Blackhawk Speed Classic Holster

I've long been a fan of revolvers, have carried many, and I still find them perfectly viable for self defense. I like break front holsters because they are secure and yet offer a fast, uninhibited draw and I have used several over the years. I recently noticed that Midway USA had the Blackhawk Speed Classic holster on sale and promptly ordered one since it is advertised as being compatible with 2" J-frame Smith & Wessons, Taurus 85s, and Ruger SP 101s. As is typical of the excellent service that I have always received from Midway, the holster arrived before it was due and I was not disappointed in the least.

The Speed Classic is a quality leather holster designed for outside the waistband carry on the strong side. It fits a J-Frame Smith & Wesson perfectly, pulls the revolver tight to the body, and provides a forward cant with a medium rise. True to its Berns Martin origins, the holster is split in the front while the leather covers the entire trigger guard of the revolver and retains it in the rear. Unlike the originals, it does not have a leather covered spring that retains the cylinder of the revolver. Rather, a piece of elastic fabric covers the split, allowing the holster to expand as the cylinder moves forward during the draw.

Like other break front holsters, you simply push down and rock forward to draw. It is simple and straight forward.  Retention is good; the revolver stays put, and a snatch from the rear is inhibited by the design of the holster. Since the basic design has existed since the 1930s, it would be foolish to presume that an assailant would not know how to defeat it; however, it is unlikely for the revolver to get dislodged from the Speed Classic under most circumstances.

The Blackhawk Speed Classic is a solid, attractive holster that offers good value (Blackhawk lists it at $53.45; regular price is $37.99 at Midway but I bought mine just before Christmas for $18.99).  It is attractive, comfortable, conceals well under a jacket, offers an efficient presentation, stays put on a trouser belt, and allows for easy re-holstering. This holster is a hidden jewel for those who carry small framed revolvers. Blackhawk indicates compatibility with "most 2” and 2-1/8” S&W, Ruger®, Taurus® and other 5-shot revolvers."