decided I'm going to go with a j-frame to carry. Picked up a model 438 and really like it. Need to get a holster for it now. I'd like to stay away from the pocket holster options if possible-what is best???

Horsehide crossbreed super tuck. You won't regret it.

Here one I made for mine spring clip in the backside.

Comp-tac 2 o'clock

crossbreed supertuck ordered!

I think a J Frame in an AIWB holster is damn hard to beat.

Let us know how you like it

where you plan on carrying it, if not the pocket/ankle?

for the hip, prefer a more capable handgun

This is relative to ones training.

very true. better choice of words: more capacity, better sights, ease of use, etc. would even go for a more full size revolver.

ANNNND here we go! the original question had to do with a IWB for a Jframe. I have different options but was wondering what the favorite is for this specific piece. thanks for the info though!

I too, prefer a more capable semi-auto considering a full j-frame and two reloads is one mag of most 9mm. However, when activity or environment requires lower profile and lighter weight I'll do the j-frame on the hip for consistent draw.

I hear ya, Whenever I can I carry my g19. but a J frame is great if your doing something that a full size pistol is just to large to pack around.
and like the other poster said, its nice to have the same draw if you normally carry you other weapons on your hip.

OP, any crossbreed style holster will serve you well.
There are also the full kydex types of IWB holsters that alot of folks like.

"the best" holster is very hard to peg down. each person has a different body type and prefer some holsters over others.
Id get a crossbreed or something of the same design [reds holsters is a good choice at $50 with fast shipping]
if that doesn't work for you, its really just a matter of buying a trying different ones to see what you prefer.

If you dont want to wait on the crossbreed, give Reds a try. I have one of his G19 holsters and its quality levels are just as good if not better then crossbreed and you
can have him customize it for you.
I ordered mine on a monday [just a basic version, no customization] and had it on wednesday [im in the same state however.. he had it sent out the same day.

http://redsholsters.webs.com/

have been wearing mine for a few months and its been great

my reds holster the day it came in

The only thing I can offer after having carried a j-frame for awhile is to make sure the holster profile is small, if you're going to have it on the waist.

If the holster is so large that it makes the J-Frame just as big as a G19 or 1911, then perhaps one of those with a small trigger-guard holster will do.

As for going from pocket to waist carry, I have a remora that was sold to do both, but ain't the best at either, but allows me a few options with one holster. I added a belt clip to help it be more stable, and its own material catches in the pocket. I'll try to post a picture for you later.

I bought a Crossbreed off the seconds list for my Glock 19 and love it.

But for my 642, I use a nemesis pocket holster and it is invisible in a back pocket. Easiest gun to conceal I have ever had.

FIST K-1. Works really well for me AIWB. The 2 o'clock didn't work for me at all. My next one will likely be : Bobby Mac's Holsters

-JC

Milt Sparks VM II here with a Model 36

DeSantis Nemesis IWB. Tried the Crossbreed and hated it.

Side Guard. Good holsters at a fair price.

I like the Summer Comfort from Galco. Little gun, little holster. Crossbreed types seem like a whole lot of holster for a j frame. I have used the Uncle Mikes el cheapo, too. They stay put pretty well.
I dont see much need to wear a huge, hard ass kydex holster just to be able to re-holster or have somersault retention. If I need to reholster my CCW, that would mean I had to use it, Id just put the gun in my pocket.

I agree with Dan.  I purchased one (based on his review) for my 637 and love it.