Would like advice/suggestions on a western belt & holster

[WHEC724]

Just for fun, I recently got a .357 Ruger Vaquero. I've never owned a single-action, and am looking forward to mastering something new (or should I say 'old').

Now, it only seems appropriate that it be holstered in a western rig. I'm not planning on doing any SASS gigs, fast-draw, nor gun twirling. However, I do plan on becoming proficient in cocking while drawing, as well as all other aspects of marksmanship with it. I'd prefer a strong-side rig, and I think I'd prefer a drop-loop holster under the assumption that it will allow me to later incorporate 1911 holsters for the same belt as well?

I'm also thinking I prefer a low-slung rig (I have arms like an ape) and slight forward tilt (reverse cant) seems to make sense on this config. What other sorts of things should I be considering?

Any and all advice from the cowboys here is appreciated.

[DefensiveCarry.com]

[svgheartland]

Some 15 years I picked up a Hunter cartridge belt and holster for my Dan Wesson at Cabelas. While it doesn't really offer much cant, it's low slung and offers a decent, solid carry. I used it tromping the mountains in Wyoming. After a full morning in those mountains I'll admit that it was nice to take it off. It doesn't have a thumb strap but retention was never an issue. Those mountains can put you in some very awkward positions but it never moved in the holster. The thigh straps were definitely required for comfort and to stop the slapping with it slung low. Finally I noticed some dimpling on the stock of my 300 from being slung on my right shoulder and making contact with the hammer of the 357 also slung on the right side. I switched to cross draw 1911. I've kept this rig and tend to it now and again with conditioner. The investment wasn't bad and it serves well. But.....check the quality of Hunter. I'm not sure they're as good as they used to be. But then, who is?

[WHEC724]

Good points, Svgheartland. I will be tromping around in the woods a good bit, so maybe low-slung is not such a good idea. Although I'm not a fan of cross-draw for defensive-carry in public, perhaps I should reconsider it here, since all I'll be sweeping on the draw is wilderness? I've also dimpled the stock on my 30-30 from my 1911, and now sling the rifle on the opposite shoulder.

Please keep the suggestions coming.

[gasmitty]

Check out the offerings from El Paso Saddlery and Mernickle Holsters...

[svgheartland]

Hey gasmitty. I used to love in Phoenix and then up in Young in the late 70's. Gilbert was where you went when you wanted trouble. Different town now isn't it?

[svgheartland]

Whec724....seems like every red blooded American boy should have a cowboy rig at some point in his life. I'd go ahead and do it. At minimum get some good wearing on it and hang it by the gun bench. It'll give you a smile on those days you might need one.