The Importance of a Quality Holster
Choosing a holster isn’t just about convenience; it’s about safety, comfort, and the overall practicality of carrying your firearm. A poorly chosen holster can lead to negligent discharges, uncomfortable carry, and even damage to your Redhawk. A good holster, conversely, provides secure retention, protects the firearm, and allows for quick and easy access when needed. The stakes are high; your safety, and the safe handling of your Redhawk, depends on it.
Key Considerations When Selecting a Holster for Your Ruger Redhawk 7.5″
The world of holsters is vast, with a seemingly endless array of options. Navigating this landscape can be daunting, but understanding the key factors will make the process much smoother. Let’s break down the crucial aspects:
Carry Style
Where and how you intend to carry your Ruger Redhawk 7.5″ is the most fundamental consideration. This drastically narrows down the choices.
Open Carry: This style, the most straightforward, means your firearm is visible. It’s often preferred for range use, hunting, or when local laws permit. The primary advantages of open carry holsters are typically enhanced retention and the ability to draw quickly. Duty holsters and range holsters frequently fall into this category. The best open carry holster will often offer a level of retention to prevent anyone from easily taking the firearm.
Concealed Carry: For discreet carry, the options include IWB (Inside the Waistband) and OWB (Outside the Waistband) holsters. Concealing a 7.5″ barreled Redhawk is a challenge. Its size and weight necessitate careful consideration of comfort, concealment, and the supporting garment (belt, etc.). IWB options might be uncomfortable for extended periods with such a large revolver, potentially requiring a significantly reinforced belt and well-tailored clothing. OWB holsters offer better comfort in most cases, but the level of concealment is reduced.
Chest Holsters: These holsters are an excellent choice for activities like hunting or hiking. They position the firearm on your chest, keeping it accessible while allowing you to move freely and minimizing interference with other gear. Chest holsters distribute the weight more evenly and keep the firearm away from your waist. This is especially useful when wearing a backpack.
Shoulder Holsters: These offer another concealed carry option, often favored for their comfort, particularly during seated activities. They evenly distribute the weight of the firearm across the shoulders and back. They may be a good choice for people who spend a lot of time sitting. The Redhawk’s size and weight will still be significant factors to consider, especially in terms of comfort and concealment. The shoulder holster can be easily hidden under a jacket.
Holster Material
The material of your holster greatly impacts its durability, comfort, and overall performance.
Leather: Leather holsters represent a classic choice, offering a premium feel and often developing a beautiful patina over time. Leather molds to the specific shape of the firearm, providing a custom fit. They are known for their comfort and can absorb moisture. However, leather holsters typically require more maintenance than other materials, including regular cleaning and conditioning. They can also be more expensive.
Kydex: Kydex holsters are made from a rigid thermoplastic material that is highly durable and offers excellent retention. Kydex is known for its weather resistance and easy cleaning. Kydex holsters generally offer very precise molding for each firearm model. One disadvantage is that Kydex can sometimes wear on the finish of the firearm over time, and might be less comfortable than leather.
Nylon/Synthetic: These holsters are typically the most affordable option, offering a lightweight and weather-resistant design. However, nylon holsters often sacrifice durability and retention compared to leather and Kydex. They may be suitable for occasional use or for those on a budget.
Essential Features
A closer look at crucial features is crucial to choosing the right holster.
Retention Levels: Retention refers to the degree to which the holster holds the firearm securely. Passive retention relies on friction to hold the gun in place, while active retention employs mechanisms like thumb breaks, locking mechanisms, or trigger guard releases for added security. For a large revolver like the Redhawk, a moderate to high level of retention is advisable, especially for open carry or duty use.
Adjustability: Look for holsters that offer some degree of adjustability, such as the cant angle (the angle at which the firearm sits in relation to your body) and ride height (how high or low the holster sits on your belt). These adjustments allow you to customize the fit for optimal comfort and accessibility.
Comfort: Prioritize holsters that are comfortable for extended wear. Features like padding, strategically placed contours, and breathable materials contribute to comfort, particularly important with a large and heavy firearm.
Belt Compatibility: Verify that the holster is compatible with your belt. The belt’s width and attachment method (loops, paddle, etc.) must be appropriate for the holster to securely attach to your waist. A sturdy, high-quality belt is crucial for supporting the weight of the Redhawk.
Extra Features: Some holsters come with supplementary features, such as magazine pouches or attachment points for accessories. Consider what extras are relevant to your needs.
Making Your Decision
To help guide your choices, consider the following:
- What’s the primary purpose for carrying your Redhawk? (Range, hunting, self-defense, etc.)
- What’s your preferred carry style? (Open, concealed, chest, etc.)
- What is your budget?
- What are the local laws regarding firearm carry?
Holster Recommendations – Specific Examples
While a truly “best” holster is subjective, here are a few examples, along with their strengths and weaknesses, to give you a feel for what’s available:
Open Carry Holsters
Example 1: The Safariland 7378RDS (Leather/Kydex Hybrid)
This holster combines the durability of Safariland’s Kydex construction with a leather lining for a smooth draw and excellent protection of the firearm. Designed for duty use, it provides excellent retention. This is a solid option for range use or in areas where open carry is permitted. Pros: Durable, secure retention, smooth draw. Cons: Can be more expensive.
Example 2: Blade-Tech WRS (Kydex)
Blade-Tech’s WRS (WRS stands for Weapon Retention System) series offers a high level of retention, and modularity. It is available in several configurations, providing adjustable cant and ride height. Pros: Highly adjustable, very durable, reliable retention. Cons: Kydex material can sometimes create wear on the finish of the firearm.
Concealed Carry Considerations
Concealing a 7.5” Redhawk is challenging and might not be practical for every individual. However, let’s look at options:
IWB Holsters
IWB holsters can make the carry process difficult.
Example 1: While many companies don’t make holsters for IWB carry for this specific model, a custom holster might be your best option. A reinforced belt and a sturdy holster are vital for safe and effective IWB carry with the Redhawk. Pros: Custom Fit. Cons: May prove to be uncomfortable due to the size and weight of the firearm.
OWB Holsters
OWB offers a more practical solution.
Example 1: Galco Combat Master (Leather)
The Combat Master is a classic open-top OWB holster that provides excellent security and a smooth draw. Galco uses premium steerhide leather. The open-top design allows a fast draw. Pros: Comfortable, classic design, and high-quality materials. Cons: Might not provide sufficient concealment in some situations.
Chest Holsters
Example 1: Diamond D Leather Chest Holster (Leather)
This holster is a popular choice for outdoorsmen. Diamond D’s chest holsters distribute the weight effectively and provide easy access while hiking or hunting. They are made from high-quality leather and offer excellent protection for your firearm. Pros: Comfortable for extended wear, accessible, and provides good weight distribution. Cons: Takes time to get used to.
Tips for Optimizing Your Holster Experience
Even the best holster won’t perform optimally without proper preparation and care.
Test-Fitting is Crucial: Always test-fit your Redhawk in the holster before using it for carry. Ensure the fit is snug but allows for a smooth and unobstructed draw.
Break-In Period: Leather holsters may require a break-in period. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the best fit.
Safety First: Always keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire. Practice safe gun handling techniques, including proper re-holstering procedures. Ensure that the holster completely covers the trigger guard.
Holster Maintenance: Clean and maintain your holster regularly. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and lubrication. Leather holsters benefit from occasional conditioning.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right holster for your Ruger Redhawk 7.5″ is a critical decision, one that impacts your safety, comfort, and the effectiveness of carrying your powerful revolver. By understanding the key considerations – carry style, material, features, and budget – and researching the available options, you can find a holster that meets your unique needs. Take the time to explore the various choices, try them out if possible, and invest in a quality holster that will serve you well for years to come. Your Ruger Redhawk will thank you for it.
