strap.

 

[-db-]

My new one actually has "Made in Mexico" branded into the leather on the belt slide strap.

Thanks. I see a lot of used ones listed for sale and have to assume at least some of them are newer ones made across the border but have never seen a Made in Mexico stamp on the holsters themselves.

 

[Frizzman]

I have a few of that model Bianchi holster going back to the 1970s. I haven't had one made after about 1983 so I cannot comment on the newer ones. They have always been well made and have held up very well. Some people hold that the lining can hold dirt and fouling next to the gun's finish and wear on it over time. I have both lined and unlined and can't tell any difference. I would not reccomend that model for concealed carry. It tends to stick out and flop a bit. For a general field holster, they work well...

 

[jmathis84]

I have one for my M-10 Hb. I have been wearing it fo rabout a month and love it. It supports the weight very well and the suede inside hasnt harmed my blued finish yet. I would recommend this holster to anyone. Gonna pick one up for a 686 when I get it next week with tax money.

 

[canoeguy]

I've got two Bianchi 5BH, one for 4" revolvers, one for 2". Like them a lot, use the 2" version often with my 2" Model 64.

The 4" holster I use to carry a 4" Model 66 and a 4" Model 64, most times in the Winter, concealed by a long jacket. I also use this holster when using the 4" revolvers in IDPA and IPSC competition. I bought this holster used around 1995 for $20, it has held up well, I think it will last as long as the revolvers!

 

[coltgun]

great holster for the price, but with hard wear it will eventually lose its shape.

 

[MajorDude]

I have several 5BHLs and 3 Sourdough Pancakes. If you are used to the way the Sourdough Pancake stays close to the body and rides, you will be surprised at how high and far out the 5BHL rides I think. I would recommend that you try one before you buy it. The quality of the Bianchis are great, I think the older ones are a little nicer. The new leather is a little darker finish and they have made some of the models more generic to fit more models. Like someone said, you can find them used for great prices. It would be no surprise to find one for $20 at a gun show. Look in those cardboard boxes full of holsters!

 

[celticfisherman]

I've got several and for a small j frame style gun to me they are fine but I prefer a more controlled tighter fit with big guns.

 

[mkk41]

The Bianchi 5BHL is a great holster. I have a bunch of them. From 2in , 3in , 4in J-frame , 4in K-frame , 4in , 5in and 6.5in N-frame , 6in Colt Python and 7.5 Redhawk.

 

[Reloader]

Mexican holsters usually are made with OAK tanned leather instead of CHROME Tanned. Much more durable, in my opinion and stretch less.

 

[ISOM]

Bianchi 5BHL Holsters

I have owned about 10 Bianchi 5BHL Holsters over the last few years. This holster is excellent.
Before I would spend $40 on this holster I would go to:
www. ebay.com
Bianchi leather holsters
You find an item you like and bid on it...

 

[Larry from Bend]

This one, from the 70s, has got about a zillion miles on it on horses, motorcycles, 4 wheelers, tractors and under a wool coat on Elk hunts. Still going strong.

And no, the suede lining DOESN"T wear blue finishes.

 

[akviper]

Bianchi makes good stuff. This model is not the best for concealment but will work. As other mentioned, the pancake style conceals better. They make a great field holster.

Avoid Optics Planet. They have good prices but will send you the wrong item and then charge you a restocking fee to exchange it. It can take several months to get your order as they do not let you know if the item is in stock when you order.

I hate to recommend evilbay but you can often find "vintage" US made Bianchi and Safariland leather as new or slightly used at very good prices.