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bluesman99
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Biggs, what is the holster type you are wearing in the picture??
Is it me or are most revolver holster just wrong?
- Thread starter bluesman99
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I know that Matt Delfatti makes an IWB with the clip back behind the cylinder bulge, http://www.delfatti.com/photos/photos/155.JPG . I seem to recall someone else does as well, but can't think of who right now. To me, a J-frame is more of an ITP (inside the pocket) rather than IWB.
Andy Taylor
Member
Another supporter of the Barrami hip grip. Just add a Tyler T-Grip to it and you will wonder why anyone bothers with a convention IWB holster for a J-frame.
CowboyKen
Member
One more: http://www.highnoonholsters.co.../split_decision.html
I use this to carry one of my J frames just to the left of my belt-buckle (almost crossdraw), with my shirt tucked in. It rides really low with just the grip available at the opening of my shirt and is completely hidden. This may or may not be a comfortabe way to carry for you.
Good luck.
Ken
I use this to carry one of my J frames just to the left of my belt-buckle (almost crossdraw), with my shirt tucked in. It rides really low with just the grip available at the opening of my shirt and is completely hidden. This may or may not be a comfortabe way to carry for you.
Good luck.
Ken
Hey bluesman99 that is a model 5 black widow that fits a colt detective special 2 inch barrel.
here is the site i get all my holsters from.
www.packinheatleather.com
here is the site i get all my holsters from.
www.packinheatleather.com
bluesman99,
LoboGunLeather's answer is a good one. Especially note the first two paragraphs. Your complaint is valid, and the Hip-Grip is both concealable and secure, but I don't use one, because I can't access it as quickly as from other acceptable carry methods. For my money, the main use of a J-frame revolver is in pocket or ankle carry. By the time it gets to OWB belt carry, I might as well carry a 12, or whatever weight I care to carry. IWB, a 1911 is slightly more comfortable than any revolver, and usually just as concealable. Most folks consider themselves better armed with a 1911 than with a J-frame.
Hope this helps.
520
LoboGunLeather's answer is a good one. Especially note the first two paragraphs. Your complaint is valid, and the Hip-Grip is both concealable and secure, but I don't use one, because I can't access it as quickly as from other acceptable carry methods. For my money, the main use of a J-frame revolver is in pocket or ankle carry. By the time it gets to OWB belt carry, I might as well carry a 12, or whatever weight I care to carry. IWB, a 1911 is slightly more comfortable than any revolver, and usually just as concealable. Most folks consider themselves better armed with a 1911 than with a J-frame.
Hope this helps.
520
photoman
Member
Gee biggs...looks like you've lost some weight.
tom turner
US Veteran
In my first post one picture showed an IWB holster, my Kramer for left-handers like me:
However, I much prefer carrying an Airweight in a front pocket holster and, if I wear a holster on the belt, it is my Rosen belt holster. To my body shape, the IWB type ain't comfortable. However, we're all different.
T.
However, I much prefer carrying an Airweight in a front pocket holster and, if I wear a holster on the belt, it is my Rosen belt holster. To my body shape, the IWB type ain't comfortable. However, we're all different.
T.
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bluesman99
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Ordered the Barami Hip grip for starters, and will see how that goes. Thanks for all the input.
I carry my 442 in a In the pants waste band holster by Don Hume , I really like the way the gun fits and stays put. I have the one with the belt loops that snap to fasten to my belt, you can get the same holster with a clip also.
I just ordered one for my M&P compact.
I just ordered one for my M&P compact.
Agent6-3/8
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Originally posted by JamesArthur60:
Here's another brand to confuse you, Don Hume:
How do you like that holster? I looked at one the other day and while I can't complain about the quality, it seemed like the gun rode too high and the clip was in the wrong palce. (i.e. right on the fattest part of the gun.)
Bell Charter Oak Holsters
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I probably offer more revolver scabbard and holster designs than any other custom maker in the world, and probably more IWB designs for small revolvers, in particular. I have made thousands of them, for over 40 years.
The "learning curve" has been to understand that no single design is a panacea. That is why we offer several different styles and designs. What works well for one fellow or gal, may not work for you at all. We often receive calls from puzzeled customers, especially new or first time CCW permit holders concerning selection. We ask the standard questions, which weapon, what climate do you live in, the type of clothing you wear typically when armed, circumstances of being armed i.e. in the car/truck, customers height and weight, intended carry position, etc. (I NEVER ask the ladies how much they weigh, lol) But, from those questions we can begin to narrow the selection and explain the tradeoffs in design features.
Ultimately, the customer will make an informed choice based upon this dialogue and observation of the holster photos on our website catalog.
The J frame revolver has been around for quite some time, as a result, there have been many holsters designed for their use. Some are very good, despite having little design imagination, others are very pretty but absurdly poor designs that exaggerate the weapon size to the point of impracticality or worse yet, are improperly balanced like that Don Hume model pictured above. That rig is just waiting to spit the revolver out when you bend over. If the clip is also as poorly designed and doesn't have a bottom tooth, I'd bet the farm you'll draw the holster along with the gun if it has been boned or detail molded for retention. Innovation for the sake of aesthetic appeal alone do not a holster make, says me!
I have seen holsters that approach the size of a dinner plate designed for IWB carry. Made of excessively thick leathers with 2 snap fastened belt loops and/or clip attachments. I have heard guys on this very forum attest to their excellent performance which amuses me to no end. The last thing I want is a large bulky holster bulging in my waistband just to carry a little J frame. I don't care how pretty it is. Caution yourself against charlatans and their advice. I've read plenty of silly stuff by so called "experts" here, and elsewhere, and not limited to the subject of holsters.
For 25 years or so, I carried my back up (off duty) piece, a J frame, in an IWB positioned at the appendix. In numerous knock down drag out altercations, foot chases over fences and during falls, I never once lost that weapon or the 4 inch M&P service revolver I carried with it, while working in plainclothes. IWB revolver holsters must seat the weapon deeply enough into the waist so that the cylinder top is at least level or lower than, the top of the beltline. Positioning the clip tab over the triggerguard and away from the cylinder reduces bulge and improves comfort.
My single largest criticism of several holster makers, are that they often copy another makers inferior design because most of them, never had an original idea in their entire life. They are nothing more than factory "hacks" pretending to be custom makers. If you know what works for you that's fine, If you don't, ask as many questions as possible. If the maker won't take the time to speak with you or has a customer service rep who can't answer your question, then I would conclude that either they are unprepared to answer your questions or simply don't care whether you buy their product or not.
In closing, to the original poster;
Most revolver holster's aren't wrong for everyone, but they may be wrong for you. Best of luck!
The "learning curve" has been to understand that no single design is a panacea. That is why we offer several different styles and designs. What works well for one fellow or gal, may not work for you at all. We often receive calls from puzzeled customers, especially new or first time CCW permit holders concerning selection. We ask the standard questions, which weapon, what climate do you live in, the type of clothing you wear typically when armed, circumstances of being armed i.e. in the car/truck, customers height and weight, intended carry position, etc. (I NEVER ask the ladies how much they weigh, lol) But, from those questions we can begin to narrow the selection and explain the tradeoffs in design features.
Ultimately, the customer will make an informed choice based upon this dialogue and observation of the holster photos on our website catalog.
The J frame revolver has been around for quite some time, as a result, there have been many holsters designed for their use. Some are very good, despite having little design imagination, others are very pretty but absurdly poor designs that exaggerate the weapon size to the point of impracticality or worse yet, are improperly balanced like that Don Hume model pictured above. That rig is just waiting to spit the revolver out when you bend over. If the clip is also as poorly designed and doesn't have a bottom tooth, I'd bet the farm you'll draw the holster along with the gun if it has been boned or detail molded for retention. Innovation for the sake of aesthetic appeal alone do not a holster make, says me!
I have seen holsters that approach the size of a dinner plate designed for IWB carry. Made of excessively thick leathers with 2 snap fastened belt loops and/or clip attachments. I have heard guys on this very forum attest to their excellent performance which amuses me to no end. The last thing I want is a large bulky holster bulging in my waistband just to carry a little J frame. I don't care how pretty it is. Caution yourself against charlatans and their advice. I've read plenty of silly stuff by so called "experts" here, and elsewhere, and not limited to the subject of holsters.
For 25 years or so, I carried my back up (off duty) piece, a J frame, in an IWB positioned at the appendix. In numerous knock down drag out altercations, foot chases over fences and during falls, I never once lost that weapon or the 4 inch M&P service revolver I carried with it, while working in plainclothes. IWB revolver holsters must seat the weapon deeply enough into the waist so that the cylinder top is at least level or lower than, the top of the beltline. Positioning the clip tab over the triggerguard and away from the cylinder reduces bulge and improves comfort.
My single largest criticism of several holster makers, are that they often copy another makers inferior design because most of them, never had an original idea in their entire life. They are nothing more than factory "hacks" pretending to be custom makers. If you know what works for you that's fine, If you don't, ask as many questions as possible. If the maker won't take the time to speak with you or has a customer service rep who can't answer your question, then I would conclude that either they are unprepared to answer your questions or simply don't care whether you buy their product or not.
In closing, to the original poster;
Most revolver holster's aren't wrong for everyone, but they may be wrong for you. Best of luck!
LoboGunLeather
US Veteran
Lefty, the Oldflatfoot, knows his stuff. Better advice would be difficult to find. He hasn't spent most of his life carrying a handgun, and making holsters, without learning what works and what doesn't.
I really enjoy working with customers who are open to suggestions based upon their needs, and I don't recall many incidents of people being unhappy with the results.
On the other hand, I do have a few customers who arrive with a crystal clear idea of what they want, based upon something they have read somewhere, then aren't completely satisfied with the results (for their application).
I really enjoy working with customers who are open to suggestions based upon their needs, and I don't recall many incidents of people being unhappy with the results.
On the other hand, I do have a few customers who arrive with a crystal clear idea of what they want, based upon something they have read somewhere, then aren't completely satisfied with the results (for their application).
Bell Charter Oak Holsters
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Here are a few of several different IWB designs I craft. The SUMMER HEAT model. Designed to deeply seat the weapon with a fully shrouded hammer, open muzzle to reduce bulk and clip tab positioned over the trigger guard to reduce cylinder bulge. The issue of cylinder bulge is really a minor one though, the difference is just marginal.
Some are very simple, like these two CHICAGO ROCKER models, but perform effectively. Note the mouthband reinforcement is integral with the clip tab, avoiding placement of the clip tab too low on the holster which will position the weapon much too high. I try to avoid boning IWB rigs and in most cases only lightly wet case mold the leather. This prevents retarding the draw. When properly friction fit, retention is achieved to a very satisfactory level without boning or wet case detail molding in a press, which will deform the clip tab everytime.
For larger revolvers like the Model 19 .357 pictured riding in my SENTRY model, I try to keep the leather to a minimum and crush fit a hammer shroud to minimize contact with clothing and body.
There are dozens of holster makers who can competently craft these kind of rigs. I am pleased to tell you that I know many, if not most of them personally. The large majority of them are former or active lawmen who understand performance from an experiential level. The premier custom makers owe their success and popularity to a combination of skill, innovation and testimonials from consumers, but there are many lesser known custom shops that craft outstanding gun leather. There's been a couple of them participating here on the S&W forum. From what I've seen of their work, these fellows are sure to achieve greater popularity. As for me, I'm on the other side of the hill as they say. So I'm very pleased to see other makers succeed and hopefully prosper from their hard work, dilligence and devotion to craftsmanship.
Some are very simple, like these two CHICAGO ROCKER models, but perform effectively. Note the mouthband reinforcement is integral with the clip tab, avoiding placement of the clip tab too low on the holster which will position the weapon much too high. I try to avoid boning IWB rigs and in most cases only lightly wet case mold the leather. This prevents retarding the draw. When properly friction fit, retention is achieved to a very satisfactory level without boning or wet case detail molding in a press, which will deform the clip tab everytime.
For larger revolvers like the Model 19 .357 pictured riding in my SENTRY model, I try to keep the leather to a minimum and crush fit a hammer shroud to minimize contact with clothing and body.
There are dozens of holster makers who can competently craft these kind of rigs. I am pleased to tell you that I know many, if not most of them personally. The large majority of them are former or active lawmen who understand performance from an experiential level. The premier custom makers owe their success and popularity to a combination of skill, innovation and testimonials from consumers, but there are many lesser known custom shops that craft outstanding gun leather. There's been a couple of them participating here on the S&W forum. From what I've seen of their work, these fellows are sure to achieve greater popularity. As for me, I'm on the other side of the hill as they say. So I'm very pleased to see other makers succeed and hopefully prosper from their hard work, dilligence and devotion to craftsmanship.
bill2000
Member
bluesman99, don't forget to check back with us to let us know how you like your new Barami.
Randyc
Member
Lefty
Thanks for telling it like it is. I have long admired both your common sense approach to holster making and your craftmanship. I've also been a lifetime admirer of Chic Gaylord and his influence on modern holster making. As a matter of fact, when I was 7 or 8 years old I wore out a school library copy of what I remember as a book titled "Six Guns." I remember several photos of Chic Gaylord and his holsters.
Thanks for telling it like it is. I have long admired both your common sense approach to holster making and your craftmanship. I've also been a lifetime admirer of Chic Gaylord and his influence on modern holster making. As a matter of fact, when I was 7 or 8 years old I wore out a school library copy of what I remember as a book titled "Six Guns." I remember several photos of Chic Gaylord and his holsters.
I have dealt with Lobo several times on holsters for my autos. I have a Mika pocket holster to carry my J-frame in. I carry it the most as it's the easiest to conceal in the area in which I live. Around here it's hot and humid summers, hardly the type weather for layered clothing.
Bell Charter Oak Holsters
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Randy;
Chic's work was frequently illustrated in many books and periodicals during the 50's and 60's. His friend Elmer Keith, authored the book entitled "Sixguns" to which you refer. If I'm not mistaken there were two editions. The latter, included some of Chic's work, the former did not. I have both editions, one signed by Elmer Keith.
Among his many acquaintences, Elmer and Charlie Askins were regular guests at Chic's rather notorious parties held in conjunction with the NRA annual conventions. The three were "old time" westerners, Chic hailing from Delta County Colorado, so they had a good deal in common beyond their interests in handguns, hunting and shooting.
More interesting though, is the fact that the book was in a school library. At the time it probably wasn't unusual. Today, you'd probably get arrested just for having it in school. Sad times in America, sad times.
I have been carrying for over 18 years now & I have never forgotton the PRIMARY reason for it. To PROTECT my own life--my loved one's & possibly others in a life threating encounter. In the 1970's I had to frequently board ships from unknown ports of origin while serving in the US COAST GUARD. I learned real quick that when the ---- hits, the last thing that matters is CARRY COMFORT. Do you really think this concept changes in the civilian world? Please people, carry the biggest ,baddest caliber you can SHOOT WELL. Get looser clothes to help conceil or whatever. Remember---you carry for a specific reason--Your'e not auditioning for GQ Magazine. If you FAIL in your'e mission, that COMFORT FACTOR is going to be HEAVIER on you than that little gun ever was. I carry an L FRAME SMITH & WESSON 357 3IN BARREL IN A SURVIVAL SHEATH CHEST HOLSTER DAILY. THIS IS AN 8 IN REVOLVER WEIGHING APPROX 38 OZ. ITS PART OF MY COMFORT ZONE NOW & IT DIDNT TAKE LONG TO GET USED TO IT AT ALL. If the event ever comes, I WILL NOT have to second guess myself on the issue of SELF DEFENSE versus CARRY COMFORT. DON'T LOOSE FOCUS PEOPLE & REMEMBER-----PRACTICE--PRACTICE--PRACTICE & MORE PRACTICE
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