Holster advice and recommendations, please!

[lrrifleman]

I have a S&W Model 686+ 3" on the way. I am looking at using it for CCW. I want to limit myself to only 2 holsters, since as a disabled retiree, I am working with a VERY limited budget.

For an OWB holster, I would like a 3 slot pancake that is lined without any form of retention device.

For IWB, I would like something that is leather and lined. I have a cross breed super tuck for my 1911s and 439, but it is a bit humongous. I have a few Kydex holsters, but something about them fails to give me the warm fuzzies.

While custom is always nice, I am comfortable with off the shelf. For my S&W model 36-6, I tend to use either a belt slide or an Uncle Mike's IWB holster (a Karma I won here!) the most.

Can anyone suggest an IWB and OWB holster?

 

[DevilDog72]

Well.... I do not use IWB for revolvers so I can't comment on them. On occasion you can find a Roys pancake on Ebay. I use a Lobo Enhanced pancake for my 19/66 snubs and a Galco Pancake for my J frames.

 

[two-bit cowboy]

I've searched for an OWB for my 547 3". I've decided on the Simply Rugged Sourdough Pancake™. Rob built one for my 500 4" that makes that 5-pound beast seem like it's not there. Pretty convincing.

From email exchanges I've had with Rob I believe you'll find he'll try to talk you out of lining his rigs. Listen to him -- especially for your stainless steel 686 -- it's an added expense without benefit.

 

[lawandorder]

Unfortunately finding the right holster for YOU can be an expensive and time consuming experience.

Opinions on the BEST holster or carry mode are as numerous as backsides, everyone has one.

You are starting the right way, after gathering the opinions then comes the try it out phase to see what works for you and your handgun.

A pancake style is a good choice for OWB, certainly popular or there would not be so many variants from so many makers.

IWB , one of the very top makers in my opinion of this mode of carry is Milt Sparks. Read up on them.

Your life and the life of loved ones deserve finding the best products that work for you.

Don't skimp on your carry gear if at all possible.

 

[larrydean]

I have alot of holster from daltechforce and they custom mold them as I order them and I have never had a problem with any of them. They are very well made and the customer service is top notch when I call to order.

 

[Sixgun100]

I've searched for an OWB for my 547 3". I've decided on the Simply Rugged Sourdough Pancake™. Rob built one for my 500 4" that makes that 5-pound beast seem like it's not there. Pretty convincing.

From email exchanges I've had with Rob I believe you'll find he'll try to talk you out of lining his rigs. Listen to him -- especially for your stainless steel 686 -- it's an added expense without benefit.

What he said. Plus the same Simply Rugged OWB can convert to IWB with the addition of IWB Belt Loops.

 

[Topsarge]

Kill two birds with one stone. Simply Rugged sourdough pancake for the L frame. OWB strong side and also week side cross draw. And the optional clips for iwb. I just got one a few months ago for my 686 2.5" and I can carry my N frame snubbies too. Very good quality and built to order.