This is not focused directly at this forum but what I have encountered all over the place. Over the last several years I've spent a considerable sum of money on holsters and belts as most have. It is my hope that this post can save others like myself a lot of trouble and money. I'm so sick and tired of all of the generalized elitist statements that get thrown around as if it's the De-facto honest to goodness truth.
I'm talking about all the generalized statements like "so and so pancake holster is the best CCW holster on the market", or "there is nothin' better than a thick leather gun belt". I found that these statements may be true if your like the vast majority of the population in this country and are large of frame/build, but not for smaller framed individuals. I bought a pancake holster from a very well known and regarded maker based off all of the good reviews here and else where for a 4" S&W M10. I got the holster and was deeply upset when I found it wasn't suitable for my slim frame/build. When worn there is huge space between my body and the back belt slot on the holster, so big I can slip three fingers in between my body and the holster, unacceptable. Now I have a holster that I can't even use and I'm out all of that money for what is supposed to be a great holster.
The J frame version of the aforementioned holster however worked quite well when coupled with my 5.11 belt. Not to long ago I thought it was time to upgrade to a leather belt built specifically for the purpose. After some shopping around and comparisons I made my choice and ponied up. I was very disappointed yet again when I found that the J frame pancake holster and the leather belt had the same problem as the larger pancake holster.
Also I couldn't use the leather belt with my BDU trousers that I use for hunting. When trying to wear the belt with the BDU's I can't get the portion of the belt by the buckle through the first belt loop in order to cinch the belt down tight enough. Yet the maker says that it works well with BDU's, maybe for him and his large frame but not for me. On the other hand I have no problems with my military styled cargo belt that all of the elitists flat out say just won't work period, dot end of story.
If your a slim/athletically built individual like myself don't be fooled by all of the snobbery. Yes leather looks nice but it may not work well for you as I found out myself. Sometimes as in my case the more cost effective wilderness tactical and 5.11 type belts may be better for you. Also don't be fooled by pancakes holsters, as you may end up in the same situation I now find myself. The buy once cry once mantra certainly don't work for me. I bought and I'm still crying for all of the money I spent on equipment that don't work that all the snobs said was the only way to go.
