Newbie Holster questions

[RugerOldArmy]

I'd really like to give IPSC/USPSA shooting a go. I've been a shooter for decades, but know nothing about holsters. And I do mean nothing. Sure, I've looked around, and there are a myraid of styles and options. The only thing I have a preference on is that I'd prefer leather over plastic.

This wouldn't be for defense or CCW, just for 'gaming'.

What is the best STYLE of holster for L-10 or Production? (Being new to a sport, and even the concept of trying to draw fast, I would prefer options that facilitate the best muzzle control/saftey as opposed to speed. I'd like to focus on safety, form, and getting 'A'(s) first. Speed would only be a consideration later. Just into this for some fun.)

I'd probably be looking to use a 1911 for L10, and a CZ75 for production.

Once I have a style/type identified, I could consider different brands.

Any help would be appreciated. I'm clueless.

[stingerjg]

you cant go wrong with Blade-tech from what ive found.

[RugerOldArmy]

Thanks for the help.

A few more quick questions...

So the best type would be a 'paddle' holster?

With respect to cant, Is there rules regarding straight-drop, FBI cant, etc? Which would be preferred?

Also (and I know this is in flux), if it says 'IDPA-aprooved', is it also IPSC/UPSC legal?

I'm reconsidering the leather vs. plastic. But for Safariland, what is the difference between the 518 style and the 5183 style?

Thanks much!

[Stuck in C]

I would not use a paddle holster-I would use a belt holster. Paddle holsters are designed so you can take them on and off without taking off your belt: useful for carry when you need to go into a bank or something, but not a consideration for IDPA/IPSC. I would go with a Kydex belt holster from a good company such as Blade-tech, Comp-tac, Sidearmor, G-Code, etc. Safariland is also an excellent company but I don't know anything about their Kydex holsters, if they make any. I have a whole drawer full of holster stuff that didn't work out.

My bottom line: Blade-tech belt holster with TekLock belt adapter and a CR-Speed belt. Or maybe a good leather gun belt.

[Flexmoney]

What is that non-plastic holster from Sarariland...the one that TGO and Burkett like...is it a 560 "Custom Fit"?

[RugerOldArmy]

I've given this a bit more thought, and have done a lot more research into the holster/belt/mag decision.

I'm pretty much leaning to a belt-holster. Due to input on paddle holsters riding higher, and in some cases, not being secure. Since this is just a 'gaming' holster, SOB holsters are out, and IWB seem too likely to be uncomfortable.

I'm also seriously considering Kydex as an option, there appear to be some well engineered stuff out there, with may proponents. Leather, to this newbie, just seems like it would be higher 'quality', or perhaps I'm an anti-plastic-bigot. But I could believe that kydex would help on the draw.

What causes less wear? Leather or Kydex. I mean I realize that my 1911s are my tools, and on an old rifle, actually appreciate a touch of wear and tear. (I know that dirt is the big enemy.) I had considered holster use getting my 1911s, and although I prefer a blue 1911, I have a stainless and a hard chrome 1911. I don't know if these will survive unscathed.

I appreciate the input I've gotten...(here and on another board).

I'm drifting towards the following options.

Leather:

- Dillon 'Master' holster/Dillon 1.5" double thick belt/Dual leather mag holders.

- Milt Sparks CC-AT Holster/Milt Sparks Belt (geezzz$80?)/leather mag holders

Kydex:

- Comp-Tac Belt holstet/Wilderness 1.5" belt/plastic-kydex mag holders

- SideArmor Modular Belt Holster/Wilderness 1.5" belt/plastic-kydex mag holders

I'm figuring that if they are IDPA approved, it opens up other options, and can be used in IPSC too.

Also, I did see 1911 Govt' holsters that said: * - Will not fit Springfield

...and both of my 1911s have Springfield frames.

More advice is always appreciated!