OWB holster for M&P 40c

[SpartanZeroOne]

A buddy of mine bought the 40c about a year ago and doesn't like it, so he's willing to sell it to me. It's the "military/LEO" version with 3 mags and tritium night sights. I have shot it before and love the gun... I actually shot it better than my Shield 9 or M&P 9 FS (and I have NO IDEA why!!). I have done some research online looking for an outside-the-waistband holster for the M&P compact pistols and I did not get many results. Blackhawk makes a couple leather holsters that are $75 or more. I also heard that the Blackhawk Serpa series (level 2) will work with the M&P compact pistols, but that it will just be about 1 inch longer than the barrel since it's designed for the M&P FS. I also saw that Fobus makes a couple options, but FOBUS holsters only secure the gun by tension. Does anybody have any experience with any of these holsters for an M&P compact, or perhaps there is something else you can suggest that I am not aware of? I am just looking for an OWB holster that is reliable, durable, SECURE that will allow me to carry when I am walking in the woods, camping, etc. and won't break the bank. Thanks for any and all input, folks!

 

[Jaysq]

Wright Leather Works makes them for the S&W M&P Compact.
Concealed Carry Leather Holsters | Wright Leather Works LLC

I have two of their Predators. The one for the Shield I have had over a year and wear it most all the time. The one for the 640-1, I just got. Their craftsmanship and quality are second to none. These holsters are made for your gun and do not come in "one size fits all". The fit and retention are spot on.

[/url]S&W 640-1 005crf by Jerry
Jaynes, on Flickr[/IMG]

[/url]S&W Shield 003cf3 by Jerry Jaynes, on Flickr[/IMG]

 

[NCW Ray]

Look at Safariland holsters, top quality holsters, been used by LEO's for decades. I use their 6378 that comes with both the paddle attachment and a standard belt loop for my 40c.

 

[JAREDSHS]

also look at OLD ELPASO LEATHER, they have one high riding pancake style with thumb snap if you like leather, about $70.00 I have one and like it.

 

[snubbyfan]

Sounds like you're lookin' for just a basic field holster. Something that rides comfortably, protects the gun and holds it securely like one of these things.

 

[SpartanZeroOne]

Thanks for all of the advice. Does anyone have any experience with the Blackhawk Serpa 2 or Fobus for the M&Pc? I feel like I'm going to go with a polymer holster to start since this will mostly be used/carried outdoors.

 

[Rastoff]

Thanks for all of the advice. Does anyone have any experience with the Blackhawk Serpa 2 or Fobus for the M&Pc? I feel like I'm going to go with a polymer holster to start since this will mostly be used/carried outdoors.

I have experience with both and would recommend neither. Here's why...

The Fobus is one of the cheapest on the market. Even though it may not seem like it, the retention is really good and you don't have to worry about it. Still, their Kydex is quite thin and their attachment to the belt loops or paddle is not good. A firm press on the grip of the gun and the holster will break right off.

The Serpa is a quality holster and, if used properly, quite safe. However, if used improperly, it can cause a negligent discharge. Further, I'm a believer that the trigger finger should only have one job, find the trigger. Anything else required of it is a distraction and that's not good for defense.

I would guide you to Comp Tac. They make a holster specifically for the M&P compact guns: Outside Waistband Holsters - products new home - Paddle Holster

At $65 it's more than the Fobus, but it's a much better holster. The Kydex is almost twice as thick and you won't break this holster.

Spending good money on a quality holster will only save you money in the long run.

 

[ginzo]

Panther Concealment Custom Kydex Holsters and Knife Sheaths

I have 3 of their holsters, 2 OWB (.40 FS & .40c) and a pocket for a 638 ( this one isn't listed but it can be made. Prices are reasonable. Service is 2nd to none.

Good luck in your search.

Chuck

 

[Jake D]

Check out Winthrop Holsters Winthrop Holsters, LLC Home Page
They have a M&P section and S&W section so look in both. If you see a style of holster you like but they don't list it for your model, they can custom make it for you. Their prices are very reasonable at $50 a holster for basic black leather. I have two, and they are both great.

 

[HeavyDuty Ken]

Look at Safariland holsters, top quality holsters, been used by LEO's for decades. I use their 6378 that comes with both the paddle attachment and a standard belt loop for my 40c.

+1 for the Safariland ALS holsters - they are ideal for the woods since the gun is locked in. I see them all the time in the $30-$35 range, they're a bargain at that price. Just be absolutely sure what model you need, there are several different M&P fits.

 

[MSG Glenn]

My suggestion is to dedicate a drawer to nothing but holsters then go out & buy whatever catches your eye at the time & start filling it up. Then you, too will have that proverbial drawerful of holsters.

I like my Fobus Evolution paddle holster, at this time my favorite cold weather OWB. I wouldn't have bought it but got a good deal when I bought my 40C. Retention is great & I've snagged it (without the pistol in it) & thought it would rip right out of its paddle but it's held up for almost 2 years now.

As suggested - stay away from Serpa-type holsters. Our local PD has banned them for duty & off-duty use because of safety considerations.