Cut off retention straps on owb holster?

[desert gator]

I bought a cheap Galco Wraith holster today to carry my gun concealed owb until I can figure out what IWB holster that I want. One think I have been considering is cutting of the retention straps. They slow the draw a little and the back of the snap rubs my skin a bit, plus get in the way re holstering. I dont know how much this leather will stretch and loosen but its so tight right now that I have to work at it a bit to get the gun out. What is your guys thoughts on the straps. Is it good to have to ensure the gun never falls out if I get in a scuffle, or are they just in the way?

 

[Iggy]

That depends very much on the holster. Give it a few days to stretch to fit your gun.

I suspect with a Galco that won't be long and you will be glad you have the straps.

 

[jimmyj]

DO NOT cut off the straps-they are there for a reason.
If the metal snap rubs your skin-wear an undershirt under your dress shirt.

 

[vytoland]

if the retention strap is made of leather….moisten it a little bit with water. Let it set for a few minutes and then stretch the strap over your gun while holding the snaps in place. Let this air dry over night. It should be good to go after that.

 

[tom turner]

Hi,

When you are ready for a truly great holster that will hold your revolver in snugly without the need for a strap, consider the Mitch Rosen UPL (Upper Limit), pictured here with my Model 36 snubbie. Yep, I'm a lefty.

Rosen claims his holsters will hold the gun securely with just a little "click" of sound as the gun gently clicks into place. This is very true.

The workmanship is truly stunning, when compared alongside other good holsters.

A REAL and great holster . . . and the way it snugs the body makes it the most comfortable and best-fitting holster I've ever encountered.

Not cheap, and not too fast on holster delivery times . . . but totally fast on the draw . . . amd the Rosen holsters don't end up with all the others that clog your "old holster" drawer.

 

[desert gator]

Wow that Mitch Rosen is a beautiful holster!

 

[scooter123]

One tip that will help with the retention strap. Hit a local auto parts shop and pick up a stick of Atlas Door Ease. It's basically Beeswax and a superb product to use to lubricate the wire in the cap of the snap. I've been using for more years than I care to admit to on the snaps of my boat covers. It makes it vastly easier to snap up a tight cover and they also come free with a light tug.

When I started using retention holsters I naturally applied a dab of Door Ease to the snap on my holster. Tap that retention strap with the side of your thumb during the draw and you can draw quickly in one smooth motion.

As for getting your holster a bit "free", get a heavy ziplock freezer bag, cut the zipper off with some scizzors, and then stuff gun and freezer bag into the holster for a week. Don't know for sure why it works but it does help.