Freedom Arms Model 83 Holster

[Grumulkin]

What do you guys like in holsters for a Freedom Arms Model 83 revolver?  I want a leather one preferably with no thumb break; I would like it to be either cross draw or strong side.

[BigMuddy]

That's a tough question....

What barrel length, scoped or not?

For the longer barrels, my favorite by far is the shoulder holster that FA sells. Really any from FA holsters are good quality and work well. The Tom Threepersons style from various makes can usually be had in a cross draw if that is your preference. El Paso Saddlery has worked well for me.

[farscott]

For cross draw, I prefer the Milt Sparks HSR.  It is a great holster since it allows me to work on my property without the gun getting in the way.  For a standard strong-side holster, I like the Sparks #200AW.  I have both holsters for four guns (six-inch N-frame, six-inch K-frame, 7.5" 83, and 5.5" 97), but the HSR models get used a lot more.  The HSR keeps the gun out of way when working with both hands yet allows a decent draw.  My .357 Magnum 97 has been used on more than a few snakes this year.

My HSRs are finished in sharkskin so it is has more abrasion resistance.  These are fine field holsters.

[Grumulkin]

That's a tough question....

What barrel length, scoped or not?

Unscoped with a 6 inch barrel.

[Grumulkin]

I just looked at the Milt Sparks web site.  Those look like VERY nice holsters and probably just what I'm looking for; I may need 2 or 3 of those.

[BigMuddy]

That's a tough question....

What barrel length, scoped or not?

Unscoped with a 6 inch barrel.

For my 6" gun I really prefer a Threepersons style on a separate holster belt, not a pants belt. Mine was made by "Lonesome Ryder Leather" here in Missouri. I have a couple Milt Sparks holsters too, and they are EXCELLENT. I have one of the 200 AW's for a 5 1/2" Bisley, and that gun is hardly noticed until needed. They distribute the weight of the gun perfectly in my opinion, and that is one that I CAN comfortably carry on a pants belt. Be prepared to wait a while on them. (Same really with most of the custom leathersmiths).

[Gun 4 Fun]

I like the El Paso 1942 Tanker holster. It is a chest/crossdraw style holster. There is a picture of it on their website. It carries the gun up and out of the way for bending, is quite handy while fishing along salmon stream, and it's quite comfortable. It is very similar to Bianchi's HuSH system only made out of quality leather.

[MarkH]

For a gun as heavy as the 83, I really prefer the FA "X" shoulder/chest holster, minus the extra strap.  By far the most comfortable way I have found to carry a big revolver all day.

[nathan]

Another postive vote for the Milt Sparks #200AW.  I have one for both my FA and Ruger Bisley, and love them.  The FA is a 4 3/4" 475 and it rides pretty well.  I took it on a 70mile jaunt through the Bob Marshall (horseback) this summer, and have no complaints.  I went w/ the FBI cant and hardly noticed it in the saddle.  Took numerous side jaunts on foot w/ the rig as well, and you don't exactly forget it's on your hip, but it's not burdensome. 

[Grumulkin]

I actually ordered 2 Milt Sparks holsters.  As you know, it takes awhile to get them.  It has been about 3 months now so hopefully they'll be coming soon.

[Graybeard]

I've never been one to get fancy or expensive with holsters. I see them as utilitarian items and so long as they get the job done that's all that I need of them. They are not fashion statements for me.

The holsters that FA offers are made to fit their guns and do an excellent job of holding their guns. They work for me.