IDPA Holster for N Frame

[kimberst245]

I have a TR 22-4 that I plan on using for IDPA competitions here locally. Other than making my own holster (which I can,) does anyone have any suggestions for an affordable factory made alternative? I prefer either IWB, which are hard to find, or the belt slot out side the waisband variety. Any suggestions are welcome, however I don't want to break the bank, just compete and maybe carry this bugger once in a while. Thanks.

 

[Murphy2000]

kimberst245,

"Afordable" is the problem. I've been where you are and it isn't easy finding a good IWB holster for any N frame S&W.

I'm not sure how far you're willing to go money wise, but I picked up a Mitch Rosen here on the board about 6-7 weeks back. I couldn't be happier. I sure wanted to go with a Milt Sparks, but for some reason feel the Rosen holster was actually even better suited.

I believe a lot depends on your body size/shape when it comes to IWB holster's and revolvers. I'm long bodied, but with short arms and a barrel chest. This makes it even harder for me to find a holster. If the holster is designed where the cylinder is inside the pants, you best factor that in when you buy pants. I don't really care for the holsters where the cylinder is above the belt line, inside or outside. It puts the grip far to high for me to do any rapid work with it.

Don Hume's at one time was making an IWB for S&W's. I picked one up for my N frame 4-5 years back. It has served me very well and didn't break the bank.

Lets face it, you can buy the lastest piece of plastic pistol and 2/3 rds of the major holster makers have an IWB ready to roll for it within weeks. Sadly, its hard to even find a decent IWB for a 4" K frame.

Murphy2000

 

[WNC Seabee]

Try a Simply Rugged (www.simplyrugged.com) with their "Inside Out" straps. I have one for my for...
3" Ruger SP101
4" Ruger GP100
5" N Frame (629 and 625)

They've served me very well. And with these Inside/Out straps you get a good quality IWB AND OWB holster both.

I'm just about to place my order for the 3" N frame (625) that I just picked up.

 

[ScottJ]

Ready tactical bends some good kydex: Ready Tactical

I borrowed one from a fellow IDPA'er locally and ran my 66, and old M&P out of it a few times. This was the L-frame version and even though loose on the K it still held well.

For my 28-2 I run this J.W. O'rourke pancake I found used at a gun show:

 

[Murphy2000]

Oops!

I'd forgotten about Simply Rugged. I have a holster specifically built for me by Rob himself for a 5" Model 27-2 of mine.

His holsters have an excellent reputation and there is the option of the outside/IWB with the same holster.

Simply Rugged Holsters

Murphy2000

 

[growr]

My M28 N frame rides in several holsters, more often than not a Kramer OWB and then a DeSantis OWB.
The Kramer is my favorite, but it is not cheap.
You might also take a look at what Ray offers at lobogunleather.com...fabulous product at very reasonable prices and a short turn around time.

Randy

 

[minconrevo]

Comp-Tac makes a quality Kydex belt holster for the N-frame. It's a favorite of many IDPA shooters. They make a quality product and ship quickly.

 

[gr7070]

Can't go wrong with Comp-Tac. Excellent holster. Fast. One of the two most popular in IDPA.

 

[AmmoHouse]

I love my Safariland for IDPA. It has a lot of adjustment point on it for various guns and the cost is excellent. A lot of holster for a little money.
I also have one for my son to use for his P226.


Safariland 567 Custom Fit for Pistols Holster - STX Plain Black, Right Hand 567-12-411 FREE S&H 567-12-411. Safariland Holsters.

 

[pop-gunner]

I'm using a COM for both my N frame and my K frame.
They are top notch holsters reasonably priced.
Rick is a great guy willing to go out of his way for customer service and satisfaction.
Kydex Holsters

 

[kimberst245]

Thanks for the suggestions so far. I haven't decided yet on which way to go; either Kydex or leather. Just for grins I tried my Looper leather holster I have for my L frame 4" and it actually fits, even though it isn't intended for the 22-4. Even covers the trigger, so it shouldn't be a problem. I guess it will go to my first IDPA match with this gun as anything I order will not make it in time. Hopefully the day will be sunny, since the front sight kinda leaves something to be desired as far as being able to pick it up quickly. Again, thanks for the help. Keep 'em coming.

 

[Bugs Bunny]

EXC topic, i been thinking to order the ready tactical as mentioned by another poster, the safariland looks real good as well.

for a try you may want to consider a cheapo I been using & just bought for the wife's 686 2.5 esr revolver, strip all the garbage & they work really well for under $20 delivered - Pro-Tech Side Holster S&W Revolvers (WSB-11) | eBay

I have used this holster with the 625's 3 & 4in & 629 3in for IDPA & its a tough holster to beat for the $$, draw is alot faster than any makers IDPA legal conceal carry holster I have owned, real easy on the finish too.

I have a nice desantis but its too slow to draw from IMO.

 

[BobR1]

I run Lobo Pancakes for dual purpose. They are my daily carry holsters, as well as my match holsters. I have the Optional Inner Hammer Shield added to everyone I have. That would be, I believe eight now total. Three are for N Frames. 3" 625, a 310 Night Guard, and my 4" 610.
For SSR my main match handgun would be my 4" Model 64-3.

I quit having a match only holster when I quit shooting IPSC several years ago.

Ray raised his prices a little the first of the year. The Enhanced Pancake with Optional Inner Hammer Shield is now $70 shipped. It comes detail boned standard. It is a custom holster, so you have a choice of 4 colors, belt sizes, etc. The Model 1 Pancake is a more economical model.
Lobo Gun Leather - Home

I am running North Mountain Speedloader carriers. They also have a great new Dual Moon Clip Carrier. It carries 2 moon clips stacked.

I have a local saddle maker build my belts. I take him the Brass Buckels to use, and he does the rest.

My brother retired from Altus about 3 years ago. He worked in vehicle maintenance on base.

Good Luck

Bob

 

[haggis]

I like the Sting Ray holster from Blade-Tech for both 4" and 5" M625's. The 4" is IDPA approved.

SRB (Sting Ray Belt Holster)IDPA Approved :: Standard Holsters :: 7-9 Day Rush Items :: Blade-Tech Industries

Buck