Review
I bought this holster for a S&W Performance Center 500 Magnum. This holster’s price is about the same as a custom made holster. I have other Galco holsters that I have enjoyed, so I thought I’d give it a try even if it seemed a little expensive. I’m pleased with the holster. The stitching, fit, finish, attachments and straps are all above average with very positive feel to the snaps so you really know when things open or close properly. I was pleased that it fit my barrel length exactly. That’s not bad for an off the shelf holster. I found it fit my gun perfectly.
I’m a big guy and I was concerned that hunting with it in layered clothes would be a fitting problem. For instance, I have an EP Saddlery custom made holster for my Freedom Arms revolver that I had to add extra lengths of leather to the fitting straps in order to wear over heavy clothing. I was pleased to find that The Galco holster had a wide range of adjustment in the straps. It fits me fine in heavy clothing with ample room to adjust where it hangs on my body.
When the holster first arrived, both me and the FedEx driver (who had never shot a 500 magnum before I gave him a few rounds to try in my revolver. Probably cheaper than a Christmas tip. I’m sure he talked about it when he got back to the barn.) found the holster to be a tight fit for the gun. But with use the gun now fits secure without being difficult to draw. I especially like the glove friendly release tab. I believe that it’s a well thought out design.
All in all, I’d say the holster is worth the cost despite my initial concern. The strap design makes the weight of the heavy Smith X Frame both easy to carry all day in the field as well as easy to wear while getting into, out of and driving around in the truck (Of course that’s if you live or hunt in Free America where you can wear a gun in the truck.) I’m pleased with the purchase, I’ve not found any negative with the holster that I think you should be warned about.