Holster

When choosing a holster for a firearm, factors of interest include:. Since only 15 were ever made, they are assumed by many to be custom-built. Other, specialized types of holsters are designed to be mounted inside briefcases, day planners, purses and filofaxes, or even articles of clothing. No details are known about the engine types and other specifics. Popular holster types are:. Of the fourth generation Preludes, only some 15 were modified into a convertible by German company Honda-Autohaus Manfred Ernst. Slow access is acceptable in this case because the handgun is not expected to be used for defensive purposes. 3 versions were available, a basic version, one which had more luxurious options, and one which added a body kit, increasing its aesthetics.

The largest handguns are often carried in holsters that are slung across the shoulder, and removed from the body before the handgun is drawn. No DOHC engine-equipped models have been known to be converted into convertibles, however. Holsters for hunting tend to be unique, as they are designed to carry the largest handguns, and often must make allowances for telescopic sights. Second generation Preludes were modified by another German company; some 100 Preludes were modified. Like any sporting equipment, sporting holsters evolve to maximize the benefits given the rules of the game, where applicable, so the competitive sports have the most specialized holsters. Some have been sold over time to nearby countries, at least one to the Netherlands and one to Belgium. Sporting holsters cover the widest range, from holsters with maximum access for fast draw shooting, to highly adjustable holsters used in IPSC and pinshooting, to high retention, maximum protection holsters used for handgun hunting, to simple holsters used to hold a handgun while out plinking. Very few have remained in Europe, initially all in Germany.

For pocket holsters, the external flat side is often the side with a nap, or rougher surface, to provide better retention when drawing the pistol. In all, they modified 47 Preludes, most of which were exported to Japan and the US. Often the external side of the holster is also broader, to help break up the outline of the handgun and prevent printing, where the outline of the gun can be seen through tight clothing. First generation Preludes were modified by a company called Tropic Design, located in Germany. Since the holster is held close to the body, comfort becomes important too, and concealment holsters often have broad surfaces in contact with the user's body, to distribute the pressure across a wider area and prevent abrasion of the skin. Currently, there have been convertibles made from the first, second and fourth generation Preludes. Protecting the hangun from the user's perspiration is often an important consideration in such carry locations. Throught the years, several German companies have converted Preludes into convertibles.

Concealment holsters are designed to be worn under clothing, or to be used in front or rear pockets of trousers. The Prelude was on Car and Driver magazine's annual Ten Best list ten times, from 1984 through 1986, and 1992 through 1998. Concealment holsters are designed to be lightweight and unobtrusive, and are generally designed for compact and mid-sized handguns, since those are easier to conceal. The USDM fifth-generation had a Type SH ("Super-Handling") trim which featured the Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS), and, along with the 5-speed base model, shared the exact same gearing from the Type S and SiR-S spec trims in Japan (in which the Type SH transmission is the exact same as the Type S.) This system allowed Honda to overcome the limitations of front wheel drive somewhat, and in 1997, Car and Driver named the Prelude Type SH the "best-handling car under $30,000.". Duty holsters are generally only found for full-sized and mid-sized handguns, since there is no reason to carry a compact handgun unless concealment is needed. The USDM fifth-generation Preludes also saw enhancements in the engine, with the full line now offering VTEC H22A4 engines, an evolution of the H22A1 with higher flowing heads, making 195 hp (195 PS, 143 kW) @ 7000 rpm and 156 lb·ft (21.8 kg·m, 212 N·m) @ 5250 rpm from 1997 to 1999, and the same torque readings with 200 hp (200 PS, 147 kW) @ 7000 rpm from 1999 to 2001 with a compression ratio of 10.0:1. Cosmetics are also important in duty holsters, as they are generally considered part of the wearer's uniform, so they are often found made with quality leather for police use and polished with shoe polish, or made in a camouflage color or pattern for military use. The Accord Type R/Rx/Torneo (or the JDM version of the name more commonly known as the Honda Accord Euro R) housed the last line of a more refined H-series motor, which lasted from around 1998 to 2002, until the exterior was revamped and the K-series was introduced.

Duty holsters are carried openly, so concealment is not an issue; however, since they are worn out in the open day after day, protection of the handgun and secure retention are important. There was only one other car that housed the H-series, and it would be the last of its kind until the presentation of the K-series. Holsters can be divided into three broad categories by use: duty holsters, worn by uniformed police and military users; concealment holsters, worn by plainclothes law enforcement and licensed CCW armed civilians; and sporting holsters, worn for shooting sports and hunting. On the outside, the exterior, the Type S was the only trim to not have a sun roof as an option. Holster designs cover a wide range of shapes, materials, and retention/release mechanisms, from simple leather pouches hanging from a belt to highly protective holsters with flaps that cover the entire handgun, to highly adjustable competition holsters that hold the handgun at a precise position and release instantly with the right pressure. The seats could have lettering as an option from the manufacturer. On the other hand, an inadequately secured and protected handgun could be lost, damaged, or stolen, which could also be fatal, as it would not be usable when needed. Inside, the interior, leather was present and was laced with red-stitching.

If the handgun is needed quickly, and cannot be drawn quickly, it could be fatal for the user. The Type S had an Active Control ABS system, different from the others which had the standard ABS systems. The need for ready access is primarily for holsters designed to carry defensive handguns. Unlike the SiR S-spec that had an LSD, the Type S acquired the technology from Honda that is known as the Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS) (other terms that may be seen elsewhere that may come up are: DYCS [direct yaw control system], active yaw control system, Active Electronic Limited Slip Differental [misnomer.]) The gearing on the Type S matches all other fifth-generation Preludes that had a manual transmission except for the 5-speed 2.2 VTi VTEC and had a FD: 4.266. The need for ready access is often at odds with the need for security and protection, so the user must decide how much they are willing to compromise on ready access to gain the security and protection. It weighs itself just in at 1,310 kg (2,882 lb) and had a ground clearance of 0.14 m (5.5 in.). Holsters are generally designed to offer protection to the handgun, secure retention, and ready access. With the increased power output, the suspension was also decked with 15 in front ventilated discs and 14 in for the rear.

A holster is a specialized article of clothing worn to hold a handgun about the person, most commonly in a location where it can be easily drawn for immediate use. The 3-way catalytic converter was also increased in size, as well as the exhaust piping from 50.8 mm (2.00 in) to 57 mm (2.25 in) (tToV). Some users will require multiple holster types per gun, while others may prefer a generic holster for carrying multiple gun types. The exhaust system also was treated to a redesign as well, where the pipe design became a more cylindrical shape rather an oval shape. Price - modern holsters for a $500 handgun can cost $20 to $200. With a compression ratio of 11.0:1, 87.0 mm bore x 90.7 mm stroke and the VTEC-valve timing, lift and duration were also adjusted as well to 12.2 mm|11.2 mm (intake|exhaust), Honda also overhauled the air box and replaced it with a more efficient design that is often referred to as Dynamic Chambering, along with an increased throttle body design bored to 62 mm (as opposed to the previous 60 mm). Adjustability - a holster that provides for the adjustment of gun cant and position can aid in both comfort and concealment. It was equipped with the 2.2 L H22A, featuring VTEC and producing 220 PS (162 kW, 220 hp) @ 7200 rpm and 22.5 kgf·m (221 N·m, 163 lb·ft) @ 6500 rpm.

Frequently, retentive holsters are custom designed for a specific model of gun. One version of the fifth-generation Prelude, the Type S, was only available in Japan. Modern duty holsters have multiple hidden retention devices to this end. All Preludes had a fuel tank capacity of 60 L (15.9 US gal). Retention - a holster designed with retention in mind will help prevent a gun from being removed from the holster by anybody apart from the person wearing it. BB8 was the SiR-4WS trim, and 2.2 VTi VTEC-4WS trim. Durability - ability to withstand abuse and long-term usage without mechanical failure or impaired performance. BB7 was the Si-4WS trim.

Reholstering may be of secondary importance for civilians, who may often be legally required to contact law enforcement authorities after any lawful use of a firearm. BB6 was the SiR-2WS trim, SiR S-spec, Type S, Base model, Type SH, SE, 2.2 VTi VTEC-2WS trim. Reholster ease - a rigid-walled holster will allow a gun to be returned to it with one hand, while a flexible one may collapse after the gun is drawn, requiring the use of both hands to reholster. BB5 was the Xi, and Si-2WS trim. Draw ease - practical shooting holsters allow a gun to be presented quickly, but drawing ease is often compromised in concealed carry. All Preludes came with an H22A( ) except: Xi (F22B), Si (F22B), 2.0i (F20A), Si (F22Z). Almost all concealment holsters are designed to be worn with a covering garment that is part of the wearer's everyday attire. Australia received the Si (10.0) and the VTi-R (10.0).

A carefully designed and worn holster can make a gun virtually invisible. Europe received the 2.0i (9.5) and 2.2 VTi VTEC (10.0). Concealability - it is often desirable not to alert other people of one's being armed. Canada received the Base model, SE, and Type SH. Comfort - ability to wear a gun for an extended period without hurting the user. The United States of America received a Base model and Type SH. Finish - a well finished holster should not snag a pistol or abrade its finish. In Japan, the models that were available ranged from SiR (10.6), Xi (8.8), Si (9.2), SiR S-spec (11.0) and the Type S (11.0).

Often with buckles for quick release. All models and trims stayed within the BB-chassis code (BB5-BB9) and either housed the H-series engine or F-series motor for the most part. Modern ones use nylon. The fifth-generation was assembled and distributed to many parts of the world, including Japan, the UK, the US, and Germany, among others. cavalry units used these in the early 1900's with a leather thong strapping it to the leg. The fifth-generation Prelude marked a return to the body style of the late 1980s Preludes (specifically the third generation) in an attempt to curb slumping sales of the fourth-generation body style. Early U.S. Unlike in the USDM Preludes, JDM Preludes all had rear windshield wipers (except the Xi).

Thigh holsters are the more recent popular military item that holds the sidearm on the leg right where the hand naturally hangs, making for a quick draw. All fifth-generation Honda Preludes came with 16 in aluminum alloy wheels with all-season 205/50 R16 87V tires (or tires), except the Xi (14 in steel wheels with full wheel covers with 195/65 R14 89H tires) where aluminum alloy rims came as a dealer option and the Si (15 in aluminum alloy wheels with all-season 195/60 R15 88H tires.) The fifth-generation Honda Prelude also had a 63/37 weight distribution. There are no body movement restrictions and very little clothing restrictions with these holster types. The fifth-generation still retained the original FF layout with an independent front suspension. SmartCarry® has a 100% waterproof liner in the holster rear panel (the part of the holster worn next to the body) which will allow air to pass through, so the holster still "breathes", but does not allow perspiration to reach the firearm. The fifth and final generation of Prelude saw enhancements from the fourth generation, and in 2001, the Prelude was discontinued. Groin holsters like Thunderwear and SmartCarry®, which place the handgun mostly below the waistline around the 12:00 position. The fourth generation Prelude also shares suspension components with the fourth and fifth generation Honda Accord.

Pocket holsters, for use with very small weapons, such as a back-up gun or a mousegun. In Japan, there was also an in-dash television set available as a standard option; as a result, many enthusiasts have tried to modify their Preludes' dashboards in order to fit a small television set. In order to remain in place, a belly band must be extremely tight; this does not lend itself to a very pleasant experience - it is comparable to wearing a girdle. Later models (1994 and on) also featured translucent speedometer and tachometer needles. There are various types, worn at the belt line or higher, with the gun placement anywhere from in front to under the armpit. The light blue backlighting introduced in the third generation was continued. The "belly band" holster, which is a notoriously uncomfortable, wide elastic belt with a built-in holster, to be worn under a shirt that is not tucked in, to facilitate access. The dashboard stretched from left to right in the car, being equal in height over the full length and housing all dials and indicators.

Specialized shoulder holsters such as those made by Kangaroo Concealed Carry are designed to be concealed under a T-shirt. The dashboard was generally accepted as the extraordinary feature of this model. This holster setup requires the person to be wearing a jacket, vest, or camp shirt to hide the strap harness and the holster from others, but it's somewhat easier to carry since it's located near the center of body mass. This in effect creates a spoiler which reduced air noise when driving. Shoulder holsters, that consist of two straps connected in a manner similar to a backpack, with the actual holster mounted to a strap on the right or the left side. The glass sunroof made way for a steel sliding roof which no longer retracted into the car but extended out and over it. Inside the waistband (IWB) holsters, which clip or mount to a belt and allow one to securely holster the weapon inside the pants. The front fascia of the car became wider with fixed headlights.

Belt holsters can be worn relatively high and close to the body, slightly behind the hip bone ("4:00 position"), and can be concealed under a long, untucked shirt or jacket. The rear end was no longer flat and wide; but wide, rounded and fairly high in comparisson. Outside the waistband (OWB) or belt holsters, which are most common in police and military use and in the popular historical image of the Wild West "cowboy". This model also marked the end for the pop-up headlights and a lot of other design features that had become "prelude standard". In the UK, there was also a 2.0i model that was rated around 125 bhp (93 kW). The four wheel steering system was changed to an electronic version and the engine was increased in size from 2.1 L to 2.2 L for the base "S" model (SOHC F22A1 engine, 135 hp (101 kW) @ 5200 rpm, 142 ft·lbf (193 N·m) @ 4000 rpm) and "Si-VTEC" model(DOHC VTEC H22A, 200 hp (147 kW) @ 6800 rpm, 158 ft·lbf (214 N·m) @ 5500 rpm), with 2.3 L for the "Si" (DOHC H23A1, 160 hp (119 kW) @ 5800 rpm, 156 ft·lbf (212 N·m) @ 5300 rpm.

In 1991, there was a major overhaul of the fourth generation Prelude, released outside of Japan in 1992. The Prelude was Wheels magazine's Car of the Year for 1987. For reference, the 1988 Corvette did the same at 64.9 mph. It went through the slalom at 65.5 mph, which was amazing in those days.

In 1987, Road and Track published a test summary that shows the 1988 Honda Prelude 2.0Si 4WS outslalomed every car of that year, including all Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and Porsches. Some call this Prelude the "baby NSX" due to some common design cues between the two cars, such as the excellent forward visibility via a low hoodline, a front end resemblance, the suspension attributes (great handling with a smooth ride), and the taillight design in the 1990 and 1991 models. The roof pillars were so slim that all-around visibility was amazingly clear for 326°. Another unique structural element of the third generation Prelude was the high-strength metal used in the 6 roof pillars.

The drag resistance was at a very low coefficient drag rating of .34; this gave better fuel economy, lower wind noise, and a greater level of high-speed stability. The hoodline was designed to be the lowest hoodline of any front wheel drive car in the world, allowing for better forward visibility. The third generation Prelude also had some new external designs worth mentioning. This means the four wheel steering-equipped Prelude was intuitive to drive, unlike most other four wheel steering systems in which the rear wheels were controlled indirectly by a computer.

As of 2006, it is the only four wheel steering system on a production car that is entirely mechanical in its design; that is, there is always a direct mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the rear wheels. The four wheel steering system on the third generation prelude was an extraordinary piece of engineering in itself. The third generation Prelude was similar to the second generation, however it gained four wheel steering on some models, as well as a 2.0 L SOHC carburated engine, an optional B20A DOHC EFI engine, or a slightly-larger B21A1 in 1990 and 1991. Due to the fairly low weight of the car (1,025 kg) and high power (the 16-valve engine produced 140 hp+) the car was surprisingly nimble, something most Preludes were not in comparison to their competitors, until the VTEC engines came out.

The European version also saw slight modifications to the taillights and revised front and rear bumpers which were now color-matched. When the 16-valve DOHC engine came out, the hood was slightly modified since the larger engine could not be fitted under the stock hood. Opening the headlights however, especially at higher speeds, produced more drag and came with a specific howl inside the car. The second generation Prelude was the first to have pop-up headlights; this allowed for a more aerodynamic front which reduced drag.

In Japan, Asia and Europe, it was available with a DOHC 16-valve PGM-FI engine, although this engine was not released until 1986 in Europe. The second generation Prelude was released in 1982 and was initially available with a 12-valve carburated engine, and fuel injection was introduced in 1985. The Prelude was equipped with a 1751 cc SOHC CVCC I4 engine that produced 72 hp and 94 lbf-ft of torque with a 5-speed manual transmission, and 68 hp with a 2-speed automatic. Styling of the car was a combination of both then current Civic and Accord.

The first generation Prelude was released in 1978, and was the third main model in Honda's modern lineup, joining the Civic and the Accord. . Throughout the 1980s, it was challenged by the Nissan Silvia, Isuzu Impulse, Mitsubishi FTO, Mitsubishi Cordia (later the Eclipse), and the Mazda MX-6. The Prelude's perennial competitor has been the Toyota Celica, another I4-powered coupe introduced several years prior to the Prelude.

It spanned five generations of cars but was discontinued upon the release of the fourth-generation Honda Integra in Japan in late 2001. The Honda Prelude was a front wheel drive I4-engined coupe that was manufactured by Honda between 1978 and 2001.