226 carry options

[KAR120C]

So far the only gun I've ever carried is a j-frame (in a pocket holster). I recently purchased a Sig 226 for fun, HD, and (theoretically) occasional carry. That carry part is going to remain theoretical unless I actually purchase a holster of some kind for it, so I'm looking for advice...

What are my options/your recommendations for a carry holster for the 226? Temperatures run from -25 to +100 F where I live, so feel free to offer options for different seasons.

Please no responses along the lines of "trade in that 226 for a blah blah blah", etc... The 226 is a given in this thread. And it has the Nitron finish, if that matters.

Thanks much, I've found this forum to be a great source of info, and look forward to your suggestions.

 

[ScaryWoody]

I would invest in some quality leather. You'll need to decide in the waist band or out. I assume shoulder rigs, ankle holsters and other less popular methods of carry are not being considered.

In the waist band has it's comfort challenges. I carry in the waist band at 4 o'clock strong side. I found the snap on belt loops to work the best for me. I prefer a IWB holster that remains open when the pistol is removed. Makes it a lot easier to reholster.

The outside the waist band I find to be the most comfortable. With fall and winter clothing it is easy to conceal. I find it less restrictive than the IWB.

You will, most likely, buy and try several rigs before you nail it. Thats part of the fun.

 

[Ivy Mike]

I second the vote for leather.

What you can try to get a feeling for how the gun will ride on you, is unload it, then slip into your waistband and work around the house with it like that.
I had decided to carry my FN Forty-Nine in SOB, but discovered that it was rather uncomfy there.
It migrated to 4 o'clock and was recently retired from carry pending the purchase of a new pistola.

 

[KAR120C]

Why the preference for leather? I'm assuming you always have at least a t-shirt between you and the holster. Is it a matter of function or asthetics? Do you like leather because it is warmer, more compliant ???

I guess I wouldn't mind springing for quality leather eventually, but I'd kind of like to figure out the format (ISW vs. OWB etc...) experimenting with cheaper synthetics first. I've heard that it is almost inevitable that you end up with a "holster drawer" in your dresser before you find what works, I'd just rather not fill that drawer with expensive leather holsters

I'd say ankle carry is definitely out, the gun's just too big, but a shoulder holster seems like a real option, at least when the temps are low enough for a covering garment. I get the sense that people rarely use them. Why is that? Is there some pain in the butt aspect to them that I'm not aware of?