Bianchi Model 5BHL Thumbsnap Suede Lined Belt Gun Holster - Revolver, Tan

I have packed my 3 inch 101 for years in a Bianchi nylon open-ended slide holster.. The problem is that I hike the high desert of Utah and every time I sit down I risk ramming the muzzle into dirt or rocks. There are plenty of leather holsters with closed ends for the shorter barrel, but I have had trouble finding such a holster for the 3 inch model. This 5BHL holster appears to be the perfect solution. The craftsmanship is excellent. I especially like the double stitching on the belt loop and the fact that the loop is molded to make it easier to get on and off the belt. I wear mine on a 1 1/4 inch standard jeans belt, and the holster rides high and comfortably tight to the body. I was somewhat concerned about the holster being lined when I ordered. I wanted a compact holster, and Amazon did not carry the unlined model of the Bianchi. But the lining is thin, and the holster is solid and compact.Here's the only problem. The thumb-break strap rides right on the tip of the hammer spur. Getting the strap snapped over the gun the first time is a challenge. I struggled and finally succeeded by liberally lubricating the holster with swear words. I'm at a loss why Bianchi does not notch or scallop the strap to dodge the hammer spur. I considered notching it myself, but I would have had to cut through some of the liner stitching. Having finally snapped the strap, I left the gun in the holster for a week, and the strap now snaps, barely. I suspect the hammer spur may wear a hole in the lining in time (as in a "long" time).I'm delighted I found this holster. All in all, it is a fine holster for a great price.

This is the exact same holster other well known 2A related sites sell for over $100. Not sure if the current price (as of 6/28/25) is due to over-stock or what. Anyway, great Bianchi quality and fits my Ruger GP100 6" perfectly.

Ordered this holster for a S&W 629 classic (with the full under-lug) with a 5" barrel. The pistol fits perfectly.It is a snug fit like any good holster, and the strap was just the right length to fit over the hammer when it is in the uncocked position. The snap on the strap has just the right amount of tension to hold the strap in place, but easily releases with the proper thumb release pressure. This holster has a lining, so that nothing metal rubs against the pistol. The lining is not very soft, but looks to be very durable.The leather was a little lighter color that the other Bianchi holsters I own, but will probably darken up a bit with usage and age.Very nicely made with good craftsmanship.

I purchased this for a 3" S&W J frame and the fit is perfect. Other reviews have mentioned that the thumbsnap needed to be stretched to fit and I did not find that to be the case. This is a size 3 on the Bianchi size chart and fits a 3" J frame perfectly. While the holster fit on the firearm is perfect, the belt slot is very snug and is going to require some stretching and break-in. I tried it using a 1 1/2" belt of fairly normal thickness and it took a lot of effort to squeeze the belt through the belt slot.The holster is made in Mexico and shows very good craftsmanship as is typical of Bianchi products and Mexican leather goods in general. The main disappointment is in the holster lining. This is a Bianchi model 5BHL, which means that it is supposed to be suede lined. If the lining is suede, then it is the most coarse suede that I have ever seen. This is the only thing that keeps me from giving this holster 5 stars. The firearm that the holster will be used with is stainless steel, so blue wear is not an issue. However, it is certainly not the luxurious lining that I have seen in Bianchi holsters of the past.

These are all outstanding holsters which are well designed and produced. Each has been designed to custom fit specific makes and models of firearms. My only problem has been that the description which is listed on the Amazon website is not always correct, specifically the color (black is shown but it's actually tan), or the Bianchi stock number is in error. Before you order, go to the Bianchi website at [...] and then go to the "Holster Selector" section (upper right hand corner of the home page) Use the "Select Material" box to identify your specific manufacturer. I then click on the "Leather" radio button. Then select "Search". The "Search Results" will provide you with a list, including color photographs, of the available products. Select the design that you prefer, and scroll down to the area "Fits For Product Model XXXX" This table lists all of the fits for that design. If your firearm is not listed, that design is probably not available. Remember, these are custom fit holsters. The "Finish/Color" column information lists the available colors, i.e., tan or black. The next two columns have the Bianchi part number for either a left hand or right hand design. This is the most important data in the table. You'll need to think about this choice. I always order "right hand" because I am right handed. If you intend to wear it on the right side of your body, you're all set. However, if removing or re-holstering is uncomfortable for you using your right hand, then it can be worn in reverse on the left side of your body. The converse is also true for left handed people.Firearms should always be protected when they are not being properly stored. I purchased a steel safe for this purpose. These holsters are outstanding for protecting your firearms while they are being transported. For example, to and from the firing range or in your automobile while you are traveling or driving to or through an area for which you may need to provide your own personal, self-defense.