Comparison requested - Milt Sparks VM-2 vs. Watch Six

[dust_101]

Hope this finds everyone doing well.... I'm finally investing in a good holster. Going to put in an order for one of the fine Milt Sparks products as a IWB carry for my 1911 3" compact/officer's. I've done most of the smithing to get this pistol to be a nice rounded edge smooth looking carry piece, but now it needs some leather. I've been torn between the Versa Max 2 and the Watch Six, I know many others have gone with the Summer Special but for my needs I'd rather go with the spaced out loops for weight distribution.

From the descriptions of the two holsters, the biggest difference I can see is the reinforced mouth on the VM-2 vs none on the W6, and the "we do not hand bone the weapon details into the leather of the WS-1, nor do use the same proprietary construction method that is typical Milt Sparks" bit.

The width of the holster doesn't look to be a huge issue, but if the W6 is thinner, and I've already got thin profile grips on my 1911 that has me leaning towards the W6. OTOH the switchable loops to kydex clips on the VM-2 may be a very nice feature to have.

Have you bought one of these two holsters? Did you like/dislike it? Why? I'm particularly interested in words from any of you with the Watch Six, as I'm sure there are more VM-2's out there!

 

[dust_101]

Also forgot to mention that there will be a Milt Sparks belt (or another good quality belt) purchased at the same time. As well the IWB carry is fully concealed for myself even during the summer as I'm always wearing a 5.11 tac vest stuffed full of diabetes supplies (and sometimes a small BUG in the holster).

 

[AK103K]

I have a couple of VMII's. My only complaint is the forward strap tends to be visible. It also sits right over my front pocket, so I have to watch how I reach into it. Other than that, its a nice holster.

They also come with 1.5" loops if you dont special order. Not a problem if you use a 1.5" belt, but I dont.

 

[DerbyDale]

I just got off the phone with them the other day. I would suggest calling and talking with them so they can help you decide.

That said, the Versa Max 2 is the Flag Ship or Corvette of the holsters and is the best you can get. The Watch Six on the other hand is at the total opposite end of the spectrum. It is the bottom of the bucket or Chevett of their holster line. Because of all the bad reviews it has gotten, they had to defend it in the description. IMHO they should drop the Watch Six from their lineup.

Bottom line is you are only looking at $30 difference between them. I would spend the extra 30 bucks as it is better value. Your loosing more than 30 bucks in quality and holster with the other.

Again, call them and talk with someone to help you decide...

 

[dust_101]

Hey DerbyDale, did they say anything about their current wait times?

 

[DerbyDale]

I don't remember exactly, but it was like a 6 month wait right now.

I was disappointed to hear that because I need a holster within the next month or two. For now, I'm getting the Comp-Tac Minotaur MTAC, and will probably order a Versa Max 2 down the road when I can wait on it. I would rather have an all leather holster, but I have to go with what I can get.

 

[AK103K]

Top Gun Supply has them off and on and you usually dont have to wait more than a couple of weeks when they dont. I've bought a couple off them and never waited long. They will email you when they come in if you sign up for it. You do pay a bit of a premium, but then again, your not waiting 6-8 months.

http://www.topgunsupply.com/VM2-1911-c-26.html

 

[JDGray]

I've owned both the VMII and Watch Six, and the W6 is by no means the bottom of the bucket. The stiff horsehide needs no reinforced mouth, and is a far more comfortable holster. The quality is still top notch, just doesn't have all the options. I still have the W6, with 2 more on order.

 

[The Lone Haranguer]

I have a WS for a S&W 3913. I fail to see where it is "bottom of the barrel." It does lack the extremely detailed molding, but the gun fits where it counts. I specifically wanted a light slim holster for a light slim gun and did not require the VM2's reinforced mouth or tuckable option. It is stiff enough that it will not collapse under simple belt pressure even when the gun is out of it. If you lean against it or something it can collapse a little. It carries very comfortably and tucks the gun butt in well.

At the time I ordered it (Nov. 2007), they said a 20-26 week time frame and were up front about it. It arrived well within that time frame, and they did not charge my credit card until it was ready to be shipped.

 

[crashm1]

I just got a Versa Max2 off ebay for my Kimber, it is amazingly comfy even slouched down on it in my chair. Lightyears better than the Galco Skyops it is replacing.