Simply Rugged: Cattleman vs. Sourdough Pancake

[Panzerschwein]

Guys I really do like Simply Rugged holsters. They're a now "bull hockey" outfit that provides holsters to outdoorsman, hunters, fisherman, you name it. I like their approach to holster making, they focus on the "users" more than the show-off barbecue gun type guys. I've owned several of their holsters and they really do epitomize the name. I really like them!

So I've got this fine Ruger Blackhawk .45 Colt w/ .45 ACP conversion cylinder, blued with 5.5" barrel revolver here... and I need a holster for it. So I am kind of torn between the Simply Rugged Cattleman or the Simply Rugged Sourdough Pancake:

http://www.simplyrugged.com/ecommerce/Cattleman-Leather-Holster.cfm?item_id=564&parent=669

http://www.simplyrugged.com/ecommer...oncealment-Holster.cfm?item_id=151&parent=669

Guys I'm torn! I've had Sourdough Pancakes in the past and boy are they nice. They hold the gun close to one's body and keep it from shifting, limiting fatigue when on the trail. I've only used them with 4" barrel guns however, mainly a Ruger GP100. But that Cattleman... man it looks so nice! Apparently it is made to ride a bit lower. I'm thinking this would be better for the 5.5" barrel of my Blackhawk. Now I'm not looking for a fast draw cowboy action shootin' speed rig, no sir. I'm looking for a rugged and practical field holster, one that holds the gun comfortably and provides a good presentation on the draw.

So what do you all think? Which model of Simply Rugged holster should I go with for a 5.5" Ruger Blackhawk? Thanks!!

 

[DDDWho]

I have a couple of SR pancakes and 2 other pancakes from other manufacturers. They hold close to the body without much up/down back/forth play. I like that. The only thing I have close to the Cattleman is a S&W branded holster for a 686 4" revolver. Although it does work well it has a bit more "play" than the pancakes.
Its all a matter of personal preference. I can't make a suggestion one way or the other. Good luck with what ever you choose

 

[Silent Sam]

The Sourdough can be worn strong side or cross draw, the cattleman is one or the other. If you only plan on using it one way the difference is purely cosmetic. If you are planning on cross draw the barrel length matters less. Ask Rob...

 

[Panzerschwein]

I should mention that this will be for strong side carry, not cross draw. Thanks!

 

[jeepnik]

Just reached in to the desk drawer and held a cattleman and sourdough side by side. Cattleman is less leather therefore lighter. The sourdough is more adaptable but correspondingly heavier since it contains more leather.

On a belt the sourdough is a bit more stable, rides higher and tighter to the body. The cattleman rides lower and is a bit less restrictive to movement.

It really depends on your intended use. For most outdoor activities the cattleman works very well. The sourdough does that, and works well as an OWB for concealed carry.

 

[Mlazarus]

I have a cattleman holster and love it. Great holster for the money.