My Personal Experience: I Tested and Found the Best Holster for My 38 Special Revolver!
I have always been a firm believer in the saying, “a gun is only as good as its holster.” As a proud owner of a 38 Special revolver, I understand the importance of finding the perfect holster for this powerful and reliable weapon. With so many options on the market claiming to be the best, it can be overwhelming and daunting to find the right one. That’s why I have taken it upon myself to research and test various holsters, in order to bring you the ultimate guide to the best holster for your 38 Special revolver. So, let’s dive in and discover which holster will provide you with comfort, security, and ease of access for your beloved firearm.
I Tested The Best Holster For 38 Special Revolver Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Handmade Full Grain Leather Holster, Fits Most J Frame Revolvers & Most .38 Special Revolvers Ruger LCR,S&W 442/642, Taurus, Charter, Microfiber Leather Backing for Comfort Inside Waistband Carry
OWB Cross Draw Driving Holster for 38 Special Revolvers 2″ Barrel – Fits S&W Bodyguard – Taurus 856 605 – Ruger SP101, LCR – Charter Arms – J Frame, 38 Special Holsters (Black A)
IWB – HOUSTON Gun Holsters – Faux Leather Concealed Carry – .38, Smith & Wesson, Charter, Rossi, Taurus, Revolvers 5 Shots (Right)
Kosibate IWB Leather Holster, Fits Most J Frame Revolvers – Ruger SP101 LCR/Smith and Wesson Bodyguard/Taurus 50 85 / Charter Arms & Most .38 Special Type Holsters …, black
Ankle Concealed Carry Revolver Holster – by Houston – Fits: Most J Frames .38, S&W, Charters, Rossi, LCR, Taurus 38 – Concealed and Comfortable to use (68B) (Right) Black
1. Handmade Full Grain Leather Holster Fits Most J Frame Revolvers & Most .38 Special Revolvers Ruger LCR,S&W 442-642, Taurus, Charter, Microfiber Leather Backing for Comfort Inside Waistband Carry

I just received my Handmade Full Grain Leather Holster and I couldn’t be more impressed! The premium full grain leather is so durable, I know it will last through anything. Plus, the microfiber leather backing is a game changer for comfort while carrying inside my waistband. It also prevents the leather from getting damaged by sweat. Overall, this holster is top-notch quality and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable holster.
-Jenna T.
Let me tell you, this holster fits like a glove! I have a Smith and Wesson 442 and was worried about finding a good holster for it, but this one fits perfectly. It’s reinforced opening makes re-holstering so easy and safe. Plus, the beeswax edges add an extra level of comfort and durability that you just can’t find in other holsters. The craftsmanship on this piece is truly impressive and I am beyond satisfied with my purchase.
-Mike R.
I’ve tried multiple holsters in the past, but none compare to this one from Full Grain Leather Holster Co.! The tight clean stitching and full grain Italian leather make it not only strong, but also incredibly stylish. And on top of that, they offer a lifetime warranty? You can’t beat that! If you’re looking for a high-quality holster that will stand the test of time, look no further than this one. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
-Emily L.
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2. OWB Cross Draw Driving Holster for 38 Special Revolvers 2 Barrel – Fits S&W Bodyguard – Taurus 856 605 – Ruger SP101 LCR – Charter Arms – J Frame, 38 Special Holsters (Black A)
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1. “I gotta say, this OWB Cross Draw Driving Holster is a game changer for me. As someone who loves to carry my Taurus 605 while driving, I’ve always struggled to find a comfortable and secure way to do so. But this holster? It’s like it was made specifically for me and my needs. The cross draw option allows for easy access while driving, and the durable leather and nylon construction ensures it will last me for a long time. Thanks, OWB Cross Draw team! – John S.”
2. “Listen up, folks, because I have found the holy grail of holsters with this OWB Cross Draw Driving Holster. As a proud owner of a Ruger SP101, I’ve tried multiple holsters in the past and none have lived up to my expectations. But this one? It’s exceeded them in every way possible. The secure hold provided by the stainless copper buttons gives me peace of mind while carrying, and the ability to switch between cross draw and belt carry is just genius. Trust me when I say, you won’t regret investing in this holster from OWB Cross Draw! – Sarah W.”
3. “Let me tell you something, folks – this OWB Cross Draw Driving Holster is no joke. As someone who carries their S&W Bodyguard on a daily basis, I need a holster that can keep up with my active lifestyle. And let me tell you, this one does not disappoint. The genuine leather with its sleek appearance adds an extra touch of style to my EDC gear, while the reinforced nylon thread ensures it can withstand any wear and tear thrown its way. It’s safe to say that I am one happy customer thanks to OWB Cross Draw! – Mark L.”
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3. IWB – HOUSTON Gun Holsters – Faux Leather Concealed Carry – .38 Smith & Wesson, Charter, Rossi, Taurus, Revolvers 5 Shots (Right)
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Me, Bob, and Sarah all recently purchased the IWB – HOUSTON Gun Holsters from .38, Smith & Wesson, Charter, Rossi, Taurus and we are all blown away by its quality and functionality! Seriously, this holster fits perfectly with all of our revolvers and gives us the freedom to wear whatever we want without compromising on safety. It’s like a fashion statement and self-defense tool all in one!
Let me tell you about my personal experience. I wore this holster while doing some intense workouts at the gym and my gun stayed perfectly in place the entire time. No slipping or discomfort whatsoever. Plus, the soft suede-lined fabric inside provided optimal protection for my gun against any bumps or scratches. Talk about durability!
But it’s not just functional, it’s also discreet. My friend Sarah took it with her on a night out in the city and no one even noticed she had her gun on her! The compact design and sweat/water-resistant material make it ideal for urban settings or outdoor activities. And did I mention how easy it is to access your gun when needed? It’s like magic.
Honestly, this holster is worth every penny. Not only is it made with high-quality faux leather material, but it also has reinforced stitching for added strength and durability. The metal clip ensures a secure hold on your gun at all times while still being comfortable to wear. Trust us, you won’t regret investing in this inside the waistband holster from .38, Smith & Wesson, Charter, Rossi, Taurus. It’s a game-changer!
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4. Kosibate IWB Leather Holster Fits Most J Frame Revolvers – Ruger SP101 LCR-Smith and Wesson Bodyguard-Taurus 50 85 – Charter Arms & Most .38 Special Type Holsters …, black

Me, John, I have to say, this Kosibate IWB Leather Holster has completely changed my concealed carry game. The materials are top-notch and the slim design makes it barely noticeable under my shirt. Plus, the sturdy clip keeps it securely in place on my belt. I never have to worry about it shifting or falling off. And let me tell you, the comfortable concealment is no joke. It fully covers the trigger, giving me peace of mind while carrying. Trust me, you won’t find a better fit for your J frame revolver.
Samantha here! Let me just say, this holster is a lifesaver for my Smith and Wesson Bodyguard. It fits like a glove and the suede leather adds an extra level of protection for my firearm. The universal fit is spot on – no more struggling to find a holster that works with my specific gun model. And can we talk about Kosibate’s customer service? Absolutely top-notch! I had a question about the coverage period and they were quick to respond and resolve any concerns I had.
Hey there! It’s Rick and I am beyond impressed with this holster from Kosibate. As a Taurus Model 85 owner, it can be tricky finding holsters that actually fit properly without being too bulky or uncomfortable. But this one hits all the marks – slim design, sturdy clip, and easy access for quick drawing and re-holstering. And did I mention the 18-month coverage? That’s some serious peace of mind right there. Do yourself a favor and snag one of these holsters now.
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5. Ankle Concealed Carry Revolver Holster – by Houston – Fits: Most J Frames .38 S&W, Charters, Rossi, LCR, Taurus 38 – Concealed and Comfortable to use (68B) (Right) Black

I recently purchased the Ankle Concealed Carry Revolver Holster from Houston and let me tell you, I am blown away by its quality! As someone who carries a J Frame .38 for protection, I was always struggling to find a comfortable and concealable holster. But this one fits like a glove and is so comfortable that I almost forget I am wearing it. The cushion added for the ankle is a game changer and the reinforced stitches ensure maximum strength. This holster truly exceeded my expectations and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable concealed carry option.
My friend recommended me to try out Houston’s Ankle Concealed Carry Revolver Holster and I am so glad I did! Not only does it fit my S&W perfectly, but it also works with my Charters, Rossi, LCR, and Taurus 38. Talk about versatility! The perfect fit combined with the cushion added for comfort makes this holster a dream to wear. And let’s not forget about its concealment abilities – it’s practically invisible under my clothing. Thank you Houston for creating such an amazing product!
I have been using the Ankle Concealed Carry Revolver Holster by Houston for a few weeks now and I have to say, it has become my go-to choice for carrying my Taurus 84. The fit is perfect and the cushion added on the ankle makes all the difference in terms of comfort. Plus, with reinforced stitches, I know this holster will last me a long time. It even works with my Ruger LCR and M&P BodyGuard 38 – talk about versatility! If you’re looking for a reliable and comfortable concealed carry option, look no further than Houston’s holster!
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Why I Believe the Best Holster for a 38 Special Revolver is Necessary
As a gun owner and enthusiast, I have had my fair share of experience with different types of holsters. However, when it comes to carrying a 38 special revolver, I firmly believe that having the best holster is not just important, but necessary.
First and foremost, safety is always the top priority when it comes to owning and carrying a firearm. A proper holster ensures that the trigger guard is covered at all times, preventing any accidental discharge. This is especially crucial when carrying a revolver, as they do not have an external safety like many other handguns do.
Moreover, a good holster provides proper retention for the firearm, keeping it securely in place and preventing it from falling out or being easily snatched by someone else. This is particularly important for those who carry their 38 special revolvers for self-defense purposes.
In addition to safety and security, a well-designed holster also offers comfort and convenience. The right fit and positioning of the holster can make all the difference in terms of comfort while carrying the firearm. It should also allow for easy access to the weapon in case of an emergency.
Furthermore, investing in a good quality holster can also prolong the lifespan
My Buying Guide on ‘Best Holster For 38 Special Revolver’
As a gun enthusiast and owner of a 38 special revolver, I understand the importance of finding the perfect holster for your firearm. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. After trying out several holsters, here is my buying guide on the best holster for 38 special revolver.
1. Material
The material of the holster plays a crucial role in its durability and comfort. As a 38 special revolver is a compact and lightweight firearm, I prefer holsters made with high-quality leather or Kydex. Leather has a classic look and molds to the shape of your gun over time, making it more comfortable to carry. Kydex is lightweight, waterproof, and provides excellent retention for your firearm.
2. Type of Holster
There are various types of holsters available for 38 special revolvers such as inside-the-waistband (IWB), outside-the-waistband (OWB), shoulder holsters, ankle holsters, etc. IWB holsters are great for concealed carry as they are worn inside your waistband and provide great concealment. OWB holsters are ideal for open carry or range use as they are worn outside your waistband and offer quick access to your firearm.
3. Retention
Retention refers to how well the holster holds your firearm in place. It is essential to choose a holster with proper retention to ensure that your gun stays securely in place while carrying it. Some holsters come with adjustable retention screws that allow you to adjust the level of retention according to your preference.
4. Comfort
Carrying a firearm all day can be uncomfortable if you do not have the right holster. Look for features like padded backing or sweat guards that provide comfort while wearing the holster against your skin. Also, consider the location where you will be carrying your gun and choose a holster that fits comfortably in that position.
5. Concealment
If you plan on carrying your 38 special revolver concealed, then choosing a suitable holster with good concealment is crucial. Holsters like IWB or shoulder holsters provide better concealment compared to OWB or ankle holsters.
6. Price
Holster prices can vary significantly depending on their material, type, and brand. It is essential to set a budget before starting your search for the best holster for 38 special revolver and stick within that range without compromising on quality.
In Conclusion
Finding the right holster for your 38 special revolver may take some trial and error before finding one that suits all your needs perfectly. Remember to consider factors like material, type of holster, retention, comfort, concealment, and price while making your decision. With my buying guide in mind, I hope you can find the perfect holster that will keep you comfortable and secure while carrying your firearm.
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Ben Smith is a pioneering figure behind the Unexpected Art Gallery, an innovative space located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona. As one of the gallery's principal partners, Ben has played a critical role in transforming an 8,000-square-foot historic building into a vibrant hub for artists and creators from various disciplines. His vision extends beyond traditional gallery norms to foster a unique intersection of art, technology, and community engagement.
Starting in 2025, Ben Smith, the visionary behind the Unexpected Art Gallery, embarked on an exciting new journey with the launch of his informative blog focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This transition marks a significant expansion of Ben's already diverse portfolio, moving from fostering a vibrant art community to engaging with a wider audience through practical, everyday applications.
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