Holster and belt recommendations

[Uncle Alvah]

Drug this over here from the CZ forum just to see what ya'll think here.
At age 52, I'm in pretty good shape, as long as you consider that "round" is a shape! At 5' 10" and 285 lbs, it's safe to say my "love handles" are considerable. I really don't think there is a belt or IWB carry holster that I'll find comfortable, especially with a rig as large as the 97b. If you think there is, I'd sure like to hear about it.
I have a shoulder holster for the gun, a Null(?), I believe.
However, for everyday out in the woods carry, I figure my best bet is a full holster(flapped maybe?) and a dedicated belt for that holster. Leather would be nice but it's difficult to find suitable belts in a big size. By the time you go over my clothing, the belt would have to be 50"-54" something like that.
Any suggestions on "comfortable carry" for this gun would be much appreciated!

 

[ChickenHawk]

Have you considered a shoulder holster?

Check out :
http://www.usgalco.com and http://www.fist-inc.com

Many people turn up their noses at shoulder holsters, but I have found them to be the perfect solution for my regular carry. And I live in Texas!

I can wear shorts with a t-shirt, my shoulder holster over that, and a loose shirt worn out over the holster. It looks fashionable, no bathroom problems when I want to "drop my shorts", easy access to my handgun when sitting or in the car. I love it!

Hope this helps,
ChickenHawk

 

[Uncle Alvah]

I have a shoulder holster, but it pretty much just "dangles" the gun from a plastic hooked retainer gizmo, it offers NO protection for the gun and it seems to bounce about quite a bit. I'll check those links, thanks.

 

[Chuck Dye]

Take a look at this thread on The Firing Line

 

[Stickjockey]

For "out-in-the-woods" carry, I just use a regular milspec pistol belt and flap holster. When I need to be more discrete, a Galco "Fletch" OWB and your basic sturdy leather belt work well for me. BTW, I'm 5'11" and 254#.

 

[Uncle Alvah]

Huck, thats a good thread, thanks. I'll be looking to buy a pistol for ccw soon, likely an XD. The CZ is just not suitable for CC on a person of size though, I'm thinking a tactical type caarry is the best way to go, either a Blackhawk rig or something like stick is using.

 

[Tango Sierra]

For a great gunbelt at a much lower prices then the big names try www.raftersgunleather.com (holsters too).

 

[andrew17]

Check out www.gunnersalley.com for big belts too. Good stuff. I've got two of these and one in the mail.

 

[Walt Sherrill]

Finding a proper belt for a holster is not as simple as just finding one that's the right size. A good belt is really important for a holster -- even if its a paddle holster. It provides a far more stable base for the holster than a standard belt.

There are some things it really doesn't pay to cut corners on, and a gun being used for concealed carry calls for a good holster and belt. Don't be cheap -- it could cost you more than a few dollars, some day.

Be prepared to spend a little more, but get one made to size, by someone who know holsters. Prices will vary from $30 - $50+, but it does make a difference. Most holster makers will also make you a belt.

Sportsman's Guide also has heavy, thick leather belts from time to time that work as (or are designed as) belts for holster, and their prices are more reasonable.

 

[Uncle Alvah]

Any thoughts on the belts from The Wilderness belt? Site sez they are endorsed by Gunsite, but I've no first hand knowledge of them.