U.S. patent application number 15/076325 was filed with the patent office on 2016-09-22 for holster.
This patent application is currently assigned to Vista Outdoor Operations LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Vista Outdoor Operations LLC. Invention is credited to Robert KINCAID, Christopher MICHAEL, Daniel SEREDAY, Paul SMITH.
Application Number | 20160273878 15/076325 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56923683 |
Filed Date | 2016-09-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160273878 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
SEREDAY; Daniel ; et
al. |
September 22, 2016 |
HOLSTER
Abstract
A holster for a weapon includes a unitary semi-rigid holster
body defining a cavity adapted to hold the weapon, the holster body
including a closed front, a closed rear, two closed sides extending
between the front and rear, a bottom, and an open top adapted to
receive the weapon into the cavity. The holster body has an
attachment area for securing a holster clip to the holster body to
secure the holster body to an article worn or carried by a user.
The holster body is constructed of an injection-molded
thermoplastic elastomer and is constructed to friction-grip the
weapon within the cavity. When the weapon is absent from the cavity
and a compressing force is applied against one or both of the
closed sides of the holster body, the holster body is constructed
to compress from side-to-side by at least 30% without fracturing,
the open top being constructed to automatically return to an
original uncompressed shape when the compressing force is removed
such that the weapon can be received into the cavity for
re-holstering.
Inventors: |
SEREDAY; Daniel; (Belgrade,
MT) ; SMITH; Paul; (Bozeman, MT) ; MICHAEL;
Christopher; (Belgrade, MT) ; KINCAID; Robert;
(Manhattan, MT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Vista Outdoor Operations LLC |
Clearfield |
UT |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Vista Outdoor Operations
LLC
Clearfield
UT
|
Family ID: |
56923683 |
Appl. No.: |
15/076325 |
Filed: |
March 21, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62135917 |
Mar 20, 2015 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41C 33/041 20130101;
F41C 33/0209 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F41C 33/02 20060101
F41C033/02 |
Claims
1. An inside the waist band holster for a handgun, comprising: a
unitary semi-rigid holster body defining a cavity adapted to hold
the weapon, the holster body comprising a closed front, a closed
rear, two closed sides extending between the front and rear, a
bottom, and an open top adapted to receive the weapon into the
cavity, the holster body having a unitary continuous wall extending
around the closed front, the two sides, and the closed rear; the
holster body having an attachment area for securing a holster clip
to the holster body to secure the holster body to an article worn
or carried by a user of the weapon; wherein the holster body is
constructed of an injection-molded thermoplastic elastomer Shore D
durometer in the range of about 55 to about 70, the holster body
being constructed to friction-grip the weapon within the cavity
with the friction increasing upon compression of the holster from
side to side when worn inside the waistband, and further
constructed such that opposing two sidewalls do not contact one
another under such side to side compression when the handgun is
removed and 12.5 lbs. force is applied to the two sides at the open
top, and further constructed such that when the sufficient sidewall
force is applied at the open top of the opposing two sidewalls for
the sidewalls to contact each other, the holster body will not
fracture, the open top returning to an original uncompressed shape
when such sidewall force is removed.
2. The holster of claim 1, wherein the holster body has a spring
member with a detent positioned to capture a trigger guard of the
handgun when the handgun is holstered.
3. The holster of claim 2, wherein the holster body has a Shore D
durometer in the range of about 60 to about 65.
4. The holster of claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic elastomer
comprises a HYTREL brand thermoplastic polyester elastomer.
5. The holster of claim 2, the holster spring member is defined by
a pair of slits extending through one of the sidewalls and the
spring member is adjustable with a threaded member.
6. The holster of claim 5, wherein the slits extend upwardly and
downwardly and are positioned partially below a holster clip
attached to one of the sidewalls.
7. An inside the waist band holster for a handgun, comprising: a
unitary semi-rigid holster body defining a cavity adapted to hold
the weapon, the holster body comprising a closed front, a closed
rear, two closed sides extending between the front and rear, a
bottom, and an open top adapted to receive the weapon into the
cavity, the holster body having a unitary continuous wall extending
around the closed front, the two sides, and the closed rear; the
holster body having an attachment area for securing a holster clip
to the holster body to secure the holster body to an article worn
or carried by a user of the weapon; wherein the holster body is
constructed of an injection-molded thermoplastic elastomer wherein
the holster body comprises a first sidewall forming one of the two
closed sides and a second sidewall forming the other of the two
closed sides, the first and second sidewalls defining a distance
between them when the weapon is absent from the holster cavity, the
distance being an uncompressed distance; further wherein a force of
about 10 pounds applied to the first sidewall compresses the
holster body by about 65% to about 80% of the uncompressed
distance; further wherein release of the force causes the holster
body to substantially restore the uncompressed distance.
8. The holster of claim 7, further wherein a force of about 15
pounds applied to the first sidewall compresses the holster body by
about 90% to about 100% of the uncompressed distance; further
wherein release of the force causes the holster body to
substantially restore the uncompressed distance.
9. The holster of claim 7, wherein a force of about 5 lbf applied
to the first sidewall at the top of the holster body reduces the
distance by a range of about 0.3 in to about 0.5 in.
10. The holster of claim 7, wherein the holster body includes a
pair of slots extending through the holster body and defining
between them a passive retention portion to provide frictional
retention of the weapon in the cavity of the holster body, further
wherein the passive retention portion comprises at least one
strengthening rib; further wherein the holster body defines at
least one aperture to receive a retention fastener, the retention
fastener being tightenable or loosenable to adjust the degree of
frictional retention of the weapon by the passive retention
portion.
11. The holster of claim 7, wherein the body has an attachment area
with an aperture through the holster body adapted to receive a
fastener for a holster clip, the holster body further defining an
internal recess adapted to substantially prevent rotation of a
fastener retainer that receives the fastener within the recess, the
holster further comprising the holster clip.
12. The holster of claim 11, wherein the internal recess extends to
the open top of the holster body for insertion of the retainer
along the recess to the aperture.
13. The holster of claim 11, wherein the attachment area for
securing a holster clip is substantially planar and is constructed
to accommodate securement of the holster clip at any angular
orientation of the holster clip relative to the holster body.
14. The holster of claim 7, in combination with a holster clip;
wherein the attachment area comprises a holster body aperture
through the holster body, the holster body aperture being adapted
to receive a fastener for the holster clip; further wherein the
holster clip defines two clip apertures, both of the two clip
apertures being constructed to receive the fastener and being
selectively alignable with the holster body aperture such that the
fastener passes through a selected clip aperture and into the
holster body aperture, to adjust the height of the holster clip
with respect to the holster body.
15. The holster of claim 7, in combination with a holster clip, the
holster clip defining an aperture to secure the holster clip to the
attachment area of the holster body, the holster clip further
defining at least one ridge near the aperture to increase static
friction between the holster clip and the holster body when the
holster clip is secured to the holster body.
16. The holster of claim 15, wherein the at least one ridge
comprises a plurality of ridges extending radially outwardly from
the aperture.
17. The holster of claim 1, in combination with a holster clip, the
holster clip being rotationally adjustable with respect to the
holster body for securement in any desired angular orientation with
respect to the holster body; the holster clip comprising two
apertures therethrough for selective alignment with an aperture in
the attachment area of the holster body, to adjust the height of
the holster clip with respect to the holster body; and the holster
clip comprising a plurality of ridges extending radially away from
each of the two apertures, to increase static friction between the
holster clip and the holster body.
18. An inside the waist band holster for a weapon, comprising: a
unitary semi-rigid holster body defining a cavity adapted to hold
the weapon, the holster body comprising a closed front, a closed
rear, two closed sides extending between the front and rear, a
bottom, and an open top adapted to receive the weapon into the
cavity; the holster body having an attachment area for securing a
holster clip to the holster body to secure the holster body inside
the waistband of a user of the weapon; wherein the holster body is
constructed of an injection-molded thermoplastic polyester
elastomer, the holster body being constructed to friction-grip the
weapon within the cavity; wherein the holster body has a Shore D
durometer in the range of about 55 to about 70; wherein when the
weapon is absent from the cavity and a compressing force is applied
against one or both of the closed sides of the holster body when
the holster is inside the waistband of a user, the holster body is
constructed to compress from side-to-side, the open top being
constructed to automatically return to an original uncompressed
shape when the compressing force is removed such that the weapon
can be received into the cavity for re-holstering.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 62/135,917, filed Mar. 20, 2015.
The subject matter of this application is related to the subject
matter of commonly owned, U.S. Design patent application Ser. No.
29/521,233, filed Mar. 20, 2015, entitled "Holster", both of which
are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their
entireties.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] Many users of handguns, particularly military and law
enforcement personnel, carry a handgun in a holster designed to
protect the handgun and hold it securely. Holsters can be worn in a
number of ways, such as on a belt at the waist, on the thigh, under
an arm, or around an ankle.
[0003] Certain users of handguns must be able to quickly and easily
remove the handgun from a holster regardless of the type of holster
used. Additionally, these users need to be assured that, when not
in use, the handgun will remain safely in the holster.
[0004] Some holsters rely solely on friction to secure the handgun
in place. This combination might not be suitable for situations
where the gun/holster is subject to a great deal of movement
because such movement could cause the handgun to lose frictional
engagement with the holster. But such holsters can be advantageous
because of the low time required to release and/or re-secure the
handgun in the holster.
[0005] Certain other holsters include a variety of strap or flap
arrangements that prevent the removal of the firearm from the
holster while the strap or flap is in place. With designs that rely
on this method to retain a handgun, a user must first unfasten
and/or rotate the strap/flap before the firearm can be withdrawn.
Then, to re-secure the handgun in the holster once the handgun has
been re-holstered, the user must physically refasten and/or rotate
the strap/flap before the firearm is securely retained within the
holster. Some users might not prefer these designs because of the
time required to release and/or re-secure the handgun.
SUMMARY
[0006] According to one embodiment, a holster for a weapon includes
a unitary semi-rigid holster body defining a cavity adapted to hold
the weapon, the holster body having a closed front, a closed rear,
two closed sides extending between the front and rear, an open
bottom, and an open top adapted to receive the weapon into the
cavity. The holster body has an attachment area for securing a
holster clip to the holster body to secure the holster body to an
article worn or carried by a user. The holster body is constructed
of an injection-molded thermoplastic elastomer and is constructed
to friction-grip the weapon within the cavity. When the weapon is
absent from the cavity and a compressing force is applied against
one or both of the closed sides of the holster body, the holster
body is constructed to compress from side-to-side by at least 30%
without breaking, the open top being constructed to automatically
return to an original uncompressed shape when the compressing force
is removed such that the weapon can be received into the cavity for
re-holstering.
[0007] In embodiments, the holster body comprising a unitary wall
that extends continuously, unitarily around the front, a left side,
the rear, and the right side. The holster body having a forward
peak portion extending the entirety of a top to bottom forward
length of the holster body defining a forward sight accommodating
cavity portion for the holster. The holster peak portion is defined
by a portion of the unitary wall comprising a pair of angled
connecting forward panelar wall portions that meet at the
forwardmost peak of the holster, with the pair of angled connecting
forward panelar wall portions defining an interior angle of less
than 90 degrees. The pair of angled connecting forward panelar wall
portions may each have a slight concavity extending inwardly.
Rearwardly of the pair of angled connecting forwardly panelar
portions, a pair of parallel sidewall portions connect to the
forwardly panelar portions defining an interior handgun slide
receiving cavity and a pair of interior wall surfaces for
frictionally engaging the slide of the handgun. The pair of
parallel sidewall portion extend from the top to the bottom of the
holster body. Rearward of the pair of parallel wall portions is a
T-shaped wall portion. The upper legs of the T of the T-shaped wall
portion define a rearward surface for the muzzle end of the
handgun, opposite the sight. The lower leg of the T of the T-shaped
wall portion defining a pair of narrow parallel rearward walls. The
T-shaped wall portion extending upwardly to a pair of trigger guard
defining parallel wall portions joined by a rearward bridging wall.
A bottom opening is defined by a continuous circular lip that joins
to each of the T-shaped wall portion, the parallel sidewall
portions, and the pair of angled connecting forwardly panelar
portions. The continuous lip and correspondingly the bottom
aperture forming a pentagon with rounded corners, two parallel
sides, and a line of symmetry. The open top has an top opening
sized for receiving the handgun and defined by the upper ends of
the pair of angled connecting forward panelar wall portions, the
pair of parallel side wall portions, a further pair of parallel
side wall portions, and a Y-shaped wall portion. A passive
retention portion configured as an elongate spring member defined
by two slits extend from within the T-shaped wall portion to the
pair of trigger guard defining parallel wall portions. An
adjustment member may adjust the distance between the spring member
and opposite wall portion thereby adjusting a capture tension of
the trigger guard. The spring member may have a projection defining
a detent to be positioned inside the trigger guard when the handgun
is holstered for retention of the handgun in the holster.
[0008] According to another embodiment, a holster for a weapon
includes a unitary semi-rigid holster body defining a cavity
adapted to hold the weapon, the holster body comprising a closed
front, a closed rear, two closed sides extending between the front
and rear, a bottom, and an open top adapted to receive the weapon
into the cavity. The holster body has an attachment area for
securing a holster clip to the holster body to secure the holster
body inside the waistband of a user of the weapon, and is
constructed of an injection-molded thermoplastic polyester
elastomer, the holster body being constructed to friction-grip the
weapon within the cavity. The holster body has a Shore D durometer
in the range of about 55 to about 70. When the weapon is absent
from the cavity and a compressing force is applied against one or
both of the closed sides of the holster body when the holster is
inside the waistband of a user, the holster body is constructed to
compress from side-to-side, the open top being constructed to
automatically return to an original uncompressed shape when the
compressing force is removed such that the weapon can be received
into the cavity for re-holstering.
[0009] According to another embodiment, a holster assembly for a
handgun includes a one-piece holster shell formed of an
injection-molded polymeric semi-soft material, the holster shell
defining a holster retainer attachment area, and a holster retainer
attached to the holster shell for securing the holster shell to an
article worn or carried by a user of the handgun. The holster
retainer is formed of a substantially rigid material, and defines
an aperture and a plurality of ridges extending away from the
aperture, the holster retainer being rotatable with respect to the
holster shell for securement in any desired angular position with
respect to the holster shell. The holster assembly also includes a
fastener for securing the holster retainer to the holster body,
wherein tightening of the fastener causing the plurality of ridges
to bite into the semi-soft material of the holster shell and secure
the holster retainer to the holster shell.
[0010] According to another embodiment, a holster clip is for
attachment to a semi-rigid holster body for securing the holster
body to an article worn or carried by a user of a handgun adapted
to fit in the holster body, the holster clip being formed of a
substantially rigid material. The holster clip defines an aperture
and a plurality of ridges extending away from the aperture, the
holster clip being rotatable with respect to the holster body for
securement in any desired angular position with respect to the
holster body. The aperture is adapted to receive a fastener for
securing the holster clip to the holster body, and tightening of
the fastener causing the plurality of ridges to bite into the
semi-rigid material of the holster body and secure the holster clip
to the holster body.
[0011] A feature and advantage of the holster according to
embodiments is that the friction retention of the holster with the
handgun and the detent on the spring member within the trigger
guard is the only retention and such retention is adequate for
retaining the handgun in the holster.
[0012] Other embodiments of the invention include a method of
making and a method of using a holster described herein.
[0013] Other aspects of the disclosure will be apparent to those of
ordinary skill upon reading this disclosure, and this Summary
should not be considered limiting.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] Embodiments of the invention will be described with
reference to the figures, in which like reference numerals denote
like elements, and in which:
[0015] FIG. 1 shows a side perspective view of a handgun holster
assembly, according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0016] FIG. 2 shows an opposite side perspective view of the FIG. 1
holster assembly, according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0017] FIG. 3 is a perspective line drawing of the FIG. 1 holster
assembly without a handgun, according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0018] FIG. 4 shows a front elevation view of the FIG. 1 holster,
according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0019] FIG. 5 shows a bottom view of the FIG. 1 holster assembly,
according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0020] FIG. 6 shows a top view of the FIG. 1 holster assembly,
according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0021] FIG. 7 shows a rear view of the FIG. 1 holster assembly,
according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0022] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the FIG. 1 holster
assembly, according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0023] FIG. 9 is an opposite-side top perspective view of a holster
body or shell of the FIG. 8 holster assembly, according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0024] FIG. 10 is a side view of a holster body showing load
placement for a testing protocol, according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0025] FIG. 11 is a side view of a holster clip useable in the FIG.
1 holster assembly, according to an embodiment of the
invention;
[0026] FIG. 12 is an opposite side view of the FIG. 11 holster
clip, according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0027] FIG. 13 is top view of the FIG. 11 holster clip, according
to an embodiment of the invention, the top and bottom views being
substantial mirror images of each other;
[0028] FIG. 14 is an top or end view of the FIG. 11 holster clip,
according to an embodiment of the invention;
[0029] FIGS. 15-18 are side perspective views of a holster adapted
for a different make or model of handgun, according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0030] FIGS. 19-22 are side perspective views of a holster adapted
for another different make or model of handgun, according to an
embodiment of the invention; and
[0031] FIGS. 23-26 are side perspective views of a holster adapted
for yet another different make or model of handgun, according to an
embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0032] Referring to FIGS. 1-10, holster 10 is configured to carry
handgun or other weapon 15. Holster 10 provides Level 1 adjustable
passive retention and can be worn inside the waistband (IWB) for
concealment, according to embodiments of the invention. Holster 10
includes a unitary, polymeric holster shell or body 20 with a
unitary wall 21 including a pair of opposing sidewalls 22, 24
defining cavity 25 adapted to hold handgun 15. Holster body 20 is
semi-rigid and includes closed front 30, closed rear 35, first and
second closed sides 40, 45 extending between front 30 and rear 35,
bottom 50, and open top 55 defining opening 60 adapted to receive
handgun 15 within cavity 25. Bottom 50 is semi-closed, or partially
open, defining bottom aperture 52 having substantially rounded
corners. Aperture 52 allows debris to exit holster body 20 while
still protecting the user from hot barrel and muzzle 54 of the
handgun 15. In some cases, the width of aperture 52 is decreased so
that it is significantly less than the barrel diameter of handgun
15, ensuring that an extended or threaded barrel, for example, will
not get stuck in aperture 52. Bottom 50 is also substantially
rounded as it transitions to front 30, rear 35, and sides 40, 45 of
holster body 20. The rounded corners of aperture 52 and rounded
transitions of bottom 50 avoid sharp edges that might catch on
clothing or create discomfort for a user of holster 10.
[0033] The holster body 20 comprising the unitary wall 21 that
extends continuously, unitarily around the front 30, a left side
40, the rear 35, and the right side 45. The holster body having a
forward peak portion 60 extending the entirety of a top to bottom
forward length of the holster body defining a forward sight
accommodating cavity portion 62 for the holster. The holster peak
portion is defined by a portion of the unitary wall comprising a
pair of angled connecting forward panelar wall portions 63, 64 that
meet at the forwardmost peak of the holster, with the pair of
angled connecting forward panelar wall portions defining an
interior angle of less than 90 degrees in embodiments. The pair of
angled connecting forward panelar wall portions may each have a
slight concavity extending inwardly. Rearwardly of the pair of
angled connecting forwardly panelar portions, a pair of parallel
sidewall portions 66.1, 66.2 connect to the forwardly panelar
portions defining an interior handgun slide receiving cavity 67 and
a pair of interior wall surfaces 68, 69 for frictionally engaging
the slide of the handgun. The pair of parallel sidewall portions
extend from the top to the bottom of the holster body. Rearward of
the pair of parallel wall portions is a T-shaped wall portion 71.
The upper legs of the T of the T-shaped wall portion define a
rearward surface 71.2 for the muzzle end of the handgun, opposite
the sight. The lower leg 71.4 of the T of the T-shaped wall portion
defining a pair of narrow parallel rearward walls 72.2, 72.4. The
T-shaped wall portion extending upwardly to a pair of trigger guard
defining parallel wall portions 76.2, 76.4 joined by a rearward
bridging wall. A bottom opening 77 is defined by a continuous
circular lip 77.2 that joins to each of the T-shaped wall portion,
the parallel sidewall portions, and the pair of angled connecting
forwardly panelar portions. The continuous lip and correspondingly
the bottom aperture forming a pentagon 77.7 with rounded corners,
two parallel sides, and a line of symmetry. The open top has an top
opening 60 sized for receiving the handgun and defined by the upper
ends of the pair of angled connecting forward panelar wall
portions, the pair of parallel side wall portions, a further pair
of parallel side wall portions 78.2, 78.4, and a Y-shaped wall
portion 78.7. The opening when viewed from the side presenting an
arcuate convex upper lip 78.9. A passive retention portion 115
configured as an elongate spring member 81 defined by two slits
81.2, 81.4 extend from within the T-shaped wall portion to the pair
of trigger guard defining parallel wall portions. An adjustment
member may adjust the distance between the spring member and
opposite wall portion thereby adjusting a capture tension of the
trigger guard. The spring member may have a projection 83, see FIG.
6, defining a detent to be positioned inside the trigger guard when
the handgun is holstered for retention of the handgun in the
holster.
[0034] Holster body 20 has one or more attachment points or areas
65, 70 for securing holster clip 75 to holster body 20, thereby
securing or connecting holster body 20 to an article worn or
carried by a user of handgun 15. Embodiments of the invention are
used to secure holster body 20 to a belt, for carrying holster body
20 inside the pants or waistband, for example. Providing two
attachment points or areas on opposite sides of holster body 20
enables attachment of clip 75 to either side, enabling ambidextrous
use of holster 10. Holster clips may also include one or more
connections to an article of clothing or other article at a user's
chest, ankle, leg, or shoulder, for example, or to a harness or
band, or for otherwise securing the holster to a user or the user's
apparel. Clips may also include connections to an article carried
by a user, for example a purse or bag.
[0035] Holster body 20 is constructed of an injection-molded
thermoplastic elastomer material. One such material suitable for
use is sold under the HYTREL brand, available from DuPont, and
specifically a HYTREL 6356 resin. HYTREL polyester elastomers are
known as true thermoplastic polymers that can be processed using
known thermoplastic techniques, and are characterized by relatively
sharp melting points, temperature-sensitive viscosities, and
generally rapid crystallization. Materials suitable for use
according to embodiments of the invention provide one or more of
strength, durability, heat resistance, chemical resistance, and
resilience, and it should be appreciated that materials other than
HYTREL brand materials are usable according to embodiments of the
invention.
[0036] Embodiments of holster body 20 provide a Shore D durometer
hardness in a range of about 55 to about 70, more specifically of
about 60 to about 65, and even more specifically of about 63. Such
hardness values have been found to provide holster body 20 with a
semi-soft tactile effect that is comfortable to the touch, and
otherwise aesthetically pleasing. Inside surface 80 is optionally
glossier and/or smoother than outside surface 85, for a smoother
feel and draw as handgun 15 is moved into or out of holster body
20. To that end, the inside of the mold core that forms the
interior geometry of cavity 25 and inside surface 80 is not
textured. Outside surface 85 of holster body 20 optionally has more
of a matte finish due to the textured mold cavities that form the
exterior geometry of holster body 25 and outside surface 85. Thus,
relative to inside surface 80 of holster body 20, outside surface
85 has a slightly more textured feel. The relatively smooth inside
surface, combined with the hardness ranges described above,
optionally enhance the friction-grip effect on handgun 15 within
cavity 25 when it is desired to retain handgun 15 within holster
body 20, while creating a smooth feel and draw when it is desired
to draw or otherwise remove handgun 15. Inside surface 80
optionally has lower coefficients of static and/or kinetic friction
than outside surface 85, or in other embodiments, has higher
coefficients of static and/or kinetic friction than outside surface
85. The hardness values and ranges discussed above provide
semi-rigidity to holster body 20, allowing compressibility of
holster body 20 and enabling better frictional contact with holster
clip 75.
[0037] The semi-rigidity of holster body 20 allows compression of
holster body 20 from side-to-side. When handgun 15 is within cavity
25, a compressive force acting from outside holster body 20 on one
or more of closed sides 40, 45 compresses inside surface 80 against
the sides of handgun 15, further increasing the amount of
frictional force holding handgun 15 within cavity 25 and reducing
the likelihood of accidental dislodgement or removal of handgun 15
from holster 10. Additionally, embodiments of the invention provide
that when handgun 15 is absent from cavity 25 and a compressing
force is applied against one or both of closed sides 40, 45,
holster body 20 is constructed to compress from side-to-side by at
least about 30% without breaking, more specifically at least about
50% without breaking, still more specifically at least about 75%
without breaking, and still more specifically about 100% without
breaking. Compressibility percentages are established by
determining an uncompressed distance between top 90 of first side
40 and top 95 of second side 45 at centerline 100 (FIG. 10) of
holster body 20, centerline 100 extending from top to bottom of the
holster, determining a compressed distance between first side 40
and second side 45 at the same location, dividing the compressed
distance by the uncompressed distance, and subtracting from 100%.
Alternatively, compressibility percentages are equivalently
calculated by subtracting compressed distance from uncompressed
distance and dividing the result by the uncompressed distance. 100%
compressibility means that first closed side 40 and second closed
side 45 come into contact with each other at the top of cavity
25.
[0038] In various embodiments, one or both of sides 40, 45 include
optional slots 105 and 110, which define passive retention portion
115. Passive retention portion 115 provides for increased
frictional engagement between holster body 20 and the trigger guard
of the handgun. Passive retention portion 115, if included, may be
adjusted, via one or more retention screws 130 or other fasteners
received in aperture 135, to provide an adjustable frictional
tension between passive retention portion 115 and the handgun
trigger guard, without increasing the frictional tension between a
remaining portion of holster body 20 and handgun 15. Passive
retention portion 115 includes one or more stiffening ribs 140, to
provide relatively increased rigidity or stiffness to the spring
created by passive retention portion 115, to compensate for the
semi-rigid or semi-soft nature of the material used to form holster
body 20. Passive retention portion 115 also is of generally
increased size, again to compensate for the nature of the material,
by providing slot extensions 142, 143 that extend generally
parallel to portion 144 of rear 35 and diagonally relative to the
remainder of slots 105, 110. Passive retention portion 115 thus
provides increased frictional tension between passive retention
portion 115 and handgun 15 inside cavity 25.
[0039] Attachment points or areas 65, 70 for holster clip 75,
according to one embodiment, each define an aperture 145 through
holster body 20, one on each side 40, 45 to provide ambidextrous
use of holster 10. The area surrounding each aperture 145 is
substantially planar and large enough to accommodate holster clip
75 in a variety of sizes and rotational alignments. Each aperture
145 is adapted to receive a fastener 150 for holster clip 75.
Holster body 20 defines internal recesses 155, one on each side 40,
50, each extending to the top of holster body 20 and each for
receiving fastener retainer 160 and substantially preventing
rotation thereof within recess 155. Fastener retainer 160 can be
inserted into and slid along recess 155 from the top of holster
body 20 to aperture 145. Fastener 150 then is inserted through
holster clip 75, into either aperture 145, and retained by retainer
160. According to the illustrated embodiment, fastener retainer 160
is a substantially square-shaped nut for threading onto fastener
150, which is in the form of a screw or bolt, for example.
[0040] Front 30 of holster body 20 includes raised portion 165 for
accommodating a sight of handgun 15. Raised portion 165 defines a
plurality of recesses, depressions or fillets 170, 175, which
simultaneously provide cosmetic features and structural
strengthening of front 30. According to the illustrated embodiment,
fillets 170 are relatively shorter and fillet 175 is relatively
longer, to accommodate a logo or branding, for example. Flared
areas 177 transition front 30 of holster body 20 to sides 40, 45.
According to one embodiment, flared areas 177 extend at an angle of
about 3 degrees outwardly from sides 40, 45, to mitigate pinch and
to aid in insertion of handgun 15. Additionally, one or both of
sides 40, 45 include wider portions 180, 185 with transition areas
187, 189 to the remainder of sides 40, 45. According to one
embodiment, the transition area extends at an angle of about 84
degrees, which has been found advantageous in slipping holster 10
inside a waistband, frictionally securing it within the waistband,
and effectively transferring externally applied compressive force
to handgun 15 when secured within holster 10, for example. Top 55
of holster body 20 extends high enough to cover a substantial
portion of handgun 15, but low enough to not interfere with or
cover controls on handgun 15, or any current or future RMR sight
mounting locations. Flat edge 190 of top 55 optionally extends
substantially parallel to the grip of handgun 15, and adjacent edge
192 of top 55 optionally is shaped in a way that allows the
semi-rigid material of holster body 20 to stop on the trigger guard
of handgun 15 instead of pushing into the trigger guard cavity when
clip 75 is pushed toward inwardly toward handgun 15 or other
external compressive force is applied.
[0041] Embodiments of holster clip 75 now will be described with
additional reference to FIGS. 11-14. Clip 75 includes inner
mounting portion 195, outer hook portion 200, and hook end 205.
Mounting portion 195 defines two apertures 210, 215. A user of
holster 10 chooses which of apertures 210, 215 to use to connect
clip 75 to attachment point or area 65, 70 with fastener 150.
Providing two apertures 210, 215 allows height adjustment of clip
75 with respect to holster body 20. Apertures 210, 215 are disposed
at the bottom of recesses 220, 225 for accommodating a head of
fastener 150 (FIG. 1).
[0042] In addition to height adjustment with respect to holster
body 20, clip 75 can be attached and secured to holster body 20 in
an of an infinite number of angular orientations with respect to
holster body 20. Inner surface 220 of mounting portion 195 defines
a plurality of raised ridges 225 near and extending radially
outwardly from each aperture 210, 215. The illustrated embodiment
includes 12 such ridges extending radially outwardly, but 4, 8, or
other numbers of raised ridges 225 are contemplated according to
the disclosure. Ridges 225 also can form a square shape around
apertures 201, 215 instead of the radially outwardly or "starburst"
shape or pattern. Ridges 225 provide "bite" into the semi-rigid or
semi-soft material of holster body 20, increasing the static
friction between holster clip 75 and holster body 20 when fastener
150 and fastener retainer 160 are used to tighten holster clip 75
against holster body 20.
[0043] As referenced earlier herein, attachment area 65, 70
surrounding apertures 145 is substantially planar and is large
enough to accommodate holster clip 75 at any angular orientation
with respect to holster body 20, providing infinite incremental
rotation of clip 75 relative to holster body 20. Radially extending
ridges 225 serve to effectively and evenly engage attachment area
65 or 70 no matter what angular orientation of clip 75 a user
chooses.
[0044] FIGS. 15-26 illustrate additional embodiments of the
invention for accommodating different types and styles of handgun
15. FIGS. 15-18 illustrate a holster adapted for a GLOCK 19/23/32
handgun, FIGS. 19-22 for a GLOCK 42 handgun, and FIGS. 23-26 for a
S&W M&P Shield handgun. FIGS. 1-9 illustrate a holster
adapted for a GLOCK 17/22/31 handgun, and features and advantages
described with respect to those figures apply equally to holsters
of FIGS. 15-20, and vice versa. Of course, other handguns and
weapons can be held by the various holster embodiments described
herein. Additionally, the clip of FIGS. 11-14 can be used with any
of the holster embodiments referenced herein, and can be of
different sizes or proportions to fit or be selected by a
particular user. Multiple clips can be provided in combination with
holster body 20 in a single package.
[0045] In contrast to certain prior art IWB holsters that are
folded over or have a folded-over appearance in which sidewalls are
fastened together to form an open or openable rear side, holster
body 20 according to embodiments of the invention is of an unfolded
configuration. No folding, folding over, or bending of holster body
20 is needed before holster body 20 is used to hold handgun 15 or
other weapon, and holster body 20 is not molded to have a folded
appearance. Additionally, holster body 20 is unitary and continuous
and remains permanently closed at front 30, rear 35, and both sides
40, 45. Holster body 20 is molded as it is intended to be used,
that is, it is molded in a ready-to-use configuration. Many such
prior art IWB holsters also are formed of a rigid material and are
subject to fracturing, breaking upon compression, whereas the
semi-rigid or semi-soft nature of holster body 20 means that
holster body 20 can be compressed without fracturing and will
return to its original, open state for re-holstering when
compression force is removed.
[0046] A series of tests was performed on holster embodiments
according to the invention, to measure compressibility of each
holster. An uncompressed distance between top 90 of first side 40
and top 95 of second side 45 at centerline 100 of holster body 20
was measured. With reference to FIG. 10, 5 pound, 7.5 pound, 10
pound, 12.5 pound, and 15 pound weighted rod assemblies were placed
on-end on side 45 of holster body 20 at the circle indicated at
250. A compressed distance between first side 40 and second side 45
at centerline 100 was measured, i.e. from the top points indicated
at 90, 95 in FIG. 9 or between top point 95 in FIG. 10 and the
corresponding top point on the opposite side. Compression
percentages were determined by dividing the compressed distance by
the uncompressed distance, and subtracting from 100%. Experimental
data according to these tests are shown in Table 1 below.
IWB Holsters Compression Test Results
TABLE-US-00001 [0047] TABLE 1 Holster Model Glock 17/22/31 Glock
19/23/32 Glock 42 S&W M&P Shield 0 lbf Load (in) 1.096 0%
1.107 0% 0.950 0% 0.970 0% 5 lbf Load (in) 0.710 35% 0.775 30%
0.565 41% 0.512 47% 7.5 lbf Load (in) 0.520 53% 0.546 51% 0.375 61%
0.295 70% 10 lbf Load (in) 0.305 72% 0.365 67% 0.209 78% 0.207*
79%* 12.5 lbf Load (in) 0.080 93% 0.185 83% 0.070* 93%* 0.184* 81%*
15 lbf Load (in) 0.000* 100%* 0.041 96% 0.038* 96%* 0.168* 83%*
*indicates that internal features are touching, for example at
passive retention feature 115.
[0048] For each holster embodiment, the first column is the
separation distance in inches between sides 40 and 45, taken at
holster centerline 100 between points 90, 95. The second column is
the percentage compressibility taken with respect to the separation
distance at 0 lbf load, which represents the uncompressed distance
or state. Thus, the first row and first two columns of data in the
table indicates that the Glock 17/22/31 embodiment had an
uncompressed (0% compressed) separation distance of 1.096 inches,
for example. The second row and first two columns indicate that a 5
lbf Load applied to the holster body compressed the holster body 20
to a separation distance of 0.710 in, yielding a percentage
compressibility of 35%. All lbf loadings, distances, and
percentages can be considered approximate, if desired, and preceded
by the word "about". Additionally, all distances can be rounded to
the nearest 100th or 10th of an inch, i.e. 2 or 3 decimal
places.
[0049] The specific testing protocol included using a 1 inch
diameter steel rod having a weight adapter and sandpaper contact
face and defining a total weight or load of 5 lbf. A steel outer
tube was slipped over the steel rod to hold the steel rod in a
vertical or substantially vertical orientation without affecting
the load. 2.5 lb, 5 lb, and 10 lb weights also were provided for
connection to the weight adapter. The initial, uncompressed holster
opening or separation distance was measured using calipers at
locations 90, 95 (FIGS. 9-10). Using the steel rod assembly of the
steel rod, sandpaper face, and weight adapter, the rod end was
placed tangent to the upper edge of the holster and centered with
centerline 100 of the holster, as illustrated at 250 in FIG. 10.
The separation distance at the holster opening was measured with
the calipers. The process was repeated for each holster embodiment
and weight combination. It should be noted that in some cases, the
top portion of holster body 20 underneath the steel rod assembly
did not remain coplanar with the end of the rod, such that only
edge or substantial-edge contact was created between the steel rod
and the holster body at substantially the lowermost portion of the
face of the steel rod. It should also be noted, as indicated in the
table, that interior features of holster body 20, for example
passive retention portion 115 and the portion of holster body 20
opposite it within cavity 25, were brought into contact for certain
higher weight loads. Derived compressibility ranges for the given
loads in Table 1 are shown in Table 2, below. All lbf loadings and
ranges can be considered approximate, if desired, and preceded by
the word "about".
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Compressibility Ranges Range A Range B Range
C Range D 5 lbf Load 30%-47% 25%-50% 30%-35% 40%-50% (in) 7.5 lbf
Load 51%-70% 50%-75% 50%-55% 60%-70% (in) 10 lbf Load 67%-79%
65%-80% 65%-75% 75%-80% (in) 12.5 lbf Load 81%-93% 75%-95% 80%-95%
90%-95% (in) 15 lbf Load 83%-100% 75%-100% 95%-100% 90%-100%
(in)
[0050] Compression distances, that is, the distance that the
holster is compressed, for each of the loads and holster
embodiments in Table 1 can be readily calculated. For the Glock
17/22/31 embodiment, for example, compression distances (in inches)
of 0.386, 0.576, 0.791, 1.016, and 1.096 are calculated for lbf
loads of 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, and 15, respectively. The following
ranges of compression distances are derivable from Table 1. The
uncompressed distance for each embodiment can be considered to be
about 1 inch. Thus, deriving ranges from the table, for an
uncompressed side-to-side separation distance of about 1 inch: a
compression load (in lbf) of about 5 yields a compression distance
(in inches) of about 0.4, about 0.3, or about 0.5, or a range of
about 0.3 to about 0.5; a compression load (in lbf) of about 7.5
yields a compression distance (in inches) of about 0.6 or about
0.7, or a range of about 0.6 to about 0.7; a compression load (in
lbf) of about 10 yields a compression distance (in inches) of about
0.8 or about 0.7, or a range of about 0.7 to about 0.8; a
compression load (in lbf) of about 12.5 yields a compression
distance (in inches) of about 1.0, or about 0.9, or about 0.8, or a
range of about 0.8 to about 0.8 to about 1.0; and a compression
load (in lbf) of about 15 yields a compression distance (in inches)
of about 1.0, or about 0.9, or about 0.8, or a range of about 0.8
to about 1.0. As previously stated herein, all lbf loadings,
distances, and ranges can be considered approximate if needed, and
preceded by the word "about". Distances and ranges can be derived
to one, two or three decimal places.
[0051] In all cases, once compression loading on holster body 20 is
removed or released, for example in an environment inside the
waistband of a user, holster body 20 substantially or completely
springs back into shape and restores the uncompressed distance, and
restores or resumes the original shape of opening 60, allowing
handgun 15 or other weapon to be easily reholstered without partial
or complete blockage by holster top 55 or its edges before entry of
handgun 15.
[0052] It should be appreciated that, for simplicity and
clarification, embodiments of the invention have been described
with reference to a semiautomatic-type handgun being secured within
the presently disclosed holsters. However, it should be appreciated
that design features and operating principles of handgun holsters
of this invention may also be employed to construct holsters or
holders for any revolver or semiautomatic-type handgun, edged
weapons, as well as less-lethal products (i.e., tasers, pepper
spray, mace canisters, or batons). It should also be appreciated
that terms such as "handgun", "handgun holster", and "weapon" are
used for basic explanation and understanding of the operation of
the systems, methods, and apparatuses of this invention. Such terms
are not necessarily to be construed as limiting the systems,
methods, and apparatuses of this invention.
[0053] While this invention has been described in conjunction with
the exemplary embodiments outlined above, it is evident that many
alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to
those skilled in the art. Such adaptations and modifications should
and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of
equivalents of the disclosed exemplary embodiments. Further, it is
to be understood that phraseology and terminology employed herein
is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.
Accordingly, the foregoing description of the exemplary embodiments
of the invention, as set forth above, is intended to be
illustrative, not limiting. Various changes, modifications, and/or
adaptations may be made without departing from the spirit and scope
of this invention.
* * * * *