Modular holster for handguns and the like

Abstract

A holster (10) includes one or more modular inserts (90, 100) positioned within a rigid body (20) of the holster (10) to fit and position a preselected handgun (56) or group of similar handguns or other service items. Also described are security devices including a pivoting security hood (66) and an internal handgun retention device that engages an ejection port (136) of the handgun. The hood (66) and internal retention device may be both opened by a common release lever (70) of the holster (10) that is preferably located along a portion of the holster (10) substantially adjacent a user wearing the holster (10). The release lever (70) drives a rocking latch located along a front wall of the holster body (20), which latches the hood (66) in the closed position and engages an ejection port (136) of a holstered handgun (56). When actuated by the release lever (70), the latch (120) disengages the hood (66) and the ejection port (136), allowing the hood (66) to rotate open and the handgun (56) to be withdrawn from the holster (10).

Description

RELATED APPLICATION [0001] The present application is a nonprovisional application and claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application titled “MODULAR HOLSTER FOR HANDGUNS AND THE LIKE,” Ser. No. 60 / 743,268, filed Feb. 9, 2006. The identified earlier-filed application is hereby incorporated by reference into the present application.BACKGROUND [0002] 1. Field [0003] The present teachings relate to holsters. More particularly, the present teachings relate to security holsters and holsters for accommodating handguns, stun guns, and other similar weapons and service items of various shapes and sizes. [0004] 2. Description of Related Art [0005] Many handgun holsters have safety straps and security hoods for preventing inadvertent or unauthorized withdrawal of a handgun. Known holsters also have internal retention devices that extend into a handgun-receiving cavity of the holster to engage a rigid feature of a handgun, such as a trigger guard or shell ejection port, for retaining t...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, the large number of different holster bodies necessary for providing a complete line of holsters not only adds to the cost of tooling for manufacture, but also adds to the cost of manufacturing and assembly and requires sizable inventories to be carried by manufacturers and retailers.

The fit problem is compounded by the needs of some users for a holster that accommodates a tactical illuminator that is optionally attached to a handgun, typically below its barrel and forward of the trigger guard.

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