Retention strap or no retention strap?

[WWGunslinger]

What is usually recommended or preferred with a concealed carry holster?

I've never had a holster without a strap and i've never had a concealed carry holster. i think i'd feel more comfortable knowing that my gun is strapped in and can't fall out or be taken out easily, but then thats going to slow you down if you do need to draw.

[gnbrotz]

I use a Blackhawk Serpa CQC holster and love it. It doesn't have a strap, but is Level 2 retention, employing a positive lock on the trigger guard. Just listen for the 'click'. I have absolutely no worries about it falling out, even while scrambling over rocks and up steep hills in the woods. I also believe that a 'gun grab' with this holster may be less likely than a holster with a retention strap, since the retention feature isn't readily recognizable unless you're familiar with the holster, though this is purely my opinion.

While some may argue that this holster isn't 'concealable', I've had little trouble doing so when I wanted to (and I'm only 5'7"/180).

[FordDieselSteve]

MY OWB holster is a Blade Tech the gun clicks into it and the tension it holds on it is adjustable and is secure I'm comfortable with it.

There also are the serpa holsters where you have to depress a button on the side to release the gun

[MarcS]

For a concealed holster it's not necessary so long as it's a quality holster that holds the gun well. I recommend leather as it doesn't break and in a struggle will bind on gun grab attempts.

The button design on the blackhawk serpa holster has caused more than a few people to shoot themselves under stress.

[wboggs]

I think it depends on the gun; if you're carrying a 1911 and want a quick response, having it cocked is well worth having to have your thumb catch a snap as you draw it. I think with practice any reasonable holster works. You just have to practice and have muscle memory prepared.

For my 1911 (when it's done) this is my carry holster; it holds it cocked and there's little upward motion necessary to get it ready to fire.

http://www.andrewsleather.com/ and see "IPSC Saddle" on the left side of the page.

[mrwildroot]

Same thread ongoing at XD TALK.

I like the thumb retention for OWB, and no retention for IWB...My belly is retention enough!
;-)
mrwildroot

[XD45]

Same thread ongoing at XD TALK.

I like the thumb retention for OWB, and no retention for IWB...My belly is retention enough!
;-)
mrwildroot

exactly what he said is what I was gonna say

[Montanya]

I OC alot and don't like to switch holsters for OC/CC so I like having one with a thumb-break. Like anything practice with it and you will get faster and be able to do it without thinking about it.

[axmdr40]

The button design on the blackhawk serpa holster has caused more than a few people to shoot themselves under stress.

Do you have evidence of such...or is this speculation?

[lildobe]

The button design on the blackhawk serpa holster has caused more than a few people to shoot themselves under stress.

How do you figure this?

When I'm positioned for proper draw with my Blackhawk, my finger ends up OUTSIDE the trigger guard after the gun is drawn, and before it's cleared the holster, there is no way to get my finger to the trigger...