I need a belt and an owb holster.

[Klein Helmer]

I'm planning to carry a 2.5 inch 686 Plus (7 shot), and I need to find a gun belt and accompanying outside waistband holster.

I'm not exactly sure where to start, but here is what I'm looking for:

Good quality but not the absolute, end all, top of the line.
Lowest profile available, ie, sticks out the least.
Made for this gun in particular, or a very close fit.


Thanks so much. You guys have never steered me wrong before.

This is the model:

Product: Model 686 Plus

[Grant D]

I have a Galco combat master belt holster that cost about $85.00 and a matching belt from Barsony holsters for about $30.00
That set up work real well for me with K frame smiths. Galco also makes them for the L frames.

[Kreyzhorse]

The Galco is a good choice.

As far as the belt, I'd suggest The Beltman. They aren't the cheapest but they last and most importantly, they will support your gun and holster and make carrying a better experience. Keep in mnd, the belt is the most important part of your rig.

A cheap belt (I've been there and done it) won't last and will start to sag, some very quickly. A well made, bull or horse hide belt can last for years and will save you money in the long run.

www.thebeltman.net

[Bob Wright]

For the S&W revolvers I have always liked the Don Hume 171OT holsters. Here my Model 19 2 1/2":



And here for my Model 586:



But for the past few months I've preferred this Tom Threepersons from Graveyard Jack:




Bob Wright

[MarkDozier]

Blade-tech makes a good inexpensive belt. I like it. I have 2. 38 bucks they will hold you until find the best you can afford.

[Klein Helmer]

Thanks for the responses, everyone.

I just realized I have a follow up question - It looks like a lot of these holsters don't have any sort of strap holding the gun in place, is that common?

I think I'm looking for something that actually locks it in somehow, with a snap or a strap. Is this what is called a thumb break?

[Grant D]

Galco also has them with thumb breaks, I have one of theirs for my 1911's.

[Brian Pfleuger]

Crossbreed makes a fantastic holster called the Supertuck Deluxe. There are similar copies from many other companies. Edit: Just saw the OWB part

I have one of their belts too and just determined today that I really need to get another. It's got quite the sag in it now but it's been an excellent belt and has served daily since January 2009.

I'm considering going to a Galco Reinforced Instructor's Belt. Haven't decided for sure though. I'd need another, anyway, for when I have to look fancy. I am looking at Beltman for that one.

[Bob Wright]

i prefer no retaining strap or hammer thong. This for everday social carry. For outdoors use, yes, a retaining stra is desired.

Here is a holster I made back in the last Century, sort of a copy of the Lawrence No. 120:



And here is a Bianchi thumb-break for the S&W Model 586"



And here is a Galco thumb-break:



Over the years I've come to prefer the Single Action for protecting my hide, so thumb breaks are out as my thumb is busy doing other chores.

I'm too old to be doing gymnastics so don't need any retention method other than a well fitted holster.

Bob Wright

[Kreyzhorse]

If you buy a good leather holster, you don't need a thumb strap for retention. A good holster will hold the gun in place without it.

If its for mental security, after you carry a while you will realize that it isn't needed.

[BurgerBoy]

I use the Galco 3 slot cop holster and it has a thumb break.

I also use a Bullhide Belt and I'm very happy with both of them.

http://www.galcogunleather.com/cop-3..._8_4_1067.html

http://www.bullhidebelts.com/Gun-Belts_ep_111-1.html

[Water-Man]

Take a look at Lobo Gun Leather - Enhanced Pancake Model.

[Unlicensed Dremel]

Belt: Looper Leather

http://www.amazon.com/Reinforced-Loo.../dp/B00ENN2T4K