What to get for IDPA shooting

[elpac3]

Thinking about trying to shoot an IDPA match. I want to use my 4" model 19. The current holster I carry is a Safariland model 25 (high ride belt holster with safety strap with forward cant). The only other holster I have for that gun is my old LEO duty rig but sounds like that is not allowed.

In reading the IDPA equipment rules I am not sure that the Safariland model 25 holster would be "legal" as the trigger guard is exposed (although you would not be able to cycle the cylinder as the safety strap will prevent hammer movement)

Any suggestions?

 

[manyguns]

If they apply the rules strictly the holster will not be legal if the trigger is exposed. Does the duty rig expose the trigger too? They may accept that if it doesn't. See if you can find out who the match director is and you will find out if they will make an exception for a new guy trying the sport for the first time. Do avoid a kydex holster if you value the finish on you 19.

 

[elpac3]

IDPA holster

The old duty rig is the standard 2 1/4 inch belt with a Bianchi model 27 front break holster. I don't this this will qualify as the belt is too wide and the holster rides too low - - -but the trigger guard is covered.

 

[OKFC05]

Duty rigs are acceptable for LEO, even if they don't meet all the criteria.
It's in the IDPA rules. I'd go try it first using the duty rig.

I use the Safariland holster 568-09-411 for K frame smiths. It has a suede lining.

 

[elpac3]

IDPA holsters

Understand duty rigs are legal for active LEO. That is in the rear window for me now.

for the holster recommendation. Will check on the Safariland you recommended. Carried a Safariland duty holster for many years. Have Safariland's for all my revolvers - lots of good years of service in them.

 

[bronco45]

Try a Galco Combat Master or a Lobo #1 Pancake rig. Own both for revolvers 4" and shorter. If I needed another holster I would buy either one in a heartbeat.

 

[LoboGunLeather]

Everything in holster design involves compromises among the 4 basic factors of comfort, accessibility, security, and concealability.

IDPA requires frequent drawing and reholstering, making holster accessibility a high priority. Neutral cant can be useful, providing a more natural motion of hand and arm during the draw, with strong-side carry at or near the hip (3:00 position for right-hand shooter).

Comfort can be a significant factor when spending several hours on the range and repeatedly engaging in competition phases.

Security is moderately important. The holster must provide adequate retention qualities to allow for the movement involved. IDPA rules will require covered trigger and a design generally useful for defensive purposes.

Concealability is a low priority. There is little or nothing to gain from low-profile designs (pancake, etc) or features that draw the grip-frame firmly into the body, and these can have negative effects on accessibility.

My basic recommendations would include strong-side, neutral cant or minimal cant, very strong holster construction to provide ease of draw and reholstering, and close fitting to a sturdy belt to maintain holster position securely.

 

[wrangler5]

The IDPA holster rule doesn't actually talk about covering the trigger. What it says is that the holster

8.5.1.4. Must prevent activation of the trigger while holstered.

I should think that a strap over the hammer would meet that test.

 

[Geronimo Jim]

Everything in holster design involves compromises among the 4 basic factors of comfort, accessibility, security, and concealability.

IDPA requires frequent drawing and reholstering, making holster accessibility a high priority. Neutral cant can be useful, providing a more natural motion of hand and arm during the draw, with strong-side carry at or near the hip (3:00 position for right-hand shooter).

Comfort can be a significant factor when spending several hours on the range and repeatedly engaging in competition phases.

Security is moderately important. The holster must provide adequate retention qualities to allow for the movement involved. IDPA rules will require covered trigger and a design generally useful for defensive purposes.

Concealability is a low priority. There is little or nothing to gain from low-profile designs (pancake, etc) or features that draw the grip-frame firmly into the body, and these can have negative effects on accessibility.

My basic recommendations would include strong-side, neutral cant or minimal cant, very strong holster construction to provide ease of draw and reholstering, and close fitting to a sturdy belt to maintain holster position securely.

Ray
Which of your holsters would you recommend for a 3 inch K frame smith?
(Model 64 or 65) Thanks

 

[hfl73]

Blade Tech offers a nice holster/mag combo specifically for IDPA. It meets all the criteria. I have one for my M&P and am pleased with it.

 

[LoboGunLeather]

Ray
Which of your holsters would you recommend for a 3 inch K frame smith?
(Model 64 or 65) Thanks

Actually, we just completed the "name this new holster design by Lobo Gun Leather" in another forum post, resulting in the new holster being named the Lobo Combat Classic. For competition use I would recommend that with a neutral cant.

New webpage for the Combat Classic should be up soon.