Hoyt Breakfront Comments and Questions

[jimmyj]

In 1963 the Agency I was employed by sent me to a FBI Training School.
I show up for the first class witH a "Cross Draw Holster" BAD IDEA !
I soon discovered the only holster the FBI recommended was a forward tilt high ride strong side holster. Guess what type holster Jimmy was wearing the second day of class ?

 

[JayCeeNC]

In the early 1980s my department switched to 4-inch S&W Model 66’s and a Tex Shoemaker break front.
One officer was drawing his gun to put in the lock box at the jail when the holster came away from the belt with his gun, leaving the belt plate on his belt.
We changed to another holster quickly; I don’t remember which brand.

 

[D7dun]

Wore A Nelson for Quite a Few

Hello,

First, the gun to holster fit is off. The top of the gun should be completely closed. If it isn't, either that is the wrong gun or the spring has been stretched out of spec. Either or both may be the reason for the poor fit. This is NOT the correct fit.

Been since the late 70's but as I remember, the side snap was not functional? Could be wrong on that?

The Nelson, in my opinion was superior to the Hoyt. The Hoyt was an excellent holster in all respects. What I liked about the Nelson more was the additional strap around the trigger guard with a holstered gun. This gave much more stability and made a rearward gun grab so much harder.

I had two that I recall. The first was an issue higher ride with a straight drop. Great holster! Later I bought one that was a high ride also but with a muzzle forward cant. So much faster with a bunch less contorting of the wrist for a good solid grip and draw.

I did not notice the second snap on the thumb break as I always carried with the gun locked in. I would guess the second snap would allow the thumb break strap to be totally removed? Back then retaining straps were often taken off or not used at all. Also, on mine the outside snap was for show and a fake so a gun grabber might go for it first? As I said, it has been a few decades ago and many duty holsters ago.

 

[CH4]

Hello,

First, the gun to holster fit is off. The top of the gun should be completely closed. If it isn't, either that is the wrong gun or the spring has been stretched out of spec. Either or both may be the reason for the poor fit. This is NOT the correct fit.

Been since the late 70's but as I remember, the side snap was not functional? Could be wrong on that?

The Nelson, in my opinion was superior to the Hoyt. The Hoyt was an excellent holster in all respects. What I liked about the Nelson more was the additional strap around the trigger guard with a holstered gun. This gave much more stability and made a rearward gun grab so much harder.

I had two that I recall. The first was an issue higher ride with a straight drop. Great holster! Later I bought one that was a high ride also but with a muzzle forward cant. So much faster with a bunch less contorting of the wrist for a good solid grip and draw.

I did not notice the second snap on the thumb break as I always carried with the gun locked in. I would guess the second snap would allow the thumb break strap to be totally removed? Back then retaining straps were often taken off or not used at all. Also, on mine the outside snap was for show and a fake so a gun grabber might go for it first? As I said, it has been a few decades ago and many duty holsters ago.

I forgot I picked up this Nelson earlier this year. I agree they may be a refined Hoyt. No longer have any use for such a holster, but I was feeling nostalgic and for $5 I figured it would make a cool
prop.

Hope I don’t get dinged for the gratuitous display of a Python on a S&W forum.