The 2-inch J-Frame is the revolver that never went away: five rounds of .38 Special in a gun that weighs 15 ounces, has nothing to snag, and works from a pocket, a purse, or a belt. Most J-Frame holsters are leather, and most of them are soft. This guide covers the kydex IWB we make for the 2-inch J-Frame, which models it fits, and how a revolver carries differently from a pistol.
Quick specs: Smith & Wesson J-Frame holsters
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fits | S&W J-Frame 2-inch: 642, 442, 638, 637, 640, 60 and other 2" J-Frames |
| Type | Inside the waistband, untucked shirt; OWB paddle where listed |
| Material | .08" kydex |
| Cant | Adjustable |
| Retention | Adjustable screws, audible click |
| Hand | Right or left |
| Made | USA |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
Which Smith & Wesson J-Frame models share a holster
Smith & Wesson builds the 642, 442, 638, 637, 640, 60 and the rest of the 2-inch line on the same J-Frame with the same cylinder and barrel length, so one molded holster fits them all. It does not fit the 3-inch models or the 2.5-inch 66 and 69 K- and L-Frames.
The holsters, reviewed
Clip & Carry IWB Holster for the S&W J-Frame 2"
Molded in .08-inch kydex to the J-Frame cylinder and barrel with no excess material, so the revolver seats with an audible click. A revolver holster has to grip the cylinder, and this one does, with a full-length sweat shield, folded edges, and a belt clip that cants 20 degrees either way. Adjustable retention screws. Handmade in the U.S.A. by a military veteran, right or left hand, black or carbon fiber pattern, lifetime guarantee. $44.99.
How to carry a Smith & Wesson J-Frame
Appendix
A J-Frame at appendix is short enough to sit comfortably and the rounded grip prints less than any pistol. Neutral cant, and the hammerless 642 or 442 is the one to carry here; nothing to catch on the draw.
Strong side
The traditional J-Frame carry. Fifteen degrees forward at 4 o'clock, where the cylinder bulge rides in the hollow above the hip.
Optics and lights
Not a concern on a J-Frame. What matters is the grip: the factory boot grip is the one to carry, and the holster is molded for it. Oversized rubber grips still fit, since the holster grips the cylinder, but they print.
Frequently asked questions
Which J-Frames does this fit?
Any 2-inch J-Frame: 642, 442, 638, 637, 640, 60, 43C, 340PD and similar.
Does it fit a 3-inch J-Frame?
No. The barrel is an inch longer than the mold.
Does it fit the Ruger LCR?
No. The LCR has its own holster; see the link below.
Does a kydex holster work for a revolver?
Yes. The mold grips the cylinder, which is why it clicks and why it holds better than soft leather.
Left hand?
Yes.
The bottom line
The J-Frame IWB holster gives a fifty-year-old design a modern holster that clicks. Molded, adjustable, guaranteed for life.
Related reading
Best holsters for the Ruger LCR
Best holsters for the Kimber K6s
What makes a good concealed carry holster
