The Official Pocket Holster Thread

Wheel-Gunner · March 7, 2007, 12:44 PM

Guys,

I will be purchasing a NIB pre-lock 342PD at the end of this month. I finally found one!!!

So, now I have to start thinking about concealment. I think that the best way for me would be to carry this thing is in my jeans pocket. I wear casual jeans. Not fitted wranglers, nor the terribly baggy crap that the kids wear today. I am 5'11" tall and weigh approx 160lbs.

I need some suggestions for pocket holsters. I'd also like to know what your personal experiences have been with the makes and models that you have tried. So far I have had many suggestions including the following:

- Kramer pocket holster:
http://www.kramerleather.com/product...&categoryID=28

- Mika pocket holster:
http://www.frontiernet.net/~akim/pocket.htm

- PCS pocket holsters including: the No-See-Em, the French Curve, and the Pocket Speed Scabbard:
http://pcsholsters.com/pocket_holsters.html

- The DeSantis Nemesis and/or Pocket Pal:
http://www.desantisholster.com/leath...-holsters.html

- The Galco Front Pocket Horsehide Holster:
http://www.usgalco.com/HolsterG3.asp...=771&GunID=294

- The Galco Pocket Protector Holster:
http://www.usgalco.com/HolsterG3.asp...3231&GunID=294

- The Bianchi Pocket Change:
http://www.bianchi-intl.com/product/...xtModelID=4501

- Uncle Mikes Inside-The-Pocket Holster:
http://www.builderdepot.com/UNCLEMIK...g/UM8744-3.jpg

Now, I realize that this is a trial and error process and everyone is different. None the less, I am looking for some opinions and personal experiences that will help me narrow my search. In addition, I know there are a lot of others who read this forum that have asked the same question, and have faced a similar dilemma. So fess up guys and help us out!!!

Inchhigh · March 7, 2007, 06:46 PM

I have personally used PCS, Uncle Mikes, Milt Sparks and others. For a J frame, you can't beat PCS (that guy made Pocket Holsters not just an art but a science as well!)

unit 900 · March 7, 2007, 06:57 PM

I have to agree that PCS makes the best pocket holsters I have ever seen or used. I have a pocket scabbard and tomahawk for a Seecamp. I also have the No See Um for a J frame that is just top notch.

hpg · March 7, 2007, 07:12 PM

I like the Uncle Mikes holster, have owned one for 4 years it does just as good a job as the expensive ones, only cheaper.............hpg

osuflipster · March 7, 2007, 07:19 PM

I have had Galco and PCS Harpoon. I found that the large hook shape on the Harpoon, made it much less concealable then the Galco. I now own two of the Galco Horsehide holster, one for G26 one for my P32

Wheel-Gunner · March 7, 2007, 07:47 PM

Quote:

I have personally used PCS, Uncle Mikes, Milt Sparks and others. For a J frame, you can't beat PCS (that guy made Pocket Holsters not just an art but a science as well!)

Which PCS holster model did you use?

Quote:

I have to agree that PCS makes the best pocket holsters I have ever seen or used. I have a pocket scabbard and tomahawk for a Seecamp. I also have the No See Um for a J frame that is just top notch.

Do you have the No-See-Em Canted, or No-See-Em straight??

http://pcsholsters.com/catalog_item_NUC.html

Michigunner · March 7, 2007, 08:52 PM

The PCS No-See-Em Canted has been just perfect for my S&W 642.

It's one of the best holsters I have.

Bill

unit 900 · March 7, 2007, 08:54 PM

I have the canted. This holster is not made for use with jeans. They are best with dockers or similar. I forget which holster is made for jeans, but call or e-mail Mike Meredith and he can suggest what is best for your use. He explained to me that jean pockets are cut almost straight across while Dockers etc. are almost vertical. Different cut holsters for different type of pocket

liliysdad · March 7, 2007, 09:05 PM

My choice is the Mika. I carry my 431PD in slacks, jeans, shorts, and uniform pants, with no issues.

liliysdad · March 7, 2007, 09:32 PM

Its made of a pleather type stuff, dont really know what it is. Its a crudely made holster, but it is the best thing I have ever seen for pocket carry, and yes, I had a PCS.

Robert Mika is a cop who tried about every pocket holster on earth, and started making these. Yes, they are ugly, no, they arent bulky. There is no pride in ownership, but then you slip it in your pocket, you understand that the man knows what he is doing.

dogloose · March 7, 2007, 09:38 PM

I carry my Seecamp LWS32 in a FIST #K5 Ultra-Thin Kydex pocket holster. The holster barely weighs 1 ounce and adds virtually no width to the gun - great for concealment, especially in tight fitting clothing. It all but disappears in my right front pocket - jeans, shorts or business suit. Another great feature is the thumb push that allows you to remove the gun from the holster and acquire a firm grip before you draw from your pocket. Otherwise the gun sits comfortably upright and safely retained by the form fit around the trigger guard.

One of the guys who shoots in my regular group carries his .357 S&W snubby in the same holster. Although many will prefer leather, or the cushiony nylon, I find the Kydex comfortable, practical and indestructible.

Here's a link... take a look.

http://www.fist-inc.com/holsters/k1/k5.htm

Wheel-Gunner · March 7, 2007, 09:54 PM

http://www.thehighroad.org/archive/i.../t-117942.html

There is some additional info regarding the Mika pocket holster. I may give this a try. I was leaning towards the PCS holsters, but this might be an inexpensive trial ($15.95). I must admit, the first time I saw it, I was a little confused to say the least. "Guys are recommending THAT!?!"

I have a question that pertains to all of the holsters mentioned. How do they stay in your pocket when drawing the gun?

liliysdad · March 7, 2007, 10:10 PM

The Mika acts as if it is glued to the inside of your pocket when drawn, and can be reholstered just as easily, one handed.

The Mika uses what looks to be Kitchen Cabinet Liner, the tacky stuff, in a band around the exterior of the holster to retain it in the pocket.

dogloose · March 7, 2007, 10:26 PM

As posted by Wheel-Gunner:

Quote:

I have a question that pertains to all of the holsters mentioned. How do they stay in your pocket when drawing the gun?

See my original post above for Link with pictures and video... the FIST pocket holsters (leather or kydex) have a thumb push that allows you to acquire a firm grip and withdraw the pistol from the trigger guard retention in one motion so that as you remove your hand from your pocket the holster has already been separated and remains in your pocket. I find it very natural, effective and reliable. Excellent design feature!

Nortonics · March 8, 2007, 06:10 AM

I prefer a simple demim pocket holster. Universal of most pants - just drop it in...

Yankee Doodle · March 8, 2007, 08:00 AM

I have two pocket holsters. Mika, and DeSantis Nemesis. Both are used for a 642. I have found that in regular dress pants or slacks I get better concealnemt with the Nemesis. In jeans it is a toss up. However, I have also found that occasionally when wearing jeans, the Nemesis will come out with the gun. Not a good thing. I have never had this problem with the Mika no matter what I am wearing.
So, I have come to the following conclusion. I will stick with the Mika forall my pocket carry. I am willing to put up with the very slght difference in bulk to insure that I can get the gun if I need it. As a matter of fact, I am now waiting for the delivery of the new Mika I ordered.
Just an additional thought. I found that I was able to significantly increase the concealability of the piece by changing to the thinnest grips I could find, Kim Ahrends.

Michigunner · March 8, 2007, 08:27 AM

The Mika holster is an excellent choice.

You can't go wrong with PCS. It is pretty stiff but will become more soft with use.

The flagship of my collection was the Milt Sparks pocket holster PCH in Elephant. Unfortunately, their delivery time is about 20-22 weeks now.

The real problem is buying a drawer full of holsters, which I did. They were sold, and I now have another drawer full.

You can quickly end up with $1,000 worth of holsters before you know it. There is no way I wanted that to happen, but it does. You have to be very careful.

Meanwhile, my 642 goes everyday in the Mika holster. It's a winner.

Bill

Morglan · March 8, 2007, 08:50 AM

I've always used the simple Uncle Mike's holster, but there are 2 drawbacks to it.

First, it's a rectangular shape, so I've had to stuff some foam into the bottom corner in order to fill out the space that isn't taken up by a gun.

Second, (and this is an issue with most--if not all--pocket holsters I've seen) it's the shape of the butt of the revolver that prints while carrying in jeans (or any tight pants) pockets. I'm always looking for a holster that has a flat piece of kydex (or preferably reinforced leather) that comes up on the outside of the holster to mask the outline of the grip. This may slow down a draw (at least until you get used to it), but it would make it look like you were carrying a wallet or small notepad in your pocket instead of a gun.

Also, I've found that you'll need to get rid of the rubber grips that come standard on most j-frame round butt revolvers if you want to carry in a jeans pocket. The rubber material sticks to the inside of your pocket, and makes carrying and drawing more difficult.

tlm225 · March 8, 2007, 09:07 AM

When I started carrying my 642 in the pocket I used the Nemisis. It's well made but seemed bulky and I wasn't satisfied with how it concealed. I then bought a Mika. Yes, it looks low budget (heck it's only $15.00) but I like it. I recommend the round cut. The draw and re-holster is great and it conceals very well. I still use my Nemisis in the inside pocket of my motorcycle jacket.

rb4browns · March 8, 2007, 11:55 AM

I just placed an order for the Mika for my 642. I had a few questions and he was very quick to respond. Plus, as someone else mentioned, the price is great ($18.95 shipped) so there's really no risk. He did say it was 8-10 days to get it out the door, so I'll report back in a couple weeks my own experience and post some pictures. Thanks Wheel-Gunner for starting this thread.

junkman6970 · March 8, 2007, 02:05 PM

I have used a Mika's pocket holster for almost 3 years and I use a Taurus 605, 2in, CH, .357 and have no problem drawing even with rubber grips.

obiwan1 · March 8, 2007, 02:12 PM

When I need to, pocket carry is great. I have a Rybka, Mika's, ActiveProGear, and an Uncle Mike's. They each work with different guns.

Wheel-Gunner · March 8, 2007, 02:47 PM

Quote:

I found that I was able to significantly increase the concealability of the piece by changing to the thinnest grips I could find, Kim Ahrends.

Which grips do you have?

Anyone else have grip suggestions?

I too have noticed that the hogue grips can be tacky.

Yankee Doodle · March 8, 2007, 03:22 PM

Wheel-Gunner
I really don't know exactly which model of Ahrends grips I have. I bought them on e-bay as a gamble. It worked. Look around for a site that sells them. From what I understand, all his grips are on the thin side as compared to what else is out there.
Good luck

inkie · March 8, 2007, 03:47 PM

I agree with the Mika recommendation. This pocket holster is functional and will not disappoint you.

March 7, 2007, 12:44 PM	#1
Wheel-Gunner Senior Member Join Date: February 24, 2006 Posts: 181	The Official Pocket Holster Thread Guys, I will be purchasing a NIB pre-lock 342PD at the end of this month. I finally found one!!! So, now I have to start thinking about concealment. I think that the best way for me would be to carry this thing is in my jeans pocket. I wear casual jeans. Not fitted wranglers, nor the terribly baggy crap that the kids wear today. I am 5'11" tall and weigh approx 160lbs. I need some suggestions for pocket holsters. I'd also like to know what your personal experiences have been with the makes and models that you have tried. So far I have had many suggestions including the following: - Kramer pocket holster: http://www.kramerleather.com/product...&categoryID=28 - Mika pocket holster: http://www.frontiernet.net/~akim/pocket.htm - PCS pocket holsters including: the No-See-Em, the French Curve, and the Pocket Speed Scabbard: http://pcsholsters.com/pocket_holsters.html - The DeSantis Nemesis and/or Pocket Pal: http://www.desantisholster.com/leath...-holsters.html - The Galco Front Pocket Horsehide Holster: http://www.usgalco.com/HolsterG3.asp...=771&GunID=294 - The Galco Pocket Protector Holster: http://www.usgalco.com/HolsterG3.asp...3231&GunID=294 - The Bianchi Pocket Change: http://www.bianchi-intl.com/product/...xtModelID=4501 - Uncle Mikes Inside-The-Pocket Holster: http://www.builderdepot.com/UNCLEMIK...g/UM8744-3.jpg Now, I realize that this is a trial and error process and everyone is different. None the less, I am looking for some opinions and personal experiences that will help me narrow my search. In addition, I know there are a lot of others who read this forum that have asked the same question, and have faced a similar dilemma. So fess up guys and help us out!!! __________________ Ruger GP100 4" Target Grey Finish, Browning Buckmark .22LR, Beretta 96G Elite II, Taurus Gaucho Stainless 7.5" .357, S&W 342PD, Ruger SP101 2" DAO, Ruger GP100 6" Blued, Springfield Milspec 1911 "History does not entrust the care of freedom to the weak or the timid. We must acquire proficiency in defense and display stamina in purpose." Dwight Eisenhower

March 7, 2007, 06:46 PM	#2
Inchhigh Junior Member Join Date: May 21, 2006 Posts: 3	Experience I have personally used PCS, Uncle Mikes, Milt Sparks and others. For a J frame, you can't beat PCS (that guy made Pocket Holsters not just an art but a science as well!)

March 7, 2007, 07:12 PM	#4
hpg Senior Member Join Date: September 14, 2002 Location: in the Bluegrass State Posts: 1,547	I like the Uncle Mikes holster, have owned one for 4 years it does just as good a job as the expensive ones, only cheaper.............hpg __________________ NRA member Semper Paratus

March 7, 2007, 07:19 PM	#5
osuflipster Senior Member Join Date: April 10, 2005 Location: Ohio Posts: 122	I have had Galco and PCS Harpoon. I found that the large hook shape on the Harpoon, made it much less concealable then the Galco. I now own two of the Galco Horsehide holster, one for G26 one for my P32 __________________ H&K P7 PSP S&W M66 3", M625 3", 1911 SS 5" Target Browning Hi-Power 9mm, Buckmark Plus .22lr Glock 26; Kel-Tec P32

March 7, 2007, 08:52 PM	#7
Michigunner Senior Member Join Date: May 14, 2005 Posts: 143	The PCS No-See-Em Canted has been just perfect for my S&W 642. It's one of the best holsters I have. Bill Last edited by Michigunner; March 8, 2007 at 08:06 AM.

March 7, 2007, 06:57 PM	#3
unit 900 Member Join Date: August 16, 2001 Location: Maryland Posts: 35	I have to agree that PCS makes the best pocket holsters I have ever seen or used. I have a pocket scabbard and tomahawk for a Seecamp. I also have the No See Um for a J frame that is just top notch.

March 7, 2007, 08:54 PM	#8
unit 900 Member Join Date: August 16, 2001 Location: Maryland Posts: 35	I have the canted. This holster is not made for use with jeans. They are best with dockers or similar. I forget which holster is made for jeans, but call or e-mail Mike Meredith and he can suggest what is best for your use. He explained to me that jean pockets are cut almost straight across while Dockers etc. are almost vertical. Different cut holsters for different type of pocket

March 7, 2007, 09:05 PM	#9
liliysdad Senior Member Join Date: June 7, 2004 Posts: 1,143	My choice is the Mika. I carry my 431PD in slacks, jeans, shorts, and uniform pants, with no issues.

March 7, 2007, 09:32 PM	#10
liliysdad Senior Member Join Date: June 7, 2004 Posts: 1,143	Its made of a pleather type stuff, dont really know what it is. Its a crudely made holster, but it is the best thing I have ever seen for pocket carry, and yes, I had a PCS. Robert Mika is a cop who tried about every pocket holster on earth, and started making these. Yes, they are ugly, no, they arent bulky. There is no pride in ownership, but then you slip it in your pocket, you understand that the man knows what he is doing.

March 7, 2007, 09:38 PM	#11
dogloose Member Join Date: September 20, 2000 Location: Katy Texas USA Posts: 51	I carry my Seecamp LWS32 in a FIST #K5 Ultra-Thin Kydex pocket holster. The holster barely weighs 1 ounce and adds virtually no width to the gun - great for concealment, especially in tight fitting clothing. It all but disappears in my right front pocket - jeans, shorts or business suit. Another great feature is the thumb push that allows you to remove the gun from the holster and acquire a firm grip before you draw from your pocket. Otherwise the gun sits comfortably upright and safely retained by the form fit around the trigger guard. One of the guys who shoots in my regular group carries his .357 S&W snubby in the same holster. Although many will prefer leather, or the cushiony nylon, I find the Kydex comfortable, practical and indestructible. Here's a link... take a look. http://www.fist-inc.com/holsters/k1/k5.htm __________________ dogloose Illegitimati non carborundum: Don't let the bastards grind you down Carborundi non illegitimatum: Don't let the grind make a bastard of you

March 7, 2007, 09:54 PM	#12
Wheel-Gunner Senior Member Join Date: February 24, 2006 Posts: 181	http://www.thehighroad.org/archive/i.../t-117942.html There is some additional info regarding the Mika pocket holster. I may give this a try. I was leaning towards the PCS holsters, but this might be an inexpensive trial ($15.95). I must admit, the first time I saw it, I was a little confused to say the least. "Guys are recommending THAT!?!" I have a question that pertains to all of the holsters mentioned. How do they stay in your pocket when drawing the gun? __________________ Ruger GP100 4" Target Grey Finish, Browning Buckmark .22LR, Beretta 96G Elite II, Taurus Gaucho Stainless 7.5" .357, S&W 342PD, Ruger SP101 2" DAO, Ruger GP100 6" Blued, Springfield Milspec 1911 "History does not entrust the care of freedom to the weak or the timid. We must acquire proficiency in defense and display stamina in purpose." Dwight Eisenhower

March 7, 2007, 10:10 PM	#13
liliysdad Senior Member Join Date: June 7, 2004 Posts: 1,143	The Mika acts as if it is glued to the inside of your pocket when drawn, and can be reholstered just as easily, one handed. The Mika uses what looks to be Kitchen Cabinet Liner, the tacky stuff, in a band around the exterior of the holster to retain it in the pocket.

March 8, 2007, 06:10 AM	#15
Nortonics Senior Member Join Date: December 2, 2004 Location: Murderapolis Posts: 521	I prefer a simple demim pocket holster. Universal of most pants - just drop it in... __________________ Tom.

March 8, 2007, 08:00 AM	#16
Yankee Doodle Senior Member Join Date: December 5, 2004 Location: NY state Posts: 339	I have two pocket holsters. Mika, and DeSantis Nemesis. Both are used for a 642. I have found that in regular dress pants or slacks I get better concealnemt with the Nemesis. In jeans it is a toss up. However, I have also found that occasionally when wearing jeans, the Nemesis will come out with the gun. Not a good thing. I have never had this problem with the Mika no matter what I am wearing. So, I have come to the following conclusion. I will stick with the Mika forall my pocket carry. I am willing to put up with the very slght difference in bulk to insure that I can get the gun if I need it. As a matter of fact, I am now waiting for the delivery of the new Mika I ordered. Just an additional thought. I found that I was able to significantly increase the concealability of the piece by changing to the thinnest grips I could find, Kim Ahrends. __________________ God Bless America Y.D.

March 8, 2007, 08:27 AM	#17
Michigunner Senior Member Join Date: May 14, 2005 Posts: 143	The Mika holster is an excellent choice. You can't go wrong with PCS. It is pretty stiff but will become more soft with use. The flagship of my collection was the Milt Sparks pocket holster PCH in Elephant. Unfortunately, their delivery time is about 20-22 weeks now. The real problem is buying a drawer full of holsters, which I did. They were sold, and I now have another drawer full. You can quickly end up with $1,000 worth of holsters before you know it. There is no way I wanted that to happen, but it does. You have to be very careful. Meanwhile, my 642 goes everyday in the Mika holster. It's a winner. Bill

March 8, 2007, 08:50 AM	#18
Morglan Member Join Date: August 16, 2001 Posts: 33	I've always used the simple Uncle Mike's holster, but there are 2 drawbacks to it. First, it's a rectangular shape, so I've had to stuff some foam into the bottom corner in order to fill out the space that isn't taken up by a gun. Second, (and this is an issue with most--if not all--pocket holsters I've seen) it's the shape of the butt of the revolver that prints while carrying in jeans (or any tight pants) pockets. I'm always looking for a holster that has a flat piece of kydex (or preferably reinforced leather) that comes up on the outside of the holster to mask the outline of the grip. This may slow down a draw (at least until you get used to it), but it would make it look like you were carrying a wallet or small notepad in your pocket instead of a gun. Also, I've found that you'll need to get rid of the rubber grips that come standard on most j-frame round butt revolvers if you want to carry in a jeans pocket. The rubber material sticks to the inside of your pocket, and makes carrying and drawing more difficult.

March 8, 2007, 09:07 AM	#19
tlm225 Senior Member Join Date: December 21, 2004 Location: Arkansas Posts: 470	When I started carrying my 642 in the pocket I used the Nemisis. It's well made but seemed bulky and I wasn't satisfied with how it concealed. I then bought a Mika. Yes, it looks low budget (heck it's only $15.00) but I like it. I recommend the round cut. The draw and re-holster is great and it conceals very well. I still use my Nemisis in the inside pocket of my motorcycle jacket. __________________ All that is neccessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing. Edmund Burke

March 8, 2007, 11:55 AM	#20
rb4browns Senior Member Join Date: February 26, 2006 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 143	I just placed an order for the Mika for my 642. I had a few questions and he was very quick to respond. Plus, as someone else mentioned, the price is great ($18.95 shipped) so there's really no risk. He did say it was 8-10 days to get it out the door, so I'll report back in a couple weeks my own experience and post some pictures. Thanks Wheel-Gunner for starting this thread.

March 8, 2007, 02:05 PM	#21
junkman6970 Member Join Date: October 9, 2004 Location: missouri Posts: 25	pocket holsters I have used a Mika's pocket holster for almost 3 years and I use a Taurus 605, 2in, CH, .357 and have no problem drawing even with rubber grips.

March 8, 2007, 02:12 PM	#22
obiwan1 Senior Member Join Date: November 9, 2002 Location: Miami, Fl. Posts: 345	When I need to, pocket carry is great. I have a Rybka, Mika's, ActiveProGear, and an Uncle Mike's. They each work with different guns.

March 8, 2007, 03:22 PM	#24
Yankee Doodle Senior Member Join Date: December 5, 2004 Location: NY state Posts: 339	Wheel-Gunner I really don't know exactly which model of Ahrends grips I have. I bought them on e-bay as a gamble. It worked. Look around for a site that sells them. From what I understand, all his grips are on the thin side as compared to what else is out there. Good luck __________________ God Bless America Y.D.

March 8, 2007, 03:47 PM	#25
inkie Senior Member Join Date: October 20, 2006 Location: Eastern Pa. Posts: 132	Mika"s pocket holster I agree with the Mika recommendation. This pocket holster is functional and will not disappoint you.