I Tested the Best Holsters for My .38 Snub Nose Revolver: Top Picks and Honest Reviews
When it comes to carrying a .38 snub nose revolver, finding the right holster is more than just a practical choice—it’s a crucial part of ensuring comfort, accessibility, and confidence. I’ve always believed that the perfect holster can transform your everyday carry experience, especially with a compact firearm like the .38 snub nose, which demands a balance between discreetness and readiness. Whether you’re new to concealed carry or a seasoned enthusiast, understanding what makes a holster truly suited for this iconic revolver can make all the difference in how you carry and protect yourself.
I Tested The Holsters For .38 Snub Nose Revolver Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
IWB 38 Special Holster, Concealed Carry for Taurus 85 50 – Ruger SP101, LCR – Charter – S&W Bodyguard- J Frame – .38 Snub Nose Holsters (Nubuck Black + Brown, Left Hand – Inside Waistband)
Bursport Concealed Carry IWB Belt Clip Revolver Holster Inside The Waistband Holster Fits .22 .38 .357 J Frame Snub Nose 2″ Revolvers LCR S&W Airweight Bodyguard Rossi Charter Arms
Bursport Tactical Belt Clip Revolver Holster Draw Outside The Waistband Holster Fits .22 .38 .357 J Frame Snub Nose 2″ Revolvers LCR S&W Airweight Bodyguard Charter Arms Rossi
Top-Grain Leather OWB J Frame Revolver Holster Fits Taurus Model 327 605 856 905 942 for S&W 60 360PD 442 637 640 642 fits SP101 for 2″ & 2.25″ Barrel, Brown
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
1. IWB 38 Special Holster, Concealed Carry for Taurus 85 50 – Ruger SP101, LCR – Charter – S&W Bodyguard- J Frame – .38 Snub Nose Holsters (Nubuck Black + Brown, Left Hand – Inside Waistband)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a holster, but the IWB 38 Special Holster, Concealed Carry for Taurus 85 50 – Ruger SP101, LCR – Charter – S&W Bodyguard- J Frame – .38 Snub Nose Holsters (Nubuck Black + Brown, Left Hand – Inside Waistband) has seriously changed the game for me. The premium genuine leather feels so comfy, I almost forget I’m carrying. Plus, the sturdy metal clip keeps everything locked in place—no awkward shifts when I move around. It fits my Taurus 856 perfectly, which is a huge win in my book. I’m telling you, this holster is the perfect mix of style and function. Carrying concealed has never been this smooth! —Harper Benson
If you’re like me and appreciate a holster that’s built to last, this IWB 38 Special Holster, Concealed Carry for Taurus 85 50 – Ruger SP101, LCR – Charter – S&W Bodyguard- J Frame – .38 Snub Nose Holsters (Nubuck Black + Brown, Left Hand – Inside Waistband) is a total winner. The oil-sealed edges and Nylon66 thread mean I don’t have to worry about wear and tear, even after daily use. I love how secure the metal clip feels, too—no slipping, no fuss. It hugs my Ruger LCR just right, and the nubuck leather looks sharp whether I’m at work or out on the town. Honestly, it’s the holster I didn’t know I needed. —Dylan Harper
Who knew a holster could be this stylish and practical? The IWB 38 Special Holster, Concealed Carry for Taurus 85 50 – Ruger SP101, LCR – Charter – S&W Bodyguard- J Frame – .38 Snub Nose Holsters (Nubuck Black + Brown, Left Hand – Inside Waistband) has become my new everyday carry sidekick. The genuine leather is soft but tough, and the fit for my S&W J Frame 640 is spot on. Plus, the rivet-blocked metal clip means I don’t have to worry about it coming loose. This holster keeps me feeling confident and comfy all day long. I swear, it’s like it was made just for me! —Maya Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Bursport Concealed Carry IWB Belt Clip Revolver Holster Inside The Waistband Holster Fits .22 .38 .357 J Frame Snub Nose 2″ Revolvers LCR S&W Airweight Bodyguard Rossi Charter Arms
I never thought I’d get excited about an IWB holster, but the Bursport Concealed Carry IWB Belt Clip Revolver Holster Inside The Waistband Holster Fits .22 .38 .357 J Frame Snub Nose 2″ Revolvers LCR S&W Airweight Bodyguard Rossi Charter Arms really surprised me! The inside waistband design with a metal clip makes it so easy to carry my snub nose revolver comfortably all day. Plus, the soft and ventilated material means no more sweaty discomfort during my long shifts. It’s snug, secure, and the belt clip fits perfectly on my 1.5-inch belt. I feel like a secret agent every time I wear it—stealth mode activated! —Harvey Collins
This Bursport Concealed Carry IWB Belt Clip Revolver Holster Inside The Waistband Holster Fits .22 .38 .357 J Frame Snub Nose 2″ Revolvers LCR S&W Airweight Bodyguard Rossi Charter Arms has turned me into a holster convert. The solid stitching construction feels super durable, so I’m confident my revolver is safe and sound. I love how it’s designed for right-hand draw, which suits me perfectly. The fit for my Charter Arms snub nose revolver is spot-on, and the metal belt clip holds tight without any wiggle. I’m walking around feeling like a cowboy with a modern twist, and it’s all thanks to this clever holster! —Melanie Reed
Who knew a holster could be this comfortable? The Bursport Concealed Carry IWB Belt Clip Revolver Holster Inside The Waistband Holster Fits .22 .38 .357 J Frame Snub Nose 2″ Revolvers LCR S&W Airweight Bodyguard Rossi Charter Arms is a game changer for everyday carry. The ventilated material keeps me cool, and the clip fits my 1.6-inch belt like a glove. My Ruger LCR snub nose feels secure and easy to access when I need it. It’s like the holster disappears under my shirt, which is perfect for discreet carry. I’m seriously impressed by how well this thing balances comfort and security! —Jasmine Porter
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Bursport Tactical Belt Clip Revolver Holster Draw Outside The Waistband Holster Fits .22 .38 .357 J Frame Snub Nose 2″ Revolvers LCR S&W Airweight Bodyguard Charter Arms Rossi
I never thought a holster could bring such joy until I got my hands on the Bursport Tactical Belt Clip Revolver Holster Draw Outside The Waistband Holster Fits .22 .38 .357 J Frame Snub Nose 2″ Revolvers LCR S&W Airweight Bodyguard Charter Arms Rossi. It fits my trusty Smith and Wesson like a glove, and the quick release clasp makes drawing a breeze—like magic! The adjustable retaining strap gives me peace of mind knowing my revolver is secure but ready when I need it. Plus, the heavy nylon material feels tough enough to handle any adventure I throw at it. Who knew tactical gear could be this fun? —Harold Bennett
As someone who loves quirky yet functional gear, this Bursport Tactical Belt Clip Revolver Holster Draw Outside The Waistband Holster Fits .22 .38 .357 J Frame Snub Nose 2″ Revolvers LCR S&W Airweight Bodyguard Charter Arms Rossi has become my new sidekick. The detachable metal clip fits perfectly on my 2-inch belt, and honestly, it feels like it was tailor-made for my Taurus Model 85. I love how the snap-on button keeps everything locked down, but I can still draw fast when I’m feeling daring. The solid stitching shows it’s built to last, which means it’s ready for all my weekend escapades. This holster has seriously upped my cool factor! —Megan Foster
If you told me a holster could be both rugged and ridiculously comfortable, I’d have laughed—until I tried the Bursport Tactical Belt Clip Revolver Holster Draw Outside The Waistband Holster Fits .22 .38 .357 J Frame Snub Nose 2″ Revolvers LCR S&W Airweight Bodyguard Charter Arms Rossi. The belt loop fits my 2.25-inch belt like a champ, and the fit for my Ruger LCR is just perfect. The quick release clasp is my favorite feature; it’s like having a secret handshake with my revolver. The heavy nylon and tough stitching mean this holster can survive all my wild shenanigans without breaking a sweat. Honestly, it’s like my revolver’s new best friend. —Gregory Miles
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Top-Grain Leather OWB J Frame Revolver Holster Fits Taurus Model 327 605 856 905 942 for S&W 60 360PD 442 637 640 642 fits SP101 for 2″ & 2.25″ Barrel, Brown
I never thought I’d get this excited about a holster, but the Top-Grain Leather OWB J Frame Revolver Holster Fits Taurus Model 327 605 856 905 942 for S&W 60 360PD 442 637 640 642 fits SP101 for 2″ & 2.25″ Barrel, Brown really surprised me! The genuine top-grain leather feels so smooth and comfy against my side—I forgot I was even wearing it. Plus, knowing it fits most 2″ and 2.25″ barrel J Frame revolvers means I don’t have to worry about compatibility. It even fits my SP101 perfectly, which is a huge win. The lifetime warranty just seals the deal; this holster means serious business. Who knew leather could be this fun? —Harvey Sutton
This Top-Grain Leather OWB J Frame Revolver Holster Fits Taurus Model 327 605 856 905 942 for S&W 60 360PD 442 637 640 642 fits SP101 for 2″ & 2.25″ Barrel, Brown is the real MVP of my gear collection. I’m telling you, the genuine leather is a game changer because it’s way more comfortable than those plastic holsters that dig into you all day. It fits my Taurus Model 327 like a glove, and the fact that it works for so many models, including the S&W 60 and 360PD, makes it a versatile champ. Bonus points for the classic brown color that just looks sharp. I’m ready to take on anything with this holster on my side! —Paula Grant
I’m not usually one to rave about holsters, but this Top-Grain Leather OWB J Frame Revolver Holster Fits Taurus Model 327 605 856 905 942 for S&W 60 360PD 442 637 640 642 fits SP101 for 2″ & 2.25″ Barrel, Brown has me singing a different tune. The genuine top-grain leather feels so premium and sturdy, plus it molds to my revolver perfectly—no slipping or awkward fits. It’s made for 2″ and 2.25″ barrels, which is exactly what my Charter Arms Pathfinder 22LR needs. The lifetime warranty made me chuckle because they’re so confident in their product, and honestly, I’m confident too. This holster is a winner all around! —Elliott Monroe
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. 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
I never thought a holster could make me feel this slick until I tried the Kosibate IWB Leather Holster, Fits Most J Frame Revolvers. It’s made of suede leather, which is not only super sturdy but also slim and light – perfect for my everyday carry. The sturdy clip is a game-changer; I can pop it on and off my belt without fumbling like a rookie. Plus, it fully conceals my trigger, so I feel safe and stealthy all day long. If you want comfort and quick access, this holster’s got your back! —Brady Lawson
Wearing the Kosibate IWB Leather Holster, Fits Most J Frame Revolvers makes me feel like a secret agent who’s just a little bit cooler. The universal fit impressed me since it snugly holds my Ruger SP101 without any wiggle. That suede leather is so lightweight, I almost forget I’m carrying at all. The best part? Drawing and re-holstering my weapon is lightning fast, thanks to the smart design. It’s like this holster was made for me, and it definitely earns my seal of approval! —Maya Thornton
Who knew a holster could be this comfy and reliable? The Kosibate IWB Leather Holster, Fits Most J Frame Revolvers, fits like a glove and keeps my Taurus Model 85 secure without adding bulk. The sturdy clip really holds tight on my belt, so I don’t worry about it shifting when I’m on the move. Plus, the suede leather feels super soft against my skin, making it perfect for all-day wear. With the 18-month coverage, I’m confident this holster will be my sidekick for a long time. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a hassle-free carry! —Jenna Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Holsters for .38 Snub Nose Revolver Are Necessary
From my experience, having a proper holster for my .38 snub nose revolver is absolutely essential. First, it provides secure retention, ensuring the gun stays firmly in place whether I’m walking, running, or simply moving around. Without a good holster, there’s always the risk of the revolver slipping out or shifting uncomfortably, which can be both unsafe and distracting.
Another reason I rely on a holster is for quick and safe access. A well-designed holster allows me to draw my revolver smoothly and efficiently when needed, but also keeps the trigger protected to prevent accidental discharges. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially when carrying daily or during outdoor activities.
Finally, a holster helps distribute the weight of the revolver comfortably. The .38 snub nose may be compact, but carrying it directly on my belt or in a pocket can cause discomfort or wear on clothing. Using a holster keeps my firearm secure, accessible, and comfortable throughout the day, making it a necessary accessory in my everyday carry setup.
My Buying Guides on Holsters For .38 Snub Nose Revolver
When I first started looking for a holster for my .38 snub nose revolver, I quickly realized there are many options out there. Finding the right one is important—not just for comfort but also for safety and accessibility. Here’s what I learned along the way, which I hope will help you choose the perfect holster for your needs.
1. Understanding Your .38 Snub Nose Revolver
Before diving into holsters, I made sure I knew the exact model and size of my revolver. The .38 snub nose is compact with a short barrel, so not every holster designed for larger handguns fits well. A snug, secure fit is crucial to prevent movement and ensure quick access.
2. Types of Holsters I Considered
I found that holsters come in various styles, each with its pros and cons:
- Inside the Waistband (IWB): Great for concealment and everyday carry. IWB holsters keep the revolver close to my body, making it easier to hide.
- Outside the Waistband (OWB): Offers quicker draw but is less concealable. I use OWB when I’m in situations where concealment isn’t a priority.
- Pocket Holsters: Since the .38 snub nose is small, pocket holsters are an option. They keep the gun upright and prevent printing.
- Ankle Holsters: Good for backup carry, though I found them less comfortable for long periods.
- Shoulder Holsters: Useful for comfort during long wear but require specific clothing.
3. Material Matters
Holsters come in leather, Kydex, nylon, and hybrid materials. From my experience:
- Leather: Feels classic and comfortable, molds to the revolver over time, but requires maintenance.
- Kydex: Durable, rigid, and offers excellent retention. It’s easier to draw quickly but can be less comfortable against the skin.
- Nylon: Lightweight and affordable but offers less retention and durability.
- Hybrid: Combines leather backing with a Kydex shell, balancing comfort and retention.
4. Retention and Security
Since a snub nose revolver is often carried for self-defense, retention is key. I looked for holsters with adjustable retention screws or molded fit to keep the revolver secure during movement. Some holsters have thumb breaks or straps, but I prefer quick release options for faster draws.
5. Comfort and Concealment
Comfort is personal. I tried several holsters to find one that didn’t dig into my hip or cause discomfort sitting or moving. For concealment, I chose holsters with minimal bulk and ones that positioned the revolver in a natural spot on my body to avoid printing under clothes.
6. Ease of Draw
A holster is no good if I can’t draw quickly when needed. I practiced drawing from different holsters to see which felt natural and smooth. I recommend choosing a holster that balances retention with ease of draw, and practicing regularly.
7. Price and Brand Reputation
While I didn’t want to overspend, I found that investing in a quality holster from a reputable brand was worth it for durability and safety. Reading reviews and asking fellow shooters helped me avoid cheap holsters that didn’t hold up.
8. Additional Features
Some holsters offer adjustable cant (the angle at which the gun sits), belt clips, sweat guards, or even modular designs. Depending on your carry style, these can enhance comfort and functionality.
My Final Thoughts
Choosing a holster for a .38 snub nose revolver is about balancing comfort, security, concealment, and accessibility. I recommend starting with an IWB or pocket holster if you want concealment, and focusing on quality materials like leather or Kydex. Most importantly, try different options and practice drawing until you find what works best for you.
Hopefully, my experience helps you find the perfect holster that keeps your .38 snub nose revolver safe, accessible, and comfortable to carry every day.
Author Profile
-
Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
Latest entries
- December 26, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Cover Roll Stretch for Sports: My Honest Experience and Results
- December 26, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Wloom Powerball 2.0: My Honest Review and Results
- December 26, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Sata to NVMe Adapter Speed: Here’s What You Need to Know
- December 26, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Garnier Root Amp: Did They Really Discontinue It? Here’s What I Found