The Smith & Wesson 642 IWB Holster

What Makes a Good Holster?

To be considered one of the best options, revolver holsters must be form-fitting enough to hold the gun snugly. While thumb breaks, adjustable retention systems, and snaps are good for security, they are not always necessary when a holster is shaped correctly.

Kydex holster designs are among the best holster options currently on the market because they are molded to fit a particular firearm's exterior shape precisely. Although Kydex is one of the more expensive holsters, its custom holster design makes it highly desirable for many shooters. While leather holsters are comfortable and secure if they use a strap to secure the gun, they stretch out over time and are damaged more easily. For firearm retention, Kydex offers better durability without being heavy or thick.

Manufacturers must carefully engineer a belt loop or clips to avoid breaking or stretching. Although you can use various polymers to make high-quality loops and clips, they must be adequately reinforced. 

A leather holster can stretch out belt loops after a few years of use and may not even hold firm when you draw the gun quickly.

1. Smith & Wesson 642/442 Outside the Waistband Holster

An outside the waistband (OWB) holster, also known as a belt holster, is perfect for gun owners who wear jackets or are comfortable open carrying. They typically use multiple loops to attach directly to your gun belt and cannot be removed without removing the entire belt.

Incognito Concealment’s Smith & Wesson 642/442 OWB holsters are made of sturdy 0.080” Kydex, which can hold up to years of use without adding unnecessary bulk. Manufacturers design them to be as slim as possible and fit with the body’s curve to aid in concealment.

The belt loops are tough and hold the 642 holster steady while you draw the gun. It’s the perfect holster for owners who want to conceal their weapon, yet draw it at a moment’s notice.

2. Smith & Wesson 642/442 Inside the Waistband Holster

To carry a concealed weapon without wearing a jacket, you'll need an inside the waistband (IWB) holster. An IWB is one of the best types of concealed carry holster because it fits inside a pair of pants. While the belt clip is visible on the outside of the pants, it is discrete and often blends in with a belt of the same color.

Many IWB holsters use leather to maintain comfort, but Kydex can provide both durability and comfort. This holster is reinforced to protect both you and your gun. Incognito Concealment’s Smith & Wesson 642/442 IWB holsters rely on careful molding and design to deliver a Kydex holster that fulfills both requirements.

3. Smith & Wesson 642/442 Paddle Holster

A paddle holster is a type of OWB holster that attaches securely inside the waistband instead of the belt. This holster for the Smith & Wesson 642/442 uses a sturdy belt clip to hold the holster in place but doesn’t come loose easily when drawing. It’s a perfect balance of security and ease-of-use that’s an excellent option for gun owners who have to remove their holsters frequently.

Like traditional OWB holsters, you can conceal this Smith & Wesson 642/442 paddle holster beneath a jacket. However, some paddle holsters sit lower on the hip than OWB or IWB holsters, so a longer jacket is necessary for full concealment. This particular model is slim and sits closer to the waist, making it easier to conceal than most paddle holsters.

IWB vs. OWB

OWB and paddle holsters can be challenging to conceal for gun owners in warm climates, even when carrying small revolvers like the 642/442. While OWB revolver holsters can be more comfortable than IWB revolver holsters, that comfort isn't worth it if it means sweating through a jacket on a hot summer day. However, OWB and paddle holsters should be no problem in cooler climates.

In some states , open carry laws mean concealed carry is not always legally required. Paddle and OWB holsters are now much more feasible options for civilians, since the rules surrounding concealment are not as strict.

Of course, owning multiple holsters is also an option. For example, a gun owner may decide to carry openly in one setting but require deep concealment in a different environment. Having a range of holsters available is wise because it allows you to maximize your comfort and safety in any situation.

Best Holsters for Women

Women usually carry guns the same way as men, but may sometimes prefer a revolver holster that doesn't add bulk or require a jacket to conceal. The top holsters for women are the same as for men. With rare exceptions, IWB revolver holsters are usually sufficient for women's concealed carry needs The Model 642/442 is so small that even petite women should be able to conceal it without compromising their wardrobe. Any snub-nosed revolver works well for women's concealed carry, but the 642 and 442 are exceptional because of their lightweight design.

Keep in mind that although purse holsters exist, they can be a dangerous option for women. It’s too easy for a purse to be lost or stolen and the gun used against you. It’s much safer to carry your weapon on your body, even if it means wearing a jacket over your outfit.

Which Holster is Best for You?

The best holster for you partly depends on where you plan to carry your gun. For every day carry, an IWB or OWB holster carried on your strong side is the best option. A cross-carry holster or a shoulder holster can also work if you practice enough to achieve a smooth draw.

For gun owners who drive a lot, a paddle holster may be a better option, since it's easy to remove while driving and reattach after arriving. This is one reason why paddle holsters are preferred by many police detectives as their duty holster.

Final Thoughts

No matter what your go-to carry option is, Incognito Concealment offers choices in holsters that can make it more comfortable and secure than ever before. We have invested the time and energy necessary to create the best Kydex revolver and pistol holsters on the market. Our holsters provide maximum concealment so you can use your pocket revolvers and other handguns safely.