Holster retention adjustment mechanisms and methods

Abstract

A firearm holster may include holster shell and a retention adjustment mechanism. The holster shell may include a first shell portion and a second shell portion defining an interior space configured to receive at least a portion of a firearm therein. The retention adjustment mechanism may be disposed at least partially between the first shell portion and the second shell portion and configured to adjust a retention level provided by the holster. The retention adjustment mechanism may include a first wedge, a second wedge, and an adjustment screw configured to cause the first wedge and the second wedge to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between adjacent portions of the first shell portion and the second shell portion.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 747,213, filed on Jan. 20, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to firearm holsters and, more particularly, to holster retention adjustment mechanisms and methods for manufacturing and using the same.BACKGROUND

[0003] A holster generally is a device used to hold a firearm relative to a user's body and restrict undesired movement of the firearm relative to the holster. Most commonly, holsters may be secured relative to the user's body in a location where the firearm can be easily withdrawn from the holster for immediate use. For example, holsters often may be attached to a belt or waistband, but they may be attached to other locations of the body (e.g., an ankle holster). Holsters may vary in the degree to which they retain or secure a firearm positioned within a shell of the holster. Certain types of holsters, such as thermoplastic holsters, may be designed such that frictional forces generated between mating features of a holster shell and a firearm received therein may be sufficient for retaining the firearm in some instances. According to some designs, holsters may allow for adjustment of the retention level provided by the holster, for example, by including features or components that may be selectively manipulated to increase or decrease frictional forces generated between the holster shell and the firearm received therein. In this manner, a user may optimize the retention level to their preference, and the holster may allow for variability in firearm dimensions.

[0004] For example, FIG. 1 illustrates a firearm holster 100 having a known configuration for facilitating retention adjustment. The holster 100 includes a holster shell 110 having a first shell portion 112 and a second shell portion 114, and a pair of screws 120 for securing the first shell portion 112 and the second shell portion 114 relative to one another. The screws 120 may extend through holes of the second shell portion 114 and engage mating threaded holes of the first shell portion 112 or of a plate disposed below the first shell portion 114. As shown, the holster 100 also includes a pair of flexible (e.g., rubber) spacers or bushings 140, each disposed between the first shell portion 112 and the second shell portion 114, and through which the respective screws 120 extend. Accordingly, the spacers 140 may dictate the spacing between the adjacent portions of the first shell portion 112 and the second shell portion 114 while also providing some resistance to keep the screws 120 from backing out. In view of the flexible nature of the spacers 140, the screws 120 may be tightened or loosened to adjust the spacing between the adjacent portions of the first shell portion 112 and the second shell portion 114. In this manner, the size of the interior space of the holster shell 110 may be increased or decreased, thereby adjusting the retention level provided by the holster 100.

[0005] Although the arrangement shown in FIG. 1 may be suitable for facilitating retention adjustment, use of the flexible spacers 140 may present certain drawbacks. For example, in some instances, it may be challenging to adjust the pair of screws 120 to achieve a desired fit and retention level. Additionally, in view of the flexible nature of the spacers 140, the coupling between the first shell portion 112 and the second shell portion 114 via the screws 120 effectively may be used only for facilitating retention adjustment, preventing other structural features, such as accessory features, from being mounted at that location.

[0006] A need, therefore, exists for improved firearm holsters, firearm holster retention adjustment mechanisms, and related methods for facilitating adjustment of the retention level provided by firearm holsters, which may overcome one or more of the above-mentioned drawbacks associated with existing firearm holsters and methods.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The detailed description is set forth with reference to the accompanying drawings. The use of the same reference numerals may indicate similar or identical items. Various embodiments may utilize elements and / or components other than those illustrated in the drawings, and some elements and / or components may not be present in various embodiments. Elements and / or components in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Throughout this disclosure, depending on the context, singular and plural terminology may be used interchangeably.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portion of a firearm holster, showing a known configuration of respective portions of a holster shell, screws, and flexible spacers that facilitate adjustment of a retention level provided by the holster.

[0009] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a portion of a firearm holster in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure, showing a holster shell having a first shell portion and a second shell portion, a pair of screws, and a retention adjustment mechanism having a first wedge, a second wedge, and an adjustment screw.

[0010] FIG. 2B is a side view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, the screws, a plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, and the adjustment screw of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0011] FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, one of the screws, the plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, the adjustment screw, and a nut of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0012] FIG. 2D is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, one of the screws, the plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, the adjustment screw, and the nut of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0013] FIG. 2E is a cross-sectional plan view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, the screws, the plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, and the adjustment screw of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0014] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a portion of a retention adjustment mechanism, as may be used with a firearm holster, such as the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure, showing a first wedge and a second wedge of the retention adjustment mechanism spaced apart from one another.

[0015] FIG. 3B is a side view of the portion of the retention adjustment mechanism of FIG. 3A, showing the first wedge and the second wedge of the retention adjustment mechanism engaging one another in one of a plurality of potential arrangements.

[0016] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a portion of a retention adjustment mechanism, as may be used with a firearm holster, such as the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure, showing a first wedge and a pair of second wedges of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0017] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of a retention adjustment mechanism, as may be used with a firearm holster, such as the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure, showing a first wedge and a pair of second wedges of the retention adjustment mechanism, with the second wedges shown in phantom view.

[0018] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portion of a retention adjustment mechanism, as may be used with a firearm holster, such as the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure, showing a first wedge and a pair of second wedges of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0019] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a portion of a retention adjustment mechanism, as may be used with a firearm holster, such as the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure, showing a first wedge and a pair of second wedges of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0020] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a portion of a firearm holster in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure, showing a holster shell having a first shell portion and a second shell portion, a pair of screws, and a retention adjustment mechanism having a first wedge and a second wedge.

[0021] FIG. 8B is a side view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 8A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, the screws, a plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, and an adjustment screw of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0022] FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 8A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, one of the screws, the plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, the adjustment screw, and a nut of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0023] FIG. 8D is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 8A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, one of the screws, the plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, the adjustment screw, and the nut of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0024] FIG. 8E is a cross-sectional plan view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 8A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, the screws, the plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, and the adjustment screw of the retention adjustment mechanism.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The present disclosure is directed to firearm holsters, firearm holster retention adjustment mechanisms, and related methods for facilitating adjustment of the retention level provided by firearm holsters. As described above with respect to FIG. 1, certain existing firearm holsters may use flexible spacers positioned between adjacent holster shell portions of the holster and surrounding respective screws coupling the holster shell portions, thereby allowing for adjustment of the retention level provided by the holster. Such arrangement and use of flexible spacers may present certain drawbacks, including challenges in adjusting the screws to achieve a desired fit and retention level, and an inability to mount other structural features, such as accessory features, at the location of the screws. As described herein, the disclosed firearm holster retention adjustment mechanisms, which eliminate the use of flexible spacers, may be implemented to address one or more of these drawbacks.

[0026] In one aspect, a firearm holster may include a holster shell having a first shell portion and a second shell portion, a pair of screws, a plate, and a retention adjustment mechanism. The first shell portion and the second shell portion may be coupled to one another via the screws and the plate. As described, the retention adjustment mechanism may be used to adjust a retention level provided by the holster, that is, how securely a firearm disposed within the holster shell is retained thereby.

[0027] The retention adjustment mechanism may include a first wedge, a second wedge, an adjustment screw, and a nut. The first wedge and the second wedge may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion and the second shell portion, and the screws coupling the first shell portion and the second shell portion may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge and the second wedge. In some examples, the openings of one of the first wedge and the second wedge may be circular, while the openings of the other of the first wedge and the second wedge may be elongated slots. As described, the first wedge and the second wedge may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion and the second shell portion, thereby adjusting a size of an interior space defined between the first shell portion and the second shell portion and thus the retention level of the holster. In some examples, mating surfaces of the first wedge and the second wedge may be smooth, allowing the first wedge and the second wedge to slide relative to one another for adjustment. The adjustment screw may extend through one of the first wedge and the second wedge and engage the nut captured by the other of the first wedge and the second wedge. In this manner, the adjustment screw may be used to adjust positioning of the first wedge and the second wedge relative to one another, thereby adjusting the space between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion and the second shell portion and ultimately adjusting the retention level provided by the holster.

[0028] During use of the retention adjustment mechanism, rotation of the adjustment screw in a one direction (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise) may cause the first wedge and the second wedge to slide relative to one another in a first direction, while rotation of the adjustment screw in an opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise or clockwise) may cause the first wedge and the second wedge to slide in a second direction opposite the first direction. In some examples, sliding of the first wedge and the second wedge in the first direction may decrease the retention level, while sliding of the first wedge and the second wedge in the second direction may increase the retention level, or vice versa. In this manner, when desired, the retention adjustment mechanism may be used to adjust the retention level provided by the holster to a plurality of different levels based on a corresponding plurality of different relative positions of the first wedge and the second wedge.

[0029] Ultimately, the disclosed retention adjustment mechanism may address one or more of the above-noted drawbacks associated with existing firearm holsters implementing flexible spacers. For example, the retention adjustment mechanism may allow a user to fine tune the retention level in a controlled manner to a desired level to achieve a desired fit of a particular firearm when positioned within the holster body. Additionally, the retention adjustment mechanism may allow other structural features, such as accessory features, to be mounted at the location of the screws coupling the first holster shell and the second holster shell to one another. For example, a structural feature, such as an accessory feature, may be coupled to one of the first wedge and the second wedge. In some instances, the structural feature may be integrally formed with one of the first wedge and the second wedge. In other instances, the structural feature may be separately formed and coupled to one of the first wedge and the second wedge via one or more fasteners or other means for mechanical coupling.

[0030] In some examples, according to an alternate configuration, the mating surfaces of the first wedge and the second wedge may include corresponding steps such that the first wedge and the second wedge may be positioned relative to one another in only a fixed number of predetermined positions. According to such examples, the adjustment screw and the nut may be eliminated. This configuration may allow for adjustment of the retention level provided by the holster to a discrete number of levels, as may be desirable for certain applications.

[0031] Still other features, benefits, and advantages of the disclosed firearm holsters, firearm holster retention adjustment mechanisms, and related methods for facilitating adjustment of the retention level provided by firearm holsters over conventional holsters, mechanisms, and techniques will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art from the present disclosure.Example Firearm Holsters and Retention Adjustment Mechanisms

[0032] Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 2A-2E illustrate portions of a firearm holster 200, including a retention adjustment mechanism 240 thereof, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure. The firearm holster 200 may be used for releasably retaining and securing a firearm within the holster 200, and the retention adjustment mechanism 240 may be configured to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 200. As shown, the firearm holster 200 may include a holster shell 210, a pair of screws 220, a plate 230, and the retention adjustment mechanism 240.

[0033] The holster shell 210 may include a first shell portion 212 and a second shell portion 212 that are coupled to one another by the screws 220 and the plate 230. The first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 may define an interior space therebetween, which is configured to receive at least a portion of a firearm therein. In some examples, the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 may be integrally formed with one other, such as when the holster shell 210 has a clam-shell configuration. In other examples, the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 may be separately formed and coupled to one another. As shown, the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 each may include respective openings, such as circular openings or elongated-slot openings, for allowing respective portions of the screws 220 and / or the plate 230 to extend therethrough. In some examples, the first shell portion 212 may have circular openings, and the second shell portion 214 may have elongated-slot openings. In other examples, the first shell portion 212 may have elongated-slot openings, and the second shell portion 214 may have circular openings. In some examples, the holster shell 210, or at least the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 thereof, may be formed of a thermoplastic, although other materials may be used in other examples.

[0034] The retention adjustment mechanism 240 may include a first wedge 242, a second wedge 244, an adjustment screw 246, and a nut 248. The first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, and the screws 220 may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244. As shown, the openings of the first wedge 242 may be circular, and the openings of the second wedge 244 may be elongated slots to allow for relative movement between the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244. As described, the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, thereby adjusting a size of the interior space defined between the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and thus the retention level of the holster 200. As shown, the mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 may be smooth, allowing the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 to slide relative to one another for adjustment. The adjustment screw 246 may extend through respective portions of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 and engage the nut 248 disposed within a receptacle of the second wedge 244. In this manner, the adjustment screw 246 may be used to adjust positioning of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 relative to one another, thereby adjusting the space between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and ultimately adjusting the retention level provided by the holster 200.

[0035] In some examples, as shown, the first wedge 242 may define a groove disposed between a pair of lateral ribs and configured to receive a portion of the second wedge 244 therein. In this manner, the groove may guide sliding movement of the second wedge 244 relative to the first wedge 242, and the ribs may inhibit lateral movement of the second wedge 244 relative to the first wedge 242. In some examples, as shown, an accessory feature 252, such as a belt loop, may be coupled to the first wedge 242. In some examples, as shown, the accessory feature 252 may be integrally formed with the first wedge 242, although the accessory feature 252 may be separately formed and coupled to the first wedge 242 by one or more means of attachment in other examples. In some examples, as shown, the plate 230 may include threaded holes configured to engaged and threadedly receive respective portions of the screws 220. In some examples, as shown, the plate 230 may include a pair of protrusions configured to extend into and / or through the corresponding openings of the first wedge 242 and / or the second wedge 244. In some examples, as shown, the threaded holes of the plate 230 may extend through such protrusions.

[0036] During use of the retention adjustment mechanism 240, rotation of the adjustment screw 246 in a one direction (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise) may cause the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 to slide relative to one another in a first direction (e.g., toward one another), while rotation of the adjustment screw 246 in an opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise or clockwise) may cause the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 to slide in a second direction (e.g., away from one another) opposite the first direction. In some examples, sliding of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 in the first direction may increase the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus decrease the retention level, while sliding of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 in the second direction may decrease the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus increase the retention level. In this manner, when desired, the retention adjustment mechanism 240 may be used to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 200 to a plurality of different levels based on a corresponding plurality of different relative positions of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244. In some examples, the adjustment screw 246 may be a right-handed screw. In other examples, the adjustment screw 246 may be a left-handed screw. In some instances, a helical direction of the threads (i.e., right-handed threading or left-handed threading) of the adjustment screw 246 may be selected such that clockwise rotation of the adjustment screw 246 results in increasing the retention level of the holster 200, as may be more intuitive for users.

[0037] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate an alternate configuration of a retention adjustment mechanism 340, as may be used with the firearm holster 200 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 240 or with the firearm holster 800 (described below) instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 840, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure. As shown, the retention adjustment mechanism 340 may include a first wedge 342 and a second wedge 344. The first wedge 342 and the second wedge 344 may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, and the screws 220 may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge 342 and the second wedge 344. As shown, the openings of the first wedge 342 may be circular, and the openings of the second wedge 344 may be elongated slots to allow for relative movement between the first wedge 342 and the second wedge 344. The first wedge 342 and the second wedge 344 may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, thereby adjusting a size of the interior space defined between the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and thus the retention level of the holster 200. In contrast to the smooth mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 described above, the mating surfaces of the first wedge 342 and the second wedge 344 may include corresponding steps such that the first wedge 342 and the second wedge 344 may be positioned relative to one another in only a fixed number of predetermined positions. According to this configuration, as compared to the retention adjustment mechanism 240, the adjustment screw and the nut may be eliminated. In this manner, the retention adjustment mechanism 340 may allow for adjustment of the retention level provided by the holster 200 to a discrete number of levels, as may be desirable for certain applications.

[0038] In some examples, as shown, an accessory feature 352, such as a belt loop, may be coupled to the first wedge 342. In some examples, as shown, the accessory feature 352 may be integrally formed with the first wedge 342, although the accessory feature 352 may be separately formed and coupled to the first wedge 342 by one or more means of attachment in other examples.

[0039] FIG. 4 illustrates another alternate configuration of a retention adjustment mechanism 440, as may be used with the firearm holster 200 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 240 or with the firearm holster 800 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 840, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure. As shown, the retention adjustment mechanism 440 may include a first wedge 442 and a pair of second wedges 444a, 444b. The first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, and the screws 220 may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b. As shown, the openings of the first wedge 442 may be circular, and the openings of the second wedges 444a, 444b may be elongated slots to allow for relative movement between the first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b. The first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, thereby adjusting a size of the interior space defined between the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and thus the retention level of the holster 200. In contrast to the single second wedge 244 of the retention adjustment mechanism 240, the retention adjustment mechanism 440 may include the pair of the second wedges 444a, 444b disposed about the lateral sides of the first wedge 442. As shown, the mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b may be smooth, allowing the first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b to slide relative to one another for adjustment. The retention adjustment mechanism 440 may include an adjustment screw, similar to the adjustment screw 246, and a nut, similar to the nut 248. The adjustment screw may extend through respective portions of the second wedge 444a, the first wedge 442, and the second wedge 444b and engage the nut disposed within a receptacle of the second wedge 444b. In this manner, the adjustment screw may be used to adjust positioning of the first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b relative to one another, thereby adjusting the space between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and ultimately adjusting the retention level provided by the holster 200. In some examples, an accessory feature, such as a belt loop, may be coupled to the first wedge 442. In some examples, the accessory feature may be integrally formed with the first wedge 442, although the accessory feature may be separately formed and coupled to the first wedge 442 by one or more means of attachment in other examples.

[0040] During use of the retention adjustment mechanism 440, rotation of the adjustment screw in a one direction (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise) may cause the second wedges 444a, 444b to slide along the first wedge 442 relative to one another in a first direction (e.g., toward one another), while rotation of the adjustment screw in an opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise or clockwise) may cause the second wedges 444a, 444b to slide along the first wedge 442 in a second direction (e.g., away from one another) opposite the first direction. In some examples, sliding of the second wedges 444a, 444b in the first direction may increase the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus decrease the retention level, while sliding of the second wedges 444a, 444b in the second direction may decrease the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus increase the retention level. In this manner, when desired, the retention adjustment mechanism 440 may be used to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 200 to a plurality of different levels based on a corresponding plurality of different relative positions of the first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b. In some examples, the adjustment screw may be a right-handed screw. In other examples, the adjustment screw may be a left-handed screw. In some instances, a helical direction of the threads (i.e., right-handed threading or left-handed threading) of the adjustment screw may be selected such that clockwise rotation of the adjustment screw results in increasing the retention level of the holster 200, as may be more intuitive for users.

[0041] FIG. 5 illustrates another alternate configuration of a retention adjustment mechanism 540, as may be used with the firearm holster 200 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 240 or with the firearm holster 800 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 840, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure. As shown, the retention adjustment mechanism 540 may include a first wedge 542 and a pair of second wedges 544a, 544b. The first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, and the screws 220 may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b. As shown, the openings of the first wedge 542 may be circular, and the openings of the second wedges 544a, 544b may be elongated slots to allow for relative movement between the first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b. The first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, thereby adjusting a size of the interior space defined between the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and thus the retention level of the holster 200. In contrast to the single second wedge 244 of the retention adjustment mechanism 240, the retention adjustment mechanism 540 may include the pair of the second wedges 544a, 544b disposed about the lateral sides of the first wedge 542. As shown, the mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b may be smooth, allowing the first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b to slide relative to one another for adjustment. The retention adjustment mechanism 540 may include an adjustment screw, similar to the adjustment screw 246, and a nut, similar to the nut 248. The adjustment screw may extend through respective portions of the second wedge 544a, the first wedge 542, and the second wedge 544b and engage the nut disposed within a receptacle of the second wedge 544b. In this manner, the adjustment screw may be used to adjust positioning of the first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b relative to one another, thereby adjusting the space between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and ultimately adjusting the retention level provided by the holster 200. In some examples, as shown, an accessory feature 552, such as a belt loop, may be coupled to the first wedge 542. In some examples, as shown, the accessory feature 552 may be integrally formed with the first wedge 542, although the accessory feature 552 may be separately formed and coupled to the first wedge 542 by one or more means of attachment in other examples.

[0042] During use of the retention adjustment mechanism 540, rotation of the adjustment screw in a one direction (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise) may cause the second wedges 544a, 544b to slide along the first wedge 542 relative to one another in a first direction (e.g., toward one another), while rotation of the adjustment screw in an opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise or clockwise) may cause the second wedges 544a, 544b to slide along the first wedge 542 in a second direction (e.g., away from one another) opposite the first direction. In some examples, sliding of the second wedges 544a, 544b in the first direction may increase the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus decrease the retention level, while sliding of the second wedges 544a, 544b in the second direction may decrease the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus increase the retention level. In this manner, when desired, the retention adjustment mechanism 540 may be used to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 200 to a plurality of different levels based on a corresponding plurality of different relative positions of the first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b. In some examples, the adjustment screw may be a right-handed screw. In other examples, the adjustment screw may be a left-handed screw. In some instances, a helical direction of the threads (i.e., right-handed threading or left-handed threading) of the adjustment screw may be selected such that clockwise rotation of the adjustment screw results in increasing the retention level of the holster 200, as may be more intuitive for users.

[0043] FIG. 6 illustrates another alternate configuration of a retention adjustment mechanism 640, as may be used with the firearm holster 200 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 240 or with the firearm holster 800 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 840, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure. As shown, the retention adjustment mechanism 640 may include a first wedge 642 and a pair of second wedges 644a, 644b. The first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, and the screws 220 may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b. As shown, the openings of the first wedge 642 may be circular, and the openings of the second wedges 644a, 644b may be elongated slots to allow for relative movement between the first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b. The first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, thereby adjusting a size of the interior space defined between the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and thus the retention level of the holster 200. In contrast to the single second wedge 244 of the retention adjustment mechanism 240, the retention adjustment mechanism 640 may include the pair of the second wedges 644a, 644b disposed about the vertical sides of the first wedge 642. As shown, the mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b may be smooth, allowing the first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b to slide relative to one another for adjustment. The retention adjustment mechanism 640 may include an adjustment screw, similar to the adjustment screw 246, and a nut, similar to the nut 248. The adjustment screw may extend through respective portions of the second wedge 644a, the first wedge 642, and the second wedge 644b and engage the nut disposed within a receptacle of one of the second wedges 644a, 644b. In this manner, the adjustment screw may be used to adjust positioning of the first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b relative to one another, thereby adjusting the space between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and ultimately adjusting the retention level provided by the holster 200. In some examples, an accessory feature, such as a belt loop, may be coupled to the first wedge 642. In some examples, the accessory feature may be integrally formed with the first wedge 642, although the accessory feature may be separately formed and coupled to the first wedge 642 by one or more means of attachment in other examples.

[0044] During use of the retention adjustment mechanism 640, rotation of the adjustment screw in a one direction (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise) may cause the second wedges 644a, 644b to slide along the first wedge 642 relative to one another in a first direction (e.g., toward one another), while rotation of the adjustment screw in an opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise or clockwise) may cause the second wedges 644a, 644b to slide along the first wedge 642 in a second direction (e.g., away from one another) opposite the first direction. In some examples, sliding of the second wedges 644a, 644b in the first direction may increase the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus decrease the retention level, while sliding of the second wedges 644a, 644b in the second direction may decrease the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus increase the retention level. In this manner, when desired, the retention adjustment mechanism 640 may be used to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 200 to a plurality of different levels based on a corresponding plurality of different relative positions of the first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b. In some examples, the adjustment screw may be a right-handed screw. In other examples, the adjustment screw may be a left-handed screw. In some instances, a helical direction of the threads (i.e., right-handed threading or left-handed threading) of the adjustment screw may be selected such that clockwise rotation of the adjustment screw results in increasing the retention level of the holster 200, as may be more intuitive for users.

[0045] FIG. 7 illustrates another alternate configuration of a retention adjustment mechanism 740, as may be used with the firearm holster 200 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 240 or with the firearm holster 800 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 840, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure. As shown, the retention adjustment mechanism 740 may include a first wedge 742 and a pair of second wedges 744a, 744b. The first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, and the screws 220 may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b. As shown, the openings of the first wedge 742 may be circular, and the openings of the second wedges 744a, 744b may be elongated slots to allow for relative movement between the first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b. The first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, thereby adjusting a size of the interior space defined between the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and thus the retention level of the holster 200. In contrast to the single second wedge 244 of the retention adjustment mechanism 240, the retention adjustment mechanism 740 may include the pair of the second wedges 744a, 744b disposed about the lateral sides of the first wedge 742. As shown, the mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b may be smooth, allowing the first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b to slide relative to one another for adjustment. The retention adjustment mechanism 740 may include an adjustment screw, similar to the adjustment screw 246, and a nut, similar to the nut 248. The adjustment screw may extend through respective portions of the second wedge 744a, the first wedge 742, and the second wedge 744b and engage the nut disposed within a receptacle of the second wedge 744b. In this manner, the adjustment screw may be used to adjust positioning of the first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b relative to one another, thereby adjusting the space between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and ultimately adjusting the retention level provided by the holster 200. In some examples, an accessory feature, such as a belt loop, may be coupled to the first wedge 742. In some examples, the accessory feature may be integrally formed with the first wedge 742, although the accessory feature may be separately formed and coupled to the first wedge 742 by one or more means of attachment in other examples.

[0046] During use of the retention adjustment mechanism 740, rotation of the adjustment screw in a one direction (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise) may cause the second wedges 744a, 744b to slide along the first wedge 742 relative to one another in a first direction (e.g., away from one another), while rotation of the adjustment screw in an opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise or clockwise) may cause the second wedges 744a, 744b to slide along the first wedge 742 in a second direction (e.g., toward one another) opposite the first direction. In some examples, sliding of the second wedges 744a, 744b in the first direction may increase the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus decrease the retention level, while sliding of the second wedges 744a, 744b in the second direction may decrease the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus increase the retention level. In this manner, when desired, the retention adjustment mechanism 740 may be used to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 200 to a plurality of different levels based on a corresponding plurality of different relative positions of the first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b. In some examples, the adjustment screw may be a right-handed screw. In other examples, the adjustment screw may be a left-handed screw. In some instances, a helical direction of the threads (i.e., right-handed threading or left-handed threading) of the adjustment screw may be selected such that clockwise rotation of the adjustment screw results in increasing the retention level of the holster 200, as may be more intuitive for users.

[0047] FIGS. 8A-8E illustrate portions of another firearm holster 800, including a retention adjustment mechanism 840 thereof, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure. The firearm holster 800 may be used for releasably retaining and securing a firearm within the holster 800, and the retention adjustment mechanism 840 may be configured to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 800. As shown, the firearm holster 800 may include a holster shell 810, a pair of screws 820, a plate 830, and the retention adjustment mechanism 840. Certain similarities and differences between the firearm holster 800 and the firearm holster 200 described above will be appreciated from the corresponding drawings and the following description. In particular, the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 of the retention adjustment mechanism 840 of the firearm holster 800 may be configured to have mating features that enhance stability of the retention adjustment mechanism 840 and movement of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 relative to one another, as described herein.

[0048] The holster shell 810 may include a first shell portion 812 and a second shell portion 812 that are coupled to one another by the screws 820 and the plate 830. The first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814 may define an interior space therebetween, which is configured to receive at least a portion of a firearm therein. In some examples, the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814 may be integrally formed with one other, such as when the holster shell 810 has a clam-shell configuration. In other examples, the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814 may be separately formed and coupled to one another. As shown, the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814 each may include respective openings, such as circular openings or elongated-slot openings, for allowing respective portions of the screws 820 and / or the plate 830 to extend therethrough. In some examples, the first shell portion 812 may have circular openings, and the second shell portion 814 may have elongated-slot openings. In other examples, the first shell portion 812 may have elongated-slot openings, and the second shell portion 814 may have circular openings. In some examples, the holster shell 810, or at least the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814 thereof, may be formed of a thermoplastic, although other materials may be used in other examples.

[0049] The retention adjustment mechanism 840 may include a first wedge842, a second wedge 844, an adjustment screw 846, and a nut 848. The first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814, and the screws 820 may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844. As shown, the openings of the first wedge 842 may be circular, and the openings of the second wedge 844 may be elongated slots to allow for relative movement between the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844. As described, the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814, thereby adjusting a size of the interior space defined between the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814 and thus the retention level of the holster 800. As shown, the mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 may be smooth, allowing the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 to slide relative to one another for adjustment. The adjustment screw 846 may extend through respective portions of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 and engage the nut 848 disposed within a receptacle of the second wedge 844. In this manner, the adjustment screw 846 may be used to adjust positioning of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 relative to one another, thereby adjusting the space between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814 and ultimately adjusting the retention level provided by the holster 800.

[0050] In some examples, as shown, the second wedge 844 may define a groove disposed between a pair of lateral ribs and configured to receive a portion of the first wedge 842 therein. In this manner, the groove of the second wedge 844 may guide sliding movement of the second wedge 844 relative to the first wedge 842, and the ribs may inhibit lateral movement of the second wedge 844 relative to the first wedge 842. In some examples, as shown, the groove of the second wedge 844 and the mating portion of the first wedge 842 may have a dovetail shape, thereby forming a dovetail connection between the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844. In some examples, as shown, the first wedge 842 also may define a groove, such as along the central portion thereof, that is configured to receive a mating central rib portion of the second wedge 844 therein. In this manner, the groove of the first wedge 842 may guide sliding movement of the second wedge 844 relative to the first wedge 842. The configuration of these mating features of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 may enhance stability of the retention adjustment mechanism 840 and movement of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 relative to one another. In some examples, as shown, an accessory feature 852, such as a belt loop, may be coupled to the first wedge 842. In some examples, as shown, the accessory feature 852 may be integrally formed with the first wedge 842, although the accessory feature 852 may be separately formed and coupled to the first wedge 842 by one or more means of attachment in other examples. In some examples, as shown, the plate 830 may include threaded holes configured to engaged and threadedly receive respective portions of the screws 820. In some examples, as shown, the plate 830 may include a pair of protrusions configured to extend into and / or through the corresponding openings of the first wedge 842 and / or the second wedge 844. In some examples, as shown, the threaded holes of the plate 830 may extend through such protrusions.

[0051] During use of the retention adjustment mechanism 840, rotation of the adjustment screw 846 in a one direction (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise) may cause the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 to slide relative to one another in a first direction (e.g., toward one another), while rotation of the adjustment screw 846 in an opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise or clockwise) may cause the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 to slide in a second direction (e.g., away from one another) opposite first direction. In some examples, sliding of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 in the first direction may increase the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 812 and the second holster shell 814 and thus decrease the retention level, while sliding of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 in the second direction may decrease the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 812 and the second holster shell 814 and thus increase the retention level. In this manner, when desired, the retention adjustment mechanism 840 may be used to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 800 to a plurality of different levels based on a corresponding plurality of different relative positions of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844. In some examples, the adjustment screw 846 may be a right-handed screw. In other examples, the adjustment screw 846 may be a left-handed screw. In some instances, a helical direction of the threads (i.e., right-handed threading or left-handed threading) of the adjustment screw 846 may be selected such that clockwise rotation of the adjustment screw 846 results in increasing the retention level of the holster 200, as may be more intuitive for users.

[0052] Although specific embodiments of the disclosure have been described, numerous other modifications and alternative embodiments are within the scope of the disclosure. For example, any of the functionality described with respect to a particular device or component may be performed by another device or component. Further, while specific device characteristics have been described, embodiments of the disclosure may relate to numerous other device characteristics. Further, although embodiments have been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as illustrative forms of implementing the embodiments. Conditional language, such as, among others, “can,”“could,”“might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments could include, while other embodiments may not include, certain features, elements, and / or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0025]The present disclosure is directed to firearm holsters, firearm holster retention adjustment mechanisms, and related methods for facilitating adjustment of the retention level provided by firearm holsters. As described above with respect to FIG. 1, certain existing firearm holsters may use flexible spacers positioned between adjacent holster shell portions of the holster and surrounding respective screws coupling the holster shell portions, thereby allowing for adjustment of the retention level provided by the holster. Such arrangement and use of flexible spacers may present certain drawbacks, including challenges in adjusting the screws to achieve a desired fit and retention level, and an inability to mount other structural features, such as accessory features, at the location of the screws. As described herein, the disclosed firearm holster retention adjustment mechanisms, which eliminate the use of flexible spacers, may be implemented to address one or more of these drawbac...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 747,213, filed on Jan. 20, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to firearm holsters and, more particularly, to holster retention adjustment mechanisms and methods for manufacturing and using the same.BACKGROUND

[0003] A holster generally is a device used to hold a firearm relative to a user's body and restrict undesired movement of the firearm relative to the holster. Most commonly, holsters may be secured relative to the user's body in a location where the firearm can be easily withdrawn from the holster for immediate use. For example, holsters often may be attached to a belt or waistband, but they may be attached to other locations of the body (e.g., an ankle holster). Holsters may vary in the degree to which they retain or secure a firearm positioned within a shell of the holster. Certain types of holsters, such as thermoplastic holsters, may be designed such that frictional forces generated between mating features of a holster shell and a firearm received therein may be sufficient for retaining the firearm in some instances. According to some designs, holsters may allow for adjustment of the retention level provided by the holster, for example, by including features or components that may be selectively manipulated to increase or decrease frictional forces generated between the holster shell and the firearm received therein. In this manner, a user may optimize the retention level to their preference, and the holster may allow for variability in firearm dimensions.

[0004] For example, FIG. 1 illustrates a firearm holster 100 having a known configuration for facilitating retention adjustment. The holster 100 includes a holster shell 110 having a first shell portion 112 and a second shell portion 114, and a pair of screws 120 for securing the first shell portion 112 and the second shell portion 114 relative to one another. The screws 120 may extend through holes of the second shell portion 114 and engage mating threaded holes of the first shell portion 112 or of a plate disposed below the first shell portion 114. As shown, the holster 100 also includes a pair of flexible (e.g., rubber) spacers or bushings 140, each disposed between the first shell portion 112 and the second shell portion 114, and through which the respective screws 120 extend. Accordingly, the spacers 140 may dictate the spacing between the adjacent portions of the first shell portion 112 and the second shell portion 114 while also providing some resistance to keep the screws 120 from backing out. In view of the flexible nature of the spacers 140, the screws 120 may be tightened or loosened to adjust the spacing between the adjacent portions of the first shell portion 112 and the second shell portion 114. In this manner, the size of the interior space of the holster shell 110 may be increased or decreased, thereby adjusting the retention level provided by the holster 100.

[0005] Although the arrangement shown in FIG. 1 may be suitable for facilitating retention adjustment, use of the flexible spacers 140 may present certain drawbacks. For example, in some instances, it may be challenging to adjust the pair of screws 120 to achieve a desired fit and retention level. Additionally, in view of the flexible nature of the spacers 140, the coupling between the first shell portion 112 and the second shell portion 114 via the screws 120 effectively may be used only for facilitating retention adjustment, preventing other structural features, such as accessory features, from being mounted at that location.

[0006] A need, therefore, exists for improved firearm holsters, firearm holster retention adjustment mechanisms, and related methods for facilitating adjustment of the retention level provided by firearm holsters, which may overcome one or more of the above-mentioned drawbacks associated with existing firearm holsters and methods.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The detailed description is set forth with reference to the accompanying drawings. The use of the same reference numerals may indicate similar or identical items. Various embodiments may utilize elements and / or components other than those illustrated in the drawings, and some elements and / or components may not be present in various embodiments. Elements and / or components in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Throughout this disclosure, depending on the context, singular and plural terminology may be used interchangeably.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portion of a firearm holster, showing a known configuration of respective portions of a holster shell, screws, and flexible spacers that facilitate adjustment of a retention level provided by the holster.

[0009] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a portion of a firearm holster in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure, showing a holster shell having a first shell portion and a second shell portion, a pair of screws, and a retention adjustment mechanism having a first wedge, a second wedge, and an adjustment screw.

[0010] FIG. 2B is a side view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, the screws, a plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, and the adjustment screw of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0011] FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, one of the screws, the plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, the adjustment screw, and a nut of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0012] FIG. 2D is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, one of the screws, the plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, the adjustment screw, and the nut of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0013] FIG. 2E is a cross-sectional plan view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, the screws, the plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, and the adjustment screw of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0014] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a portion of a retention adjustment mechanism, as may be used with a firearm holster, such as the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure, showing a first wedge and a second wedge of the retention adjustment mechanism spaced apart from one another.

[0015] FIG. 3B is a side view of the portion of the retention adjustment mechanism of FIG. 3A, showing the first wedge and the second wedge of the retention adjustment mechanism engaging one another in one of a plurality of potential arrangements.

[0016] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a portion of a retention adjustment mechanism, as may be used with a firearm holster, such as the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure, showing a first wedge and a pair of second wedges of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0017] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of a retention adjustment mechanism, as may be used with a firearm holster, such as the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure, showing a first wedge and a pair of second wedges of the retention adjustment mechanism, with the second wedges shown in phantom view.

[0018] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portion of a retention adjustment mechanism, as may be used with a firearm holster, such as the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure, showing a first wedge and a pair of second wedges of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0019] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a portion of a retention adjustment mechanism, as may be used with a firearm holster, such as the firearm holster of FIG. 2A, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure, showing a first wedge and a pair of second wedges of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0020] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a portion of a firearm holster in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure, showing a holster shell having a first shell portion and a second shell portion, a pair of screws, and a retention adjustment mechanism having a first wedge and a second wedge.

[0021] FIG. 8B is a side view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 8A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, the screws, a plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, and an adjustment screw of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0022] FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 8A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, one of the screws, the plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, the adjustment screw, and a nut of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0023] FIG. 8D is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 8A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, one of the screws, the plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, the adjustment screw, and the nut of the retention adjustment mechanism.

[0024] FIG. 8E is a cross-sectional plan view of a portion of the firearm holster of FIG. 8A, showing the first shell portion, the second shell portion, the screws, the plate, and the first wedge, the second wedge, and the adjustment screw of the retention adjustment mechanism.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The present disclosure is directed to firearm holsters, firearm holster retention adjustment mechanisms, and related methods for facilitating adjustment of the retention level provided by firearm holsters. As described above with respect to FIG. 1, certain existing firearm holsters may use flexible spacers positioned between adjacent holster shell portions of the holster and surrounding respective screws coupling the holster shell portions, thereby allowing for adjustment of the retention level provided by the holster. Such arrangement and use of flexible spacers may present certain drawbacks, including challenges in adjusting the screws to achieve a desired fit and retention level, and an inability to mount other structural features, such as accessory features, at the location of the screws. As described herein, the disclosed firearm holster retention adjustment mechanisms, which eliminate the use of flexible spacers, may be implemented to address one or more of these drawbacks.

[0026] In one aspect, a firearm holster may include a holster shell having a first shell portion and a second shell portion, a pair of screws, a plate, and a retention adjustment mechanism. The first shell portion and the second shell portion may be coupled to one another via the screws and the plate. As described, the retention adjustment mechanism may be used to adjust a retention level provided by the holster, that is, how securely a firearm disposed within the holster shell is retained thereby.

[0027] The retention adjustment mechanism may include a first wedge, a second wedge, an adjustment screw, and a nut. The first wedge and the second wedge may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion and the second shell portion, and the screws coupling the first shell portion and the second shell portion may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge and the second wedge. In some examples, the openings of one of the first wedge and the second wedge may be circular, while the openings of the other of the first wedge and the second wedge may be elongated slots. As described, the first wedge and the second wedge may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion and the second shell portion, thereby adjusting a size of an interior space defined between the first shell portion and the second shell portion and thus the retention level of the holster. In some examples, mating surfaces of the first wedge and the second wedge may be smooth, allowing the first wedge and the second wedge to slide relative to one another for adjustment. The adjustment screw may extend through one of the first wedge and the second wedge and engage the nut captured by the other of the first wedge and the second wedge. In this manner, the adjustment screw may be used to adjust positioning of the first wedge and the second wedge relative to one another, thereby adjusting the space between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion and the second shell portion and ultimately adjusting the retention level provided by the holster.

[0028] During use of the retention adjustment mechanism, rotation of the adjustment screw in a one direction (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise) may cause the first wedge and the second wedge to slide relative to one another in a first direction, while rotation of the adjustment screw in an opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise or clockwise) may cause the first wedge and the second wedge to slide in a second direction opposite the first direction. In some examples, sliding of the first wedge and the second wedge in the first direction may decrease the retention level, while sliding of the first wedge and the second wedge in the second direction may increase the retention level, or vice versa. In this manner, when desired, the retention adjustment mechanism may be used to adjust the retention level provided by the holster to a plurality of different levels based on a corresponding plurality of different relative positions of the first wedge and the second wedge.

[0029] Ultimately, the disclosed retention adjustment mechanism may address one or more of the above-noted drawbacks associated with existing firearm holsters implementing flexible spacers. For example, the retention adjustment mechanism may allow a user to fine tune the retention level in a controlled manner to a desired level to achieve a desired fit of a particular firearm when positioned within the holster body. Additionally, the retention adjustment mechanism may allow other structural features, such as accessory features, to be mounted at the location of the screws coupling the first holster shell and the second holster shell to one another. For example, a structural feature, such as an accessory feature, may be coupled to one of the first wedge and the second wedge. In some instances, the structural feature may be integrally formed with one of the first wedge and the second wedge. In other instances, the structural feature may be separately formed and coupled to one of the first wedge and the second wedge via one or more fasteners or other means for mechanical coupling.

[0030] In some examples, according to an alternate configuration, the mating surfaces of the first wedge and the second wedge may include corresponding steps such that the first wedge and the second wedge may be positioned relative to one another in only a fixed number of predetermined positions. According to such examples, the adjustment screw and the nut may be eliminated. This configuration may allow for adjustment of the retention level provided by the holster to a discrete number of levels, as may be desirable for certain applications.

[0031] Still other features, benefits, and advantages of the disclosed firearm holsters, firearm holster retention adjustment mechanisms, and related methods for facilitating adjustment of the retention level provided by firearm holsters over conventional holsters, mechanisms, and techniques will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art from the present disclosure.Example Firearm Holsters and Retention Adjustment Mechanisms

[0032] Referring now to the drawings, FIGS. 2A-2E illustrate portions of a firearm holster 200, including a retention adjustment mechanism 240 thereof, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure. The firearm holster 200 may be used for releasably retaining and securing a firearm within the holster 200, and the retention adjustment mechanism 240 may be configured to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 200. As shown, the firearm holster 200 may include a holster shell 210, a pair of screws 220, a plate 230, and the retention adjustment mechanism 240.

[0033] The holster shell 210 may include a first shell portion 212 and a second shell portion 212 that are coupled to one another by the screws 220 and the plate 230. The first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 may define an interior space therebetween, which is configured to receive at least a portion of a firearm therein. In some examples, the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 may be integrally formed with one other, such as when the holster shell 210 has a clam-shell configuration. In other examples, the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 may be separately formed and coupled to one another. As shown, the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 each may include respective openings, such as circular openings or elongated-slot openings, for allowing respective portions of the screws 220 and / or the plate 230 to extend therethrough. In some examples, the first shell portion 212 may have circular openings, and the second shell portion 214 may have elongated-slot openings. In other examples, the first shell portion 212 may have elongated-slot openings, and the second shell portion 214 may have circular openings. In some examples, the holster shell 210, or at least the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 thereof, may be formed of a thermoplastic, although other materials may be used in other examples.

[0034] The retention adjustment mechanism 240 may include a first wedge 242, a second wedge 244, an adjustment screw 246, and a nut 248. The first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, and the screws 220 may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244. As shown, the openings of the first wedge 242 may be circular, and the openings of the second wedge 244 may be elongated slots to allow for relative movement between the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244. As described, the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, thereby adjusting a size of the interior space defined between the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and thus the retention level of the holster 200. As shown, the mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 may be smooth, allowing the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 to slide relative to one another for adjustment. The adjustment screw 246 may extend through respective portions of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 and engage the nut 248 disposed within a receptacle of the second wedge 244. In this manner, the adjustment screw 246 may be used to adjust positioning of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 relative to one another, thereby adjusting the space between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and ultimately adjusting the retention level provided by the holster 200.

[0035] In some examples, as shown, the first wedge 242 may define a groove disposed between a pair of lateral ribs and configured to receive a portion of the second wedge 244 therein. In this manner, the groove may guide sliding movement of the second wedge 244 relative to the first wedge 242, and the ribs may inhibit lateral movement of the second wedge 244 relative to the first wedge 242. In some examples, as shown, an accessory feature 252, such as a belt loop, may be coupled to the first wedge 242. In some examples, as shown, the accessory feature 252 may be integrally formed with the first wedge 242, although the accessory feature 252 may be separately formed and coupled to the first wedge 242 by one or more means of attachment in other examples. In some examples, as shown, the plate 230 may include threaded holes configured to engaged and threadedly receive respective portions of the screws 220. In some examples, as shown, the plate 230 may include a pair of protrusions configured to extend into and / or through the corresponding openings of the first wedge 242 and / or the second wedge 244. In some examples, as shown, the threaded holes of the plate 230 may extend through such protrusions.

[0036] During use of the retention adjustment mechanism 240, rotation of the adjustment screw 246 in a one direction (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise) may cause the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 to slide relative to one another in a first direction (e.g., toward one another), while rotation of the adjustment screw 246 in an opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise or clockwise) may cause the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 to slide in a second direction (e.g., away from one another) opposite the first direction. In some examples, sliding of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 in the first direction may increase the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus decrease the retention level, while sliding of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 in the second direction may decrease the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus increase the retention level. In this manner, when desired, the retention adjustment mechanism 240 may be used to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 200 to a plurality of different levels based on a corresponding plurality of different relative positions of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244. In some examples, the adjustment screw 246 may be a right-handed screw. In other examples, the adjustment screw 246 may be a left-handed screw. In some instances, a helical direction of the threads (i.e., right-handed threading or left-handed threading) of the adjustment screw 246 may be selected such that clockwise rotation of the adjustment screw 246 results in increasing the retention level of the holster 200, as may be more intuitive for users.

[0037] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate an alternate configuration of a retention adjustment mechanism 340, as may be used with the firearm holster 200 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 240 or with the firearm holster 800 (described below) instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 840, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure. As shown, the retention adjustment mechanism 340 may include a first wedge 342 and a second wedge 344. The first wedge 342 and the second wedge 344 may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, and the screws 220 may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge 342 and the second wedge 344. As shown, the openings of the first wedge 342 may be circular, and the openings of the second wedge 344 may be elongated slots to allow for relative movement between the first wedge 342 and the second wedge 344. The first wedge 342 and the second wedge 344 may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, thereby adjusting a size of the interior space defined between the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and thus the retention level of the holster 200. In contrast to the smooth mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge 242 and the second wedge 244 described above, the mating surfaces of the first wedge 342 and the second wedge 344 may include corresponding steps such that the first wedge 342 and the second wedge 344 may be positioned relative to one another in only a fixed number of predetermined positions. According to this configuration, as compared to the retention adjustment mechanism 240, the adjustment screw and the nut may be eliminated. In this manner, the retention adjustment mechanism 340 may allow for adjustment of the retention level provided by the holster 200 to a discrete number of levels, as may be desirable for certain applications.

[0038] In some examples, as shown, an accessory feature 352, such as a belt loop, may be coupled to the first wedge 342. In some examples, as shown, the accessory feature 352 may be integrally formed with the first wedge 342, although the accessory feature 352 may be separately formed and coupled to the first wedge 342 by one or more means of attachment in other examples.

[0039] FIG. 4 illustrates another alternate configuration of a retention adjustment mechanism 440, as may be used with the firearm holster 200 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 240 or with the firearm holster 800 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 840, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure. As shown, the retention adjustment mechanism 440 may include a first wedge 442 and a pair of second wedges 444a, 444b. The first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, and the screws 220 may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b. As shown, the openings of the first wedge 442 may be circular, and the openings of the second wedges 444a, 444b may be elongated slots to allow for relative movement between the first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b. The first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, thereby adjusting a size of the interior space defined between the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and thus the retention level of the holster 200. In contrast to the single second wedge 244 of the retention adjustment mechanism 240, the retention adjustment mechanism 440 may include the pair of the second wedges 444a, 444b disposed about the lateral sides of the first wedge 442. As shown, the mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b may be smooth, allowing the first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b to slide relative to one another for adjustment. The retention adjustment mechanism 440 may include an adjustment screw, similar to the adjustment screw 246, and a nut, similar to the nut 248. The adjustment screw may extend through respective portions of the second wedge 444a, the first wedge 442, and the second wedge 444b and engage the nut disposed within a receptacle of the second wedge 444b. In this manner, the adjustment screw may be used to adjust positioning of the first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b relative to one another, thereby adjusting the space between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and ultimately adjusting the retention level provided by the holster 200. In some examples, an accessory feature, such as a belt loop, may be coupled to the first wedge 442. In some examples, the accessory feature may be integrally formed with the first wedge 442, although the accessory feature may be separately formed and coupled to the first wedge 442 by one or more means of attachment in other examples.

[0040] During use of the retention adjustment mechanism 440, rotation of the adjustment screw in a one direction (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise) may cause the second wedges 444a, 444b to slide along the first wedge 442 relative to one another in a first direction (e.g., toward one another), while rotation of the adjustment screw in an opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise or clockwise) may cause the second wedges 444a, 444b to slide along the first wedge 442 in a second direction (e.g., away from one another) opposite the first direction. In some examples, sliding of the second wedges 444a, 444b in the first direction may increase the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus decrease the retention level, while sliding of the second wedges 444a, 444b in the second direction may decrease the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus increase the retention level. In this manner, when desired, the retention adjustment mechanism 440 may be used to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 200 to a plurality of different levels based on a corresponding plurality of different relative positions of the first wedge 442 and the second wedges 444a, 444b. In some examples, the adjustment screw may be a right-handed screw. In other examples, the adjustment screw may be a left-handed screw. In some instances, a helical direction of the threads (i.e., right-handed threading or left-handed threading) of the adjustment screw may be selected such that clockwise rotation of the adjustment screw results in increasing the retention level of the holster 200, as may be more intuitive for users.

[0041] FIG. 5 illustrates another alternate configuration of a retention adjustment mechanism 540, as may be used with the firearm holster 200 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 240 or with the firearm holster 800 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 840, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure. As shown, the retention adjustment mechanism 540 may include a first wedge 542 and a pair of second wedges 544a, 544b. The first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, and the screws 220 may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b. As shown, the openings of the first wedge 542 may be circular, and the openings of the second wedges 544a, 544b may be elongated slots to allow for relative movement between the first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b. The first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, thereby adjusting a size of the interior space defined between the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and thus the retention level of the holster 200. In contrast to the single second wedge 244 of the retention adjustment mechanism 240, the retention adjustment mechanism 540 may include the pair of the second wedges 544a, 544b disposed about the lateral sides of the first wedge 542. As shown, the mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b may be smooth, allowing the first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b to slide relative to one another for adjustment. The retention adjustment mechanism 540 may include an adjustment screw, similar to the adjustment screw 246, and a nut, similar to the nut 248. The adjustment screw may extend through respective portions of the second wedge 544a, the first wedge 542, and the second wedge 544b and engage the nut disposed within a receptacle of the second wedge 544b. In this manner, the adjustment screw may be used to adjust positioning of the first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b relative to one another, thereby adjusting the space between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and ultimately adjusting the retention level provided by the holster 200. In some examples, as shown, an accessory feature 552, such as a belt loop, may be coupled to the first wedge 542. In some examples, as shown, the accessory feature 552 may be integrally formed with the first wedge 542, although the accessory feature 552 may be separately formed and coupled to the first wedge 542 by one or more means of attachment in other examples.

[0042] During use of the retention adjustment mechanism 540, rotation of the adjustment screw in a one direction (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise) may cause the second wedges 544a, 544b to slide along the first wedge 542 relative to one another in a first direction (e.g., toward one another), while rotation of the adjustment screw in an opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise or clockwise) may cause the second wedges 544a, 544b to slide along the first wedge 542 in a second direction (e.g., away from one another) opposite the first direction. In some examples, sliding of the second wedges 544a, 544b in the first direction may increase the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus decrease the retention level, while sliding of the second wedges 544a, 544b in the second direction may decrease the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus increase the retention level. In this manner, when desired, the retention adjustment mechanism 540 may be used to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 200 to a plurality of different levels based on a corresponding plurality of different relative positions of the first wedge 542 and the second wedges 544a, 544b. In some examples, the adjustment screw may be a right-handed screw. In other examples, the adjustment screw may be a left-handed screw. In some instances, a helical direction of the threads (i.e., right-handed threading or left-handed threading) of the adjustment screw may be selected such that clockwise rotation of the adjustment screw results in increasing the retention level of the holster 200, as may be more intuitive for users.

[0043] FIG. 6 illustrates another alternate configuration of a retention adjustment mechanism 640, as may be used with the firearm holster 200 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 240 or with the firearm holster 800 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 840, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure. As shown, the retention adjustment mechanism 640 may include a first wedge 642 and a pair of second wedges 644a, 644b. The first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, and the screws 220 may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b. As shown, the openings of the first wedge 642 may be circular, and the openings of the second wedges 644a, 644b may be elongated slots to allow for relative movement between the first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b. The first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, thereby adjusting a size of the interior space defined between the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and thus the retention level of the holster 200. In contrast to the single second wedge 244 of the retention adjustment mechanism 240, the retention adjustment mechanism 640 may include the pair of the second wedges 644a, 644b disposed about the vertical sides of the first wedge 642. As shown, the mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b may be smooth, allowing the first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b to slide relative to one another for adjustment. The retention adjustment mechanism 640 may include an adjustment screw, similar to the adjustment screw 246, and a nut, similar to the nut 248. The adjustment screw may extend through respective portions of the second wedge 644a, the first wedge 642, and the second wedge 644b and engage the nut disposed within a receptacle of one of the second wedges 644a, 644b. In this manner, the adjustment screw may be used to adjust positioning of the first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b relative to one another, thereby adjusting the space between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and ultimately adjusting the retention level provided by the holster 200. In some examples, an accessory feature, such as a belt loop, may be coupled to the first wedge 642. In some examples, the accessory feature may be integrally formed with the first wedge 642, although the accessory feature may be separately formed and coupled to the first wedge 642 by one or more means of attachment in other examples.

[0044] During use of the retention adjustment mechanism 640, rotation of the adjustment screw in a one direction (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise) may cause the second wedges 644a, 644b to slide along the first wedge 642 relative to one another in a first direction (e.g., toward one another), while rotation of the adjustment screw in an opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise or clockwise) may cause the second wedges 644a, 644b to slide along the first wedge 642 in a second direction (e.g., away from one another) opposite the first direction. In some examples, sliding of the second wedges 644a, 644b in the first direction may increase the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus decrease the retention level, while sliding of the second wedges 644a, 644b in the second direction may decrease the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus increase the retention level. In this manner, when desired, the retention adjustment mechanism 640 may be used to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 200 to a plurality of different levels based on a corresponding plurality of different relative positions of the first wedge 642 and the second wedges 644a, 644b. In some examples, the adjustment screw may be a right-handed screw. In other examples, the adjustment screw may be a left-handed screw. In some instances, a helical direction of the threads (i.e., right-handed threading or left-handed threading) of the adjustment screw may be selected such that clockwise rotation of the adjustment screw results in increasing the retention level of the holster 200, as may be more intuitive for users.

[0045] FIG. 7 illustrates another alternate configuration of a retention adjustment mechanism 740, as may be used with the firearm holster 200 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 240 or with the firearm holster 800 instead of the retention adjustment mechanism 840, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure. As shown, the retention adjustment mechanism 740 may include a first wedge 742 and a pair of second wedges 744a, 744b. The first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, and the screws 220 may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b. As shown, the openings of the first wedge 742 may be circular, and the openings of the second wedges 744a, 744b may be elongated slots to allow for relative movement between the first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b. The first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214, thereby adjusting a size of the interior space defined between the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and thus the retention level of the holster 200. In contrast to the single second wedge 244 of the retention adjustment mechanism 240, the retention adjustment mechanism 740 may include the pair of the second wedges 744a, 744b disposed about the lateral sides of the first wedge 742. As shown, the mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b may be smooth, allowing the first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b to slide relative to one another for adjustment. The retention adjustment mechanism 740 may include an adjustment screw, similar to the adjustment screw 246, and a nut, similar to the nut 248. The adjustment screw may extend through respective portions of the second wedge 744a, the first wedge 742, and the second wedge 744b and engage the nut disposed within a receptacle of the second wedge 744b. In this manner, the adjustment screw may be used to adjust positioning of the first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b relative to one another, thereby adjusting the space between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 212 and the second shell portion 214 and ultimately adjusting the retention level provided by the holster 200. In some examples, an accessory feature, such as a belt loop, may be coupled to the first wedge 742. In some examples, the accessory feature may be integrally formed with the first wedge 742, although the accessory feature may be separately formed and coupled to the first wedge 742 by one or more means of attachment in other examples.

[0046] During use of the retention adjustment mechanism 740, rotation of the adjustment screw in a one direction (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise) may cause the second wedges 744a, 744b to slide along the first wedge 742 relative to one another in a first direction (e.g., away from one another), while rotation of the adjustment screw in an opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise or clockwise) may cause the second wedges 744a, 744b to slide along the first wedge 742 in a second direction (e.g., toward one another) opposite the first direction. In some examples, sliding of the second wedges 744a, 744b in the first direction may increase the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus decrease the retention level, while sliding of the second wedges 744a, 744b in the second direction may decrease the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 212 and the second holster shell 214 and thus increase the retention level. In this manner, when desired, the retention adjustment mechanism 740 may be used to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 200 to a plurality of different levels based on a corresponding plurality of different relative positions of the first wedge 742 and the second wedges 744a, 744b. In some examples, the adjustment screw may be a right-handed screw. In other examples, the adjustment screw may be a left-handed screw. In some instances, a helical direction of the threads (i.e., right-handed threading or left-handed threading) of the adjustment screw may be selected such that clockwise rotation of the adjustment screw results in increasing the retention level of the holster 200, as may be more intuitive for users.

[0047] FIGS. 8A-8E illustrate portions of another firearm holster 800, including a retention adjustment mechanism 840 thereof, in accordance with one or more examples of the disclosure. The firearm holster 800 may be used for releasably retaining and securing a firearm within the holster 800, and the retention adjustment mechanism 840 may be configured to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 800. As shown, the firearm holster 800 may include a holster shell 810, a pair of screws 820, a plate 830, and the retention adjustment mechanism 840. Certain similarities and differences between the firearm holster 800 and the firearm holster 200 described above will be appreciated from the corresponding drawings and the following description. In particular, the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 of the retention adjustment mechanism 840 of the firearm holster 800 may be configured to have mating features that enhance stability of the retention adjustment mechanism 840 and movement of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 relative to one another, as described herein.

[0048] The holster shell 810 may include a first shell portion 812 and a second shell portion 812 that are coupled to one another by the screws 820 and the plate 830. The first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814 may define an interior space therebetween, which is configured to receive at least a portion of a firearm therein. In some examples, the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814 may be integrally formed with one other, such as when the holster shell 810 has a clam-shell configuration. In other examples, the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814 may be separately formed and coupled to one another. As shown, the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814 each may include respective openings, such as circular openings or elongated-slot openings, for allowing respective portions of the screws 820 and / or the plate 830 to extend therethrough. In some examples, the first shell portion 812 may have circular openings, and the second shell portion 814 may have elongated-slot openings. In other examples, the first shell portion 812 may have elongated-slot openings, and the second shell portion 814 may have circular openings. In some examples, the holster shell 810, or at least the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814 thereof, may be formed of a thermoplastic, although other materials may be used in other examples.

[0049] The retention adjustment mechanism 840 may include a first wedge842, a second wedge 844, an adjustment screw 846, and a nut 848. The first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 may be disposed between adjacent regions of the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814, and the screws 820 may extend through corresponding openings of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844. As shown, the openings of the first wedge 842 may be circular, and the openings of the second wedge 844 may be elongated slots to allow for relative movement between the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844. As described, the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 may be configured to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814, thereby adjusting a size of the interior space defined between the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814 and thus the retention level of the holster 800. As shown, the mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 may be smooth, allowing the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 to slide relative to one another for adjustment. The adjustment screw 846 may extend through respective portions of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 and engage the nut 848 disposed within a receptacle of the second wedge 844. In this manner, the adjustment screw 846 may be used to adjust positioning of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 relative to one another, thereby adjusting the space between the adjacent regions of the first shell portion 812 and the second shell portion 814 and ultimately adjusting the retention level provided by the holster 800.

[0050] In some examples, as shown, the second wedge 844 may define a groove disposed between a pair of lateral ribs and configured to receive a portion of the first wedge 842 therein. In this manner, the groove of the second wedge 844 may guide sliding movement of the second wedge 844 relative to the first wedge 842, and the ribs may inhibit lateral movement of the second wedge 844 relative to the first wedge 842. In some examples, as shown, the groove of the second wedge 844 and the mating portion of the first wedge 842 may have a dovetail shape, thereby forming a dovetail connection between the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844. In some examples, as shown, the first wedge 842 also may define a groove, such as along the central portion thereof, that is configured to receive a mating central rib portion of the second wedge 844 therein. In this manner, the groove of the first wedge 842 may guide sliding movement of the second wedge 844 relative to the first wedge 842. The configuration of these mating features of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 may enhance stability of the retention adjustment mechanism 840 and movement of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 relative to one another. In some examples, as shown, an accessory feature 852, such as a belt loop, may be coupled to the first wedge 842. In some examples, as shown, the accessory feature 852 may be integrally formed with the first wedge 842, although the accessory feature 852 may be separately formed and coupled to the first wedge 842 by one or more means of attachment in other examples. In some examples, as shown, the plate 830 may include threaded holes configured to engaged and threadedly receive respective portions of the screws 820. In some examples, as shown, the plate 830 may include a pair of protrusions configured to extend into and / or through the corresponding openings of the first wedge 842 and / or the second wedge 844. In some examples, as shown, the threaded holes of the plate 830 may extend through such protrusions.

[0051] During use of the retention adjustment mechanism 840, rotation of the adjustment screw 846 in a one direction (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise) may cause the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 to slide relative to one another in a first direction (e.g., toward one another), while rotation of the adjustment screw 846 in an opposite direction (e.g., counter-clockwise or clockwise) may cause the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 to slide in a second direction (e.g., away from one another) opposite first direction. In some examples, sliding of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 in the first direction may increase the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 812 and the second holster shell 814 and thus decrease the retention level, while sliding of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844 in the second direction may decrease the space between the adjacent portions of the first holster shell 812 and the second holster shell 814 and thus increase the retention level. In this manner, when desired, the retention adjustment mechanism 840 may be used to adjust the retention level provided by the holster 800 to a plurality of different levels based on a corresponding plurality of different relative positions of the first wedge 842 and the second wedge 844. In some examples, the adjustment screw 846 may be a right-handed screw. In other examples, the adjustment screw 846 may be a left-handed screw. In some instances, a helical direction of the threads (i.e., right-handed threading or left-handed threading) of the adjustment screw 846 may be selected such that clockwise rotation of the adjustment screw 846 results in increasing the retention level of the holster 200, as may be more intuitive for users.

[0052] Although specific embodiments of the disclosure have been described, numerous other modifications and alternative embodiments are within the scope of the disclosure. For example, any of the functionality described with respect to a particular device or component may be performed by another device or component. Further, while specific device characteristics have been described, embodiments of the disclosure may relate to numerous other device characteristics. Further, although embodiments have been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as illustrative forms of implementing the embodiments. Conditional language, such as, among others, “can,”“could,”“might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments could include, while other embodiments may not include, certain features, elements, and / or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0025]The present disclosure is directed to firearm holsters, firearm holster retention adjustment mechanisms, and related methods for facilitating adjustment of the retention level provided by firearm holsters. As described above with respect to FIG. 1, certain existing firearm holsters may use flexible spacers positioned between adjacent holster shell portions of the holster and surrounding respective screws coupling the holster shell portions, thereby allowing for adjustment of the retention level provided by the holster. Such arrangement and use of flexible spacers may present certain drawbacks, including challenges in adjusting the screws to achieve a desired fit and retention level, and an inability to mount other structural features, such as accessory features, at the location of the screws. As described herein, the disclosed firearm holster retention adjustment mechanisms, which eliminate the use of flexible spacers, may be implemented to address one or more of these drawbac...

Claims

1. A firearm holster comprising:a holster shell comprising a first shell portion and a second shell portion defining an interior space configured to receive at least a portion of a firearm therein; anda retention adjustment mechanism disposed at least partially between the first shell portion and the second shell portion and configured to adjust a retention level provided by the holster, the retention adjustment mechanism comprising:a first wedge;a second wedge; andan adjustment screw configured to cause the first wedge and the second wedge to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between adjacent portions of the first shell portion and the second shell portion.

2. The firearm holster of claim 1, wherein the first shell portion and the second shell portion are integrally formed with one another, and wherein the holster shell has a clamshell configuration.

3. The firearm holster of claim 1, wherein the first shell portion and the second shell portion are separately formed.

4. The firearm holster of claim 1, wherein the first shell portion and the second shell portion are formed of a thermoplastic.

5. The firearm holster of claim 1, wherein the first shell portion and the second shell portion are coupled to one another by a pair of screws and a plate.

6. The firearm holster of claim 5, wherein each of the screws extends at least partially through openings of the first shell portion, openings of the second shell portion, openings of the first wedge, and openings of the second wedge.

7. The firearm holster of claim 6, wherein the openings of the first wedge each have a circular shape, and wherein the openings of the second wedge each have an elongated shape.

8. The firearm holster of claim 1, wherein mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge and the second wedge are smooth surfaces configured to facilitate movement of the first wedge and the second wedge relative to one another.

9. The firearm holster of claim 1, wherein the adjustment screw extends through one of the first wedge and the second wedge and engages a nut captured by the other of the first wedge and the second wedge.

10. The firearm holster of claim 1, wherein rotation of the adjustment screw in a first rotational direction causes the first wedge and the second wedge to move relative to one another in a first direction, wherein rotation of the adjustment screw in an opposite second rotational direction causes the first wedge and the second wedge to move in a second direction opposite the first direction, wherein the movement of the first wedge and the second wedge relative to one another in the first direction causes the retention level provided by the holster to decrease, and wherein the movement of the first wedge and the second wedge relative to one another in the second direction causes the retention level provided by the holster to increase.

11. The firearm holster of claim 1, wherein one of the first wedge and the second wedge defines a groove, and wherein the other of the first wedge and the second wedge comprises a rib disposed within the groove.

12. The firearm holster of claim 11, wherein the groove and the rib have a dovetail shape.

13. The firearm holster of claim 1, wherein the first wedge and the second wedge are coupled to one another by a dovetail connection.

14. The firearm holster of claim 1, wherein the retention adjustment mechanism further comprises a third wedge, and wherein the adjustment screw is configured to cause the first wedge, the second wedge, and the third wedge to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between adjacent portions of the first shell portion and the second shell portion.

15. A retention adjustment mechanism for a firearm holster including a holster shell having a first shell portion and a second shell portion defining an interior space configured to receive at least a portion of a firearm therein, the retention adjustment mechanism configured to adjust a retention level provided by the holster, the retention adjustment mechanism comprising:a first wedge configured to be disposed at least partially between the first shell portion and the second shell portion;a second wedge configured to be disposed at least partially between the first shell portion and the second shell portion; andan adjustment screw configured to cause the first wedge and the second wedge to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between adjacent portions of the first shell portion and the second shell portion.

16. The retention adjustment mechanism of claim 15, wherein mating ramped surfaces of the first wedge and the second wedge are smooth surfaces configured to facilitate movement of the first wedge and the second wedge relative to one another.

17. The retention adjustment mechanism of claim 15, wherein the adjustment screw extends through one of the first wedge and the second wedge and engages a nut captured by the other of the first wedge and the second wedge.

18. The retention adjustment mechanism of claim 15, wherein rotation of the adjustment screw in a first rotational direction causes the first wedge and the second wedge to move relative to one another in a first direction, wherein rotation of the adjustment screw in an opposite second rotational direction causes the first wedge and the second wedge to move in a second direction opposite the first direction, wherein the movement of the first wedge and the second wedge relative to one another in the first direction causes the retention level provided by the holster to decrease, and wherein the movement of the first wedge and the second wedge relative to one another in the second direction causes the retention level provided by the holster to increase.

19. The retention adjustment mechanism of claim 15, wherein the first wedge and the second wedge are coupled to one another by a dovetail connection.

20. A method of manufacturing a firearm holster, the method comprising:providing a holster shell comprising a first shell portion and a second shell portion defining an interior space configured to receive at least a portion of a firearm therein; andpositioning a retention adjustment mechanism at least partially between the first shell portion and the second shell portion, the configured to adjust a retention level provided by the holster, the retention adjustment mechanism comprising:a first wedge;a second wedge; andan adjustment screw configured to cause the first wedge and the second wedge to move relative to one another to adjust a distance between adjacent portions of the first shell portion and the second shell portion.

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