The "Model" of a pistol distinguishes different guns within the same "Make". For example, Glock produces various numbered Models, with the "17" and "19" among the most popular. Model numbers or names are often stamped or engraved on the barrel or slide, often along with the Make. In some cases, the Model will also be represented as a prefix or other portion of the pistol’s serial number, or may be stamped on the frame in less obvious locations (e.g., under the grip panels).
If Model is not obvious, how else can I find holsters for my pistol?
If your pistol is a “1911,” then it likely corresponds to one of four basic frames for this type of pistol:
- 1911 Government (5” barrel; e.g., Colt 1991)
- 1911 Commander (4.25” barrel; e.g., Colt Combat Commander)
- 1911 Officer (3.5” barrel; e.g., Colt Officer’s Model)
- 1911 Defender (3” barrel; e.g., Colt Defender)
While 1911 frames are not generally identified on the pistol itself, if you know you have a 1911 in one of these sizes, you can usually find holsters for your gun, using the examples above, even if you don’t know your Model.
The “Model” of a revolver distinguishes different guns within the same “Make.” For example, Smith & Wesson produces various numbered Models, like the “629” and “66,” and also named Models like the “Governor.” Model numbers or names are often stamped or engraved on the barrel or frame, often along with the Make. In some cases, the Model will also be represented as a prefix or other portion of the revolver’s serial number, or may be stamped on the frame in less obvious locations (e.g., under the grip, or behind the cylinder).
If Model is not obvious, how else can I find holsters for my revolver?
If your revolver is a Smith & Wesson made since 1957, it likely matches a standard, lettered, frame size:
- J-Frame (Smallest frame, usually 5 shot; e.g., Model 60)
- K-Frame (Medium frame, e.g., Model 66)
- L-Frame (Medium-Large frame, e.g., Model 686)
- N-Frame (Large frame, usually in magnum calibers; e.g., Model 29)
- X-Frame (Xtra Large frame, made for .460-.50 magnum calibers; e.g., Model 500)
- Z-Frame (Recent frame, related to “Governor” model)
While Smith & Wesson frames are not generally identified on the revolver itself, if you know your frame size and your barrel length, you can usually find holsters for your gun, using the examples above, even if you don’t know your Model.
