XD .45 GAP carry issue...

[phridum]

Before I have to deal with all sorts of stupid responses to it being .45 GAP in the first place, I like the ballistics of .45 and I like the XD system. However, the ACP grip is to large for my small hands. When I was in the service, I had issues with having to break my grip on the M9 to flick the safety off, or using my off hand, which isn't always available. But on the the actual question.

I purchased the SA XD .45 GAP, but didn't get their "whole she-bang" package. I got the SA XD paddle holster but this still grips the slightly wider frame a little tight for draw. It also rides way away from my body like most women choose to.

In reading up on the internet I heard that the slide width on the .45GAP is very nearly the same as .40 ones. But I also read that all the slides are the same width...so I dunno. Very few holster makers offer something for the XD .45GAP (but I see an abundance of ACP...sigh). I would like something that rides tight, draws smooth (the serpa holster with my M9 worked great in Iraq), and sits either in the small of my back (IE the "check six" holster from blackhawk) or is adjustable. I would prefer Galco to make something specifically like this just for me but alas, I have a budget too.

Anyone know any quality holsters that right tight and has smooth draw for the Springfield Armory XD .45GAP 4 in?

 

[Old Fuff]

I would suggest that you contact the holster maker of your choice - I'll use Galco for an example - and see what they might be able too do for you. When they make a holster they block or form it using a plastic or metal model. They might be able to use the form usually used for the regular XD-45ACP because I think the slide height and width dimension are the same on the XD-45GAP. It is possible they are in the process of tooling up to make holsters for the .45GAP edition. You could also e-mail Springfield Armory for holster maker recomendations.

Personally I think your choice of the XD-45GAP was a good one.

 

[luzyfuerza]

The best holster I've ever owned is from Milt Sparks in Boise. Check out their web site to see if they might be willing to make a holster for your XD.

 

[XDKingslayer]

First the factory holster can be loosened. It has screws on the side of it to tighten and loosen it's grip on the pistol.

Holsters made for the XD series will fit all the older XDs. Some will fit the new .45ACP, some won't.

The Milt Sparks is a good holster, also check out the SmartCarry waistband holster. www.smartcarry.com That may be a good solution for you.

You won't catch any flak for having a GAP from me. My XD GAP is my favorite pistol.

 

[phridum]

Standard XD holster

I know about the screw on the side...I have no issues with my pride and reading directions.

It's one of two things.
I need to draw from it 3000 times and wear clean the sticky parts.
The .45GAP slide is just to wide for a holster designed before the creation of the gun.

 

[XDKingslayer]

Take some fine sandpaper to the inside of the factory holster.

 

[phridum]

That might work.

The sandpaper will speed up the process a bit, but there's still the issue with how far it rides out from my body. I will look into the Milt Sparks and have done some research on the internet, but like I said, budget is an issue. Even though with products like these, you usually get what you pay for. Thanks for the prompt response guys.