U.S. patent application number 17/151245 was filed with the patent office on 2021-09-02 for compression holster.
The applicant listed for this patent is Gun Sox, LLC. Invention is credited to Mary Helen Shashy.
Application Number | 20210270565 17/151245 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005621846 |
Filed Date | 2021-09-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210270565 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Shashy; Mary Helen |
September 2, 2021 |
COMPRESSION HOLSTER
Abstract
Provided is a compression holster having a base panel, a pouch
panel, and a flap panel. The base panel comprises resilient
material configured to compressively wrap around an elongated
member, such as a human leg or a vehicle frame member. The pouch
panel of resilient material is attached to the base panel with a
free edge to define a compressively expandable pocket. The flap
panel of resilient material is attached to the base panel adjacent
the free edge. An object partially inserted into the pocket is
compressively held against the elongated member by the pouch panel
and the flap panel.
Inventors: |
Shashy; Mary Helen;
(Lexington, KY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Gun Sox, LLC |
Lexington |
KY |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005621846 |
Appl. No.: |
17/151245 |
Filed: |
January 18, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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62962583 |
Jan 17, 2020 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45F 2005/008 20130101;
A45F 2200/0591 20130101; A45F 5/02 20130101; F41C 33/046 20130101;
F41C 33/048 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F41C 33/04 20060101
F41C033/04; A45F 5/02 20060101 A45F005/02 |
Claims
1. A compression holster, comprising: a base panel comprising
resilient material configured to compressively wrap around an
elongated member; a pouch panel comprising resilient material
attached to the base panel with a free edge to define a
compressively expandable pocket; and a flap panel comprising
resilient material attached to the base panel adjacent the free
edge, wherein, an object partially inserted into the pocket is
compressively held against the elongated member by the pouch panel
and the flap panel.
2. The compression holster of claim 1, wherein the flap panel is
configured to at least partially overlap the free edge of the pouch
panel.
3. The compression holster of claim 1, wherein the base panel is
tubular.
4. The compression holster of claim 1, wherein the base panel
includes a separable seam configured to allow the base panel to be
wrapped around the elongated member and then fastened by closing
the separable seam.
5. The compression holster of claim 4, wherein the separable seam
includes a zipper.
6. The compression holster of claim 4, wherein the separable seam
includes laces.
7. The compression holster of claim 4, wherein the separable seam
includes hook and loop fastening material.
8. The compression holster of claim 1, wherein the pocket is
configured to receive at least a portion of a handgun with a
trigger and the pouch panel includes a nonelastic panel positioned
to cover the trigger.
9. The compression holster of claim 8, wherein the nonelastic panel
is a rigid material.
10. The compression holster of claim 1, further comprising a rigid
shell handgun holster configured to fit the pocket and to position
a handgun with a grip portion of the handgun protruding from the
pocket, the flap portion configured to compress the handgun grip
portion.
11. The compression holster of claim 10, further comprising a means
for securing the rigid shell holster in the pocket.
12. The compression holster of claim 1, wherein the pocket is
configured to receive a handgun which a grip portion of the handgun
protruding from the pocket, the flap portion configured to compress
the handgun grip portion.
13. The compression holster of claim 1, further comprising a pouch
handle panel secured along the free edge of the pouch panel and
overlaying the pouch panel with an open edge to provide a gripping
pocket for manually pulling the free edge of the pouch panel away
from the base panel to open the pocket.
14. The compression holster of claim 1, configured to compressively
wrap around a human lower leg.
15. The compression holster of claim 1, configured to compressively
wrap around a human thigh.
16. The compression holster of claim 1, configured to compressively
wrap around an elongated vehicle frame member.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 62/962,583, filed Jan. 17, 2020, and incorporates
the same herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to holsters for handguns or other
tools to be carried on a person's body or vehicle.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Law enforcement, military, guards, and emergency personnel
are often required to carry weapons and related equipment. The
holstering or secure storage/retention of such weapons and
equipment is important for the protection of the weapons and any
related gear, and for the comfort and ease of the user. Safety,
stability, access, and concealment are of paramount concerns.
[0004] Weapons may be carried for extended periods of time, yet
must be available on short notice, for engagement and interaction
with dangerous adversaries. Other equipment, such as personal first
aid and bleeding control devices, must be carried where they are
accessible by both the wearer and others, while not interfering
with expected activities or causing discomfort.
[0005] To avoid visibility, while still assuring access, holsters
may be concealed and are often worn with loose fitting garments and
positioned on the ankle or lower leg. Soft holstering affords
benefits of light weight, unobtrusiveness, and concealment.
However, this is too often at the expense of long-term wearer
comfort, stable holstering, assurance of immediate access, and
controlled silent weapon withdrawal and use.
[0006] Storing a weapon or tool (such as a flashlight) in an
off-road vehicle, whether a full-size jeep or ATV, can be
challenging. The item needs to be protected for the elements and
securely held, but easily accessible. It also needs to be stowed so
as not to cause injury to an occupant in the event of a crash or
roll-over.
[0007] Soft holstered apparel and undergarments can leave wearers
vulnerable to injury and accidents due to weapon instability, easy
removal from a perpetrator, awkward or inefficient drawing, noise
from the firearm's retention release, awkward physical movements,
accidental discharge, and lack of heat protection from a hot gun
being holstered. Physically combative situations or extremely
hurried movements may likely be occurring when someone would need
to access a concealed weapon.
[0008] Accidental loss (fall-out) of the weapon is a known
occurrence in holstered apparel. Even if the weapon does not fall
out of the holster, a bouncing firearm is a distraction that is
often painful and may cause apprehension and restriction of
physical movement. Also, having one's firearm easily taken away
from the wearer in an altercation is a realistic concern. In
situations such as these, the wearer would instinctively focus on
retaining the weapon or insuring the weapon's stability, as opposed
to doing other things that need to be done to be safe or neutralize
a threat.
[0009] Accidental discharge can happen in elasticized soft
holsters. In an excitable situation, fingers can reach the trigger
when the gun is holstered in an elastic-based soft holster as the
wearer hurriedly tries to access the weapon or a perpetrator tries
to access the weapon. Also, during a struggle or chase, foreign
objects can reach the trigger through an elastic-based soft
holster.
[0010] Shifting of the holster mounted on apparel/undergarment due
to the instability of the weapon is another concern. In a struggle
or in hurried movements, having the firearm shift on the body to
where it is not readily accessible or from the location where the
wearer has trained can be deadly.
[0011] Lack of heat protection in a soft holster featuring
elasticized material can also be problematic, should the wearer
need to securely re-holster his/her weapon quickly after drawing
and firing. For instance, needing both hands to be free shortly
after drawing and firing is an expected situation. While there are
soft holstering system that feature a Kydex.TM. or other polymer
hard-shell holster, these methods do not securely mount the
hard-shell holster onto the garment, making the shell likely to
leave or shift on the garment upon a strong draw very likely.
[0012] If a retention feature is present features in holstered
apparel may be present on elastic holsters, spandex fabric
stretching holsters, or non-stretching pockets, it is typically an
elasticized strap that attaches with a snap, hook, or hook-and-pile
material (e.g., Velcro.TM.) that lines up substantially parallel to
parallel to the slide of the handgun. These holstering methods are
not sufficient for weapon stability during combative or extremely
vigorous activity because they fail to address the weight, mass,
and angle of the gun grip. With those methods, the holstered
firearm acts as a weighted, removable appendage to the body with a
high, unstable center of gravity. Also, the ability to draw the
weapon in a smooth and quick manner may be inhibited due to
dangling straps or the awkwardness of unfastening the retention's
enclosure feature. These soft retention methods limit the options
to position the gun to a vertical or mostly vertical position,
leaving the wearer to release the retention and draw the weapon
from an awkward unnatural ankle.
[0013] While soft holstering can be advantageous in some scenarios,
a major drawback to soft holstering featuring a prior art retention
feature is the lack of a quick draw and the need to for wearers to
master a new drawing method and retention release method. The thumb
break retention system is a commonly used method and featured on
holsters made up of harder materials, such as hard harness leather
or polymers. However, the thumb break system has not been featured
on soft holstered apparel or undergarments due to the inefficiency
of structure needed to provide the necessary leverage for a thumb
break mechanism to function properly. Moreover, current retention
methods for both soft holsters and hard holsters that provide for
speed in retention release can be loud upon release (snaps and
hook-and-pile make noise, for example), which can bring unwanted
attention to the wearer trying access the handgun quietly in some
scenarios. Previously, retention methods/features have required the
wearer to make a choice between fast and loud and slower and
quiet.
[0014] Elasticized soft holsters require two hands to re-holster.
One hand opens the space for the firearm to enter while the other
hand forces the firearm inside. This can be both only time
consuming and can leave the wearer vulnerable by not having at
least one hand free. Some law enforcement agencies require
one-handed re-holstering for these reasons, leaving an
agent/officer with only the choice of a hard holster on duty and
unable to have the benefits of a soft holster (such as
comfort).
[0015] Medical kits worn on the body are becoming prevalent by law
enforcement, public safety/rescue, and active duty military
personnel. No longer is it only medical personnel who must have
pertinent medical supplies on hand in combative scenarios. The
current "on the body" tactical medical kits are in non-stretching
bags harnessed to the body by straps. Very similar to wearing
firearms on the body, this non stretching strapping method for
medical kits may be problematic due to chaffing on the body from
the unsecured weight and mass of medical kit shifting on the body,
difficulty for the wearer to fit into the narrow seats of a
military vehicle, and difficulty maneuvering in combative
situations from the extra bulk of the medical kit, for example.
Also, the targeting of medical personnel in war has become a
commonly deployed tactic due to the demoralizing result of "killing
the medic." The bulk and shifting of the current method of "on the
body" tactical medical kits can make the medic a more obvious
target to the enemy. For individuals in firefighting, emergency
services, and other public safety, there does not exist a tactical
medical kit that can also holster a firearm. This is needed due to
the nature of the hostile, combative environments these workers may
enter.
SUMMARY
[0016] Provided is a compression holster having a base panel, a
pouch panel, and a flap panel. The base panel comprises resilient
material configured to compressively wrap around an elongated
member, such as a human leg or a vehicle frame member. The pouch
panel of resilient material is attached to the base panel with a
free edge to define a compressively expandable pocket. The flap
panel of resilient material is attached to the base panel adjacent
the free edge. An object partially inserted into the pocket is
compressively held against the elongated member by the pouch panel
and the flap panel.
[0017] This invention provides a compression holster for securing a
handgun or other item against a solid surface or member, such as a
person's limb or torso, or a structural member, such as a roll bar,
frame, or piece of furniture. In some embodiments, is concerned
with an apparatus and methods for the carrying, storing, and using
of hand-held weapons or other tools--often for extended periods of
time--under stressful conditions which are likely to require
vigorous activity and rapid access. In some embodiments, the
holstering is adapted to move with the wearer, preventing sliding,
slipping, bouncing, jumping, rubbing, so that there is no chaffing
or scrapping of the body. This holstering assures simple, easy and
quick insertion and withdrawal of the weapon. The holstering is
flexible, holds the weapon immovable relative to the wearer's body
and permits quick quiet draw and aiming irrespective of location.
In other embodiments, the holstering can be secured to the frame or
a roll bar of an off-road vehicle to protect the item, conceal it
from general observation, and allow rapid access.
[0018] The Invention employs a combination of interconnected
durable light weight resilient, compressive, and elastic fabric
components. The coordinated components are assembled for
attachment, to a wearer's ankle to provide concealment, to a
wearer's thigh, or to a structural bar. The weapon or tool is
secured while facilitating both insertion and
withdrawal--permitting these actions to be carried out with fluid
movement of a single hand.
[0019] The holsters of the invention utilize three basic
components: a mounting panel, a resilient holstering panel, and a
resilient retention panel (or flap). The spaced longitudinal edges
of both the holstering panel and retention panel are affixed to the
mounting panel with open edges facing one another. The transverse
edge of the retention panel--away from the open edge--is affixed to
the mounting panel. Thus, the holstering panel forms a pouch for
the weapon and the retention panel provides a movable cover to
secure the weapon/tool in place with compression. The invention can
be used on a flat mounting surface, such as furniture, with the
size/shape/resiliency of the panels adjusted for that application.
Or when used around an elongated support object, such as a user's
leg, user's torso, or a structural frame, such as a roll bar or
tubular vehicle frame, the convex nature of the surface can enhance
the compressive effect of the inventive combination.
[0020] When an item is inserted through the opening between the
retention panel and holstering panel into the pouch, it is held
firmly, by the resilient contraction of each panel against whatever
surface it is mounted to, with the grip extending upwardly (or
outwardly). By pulling the open end of the retention panel out and
releasing it over and covering the grip, its contraction
effectively secures the weapon/tool.
[0021] The weapon is drawn by lifting the retention panel with a
finger, or fingers, over the grip and permitting it to resume its
quiescent position against the mounting panel. With the grip
exposed, the weapon can be removed from the pouch while benefiting
from the contraction of the pouch walls as it is removed. Upon
weapon removal, the holstering panel contracts and repositions with
its interior face in contact with the mounting panel.
[0022] In one specific embodiment disclosed herein, the resilient
mounting panel, the resilient holstering panel, and the resilient
retention panel comprise and include a suitable sock-like
structure, or "stocking", worn on a wearer's limb, achieving
further synergy and effectiveness through the compression and
expansion of the wearer's limb.
[0023] Another aspect of the invention is the unique method of
holstering and withdrawing a hand weapon, such as a handgun, from
flexible overlaying resilient panels. by providing a base resilient
panel with two adjacent overlaying resilient panels fastened
thereto, inserting said weapon between one of said overlaying
panels with the grip projecting, using fingers to raise the
adjacent edge of the second overlaying panel to overlay said grip,
withdrawing the weapon by using fingers to raise the adjacent edge
of the second panel to uncover the grip and to return to its
quiescent position, and extracting the weapon.
[0024] Other aspects, features, benefits, and advantages of the
present invention will become apparent to a person of skill in the
art from the detailed description of various embodiments with
reference to the accompanying drawing figures, all of which
comprise part of the disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES
[0025] Like reference numerals are used to indicate like parts
throughout the various drawing figures, wherein:
[0026] FIG. 1 illustrates the principal elements of a flexible
holster according to the invention;
[0027] FIG. 2 illustrates a flexible holster according to the
invention coordinated with a stocking for use as an ankle
holster;
[0028] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the invention with a
hand weapon initially inserted in the pocket;
[0029] FIG. 4 illustrates the embodiment of FIG. 3 with the grip of
the weapon being enshrouded by a retention flap;
[0030] FIG. 5 is front view of an embodiment of the invention
wherein the weapon is fully secured within the left side of the
holster;
[0031] FIG. 6 illustrates the embodiment of the invention in FIG. 3
with the retention flap being removed upon commencement of weapon
withdrawal;
[0032] FIG. 7 shows an elastic finger pocket feature to facilitate
opening the pocket for holstering;
[0033] FIG. 8 an alternate embodiment ankle holster in a partially
donned condition;
[0034] FIG. 9 shows this embodiment laced onto the user's lower leg
and with a handgun initially inserted into the pocket;
[0035] FIG. 10 shows the handgun covered by the retention flap;
[0036] FIG. 11 shows another embodiment of the invention in the
form of a thigh holster;
[0037] FIG. 12 is a partially cut-away view thereof showing the
location of a holstered handgun;
[0038] FIG. 13 shows the thigh holster in an open position;
[0039] FIG. 14 shows another embodiment of the invention in the
form of a roll bar or frame holster installed on a bar and with the
cover flap open;
[0040] FIG. 15 is a similar view showing a handgun inserted into
the pocket and the retention flap open;
[0041] FIG. 16 is a similar view showing the retention flap secured
over the holstered handgun;
[0042] FIG. 17 is a back side view showing a zipper that is used to
connect the holster around the bar;
[0043] FIG. 18 shows yet another embodiment of the invention in the
form of another convertible thigh holster;
[0044] FIG. 19 shows an alternate embodiment that may be mounted to
a flat surface or as part of a "belly band" holster;
[0045] FIG. 20 shows another "belly band" embodiment in which the
pouch panel has an open forward end and the retention mechanism is
an elastic thumb break extending across the handgun grip; and
[0046] FIG. 21 is a back side thereof.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0047] With reference to the drawing figures, this section
describes particular embodiments and their detailed construction
and operation. Throughout the specification, reference to "one
embodiment," "an embodiment," or "some embodiments" means that a
particular described feature, structure, or characteristic may be
included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the
phrases "in one embodiment," "in an embodiment," or "in some
embodiments" in various places throughout this specification are
not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore,
the described features, structures, and characteristics may be
combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In view
of the disclosure herein, those skilled in the art will recognize
that the various embodiments can be practiced without one or more
of the specific details or with other methods, components,
materials, or the like. In some instances, well-known structures,
materials, or operations are not shown or not described in detail
to avoid obscuring aspects of the embodiments. "Forward" will
indicate the direction in which the human body is facing or the
shin side of the lower leg, while "rearward" will indicate the
opposite direction or the calf side of the lower leg. "Lateral" or
"transverse" indicates a side-to-side direction generally to the
left and/or right. "Top" or "up" will be the upward direction when
a person is standing in the ordinary manner.
[0048] The holsters of the first embodiment are designed to be
mounted upon the leg or ankle of a user to provide easy-in,
easy-out holstering of a handgun or other tool. When empty the unit
lies flat, unobtrusive, and virtually unnoticeable around the
wearer's lower leg. When the holster is filled, the weapon is
pressed firmly and immovably against the leg of the wearer. This is
illustrated in FIGS. 1-7.
[0049] Through the employment and selectively designed use of
resilient and compressive fabrics, this invention facilitates
sizing for use in carrying equipment of varying types, weight, and
function. Thinner fabrics with these qualities, such as spandex
fabric, are lightweight and do not add unnecessary bulk, though may
require reinforcement or rigidity panels to be added. Thicker
materials, like foamed neoprene (with or without fabric surfaces),
have the desired stretch and provide padding, but add more bulk.
Combinations of these or similar materials can be used for the
various embodiments of the invention.
[0050] FIG. 1 illustrates a first embodiment of the invention in
the form of an ankle holster 10 formed as part of a tube or
stocking 12 to fit the leg 14 of a wearer. The stocking 12 is
composed of a durable, but relatively thin, resilient/stretch
fabric, such as Lycra.RTM. or spandex blend (such as with nylon
and/or polyester), sized for a compressed comfortable fit, and is
effectively the mounting panel for the holster pouch panel 16 and
weapon retention flap panel 18. The pouch panel 16 overlays the
stocking tube 12 to create one or more pockets therebetween. It may
include an upper portion 20 and lower portion 22. The upper portion
20 can include an added stiffening portion 24 being relatively firm
and stretch-resistant to cover the trigger guard area of a handgun
when inserted in the pocket to avoid the risk of unintended weapon
discharge. The lower portion 22 may be fully resilient and of
thinner material. The longitudinal edges of pouch panel 16 are
fastened immovably to the stocking tube 12 and extend substantially
the length of the weapon's barrel. The longitudinal fastening is
spaced apart by an amount suitable to accommodate the size and
width of the barrel and trigger guard of the weapon.
[0051] The retention panel 18 can be of a lighter resilient fabric
fastened immovably at the top to stocking tube 12 and extending
downward over the top of pouch panel 16 and having the sides
thereof fastened longitudinally spaced slightly wider than the
fastenings of pouch panel 16. The stocking tube 12 may include
padding material (not shown) that would be positioned between the
handgun or other item in the pocket and the wearer's leg 14.
[0052] It is to be noted that while the fabrics used for the
components of the holsters are resilient, they are utilized to
perform specific individual functions and they may be fixedly
secured together by non-resilient means such as stitching, fabric
welding, or adhesives. Also, while the described materials are each
resilient, these fastenings assure that they rest quiescent atop of
each other and create virtually no visible surface disruption of a
wearer's clothing when no weapon is holstered. On the other hand,
when a weapon is holstered, the retention panel and pouch panel
expand and compress the weapon against the stocking to hold the
weapon secure against movement in any direction, minimizing visible
distortion of the wearer's pants.
[0053] The schematic illustration of FIG. 1 shows an ankle holster
10 worn upon a leg 14. The stocking tube 12 need not have a foot
portion and indeed its absence makes possible selective vertical
positioning of the holster 10. The component parts of the holster
10 include the stocking tube 12, the holstering/pouch panel 16, and
the retention panel 18. Because the barrel of the weapon may be hot
following use, heat resistant material may be added (either
permanent or removable) as part of holstering pouch panel 16.
[0054] FIG. 2 shows the initial placement of a handgun 26 within
the pouch formed when holster panel 16 is fixedly secured to the
stocking tube 12. To more fully understand and appreciate the
advantages and opportunities of using the fabric holsters of the
invention, attention is directed to FIGS. 3-7. These Figures
illustrate the steps involved in holstering a handgun or other item
and withdrawing it when needed. A handgun 26 presents a shape
different from most other tool or item to be holstered in that it
has an elongated barrel/slide and an elongated grip that extends at
a generally orthogonal angle relative to the barrel/slide. The
barrel/slide will situate along and generally parallel with the
wearer's leg, while the grip extends outwardly or at a tangent from
the surface of the leg. It is critical to firmly secure the grip by
compressing it to the leg, as further explained below.
[0055] FIG. 3 shows the handgun 26 inserted in the pouch formed
between the holstering panel 16 and the stocking tube 12. As
illustrated, the barrel of weapon 26 is nested in the pouch with
its grip extending above the pocket. The retention flap 18 has been
repositioned from its quiescent position against stocking 20, to
begin enshrouding the grip. It should be noted that retention panel
18 is also fixed to the stocking 12 on both longitudinal edges and
across the top. Retention panel 18 may be slightly larger than the
holstering panel 16, but its resilient compression will assure
maximum on-going stability of the handgun 26 or other item once it
is fully positioned over the grip. The design lowers the center of
gravity of the contents relative to the body, which results in the
wearer thinking he/she is carrying less or no gear. This stability
instils confidence in movement in the wearer so as to avoid causing
the wearer to walk differently or be apprehensive of vigorous
activity, like running, jumping, or climbing.
[0056] FIG. 4 illustrates the first step of drawing or weapon
removal. It will be appreciated that weapon removal is a critical
procedure for a user. It may be simply prior to retirement; it may
be in an emergency; it may be an aggressive action by an
antagonist. It is a feature of this embodiment that attempts at
removal by other than the user, are doomed to delay or, more often,
failure. This is because the fingertip control over the retention
flap makes it very easy for the user, but extremely awkward for an
antagonist.
[0057] FIG. 4 shows the user's fingers raising retention flap 18,
inserted in a gap behind the grip and lifting so that edge 28 comes
up and over the grip 30 of weapon 26. The retention flap 18 is then
released behind the grip and due to its resilience settles to its
quiescent position against the face of the stocking 12. As shown in
FIG. 5, this leaves the grip 30 of the weapon 26 immediately
available to the fingers and palm of the user's hand 32 to complete
withdrawal and aiming. In contrast, an attempt at withdrawal by
someone other than the user, encounters the awkward task of pushing
at retention flap 18 and likely failure to effect withdrawal.
[0058] It is recognized that the components and concepts of this
invention open opportunities to expand the utility of the holster.
Clearly, if the holster is used for holding a handgun 26 on one
side, it can carry ammunition magazines, a flashlight, or other
tool(s) (not shown) on the other side. FIG. 6 shows a way in which
the upper retention flap 18 may provide around-the-ankle retention
for servicing mirror image holstering pouches 34, 36 by providing a
hook and eye fastening 38 (or other type of permanent or separable
connection) at the front (or back) connection between the flaps and
holster plates. FIG. 6 also illustrates a modification of the
retention flap and holster plate to yield a holster that can be
worn for either inner side or outer side draw (and also for left or
right ankle wear).
[0059] FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of the ankle holster 10 providing
both improved retention and a means for facilitating opening the
pocket for inserting the handgun 26 or other item. At or near the
upper edge of the pouch panel 16 is a heavy elastic band 40 secured
to the pouch panel 16 along lateral ends and the top edge, leaving
the bottom edge open. Woven elastic tape is available and suitable
for this use that is elastic in one (longitudinal) direction and
inelastic in the other direction. This elastic tape is relatively
stiff and provides a "hook" under which fingers of the user's hand
may be inserted to stretch the elastic band 40 and pouch panel 16
outward to provide an open pocket for receiving the handgun 26 or
other item. The stiffness of the elastic band 40 also provides
additional protection against intrusion into the trigger guard area
of the handgun 26.
[0060] In some situations or occupations, it may be desired to have
the ability to re-holster a handgun 26 using only one hand. To
accomplish this, the mouth of the pocket or pouch must be held in
an open position on its own. Rigid holsters, such as those made of
rigid polymer materials (e.g., Kydex.TM.), are known to allow
one-handed re-holstering, but have been unsuccessful as an ankle
holster. In this embodiment, a rigid holster shell 44 (or partial
shell) can be inserted into the pocket between the pouch panel 16
and stocking tube 12 to maintain an open receptacle for
re-holstering a handgun 26 with one hand. The holster shell 44 may
be secured to the ankle holster 10 such as by a screw fastener (not
shown) through a grommeted opening 42 provided in the pouch panel
16 and a corresponding opening 46 in the holster shell 44.
Anchoring the shell 44 to the resilient holster 10 allows a smooth,
vigorous draw and, when combined with the compression retention of
the present invention, maintains the secure feel when
holstered.
[0061] Referring now to FIGS. 8-10, therein is shown an alternate
embodiment ankle holster 50 that is also fittable to the lower leg,
but adjustable in size by a lace-up closure. As in the
previously-described embodiment, the holster 50 includes a stocking
tube 12 that is longitudinally split along the front. At the top,
the stocking tube 12 is adjustably closed with a strap 52 that may
be secured using hook and pile attachment material or other means,
such as such as snaps or a buckle (not shown). The longitudinal
opening may be adjustably closed, such as with lacing 54 threaded
through a series of eyes 56 and/or speed lacing hooks 58. The use
of hooks for at least a portion of the closure may be desired in
order to reduce the total length of lacing 54 required when the
split is spread open to slide the holster 50 over the user's foot.
A laced closure allows the user to localize the circumferential
tension in certain spots on the leg, which is not a uniform
cylinder, allowing the wearer a more customized and comfortable
fit.
[0062] As in the previously described embodiment, the holster 50
includes a pouch panel 16 and a retention flap/panel 18, allowing a
handgun 26 or other item to be inserted, retained, and removed in
the same way. The holster 50 may be donned by opening the laces 54
enough to allow it to be slid over the foot and up onto the user's
lower leg. The strap 52 may then be fastened above the calf to hold
it in position while the laces 54 are tightened/hooked/tied. If
desired, a tongue or flap (not shown) may be provided behind the
lacing 54 to provide a smooth or more cushioned fit against the
shin.
[0063] Referring now to FIGS. 11-13, therein is shown another
embodiment of the present invention in the form of a thigh holster
60. The thigh holster 60 provides a main pocket for carrying cargo,
such as first aid equipment, as well as one or more interior
pockets to secure a handgun 26 or other item. Like most other thigh
rigs, the thigh holster 60 attaches to the user's upper leg 62
above the knee and may be supported on a belt 64 worn around the
user's waist by one or more vertical support straps 66.
[0064] As shown in FIG. 12, a first pouch panel 68 is secured to a
base panel 70 to create an interior pocket for receiving a handgun
26 or other specific item. The pouch panel 68 is made from a
stretchable, resilient fabric, but may include a more rigid or
stiff protective shield (not shown) to prevent intrusion into the
trigger guard region of the hand on 26. One or more secondary
pockets may be formed by the pouch panel 68 to separately receive
other items, such as an ammunition magazine or flashlight. An outer
pocket panel 72 and an overlapping retention flap panel 74 define
an outer compartment into which various items, such as other tools
or individual first aid equipment, may be stored separate from and
without interference with the handgun 26 when holstered or when
being drawn. This also inhibits access to the handgun 26 by anyone
other than the wearer. The items in the outer pocket (medical
supplies, etc.) will protrude upwardly, partially obstructing an
antagonist's access to the gun's grip 30, while the wearer's
position allows full access to the grip 30 because the wearer is
reaching straight down and pulling upwardly (a position not
available to an antagonist).
[0065] Referring also to FIG. 13, the base panel 70 wraps around
the user's leg and may be adjustably fastened, such as with
corresponding hook and pile attachment material panels 76, 78 or
other adjustable attachment means. The shape of the base panel 70
may be contoured to fit the thigh and avoid impairing movement. The
base panel 70, pocket panels 68, 72, and retention flap panel 74
may all be made of a resilient fabric material. As previously
described, the material may be a thin spandex blend or a foamed
neoprene that provides both compressive stretch and cushioning.
Other accessory attachments, such as pile material panels 80, may
be provided on exterior surfaces, if desired.
[0066] Users of all-terrain vehicles (ATV's), dirt bike
motorcycles, mountain bikes, tractors, golf carts, and marine
vehicles often travel in remote or rural areas for sport, work, or
transportation. In these areas they may encounter threats from
people or wild animals and need quick access of a firearm. The ride
from these sorts of vehicles is commonly bumpy, erratic, and jerky,
so the wearing of a firearm on the body could be very
uncomfortable. If the vehicle has a glovebox, not only would it
require the full focus of attention to the compartment to retrieve
the firearm efficiently and safely, but the gun could accidentally
discharge or be damaged from the vehicle's jostling. Should the
firearm be mounted onto the vehicle with an insufficient retention,
the firearm may dislodge due to the vehicle's bouncing. Since these
types of vehicles are typically used in areas that have mud, water,
and dust/dirt, a firearm mounted inside these vehicles may at risk
for misfire and corrosion (dirt and debris entering the barrel is
the most common cause of misfire and moisture advances corrosion).
To add, the driver of these vehicles may want to have the weapon
fully out of sight to avoid causing alarm or provocation from
passengers or onlookers seeing a mounted firearm. Upon leaving the
vehicle, the user may want to take the firearm with them with no
disruption of the firearm's concealment.
[0067] Another holster embodiment of the present invention is shown
in FIGS. 14-17. The holster 90 of this embodiment, rather than
attaching to a user's limb, uses the same inventive concept to
provide secure attachment to an elongated bar 92 or frame member,
such as the roll bar or round/square tubular frame of a vehicle,
such as an ATV. The holster 90 includes a base panel 94 that is
sized to wrap around the bar 92 or frame to which it will be
attached. Opposite edges 96, 98 can be secured together, such as
with a longitudinal zipper 100 to allow the holster 90 to be
mounted around members of various size or shape. The securement may
be an adjustable securement, such as with a book and pile fastening
material. Alternatively, an elongated tubular or semi-tubular
spacer (not shown) may be used between the bar 92 and holster 90 to
increase the effective circumference of the mounting surface. If
desired, the holster 90 can be removed while retaining the handgun
26 by unzipping the closure and removing the holstered weapon. This
allows removal and relocation without exposing the weapon or
unnecessarily handing it with an exposed trigger.
[0068] As described with respect to other embodiments above, the
holster 90 includes a pouch panel 16 that forms a pocket between it
and the base panel 94. If desired, a stiffening panel 102 may be
placed so as to cover the trigger guard area of a handgun 26
inserted into the pocket. The hard trigger guard 102 functions not
only to prevent accidental discharge, but to disallow the materials
to stretch in that area. This provides additional compression of
the handgun 26 to the structural tubing 92. The pouch panel 16 may
be secured to the base panel 94 at opposite edges and at one end
104 with an open edge 106 providing access to the pocket. A
retention flap panel 18 is provided, as previously described, to
cover the exposed portion of the handgun 26 or other item extending
from the pocket and to compress the grip 30 the base panel 94 and
mounting bar 92.
[0069] As shown in FIGS. 14 and 17, the retention flap panel 18 may
include a releasable attachment, such as in the form of hook and
pile fastening material 108, 110. To draw the handgun 26 from its
secured position, the retention flap 18 is separated along its
releasable edge and pulled away to expose the grip 30 which may be
used to withdraw the handgun 26. A variety of resilient fabrics may
be used for the base panel 94, pouch panel 16, and retention
flat-panel 18, such as spandex blend fabric or phoned neoprene. In
the illustrated embodiment, neoprene is used to provide those
resilient compression and cushioning.
[0070] Referring now to FIG. 18, therein is shown an alternate
thigh holster 120 embodiment. In this embodiment, the base panel
122 is longitudinally split (as in one ankle holster embodiment of
the invention) and secured with laces 54 through eyes 56. A pocket
is formed by a pouch panel 16 and the handgun is secured by a
retention flap panel 18. Pockets can be positioned on either or
both sides of the split, allowing the holster 120 to be used on
either leg 62 and with either hand 32. This thigh holster 120 can
also be adapted to use around the user's torso as a "belly band"
type device by lacing in an extension panel (not shown).
[0071] This thigh holster embodiment 120 can also be worn in an
inverted orientation so that the handgun 26 is withdrawn from the
bottom. This allows the user to access it under a skirt or short
pants. The handgun 26 is securely retained by the retention panel
18 until purposefully removed by the user.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 19, a holster panel 130 may be made for
use on a flat or relatively flat surface, like a vehicle body panel
or a piece of furniture. Likewise, it may be adapted to a "belly
band" type holster by extending the base panel 132 and providing an
adjustable closure device (not shown). In this embodiment, a pocket
is formed between the resilient or non-resilient base panel 132 and
a resilient pouch panel 134, which can include a stiffening panel
24 to protect the trigger guard area of the handgun 26 and/or an
elastic band 40 that also protects the trigger and provides a
handle for opening the mouth of the pocket, as previously
described. A retention flap panel 136 resiliently covers the grip
30 of the handgun 26 to compressively retain it in place.
Alternatively, a retention panel may cover the entire pocket
opening and overlap the pouch panel 134. As previously described,
the resilient retention flap panel and be pulled away from the grip
30 with one hand and then the handgun grasped and removed with the
same hand in a fluid motion.
[0073] Thumb snap release retention methods are not typically seen
as part of a belly band holstering system because the supporting
structure is too soft and flexible for the user to have adequate
leverage to push the snap apart with one swift motion. Two hands
are required or the snap is pulled away and outwardly from the body
to cause the snaps to separate. This requires extra time and
movements that the user may not be afforded in certain combative
situations. Law enforcement officers, in particular, are well
trained in the use of thumb strap release retention features from
use of their duty weapon holstering, so the development of this
feature on a concealable garment is beneficial for its familiar
draw and known time efficiency.
[0074] Weapon stability is created by applying compressive tension
to the gun grip 30, as opposed to the current method of a strap
retention laying parallel to the gun slide and extending under the
beaver tail notch at the top of the grip. Applying compressive
tension to the gun grip pulls it inward to the body, resulting in
greater comfort, a lighter feeling of the firearm, and dramatically
reduced movement on the body when the wearer is engaged in
combative or vigorous activity.
[0075] As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, an alternate embodiment holster
140 may include a pouch panel in the form of an elastic band 142
that is sewn to a base panel 144 to form a pocket to receive a
handgun 26 at any desired angle. A stiffening panel 24 may be
secured to or integrated into the elastic band 142 to protect the
trigger, as previously described. An elastic strap is secured to
the base panel 144, such as at a bottom edge, and extends across
the grip 30 of a holstered handgun 26. At its free end there is a
snap 148 on a stiffening tab 150. As shown in FIG. 21, a vertically
elongated panel 152 that is stiff, but pliable, is secured to the
base panel 144, such as on the back surface. This elongated
stiffening panel creates the leverage needed to allow separating of
the snap 148 with one hand and in a single movement.
[0076] Alternatively, a hard shell (not shown) holster may be
installed in the pocket of the elastic band 142 and secured in
place with a fastener, as previously described. In such an
embodiment, the shell may provide the retention feature and/or it
may be combined with the thumb break strap 146 extending across the
grip 30 to compress the grip 30 to the base panel 144.
[0077] While one or more embodiments of the present invention have
been described in detail, it should be apparent that modifications
and variations thereto are possible, all of which fall within the
true spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the foregoing is
intended only to be illustrative of the principles of the
invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will
readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not intended to
limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown
and described. Accordingly, all suitable modifications and
equivalents may be included and considered to fall within the scope
of the invention, defined by the following claim or claims.
* * * * *