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!
