First CCW holster

[NMRevolverGuy]

Hello all,

After a recent close call, I finally got around to putting in the paperwork for my Concealed Carry license, and now must find a holster. I'm a revolver guy, and so was interesting in finding a suitable holsters for my S&W models 40 and 10. The 40 will probably be a pocket carry, but I have no idea what a good pocket holster might be. As for the 10, I've read the trick to concealing 4" revolvers well is a high holster, but I'm not sure what that might look like or where to find it? Any information/pics/personal favorite brands from you good folk would be great!

P.S. If it makes any difference as far as carry styles, I'm about 6 foot tall and of "athletic" build.

Thanks ahead of time!

 

[somerled]

I've been using a RKBA pocket holster for three years with my S&W Model 642. I ordered it rough-side out. With the roughout and the "hooks" or tabs on each side, it won't ride up with the revolver when it is drawn. It's molded only on the side that's up against the leg, and the other side is left smooth so it doesn't print as much.

https://squareup.com/market/rkba-concealment

A four-inch revolver: I've never had much luck using an IWB holster with them. The barrel's too long and the cylinder bulge seems to hit me right at the point of the hip. I have had the best results with "tunnel-slot" belt holsters such as the Milt Sparks PMK. With a good belt, it pulls the butt back against the body so it doesn't print against a cover garment.

 

[JTQ]

Strong side, belt carry would probably be the most common for the Model 10. You'll need to decide if you want Outside the Waistband (OWB) or Inside the Waistband (IWB).

For OWB, the two basic styles of holster are the Bruce Nelson #1 Professional/Avenger style or the pancake. The Bruce Nelson #1 is usually easier to reholster, especially for a revolver, while a pancake may be a little more concealable. Here is some holster design information from Horseshoe Leather http://www.holsters.org/holster-design.htm

Assuming you want leather, it's hard to go wrong with any of the following makers...

Milt Sparks http://www.miltsparks.com

Mitch Rosen http://www.mitchrosen.com

Alessi http://www.alessigunholsters.com

Simply Rugged http://www.simplyrugged.com

Lobo Gun Leather http://www.lobogunleather.com

If you decide you'd prefer kydex, there are other makers I could recommend.

 

[AfghanVetOrcutt]

Garrett Industries makes some awesome holsters. Kydex shell and leather liner so it doesn't wear on your finish as quickly but they're still thin. I have a couple of their holsters. Also, check TT Gunleather, he makes some great leather holsters as well.

 

[SigP229R]

Add to JTQ'S list www.tuckergunleather.com he's a great guy to work with and makes a great product. I have his HF-2 for my P229 and couldn't be happier with it.