J-frame AIWB holster recommendations

[Big Dog Dad]

I want to take my 640 out of my front pocket and need some recommendations for a Appendix carry IWB holsters. I don't need the 6 month wait, $200 holster. Something to throw on my belt and run to the store.

-=BDD=-

 

[ldryder]

Originally, I carried a Ruger SP101 2.25" in this Blackhawk IWB Leather holster but now I carry my M&P 340. They're available everywhere for $45ish or so.

Leather Inside-the-Pants Holster with Clip - BLACKHAWK!

However, I just ordered a IWB holster from Robert Mika and he should have a much quicker turnaround time since he finally is quitting his nighttime job.

Waistband Holster - Mika's Pocket Holsters

 

[eb07]

Galco Stow and Go. Hands down the best.

D frame Colt but you get the idea...

 

[kaaskop49]

Check the $1/"junk box" at many ranges. You're almost sure to find 1 or 2 IWB suede clip pouches for snub revolvers, abandoned there by shooters who did not appreciate them. That's where I've found 3 of mine: they serve well in either before- or behind-the- hip IWB positions. For new, the Bianchi/Safariland pouch runs about $30, IIRC.

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

 

[crazyphil]

For quick IWB of course you want a clip on.
For appendix carry you need straight up & down vertical - 0 cant.
Offset clip is a good feature to minimize width of holster over the cylinder.
This Sideguard "Minimal Clip" is economical too.

 

[oldiesradio1560]

I put my M640 in an Uncle Mike model 36. About $12. from WalMart.com and I love it. Carry it daily.

 

[Jingles]

A lot depends on where you like the gun to rest on your belt. Some set the gun up high for maximum access but less concealibility, others set the gun lower on the belt for maximum hold and concealability but they are a bit harder to get to. There are also varying cants or the angle at which the holster holds the gun. Most appendix carriers prefer zero cant (straight up and down), while those who carry at 3:00 or past prefer some cant.

I prefer the holsters that hold the gun lower although I have both types. I am always climbing in and out of trucks and tractors and bumping in to stuff, so I like the extra hold offered buy the lower position. If I am just running to town I might switch out holsters and go with the higher position.

Note in the photo belo the holster on the left (Side Guard Quick Clip) holds the gun much lower than the holster on the right (Don Hume H-715). Look at the sideplate screws of the two guns, not the grips since those are different angles.

The holster on the left also has 30 degrees forward cant, whereas the Hume has zero cant. Both are excellent choices but if I had to pick just one it would be the Side Guard (but they take about 12 weeks to get).

 

[white cloud]

For quick IWB of course you want a clip on.
For appendix carry you need straight up & down vertical - 0 cant.
Offset clip is a good feature to minimize width of holster over the cylinder.
This Sideguard "Minimal Clip" is economical too.

I switch between something very similar to this and pocket carry depending on the temperature. This type of holster is comfortable, easy on an off and allows a good grip on the revolver to be quickly established. That is important to me for efficient presentation. Some holsters carry the gun really low which helps concealment but precludes quickly establishing a secure grip. I am of the opinion that if you "need" to draw you will also need to be quick about it.

 

[white cloud]

Other things to consider about clip type holsters. The clip needs to be a good one that keeps the holster attached to the belt. Steel clips abrade your belt. If I wear a holster with a steel clip I wear a nylon belt. Galco and Garrett have very nice clips made of a very strong plastic that is a lot easier on belts and still keeps the holster attached to the belt.

 

[Pants]

I use a DeSantis Tuck This II for my 642. I usually wear the holster between 4 & 5 o'clock but if the appendix need arises, the clip is adjustable so you can carry it a bunch of different ways. For straight up AIWB, take a look at the Blade-Tech Klipt. That one's on my short list.