[1stTimer]

I just bought my first pistol, took it to the range on Sunday and loved it! Went through 150 rounds, and shot a target made for pistols 25 yards (not sure if that means anything :?: ). I was amazed how easy to shoot and aim my M&P 40 was. Unbelievable. I had gone to the range twice before, fired a couple of glocks, a S&W 357 revolver, a .22 and some type of .45. My M&P was the easiest and most comfortable. Incredible, so happy I went with it.

I'm trying to get a good holster so I can carry it when I go to the range. I found this one

BlackHawk CQC Serpa Holster Right Hand



Anyone try it? Is it good? I'm only carrying it to the range and back, and want something secure and comfortable. I'm waiting to take the basic course in 3 weeks, so I can apply for my concealed permit (i'm in VA), and then I'll have another 30 days before they issue it to me. At that point I'll upgrade to something better (looks like leather is the way to go). In the meantime, what should I get that is not going to be too expensive, but will let me practice drawing my pistol, etc. It has to be worn on the outside (visible) until i get my permit. Any other suggestions?



thanks.

 

[choochboost]

I don't like them. My issue is the retention mechanism. I don't trust that it won't cause me to inadvertently pull the trigger on the draw.



Many people do like them, including an FBI friend of mine who carries his G22 in one everyday.

 

[walkingbush]

Correct me if I'm wrong but this is how I understand your question. You want to get a holster so that you may WEAR the firearm while traveling between your home/work/etc to your range and you DON'T currently have a concealed carry permit?



If that is the case then I would strongly encourage you to take a very close look at the laws of your state. I'm not a lawyer and I don't know VA's laws so I'm not sure but I do know that where I'm from (Oregon) that equals a very quick trip to the local correctional facility.



If however you are looking at something for the range only (at least until you get your permit), then I would say your good to go with the Serpa. I would also encourage you to take a look at a Comp-Tac, perhaps their paddle models would work well for you. They have excellent customer service and they are the only company that I know of that will have a semi-CUSTOM holster delivered to your door 4 DAYS after you place the order! (And the price ain't bad either...)



Just my .02...



MC

 

[1stTimer]

In VA you dont need a permit to open carry (very loose gun laws). You only need a permit if you want to carry a concealed weapon. Since I wont be able to carry concealed for a couple of months I just want to open carry. So in the meantime, I'm just going to open carry, and not that much (I just want to get the feel of it at first), I just want to get more comfortable and familiar with my pistol. I saw some folks writing about carrying without a round in the chamber, etc. I need more time in the range and to take the basic pistol course at the NRA range before I even put a magazine in when I carry. Thanks for the comment though. I'll look at the comp-tac too.

thanks

 

[choochboost]

Incidently, I second the recommendation of Comp-tac holsters. I have around 10 and they are great.

 

[YukonGlocker]

I don't like the Serpa either.

Most of the quality, custom fitted holsters are secure.

 

[tony218]

i have the holster you are talking about

i love the way it fits and rides. the retention

release does take some getting used to

but i carry in mine everyday and i feel comfortable

with it.

 

[tony218]

i have the holster you are talking about

i love the way it fits and rides. the retention

release does take some getting used to

but i carry in mine everyday and i feel comfortable

with it.

 

[KONY]

Correct me if I'm wrong but this is how I understand your question. You want to get a holster so that you may WEAR the firearm while traveling between your home/work/etc to your range and you DON'T currently have a concealed carry permit?



If that is the case then I would strongly encourage you to take a very close look at the laws of your state. I'm not a lawyer and I don't know VA's laws so I'm not sure but I do know that where I'm from (Oregon) that equals a very quick trip to the local correctional facility.

As mentioned by 1stTimer, Virginia does not require a permit in order to open carry. In fact, many even open carry exclusively despite having a permit.



As for the Serpa, one of my buddies carries one pretty often. From what I can tell, it is a great range/ open carry holster (locking mechanism) but might stick out too much for great concealment (big issue with lots of kydex). However, have heard it takes training to master the draw with it. I think its a winner for your purposes. It goes for around $40.



Hey 1stTimer, this is getting expensive, ain't it?

Speaking of which, I think I got a line on that ammo I mentioned before. Call me anytime to get the scoop.