IWB holster for Model 36

daveboy

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As the title suggests, I'm looking for an IWB holster for a Model 36. Specifically, a 2" Chief's Special. I know there are many out there, but specifically I need a holster that is a clip-on, and with enough material on the backside to shield my "girth" from the metal of the hammer. But, even more specific, I would require some type of retention device. Such a short barrel does not lend itself to always staying tucked in. I'm thinking along the lines of a thumb break. Does anyone have any suggestions without having to go the custom route?
 
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This holster has worked well for me...


Also, the Avenger holster from MTR Custom Leather with the tuckable clip.
 
This holster has worked well for me...


Also, the Avenger holster from MTR Custom Leather with the tuckable clip.
I liked the Don Hume holster, however it doesn't have any retention. But, I looked at the rest of their products and found the H715 MTB and it looks like it would work for me. Thanks.
 
Daveboy, I carry my EDC model 3953 in the Don Hume H715-M WCS, and it has enough retention that after at least 5 years of service can still hold the pistol in the holster when turned upside down.

I just tested it and it still hangs in there, and there is still an audible click when I seat the gun in the form molded holster.

I really like the single clip which gives me several carry options on the waistline, including cross draw. Plus, the single clip design provides a natural cant depending on carry position. I have one for my 4053 and Walther PPS too.

Even so, you gotta go with what gives you comfort and confidence.
 
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Just out of curiosity why would you want a thumb break on an IWB holster? Not trying to be a jerk and you should get what you want, I am honestly just curious.
 
I have to admit I've spent more money buying quality IWB holsters for semi automatics over the years than I have with J or K-frame rigs. My most used J-frame holster is a High Noon Mr. Softy that I carry AIWB. It wasn't that expensive and was good for carrying a backup gun. Though not designed for it, it has a sufficient amount of material around the mouth of the holster to keep the mouth somewhat open after the revolver has been drawn. From my observations, take looks at Harry's Holsters, JM Custom Kydex, Milt Sparks, DeSantis, Bianchi, Safariland, etc.

For what its worth, for years I thought the hammer spur was what was gouging my spare tire. More recently, I returned to carrying Centennials occasionally and realized it is the cylinder release that was gouging me, not the hammer.
 
Just last weekend, I finally had a retirement party for this old Lawrence that has been the constant companion of me and my Model 36 for the past 30+ years. It was long overdue to be retired. I received an IWB by Eric Whisnant who runs ETW Holsters in Hickory, NC. I'm happy with it. It's plenty snug enough to keep the gun where it should be with no need for any extra retention, the angle of the clip is adjustable - and it keeps the hammer spur from chewing me up...
The retiree
PXL-20250726-042154027-NIGHT-RAW-01-COVER.jpg


And the replacement
PXL-20250726-042253172-NIGHT-RAW-01-COVER.jpg

PXL-20250726-042318311-NIGHT-RAW-01-COVER.jpg
 
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I carried a Model 60 of some sort for 40 years and (prior to my Sig P365 as an EDC) and when I carried IWB I used one of the old fashioned soft suede holsters with an attached clip. They are the thinnest, most comfortable and concealable type available and do the job just fine. IMHO, leather is too thick and makes the pants you are wearing even tighter! I don't like buying pants in the next size because when not using that method of CCW they become too large and don't fit right. IMO Kydex would be too uncomfortable for all day wear.

The one downside soft suede holsters have is that because they are soft and collapse without a gun in it, re-holstering is a two handed procedure for most people. That in itself never concerned me! The reason is because if I pulled my revolver out of its holster, people could see I was armed. If it takes a few more seconds to re-holster after an incident, it mattered not to me. If the gun needed to be put away as quickly as possible one could just temporarily stick it in a pocket or waistband without the holster until two hands were available.
 
daveboy I like the don hume and the open top works for my needs but the one your looking at looks like a great choice too...wheelgun610 your holsters both the vintage and new one are beauties and the herrett shooting aces on your revolver are stellar I've got those on 4 of mine.
 
OP, you might look at Azula holsters for @ same price as Don Hume. I like them for k frame size revolvers and find no retention needed. Stays put between your body & belt just fine for me.20250804_090316.jpg
 

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Dear Daveboy,
You could try to find a Bianchi #3 Pistol Pocket. The #3 has a thumb break but does not have a metal clip. I have not checked lately but there were a number of them available on eBay when I purchased mine.

Blessings,

1chessiefan
 

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...wheelgun610 your holsters both the vintage and new one are beauties and the herrett shooting aces on your revolver are stellar I've got those on 4 of mine.
Thanks for the compliments on the holsters. The ones in my album here are only a drop in the bucket. I guess I should add pics of more of them. I agree about Herrett's Shooting Ace grips. Those make the J frame grip feel more like a round butt K frame, and they actually don't 'print' nearly as much as factory square butt size grips.
 

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