Looking for a comfortable minimal IWB (or possibly OWB?) holster for Smith 642. I saw one on one of the EDC pocket dump sites somewhere that was really cool but can’t find it now. I can’t remember if it was leather or Kydex or a combination of the two. Anyway what y’all got?

Two off the shelf IWB J frame holsters I like are the Galco Summer Comfort and the DeSantis Cozy Partner. Both can be had for about $100 +/- and have reinforced mouth to allow for a safe re-holstering.

I’m saving my money to try one of Lobo Gunleather’s IWB Offset Belt Clip holsters for a newly purchased SW 640. They start around $90.00. I’m currently using a Galco Stow & Go. The belt clip does not inspire confidence. I carry AWIB.

Ruger357, I'm going to email you a photo I have of one I never use. If you like it, I'll send it to you free of charge. It's a minimalist leather IWB made by Side Guard Holsters. It's for a 1-7/8" J-frame.

I have an Alessi leather holster for my 642. It is excellent but was made when Lou Alessi was still alive. I wouldn't trust them now, if they are still in business. The last one I got from them just a few years ago was not well made and it took a long time to get. From what I understand, I was lucky to get it at all.

Don Hume makes one...I think it's called the S.O.O.T. Nice stiff leather and a re-enforced opening with belt loops that close with a snap. It's also very affordable, for leather. I typically prefer a sweat shield, but haven't found the lack of one to be a problem for a J-Frame. Mine holds the gun securely, and it's pretty minimalist, which I like as it matches the purpose of the J-Frame.

For simple I was also going to suggest Hume. Good stuff, very inexpensive. I mean you’re not getting an R Grizzle work of art but if you just need a good quality utilitarian leather holster Don Hume stuff fits the bill.

In kydex I’ve always liked Vedder stuff.

High Noon Tailgunner

https://highnoonholsters.com/l...holsters/tail-gunner

I have a Garrett holsters Silent Thunder for my j frame. Its an older one, they have changed the belt clip on them now.

https://www.giholsters.com/product-p/hst2r00.htm

As usual, I'd recommend the Milt Sparks Summer Special II. If not in stock, it'll be a wait of several months, but well worth it.

Andrew's Custom Leather McDaniel II. IWB holster with belt loop behind the trigger guard to maintain a slimmer profile. Sam makes quality leather goods.

Adios,

Pizza Bob

Lots of good suggestions thus far so I will just add that for revolvers, an offset loop or clip goes a long way on reducing bulk.

Bell Charter Oak Holsters has a good selection.

Ordered a Barsony holster for a little snubby. We'll see.

My favorite IWB Holster for my J-Frames is a Dark Star Gear Apollo--Very good retention, great concealment, as well-made as any Kydex Holster I've ever had, and Tom & Co. are a PLEASURE to work with--I like 'em so well I have THREE for various Wheelies!

I’m a big fan of Simply Rugged Holsters for my J frames, OWB and you can add straps to make it IWB, works well

quote:

Originally posted by Falcon:
Bell Charter Oak Holsters has a good selection.

These are top notch and I highly recommend, had used them for Smith J frame and Colt D frame for years.

quote:

Originally posted by SigSentry:
Ordered a Barsony holster for a little snubby. We'll see.

This one lookes like it will close on you when gun removed, making reholster difficult or a two handed operation.

^ hopefully not. I could just stuff it in my jacket then I suppose. Cheap stitching. It's not a Michael Kole that's for sure.

Thanks everyone and thanks again Bob for the offer. Leaning towards the one you offered except in left hand or the bell charter deep drop. I was not familiar with this brand.