Description
The Galco Combat Master is a professional-grade belt holster hand-molded by experienced craftsmen to fit specific handguns. Built from premium steerhide with double-stitched seams, this holster offers the durability and craftsmanship you'd expect from a Galco piece. It's a work-horse that's designed to last.
Why the Pancake Design Works for Concealment
The Combat Master's traditional high-riding pancake style places belt slots on either side of the holster, which pulls the gun tight against your body. That's the key to the whole thing. This design makes even a large defensive revolver practically disappear under light clothing. The twin belt slots fit belts up to 1.75 inches wide, so it blends with current carry setups without looking out of place.
Built for Speed and Retention
The open top design keeps the firing grip fully accessible, giving you a fast, unobstructed draw when every second counts. The detailed hand-molding provides excellent retention without any straps or extra mechanical friction devices. The butt-forward cant allows effective concealment of a larger defensive revolver while maintaining that quick presentation.
This model fits S&W L-Frame 686, 686 Plus, .44 Special, 242, 296, and 386 PD revolvers with 2.5-inch barrels. It also works with Colt King Cobra and Python 2.5-inch models, and Dan Wesson .357 2.5-inch revolvers. Made in tan steerhide with a right-hand draw. Like any quality leather holster, the Combat Master will benefit from a break-in period to mold to your revolver and achieve the secure fit you expect.
Key Specifications
- Model Number: CM102
- UPC: 601299030046
- Holster Type: Outside the Waistband (OWB) Belt Slide
- Material: Premium Steerhide
- Color: Tan
- Hand Orientation: Right Hand
- Primary Fit: Smith & Wesson L-Frame (686, 686 Plus, 242, 296, 386 PD)
- Additional Fits: Colt King Cobra (2.5"), Colt Python (2.5"), Dan Wesson .357 (2.5")
- Barrel Length Compatibility: 2.5 inches
- Belt Width Capacity: Up to 1.75 inches
- Design Style: High-Riding Pancake with Open Top
- Belt Slots: Twin (2) slots for enhanced stability
- Manufacturer: Galco International
What’s Included
- Galco CM102 Combat Master Belt Holster
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Combat Master come broken in, or will I need to adjust it?
Like most quality leather holsters, the Combat Master will benefit from a break-in period. Steerhide is a natural material that molds to your revolver and body over time. Initially it may feel snug when holstering, which is actually a sign of good retention. Work your revolver in and out of the holster a few times to accelerate the break-in process and achieve a smoother draw.
Will this holster fit my S&W 686 Plus?
Yes, the CM102 is designed to fit S&W L-Frame revolvers including the 686 and 686 Plus with 2.5-inch barrels. It also accommodates the 242, 296, .44 Special, and 386 PD models in the same barrel length. If your revolver has a different barrel length, you may need a different model.
What makes the pancake style better for concealment than other belt holsters?
The pancake design uses two leather panels sandwiched around your revolver with belt slots on both sides. This pulls the gun tight against your body and distributes the weight across a wider belt area, keeping the profile slim and the gun close. The high-riding cant also helps break up the gun's outline under clothing, making it one of the most concealable OWB designs available.
Can I adjust the retention or cant on the Combat Master?
The Combat Master relies on the precision hand-molding and natural friction of the steerhide for retention, rather than mechanical adjustment screws. The butt-forward cant is built into the mold and cannot be adjusted. If retention feels too loose after the break-in period, you can contact Galco for service options.




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