First, welcome!
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Originally Posted by mi2az
OK
1) How does one purchase a holster sight unseen from these web-sites and know it is going to work for you ? Do they let you try before you buy ?
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Some, like
Crossbreed, let you try it for 2 weeks. I'm not sure of any other maker that allows this.
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2) What do I need to look for in a Holster, I am leaning towards the IWB type.
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For an IWB, some type of body/sweat shield may be preferable. Adjustable cant is nice. Generally, you want any concealment holster to pull the gun tightly into your body. A good gun belt aids in conjunction with a good holster will help that tremendously. You want a tight fit...tight enough that the gun will stay in the holster when placed inside it and turned upside down, but not so tight that you can't get the gun out when drawing, or when you try to draw, you yank the holster off your belt.
Material is personal preference. You generally have the choice of leather, kydex, or a leather-kydex hybrid. My Crossbreed Supertuck is a leather-kydex hybrid.
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3) It appears from the different Videos that the IWB seems the best to conceal without gettig in the way, Is that True ?? Should I be looking at other methods to carry ?
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It depends on the gun you want to carry, your usual wardrobe, body type, etc. Some people, just can't carry IWB, for any one of the reasons mentioned. Very subjective question. In my opinion, IWB is the best way for ME to carry. Your mileage may vary.
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4) What is diffienet between OWB and IWB. Is the OWB just a standard Holster for open-carry ? Does it hang off your hip exposed and need some type of jacket to cover it ? I would not want to have to wear a coat, living in AZ is hot and don't need the extra clothing.
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The names are pretty self-explanatory.
IWB = Inside Waistband. The holster is worn INSIDE the waistband of your pants/skirt/kilt; ideally, supported by a belt, but not always. There are variations that will even allow you to wear the rig inside a tucked shirt, in case you have to dress all fancy.
OWB = Outside Waistband. The holster is worn OUTSIDE the waistand of your pants/skirt/kilt, hanging off the belt. Depending on the specific holster, it may be one designed for concealment (pulls the gun close to your body and can be easily concealed by a long t-shirt, overshirt, jacket, etc.), or it's more like a duty holster.
It is entirely possible to find a good OWB holster that can be concealed with a loose t-shirt.
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5) One of the guys mentioned in my introduction that leather is the best option for concealment, is that true ?
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Completely personal opinion. Like I mentioned, I have a Crossbreed Supertuck, which is a kydex body with a leather backing. I can wear it all day in complete comfort, and my gun is concealed perfectly. It may not be the prettiest design in the world, but it's utilitarian, and that's more important to me than physical appearance.
Having said that, some of the more popular leather crafters make some gorgeous holsters.
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6) What about "Plastics", are they considered junk ?
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Depends on the type of plastic, the maker, and the model. You get what you pay for.
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7) Is the "You get what you pay for" true for the holster world ? and what would be a price range to look for in researching for ? Does the $70-$100 dollar range adaquate for a good quality holster. I seen some on the web for $30, but I think they may be junk.
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You can get a Crossbreed Supertuck or a Comp-Tac (similar design) for right around $70. What you're seeing for $30 is very likely junk, unless someone is parting with a used holster from a decent maker for cheap. Custom leather holsters can be had for around $70, but they usually go for quite a bit more, and the wait times can be extreme.
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8) What functions Should I look for and what features are considered that "I can not live with out ?" I really do not know what features exists in holsters. The only thing I know so far is "Slide gun in, Slide gun out"
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As mentioned before, something that holds the gun tightly and pulled into your body. Body shield is nice for IWB. It can aid significantly in comfort and may also help mitigate rust from sweat. A thumb break may be something you want, but that's usually personal preference. If you're going to be carrying concealed, and doing backflips and such, might be a good idea. Again, adjustable cant. Also, adjustable height.
I was fortunate in that I knew people who had different holsters that I could try. If you've got an IDPA match close by, you may be able to swing by there and ask people to try their holsters. IDPA rules pretty much limit shooters to holsters that are practical for concealed carry.
Good luck.
-JT