I'm considering buying a digital SLR camera to complement the
shirt-pocket digicam I already have. The only thing holding me back is
the SLR's bulk. I remember too well the days of walking around with a
35mm film SLR dangling from my neck like an albatross, and I'll not
revisit that scenario. What I seek is a belt mounted quick-draw open
holster, one designed to hold only the camera with lens attached--no
additional lens. I envision it as being made of a framework of rigid
leather straps, with a single velcro strap over the top to keep it
from falling out. The SLR holsters that I have seen online are of the
closed bag configuration, as shown here

http://www.etronics.com/product.asp?stk_code=samson2.1&catid=257&store

and that's unacceptable.

I do hope that my imagined holster exists and that someone will be
able to point me to a source.

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Request for Question Clarification by crabcakes-ga on 14 Jul 2005 15:18 PDT

Hello Nautico,

    I'm not sure that what you want exists! I've performed an
enxtensive search, and came up with the following cases. They don't
exactly match your criteria, but thay might work for you if holsters
of the type you want aren't found. I will keep looking.


==========
"If you want your Carry Gear to match the elegance of your equipment,
you must have the D-3L for medium-sized point-and-shoot cameras,
compact mini-DV and rangefinder cameras. Made from fine leather, the
D-3L has a surprising number of features for its unassuming
appearance. Store media and batteries underneath a scratch-preventing
flap on the bottom, or inside the front, or inside the flap. When
you're shooting, the D-3L compresses into a super-slim form to stay
out of the way. Supplied with adjustable, non-skid shoulder strap.

· TIP: The Tenba D-Series point-and-shoot Carry Gear features a sewn
belt loop for security. Pass a belt, shoulder strap or webbing through
this and leave your worries at home."
http://www.adorama.com/TBD3L.html


==========
This is a unique horizontal open camera holster. The photo on this
site is shown in nylon, but the link below describes the model in
leather.
http://www.eholster.com/ebbalnylford.html

'Select from the available digital camera case sizes below:

    * e-Pouch Small Digital Camera Case - 4.3"h x 2.75"w x 1.3"d -
fits most "pocket size" digital cameras
    * e-Pouch Medium Digital Camera Case - 5.0"h x 3.0"w x 2.0"d -
fits most medium size digital cameras

Note: Before your select a case size, please measure your particular
personal electronics device or personal effects and then go to our
Virtual Fitting Room to insure that the case you select will fit your
device properly.'
Scroll down this page to find the right size for various cameras:
http://www.eholster.com/virfitroom.html

"The e-BeltPouch? Digital Camera Case System (Leather) is a highly
practical, extremely comfortable and ultra convenient way to wear your
digital camera on your belt. This case system quickly and easily snaps
on and off your belt for the on-the-go digital photographer. The
specially designed e-BeltSnaps allow free movement of the case on your
belt. When you sit down the case doesn't jab you in the side it moves
freely with your body.

Case Features

    * Worn Horizontally - With the unique design of the e-BeltPouch?
Digital Camera Case System (Leather) your device is worn horizontally
and not vertically like traditional cases. When you sit down with this
case won't jab you in the side, it simply adjusts with every move of
your body.
    * Quick-Release Safety Flap - For quick and easy access to your
device the Quick-Release Safety Flap folds over the top of your device
and is secured to the front of the case using a Velcro fastener. Once
secured, your device is protected from the bumps and grinds of
everyday life. Retreiving your device is as easy as pulling the flap
back and pulling out your device.
    * e-BeltSnaps - The e-BeltSnaps enable easy attachment/detachment
of the e-Pouch case to and from any standard belt (up to 1.5" wide
belt). Simply unsnap the top snap on both e-BeltSnaps to detach the
case from your belt.
    * Modular - Our unique modular case design uses a combination of
d-ring straps and d-rings on the back side of each case to attach one
e-Pouch case to another, or to optional e-Holster harnesses and straps
such as; e-Harness Leather, e-Zio Harness, e-ShoulderStrap, and e-Uro
Strap.
    * Ambidextrous - This e-BeltPouch? Digital Camera Case System
(Leather) can be worn on the left or right side of your belt, and is
unisex.
    * Pen Holder - This e-BeltPouch? Digital Camera Case System
(Leather) includes an elastic pen holder to conveniently store a pen
or other writing instrument on the outside of the case."
http://www.eholster.com/ebleatfordig.html

http://www.eholster.com/ebeltpouches.html

==========

Would you be open to a holster with drop in capability, but that has a
psh release top?
"The Digital Zoom 3 was specifically designed for digital cameras with
large built-in zoom lenses and digital cameras with an accessory lens
attached. It uses Dual Foam Technology that combines closed-cell foam
to provide maximum shock protection with open-cell foam for vibration
dampening and a custom fit. A full-coverage top provides excellent
protection by combining Tamrac's EasySqueeze buckle for quick access
with a zipper for back-up security and weather protection. The front
accessory pocket has a Universal Memory & Battery Pocket inside to
secure various types of memory cards and batteries. A special fitted
pocket holds extra memory cards. In addition to the EasyGrip carrying
handle, the Digital Zoom Pack has an adjustable, removable shoulder
strap and belt loop to carry it hands-free on a belt."
http://hallphotos.com/prod/444764625_digital-zoom-pack-3-digital-camera-holster-5683-black.html
==========

By the way, I found your post on one of my favorite sites!
http://www.stevesforums.com/forums/view_topic.php?id=60422&forum_id=67

Regards, Crabcakes

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Clarification of Question by nautico-ga on 14 Jul 2005 16:05 PDT

Crabcakes,

I looked at all of those sites, but the holsters are all "bags," not
the kind of skeltal structure I seek.

I like Steve's Digicams, too, but thus far no response to my query there.