Question on size of Colt vs. S & W revolvers

[GJH77]

In looking for a holster for a Colt D frame revolver, Cobra w/2 inch barrel, is there a similar size S & W revolver which I can get to fit it? There seems to be a lot more holsters available for S&W than these older colts. Thanks,

 

[Texas Star]

No. A J-frame is smaller; a K-frame larger. The Ruger SP-101 is about the size of a Detective Special or Cobra, frame-wise. Holsters marked Sm. Revolver may work.

El Paso Saddlery and other custom makers offer Colt holsters.
I suspect that Ken Null could build you one. Bring your checkbook.

T-Star

 

[therevjay]

I no longer have a 'D' frame Colt, but I think they are about the same size as a 'J' frame Smith.

The cyl. might be a bit larger in dia. ( 6 vs 5) but I seem to remember useing the same holster. (Uncle Mikes)

 

[Texas Star]

I no longer have a 'D' frame Colt, but I think they are about the same size as a 'J' frame Smith.

The cyl. might be a bit larger in dia. ( 6 vs 5) but I seem to remember useing the same holster. (Uncle Mikes)

Uncle Mike's doesn't count: they're synthetic and generic-sized. I also think the interior of these nylon holsters abrades gun finishes.

That's my opinion, but it is based on experience.

T-Star

 

[310Pilot]

No, you'll need to buy a holster made for a Colt Detective Special. They are a bit larger than a J frame S&W (6 round cylinder, you know, and the last generation also had a shrouded ejector rod). A J frame will fit (loosely) in a leather holster for a Dick Special, but not the other way around.

 

[akviper]

Even though I hate them the big evil bay auction site has all kinds of new old stock leather holsters. I bought a few very nice leather Bianchi and Safariland holsters for Colt D frames off that site.

 

[stiab]

I have a like new IWB holster specially made for the DS series of Colt guns, made by Bell Charter Oak who is a member of this board. Best IWB holsters I have ever used (I have two). Let me know if interested.

 

[indiandave]

I just bought a Colt Cobra last weekend. It fits in my hoster made for a 12-2, although its a little loose. It dosn't fit the J frame holsters at all.

I'm going to buy a holster made just for my little Colt, My model 12 hoster will work until the new one gets here.

 

[44forever]

I think the Colt's run slightly larger.

I know that holsters intended for the Python are a little loose with a K-frame.

 

[Wyatt Burp]

I made this cross draw holster for a snub K-frame but has my Cobra in it for the picture. Fit's damn good, too. When I put four together I'll put them in the classifieds, after filling other orders. These are a tribute to the old school holsters of the 1920's-50's vicinity. I might put a removable hammer thong on it like in the lower photo of a holster I made for a guy's rebuilt .41 Colt snub. These cost $95.

 

[semperfi71]

If you pick up a J-Frame holster it might fit the Colt D-Frame well enough, it might not. If it is too small it may be by "not too much". Oil down the Colt, layer two layers of saran wrap around it. Wet the holster down with a lot of water or alcohol and shove the D-Frame in it. A week later after all is dried, the D-Frame will fit the J-Frame holster. The leather will be okay if you do this ONCE. Oil the leather afterwords with an oil that will not stretch the leather. I have heard that olive oil is good. Do not use neats-foot oil or mink oil they will soften leather to cause stretching.

A D-Frame might fit inside a K-Frame holster, or it might "rattle" around a bit.

I have an El Paso Saddlery holster that was made for a four inch S & W L-Frame. It will safely hold any K-Frame, N-Frame, and Colt E-and-I-frame [the Official Police, the Python].