Just looking for recommendations for a holster and mag pouch for the 226 for range use. I need one for a class I'm going to be taking in a few months. I don't mind spending a little bit more money if it's worth it. Thanks for the input.
It helps to be a bit more specific on material etc., but if kydex is OK I use and recommend Blade-tech. Have many of them and have been very satisfied. But there are quite a number of excellent choices these days.
“So in war, the way is to avoid what is strong, and strike at what is weak.”
If you really worried about finish you might be happier with a leather one. Sig stocks the Mitch Rosen ones which are decent for the price. I don't use leather very often so I'm not a good source of the 'best' players in that market. I have used 'simply rugged' holsters with excellent results personally and they have a great reputation overall but you will likely have a wait for them.
“So in war, the way is to avoid what is strong, and strike at what is weak.”
List your priorities first. Holsters that are fast and accessible may not be as good in a CC role. Since the original need is for a class, some have requirements or recommendations. Make sure you choose one which is approved or on their list.
------------------ The plural of anecdote is not data. -Frank Kotsonis
Posts: 2101 | Location: Berks Co PA | Registered: December 20, 2006
I have five Blade-Teck OWB holsters strictly for range use. Adjustable belt loop size, adjustable cant and front cutout.
My OWB carry holsters are all leather Milt Sparks #55BN's. The #55BN Sparks carries my P226 very well...comfortable, concealable,secure and fast.
For years, I always used my leather carry holsters for all range practice. However, at age 76, I find the plastic easier on the shoulder and wrist during range sessions. Not as much vertical travel required and the kydex is very slick with no resistance.
After 50 years of draw/fire practice (leather), it's not important that I practice with the carry leather all the time. I will occasionally use the leather at the range though.
______________________ An expert is one who knows more and more about less and less until he knows absolutely everything about nothing. --Nicholas Murray Butler
Posts: 4670 | Location: Pennsylvania | Registered: June 29, 2006
There is no holster that won't cause wear, at least in my experience. I would not recommend a leather holster for a class.
The Blade-Tech is a good option. For something a little less expensive and every bit as good if not better look at Red Hill Tactical. I own kydex holsters from half a dozen makers and their double layer kydex holster is very, very good. I have one for a Glock and if I didn't already have old Blade-Techs for both of my P226s I would buy Red Hill holsters for them.
Posts: 4090 | Location: NC | Registered: December 20, 2004
Originally posted by cyberiad: There is no holster that won't cause wear, at least in my experience. I would not recommend a leather holster for a class...
Yep. Leather or Kydex. With a quality holster of either type, you probably get s little less than a cheapie.
Even cops, who rarely engage in extensive draw/fire drills, have holster wear just from carrying. Nothing wrong with a little wear. I like to call it "patina"...sounds better than "wear".
______________________ An expert is one who knows more and more about less and less until he knows absolutely everything about nothing. --Nicholas Murray Butler
Posts: 4670 | Location: Pennsylvania | Registered: June 29, 2006
Nothing wrong with the Blade-Tech, I just like the Red Hill double layer better. It's "firmer" and the fit of the Red Hill (in terms of the way it's made and how the gun fits in it) is better. Plus, Red Hill is a small business (and may be just one guy) and I like to support them.
Posts: 4090 | Location: NC | Registered: December 20, 2004
I’m a big fan of the Safariland 6378 holsters. I have used them extensively in classes. Whenever I get a new gun I plan on using for holster work at the range, I pick up one of these.
It’s described as a concealment holster but that is not accurate. Great holster for the range though. It has a retention thumb release rather than using your trigger finger on a button and is a very natural motion. The material is kydex lined with leather. It’s about $40 on Amazon.
"You know, Scotland has its own martial arts. Yeah, it's called Fuck You. It's mostly just head butting and then kicking people when they're on the ground." - Charlie MacKenzie (Mike Myers in "So I Married an Axe Murderer")
