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419:) holsters, which clip or mount to a belt and allow one to securely holster the weapon inside the pants. Some IWB holsters give the wearer the option of tucking a shirt over the firearm and holster. A variant design is an "appendix inside the waistband holster" (AIWB), intended to allow wear inside the front of the pants (as opposed to the side or rear). Appendix optimized holsters generally are outfitted with a wing/claw designed to help tuck the grip of the firearm into the body for increased concealment and often include a wedge which improves both concealment and comfort for most users.
441:, with the actual holster mounted to a strap on the right or the left side. The direction of this holster is either vertical, for long guns like large or full-frame caliber revolvers, or horizontal, for other firearms. Shoulder holsters are typically comfortable for the wearer, as they distribute the weight across the shoulders instead of directly on the belt. Normally, the leather straps cross over on shoulders and back. The spare magazines hang in opposite directions of the body from the holster. It also allows to carry a gun in jacket or sports coat.
155:, most commonly in a location where it can be easily withdrawn for immediate use. Holsters are often attached to a belt or waistband, but they may be attached to other locations of the body (e.g., the ankle holster). Holsters vary in the degree to which they secure or protect the firearm. Some holsters for law enforcement officers have a strap over the top of the holster to make the handgun less likely to fall out of the holster or harder for another person to grab the gun. Some holsters have a flap over the top to protect the gun from the elements.
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safety features that are designed to prevent the weapon from discharging unless the trigger is pulled. The use of a holster that blocks access to the trigger effectively mitigates this risk. Holsters specifically designed for the model of firearm tend to perform best in this respect. Likewise, those constructed of more rigid materials better prevent manipulation of the trigger when holstered.
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lasers, suppressors, sights and optics that are commonly installed on more modern handguns. Leather holsters are still very popular in many circles of competition, concealed carry, and outdoor activities, but the plastic holsters are outpacing leather holsters year over year due to their increased number of mounting options as well as the aforementioned benefits of modularity.
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and attach to the holster at the other end. The strut transfers the weight of the firearm to the belt and retains the weapon in place for secure removal. A flexible band is also attached to the holster and worn above the waist to keep the weapon snug against the body. Concealment is achieved by wearing the unit inside of a shirt which may be tucked in or worn outside.
383:
425:, or "sidecar holsters" are variant design of the AIWB holsters with an attached magazine carrier. Some are modular in design, such as the Dara Modular Appendix Rig. In some cases the attached mag carrier could be part of holster or it could be attached with flexible cord or by other means such as with the KSG Knox holster.
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pants in an ankle holster, or in a trouser pocket. Since the holster is held close to the body, comfort is important, 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. Protecting the handgun from the user's
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needs. For all these preferences such as – concealed carrying, safety, stability and easy accessibility, the most popular among customers are belt holsters. However, even in this group one can choose the different type of attaching the holster. Some of the most common belt holster attachment options are:
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Custom leather workers typically focus on one area or two in leather work. Holster makers are those who usually stay put in their respective field. Any and all pistols, whether compact, mid-size or large hand-guns are sheathed in leather in a process that molds to the firearm, and hardens to a stout,
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is often an important consideration in such carry locations. A holster sweat guard is a optional part of a holster or is added to a holster to protect the user's body from direct contact with the slide or sights of the firearm. Often the outside of the holster is broader, to help break up the outline
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are used exclusively for concealed carry. They are worn above the trouser belt line as a cross draw holster located directly under one's arm (9 o'clock position) or toward the front of the body (10 to 11 o'clock position). The design contains a strut which is shaped to nest behind one's trouser belt
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are similar to shoulder holsters, but instead consist of a band worn over one shoulder and another around the chest. This style of holster (designated M3 for the early 1-strap model and M7 for the two-strap model in the U.S. military) was used for pilots, tank operators, and other vehicle drivers in
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The primary characteristic that often distinguishes duty holsters from all other holster designs is retention. Modern law enforcement duty holsters are available with varying levels of retention security (i.e. Level I, Level II, Level II+, Level III, etc). Some security features are passive (such as
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Holster designs for firearms 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
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One of the most important functions of a holster is trigger coverage. Many choose to carry a firearm with a round in the chamber so that it is immediately available to use. Although some gun users believe this to be dangerous, practically all modern handguns are designed to be carried this way, with
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is a wide elastic belt with a built-in holster, usually worn under an untucked shirt, to facilitate access. There are various types, worn at the belt line or higher, with the gun placement anywhere from in front to under the armpit. In order to remain in place, a belly band must be extremely tight;
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Holsters can be divided into four broad categories by use: duty holsters, worn by uniformed law enforcement and peace officers and security personnel; tactical holsters, worn by military, security, and law enforcement personnel in certain situations; concealment holsters, worn by plainclothes peace
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Holsters are generally designed to offer protection to the handgun, secure its retention, and provide ready access to it. The need for ready access is often at odds with the need for security and protection, so users must consider their needs. Choosing the right balance of security and availability
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pattern to match the wearer's uniform. They are often of a drop-leg design and offer a retention device. Some military holsters still use the old flap design (also referred to as a "suicide" or "widow maker" holster, which is cumbersome and slow on the draw, but provides greater protection for the
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Holsters are generally designed to be used with one hand, allowing the handgun to be removed and replaced with the same hand. To be able to return the handgun to its holster one-handed, the holster must be made from stiff material that holds its shape so that the holster will not collapse when the
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The safest way for carrying a handgun is carrying it in a holster that keeps the gun stable on its place and yet gives comfort and easy access when needed. As there are many different types of holster and ways for concealed carrying, one is able to choose the one that suits one's expectations and
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are designed to be worn outside the waistline on the weak side of the body (opposite to the dominant hand). Although the cross-draw carry is often considered to be slower due to the necessary movement across the body, drawing the gun from a seated position can be more comfortable and even quicker
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with a modular holster attached, often with buckles for quick release. Law enforcement and military personnel wear these when a bulky vest or a full belt (as in the case of K9 officers) makes belt carry unhelpful, or when they want an alternative to another holster. Western style holsters of this
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Holsters are generally worn in a location where they can be readily accessible. Common locations are: at the waist (outside (OWB) or inside (IWB) the waistband), behind the back (small of back (SOB), at the ankle, at the chest (in an elastic belly band or shoulder holster), or on the upper thigh.
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Concealment holsters are designed to be easily concealed, as well as lightweight and unobtrusive. They are generally designed for subcompact and compact handguns since they are easier to conceal. Concealment holsters are designed to be worn under clothing, such as on the belt under a coat, under
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A newer generation of manufacturing has come to the forefront for holster manufacturing, using things like Kydex, 3D printing, and also injection molding. These newer techniques provide for longer lasting products that are more easily adapted to different handgun combinations including lights,
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Holsters are generally attached to a person's belt or waistband or clipped to another article of clothing. Some holsters, such as ankle holsters, have integrated support. Other holsters may fit inside a pocket, to add stability and protection to the handgun, keeping it more reliably secure and
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snaps). While a higher level of retention will make it more difficult for a suspect to take a holstered handgun from an officer, it may also reduce the speed and ease with which an officer may draw their handgun (especially if the security features are active and not passive). Therefore, when
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are typically made of two pieces of the material with the handgun sandwiched between them, containing at least two belt slots. They should be carried slightly off the hip to the rear part of the back. The pancake style of carry allows pulling the gun tight against the body for a better
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Belt loops – it consist of two or more metal pieces which helps to properly attach the holster to the belt. Even though it takes longer to put on and take off, it gives the holster a better stability and fits perfectly. Two and more belt loops enable to wear holster in diverse
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Traditionally a holster is attached to a waist belt, thigh belt or shoulder harness that will offer draw-resistance. Other options like belly-bands, fanny packs or specially designed rigs like the Enigma offer alternative conceal carry options that do not require a standard
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offer excellent concealment and are used by law enforcement officials who wish to carry a secondary weapon to back up their primary firearm. However, many officers find that even a small handgun bounces around too much while running or during other physical
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strong and long lasting holster. These can be made into inside waist band, strong side, cross-over, shoulder holster, chest holster, pocket and inside the shirt. These holsters are made for competition shooters, recreational, security and law enforcement.
358:. Large handguns are often carried in holsters that are slung across the shoulder, and removed from the body before the handgun is drawn. Slow access is acceptable in this case because the handgun is not expected to be used for defensive purposes.
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carry method compared to the others. Cross-draw belt holsters may be an ideal option for wearing a backup gun on the waistline and also appropriate choice for women due to the comfort of carry and its natural adaptability to the female body.
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can be very important, especially in the case of a defensive weapon holster, where failure to access the weapon quickly or damage or loss of the weapon due to insufficient retention or protection could leave the user inadequately defended.
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Lowered belt loop – the best type for professionals for its easy and fast accessibility. Enables one to adjust the high and angle of the holstered handgun. Since it is the type for open carry, it is suitable only with an appropriate
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There is some overlap between duty holsters, tactical holsters, and military holsters. Weapon retention is generally not as important a consideration in military use as it is in law enforcement due to the differences in their work
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Duty holsters are designed to be carried openly, so concealment is not an issue, but retention and appearance are. Duty holsters can be made of leather, nylon, or plastic; they are designed to be attached to a
328:, where the outline of the gun can be seen through clothing. For pocket holsters, the external flat side is often the side with a nap, or rougher surface, to hold the holster in place when drawing the pistol.
274:, and worn on the dominant side. Duty holsters are generally only found for service and compact size handguns as opposed to small subcompact handguns as these are generally only used for concealed carry
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Belt clip – the holster is securely clipped on the waistband without taking the belt off which helps to attach the holster quickly and easily. The belt clip can be either made of steel or polymer.
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Paddle – a comfortable way to wear a gun holstered, very easily attached to the belt of trousers – even without wearing a belt. Disadvantage is looser fixation and safety risks that come with it.
351:. 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.
431:(BWB), made popular by Urban Carry Holsters manufacturer, is a style of holster that attaches directly below the waistline and is more deeply concealed than a traditional IWB holster.
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position and release instantly when activated. The wide range of types indicates the highly varied circumstances in which holsters are used, and the varying preferences of the users.
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Since holsters are typically made from fairly stiff yet tough materials, there are a limited number of common choices. The traditional material, particularly for handgun holsters, is
524:-compatible vests and chest carriers. Like shoulder holsters, chest holsters are often easier to draw from than belt holsters when the operator is seated inside a vehicle.
409:. Belt holsters can be worn 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.
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retention screws, decoy straps, or hood guards), while others are active and require deliberate manipulation by the officer during the draw (such as traditional
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type, known as buscadero holsters, were worn by many actors in
Western films and TV shows set in the 1800s, even though they were not invented until the 1920s.
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as they were easier to use in the seated position. They became popular with other soldiers who disliked the heavy leather flap on the standard issue
490:) are a popular law enforcement and police item that stores the sidearm on the leg where the hand naturally hangs, making for a fast draw. Early
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is another common fabric for holsters, as it is stiff, wear resistant, and thick enough to provide protection from gun shots and bullets.
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selecting a duty holster, an officer may be forced to find a compromise of speed and retention that they are comfortable with.
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place the weapon directly over the center of the back, allowing for even large handguns to be carried with little printing.
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343:, old-fashioned holsters used in Cowboy Action Shooting, high retention, maximum protection holsters used for handgun
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units used these in the early 1900s with a leather thong strapping it to the leg. Modern ones often use a drop leg
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Belt tunnel – one wider loop that is easily threaded through the belt. One disadvantage is worse stability.
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Holsters for hunting can be unique if they are designed to carry large handguns or to make allowances for
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Belt snaps – much easier to put on and take off the belt and yet keep the holstered gun stable.
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Tactical/military holsters are usually made of nylon or plastic. They may be made in a
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Holsters are sometimes contained in an external bag, such as a purse or
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this is generally uncomfortable – it is comparable to wearing a girdle.
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A Slim Jim holster, a traditional design in the percussion revolver era
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An Idaho
Leather Company Last Man Standing, a vertical shoulder holster
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Sporting holsters cover a wide spectrum of styles: maximum access for
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An OWB holster with a forward cant intended for wear on the right hip
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is a device used to hold or restrict the undesired movement of a
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673:"Should You Carry With a Round in the Chamber? | Video | USCCA"
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officers and private persons; and sporting holsters, worn for
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Device for the secure placement of a handgun on one's person
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hip holster. They are still produced by the U.S. military.
232:, are also popular, due to their low cost and robustness.
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consist of two straps connected in a manner similar to a
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347:, and simple holsters used to hold a handgun while out
67:. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed.
943:"Belt Holsters Attachement [sic] Options"
1001:
747:Sgt Mark Conway, New South Wales Police (2004).
191:accessible than if it were in the pocket alone.
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187:object is no longer inside to give it support.
30:"Holster" redirects here. For other uses, see
986:"HUSH HOLSTERS – Suppressed Handgun Holsters"
335:shooting, highly adjustable holsters used in
285:19th – early 20th century single-loop holster
211:. It has an attractive appearance and can be
849:"Best Appendix Holster with Wing and Wedge"
698:"Should You Carry With One In The Chamber?"
470:are used for very small weapons, such as a
219:with elaborate, purely decorative designs.
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648:"Should I Carry With One in The Chamber?"
303:holstered firearm against the elements).
127:Learn how and when to remove this message
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65:adding citations to reliable sources
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891:"Most Comfortable Shoulder Holster"
870:"Appendix Holster With Mag Carrier"
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755:. The Police Policy Studies Council
24:
25:
1021:
646:Maruster, Matthew (24 May 2021).
167:16th-century pistol holster from
143:An H&K P7 pistol in a holster
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52:needs additional citations for
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749:"Duty Holster Considerations"
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257:in a horsehide pocket holster
362:Categories by method of wear
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486:(also named as tactical or
390:Popular holster types are:
324:of the handgun and prevent
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10:
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824:"IWB Holster for Glock 19"
314:An IWB concealment holster
29:
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228:Molded plastics, such as
677:www.usconcealedcarry.com
542:Cross-draw belt holsters
32:Holster (disambiguation)
968:"Custom Kydex Holsters"
255:Taurus Millennium PT145
236:Common types and styles
917:"Tactical Leg Holster"
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478:Small of back holsters
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395:Outside the waistband
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972:www.daraholsters.com
799:"Holster Sweatguard"
558:A belt slide holster
413:Inside the waistband
61:improve this article
803:KSG Armory Holsters
723:"Holster Materials"
702:Relentless Tactical
652:Concealed Carry Inc
520:can be attached to
923:on 31 October 2020
897:on 31 October 2020
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550:Attachment options
461:belly band holster
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215:in many colors or
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774:"Handgun Holster"
727:American Holsters
488:drop leg holsters
435:Shoulder holsters
356:telescopic sights
245:Categories by use
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76:"Handgun holster"
16:(Redirected from
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50:This article
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682:31 December
680:. Retrieved
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59:Please help
54:verification
51:
778:Dagger Shop
707:31 December
657:31 December
617:BWB Holster
584:permission.
514:activities.
276:backup guns
117:August 2007
953:2015-04-19
834:2017-05-24
784:2015-03-09
759:2015-03-09
633:References
407:open carry
300:camouflage
197:fanny pack
87:newspapers
875:29 August
854:29 August
732:13 August
612:Bandolier
496:PALS grid
333:fast draw
292:thumbreak
272:duty belt
203:Materials
1004:Category
808:30 April
627:Scabbard
606:See also
511:holsters
439:backpack
349:plinking
326:printing
217:embossed
159:Function
568:angles.
454:M1911A1
345:hunting
209:leather
173:Georgia
169:Tbilisi
153:handgun
101:scholar
18:Holster
949:. 2014
927:30 May
901:30 May
780:. 2010
593:Makers
505:(aka "
103:
96:
89:
82:
74:
588:belt.
522:MOLLE
503:Ankle
401:) or
230:Kydex
108:JSTOR
94:books
929:2017
903:2017
877:2024
856:2024
810:2024
734:2015
709:2021
684:2021
659:2021
507:boot
459:The
339:and
337:IPSC
213:dyed
80:news
509:")
417:IWB
399:OWB
63:by
1006::
988:.
970:.
945:.
801:.
776:.
751:.
725:.
700:.
675:.
650:.
278:.
253:A
199:.
171:,
147:A
992:.
974:.
956:.
931:.
905:.
879:.
858:.
837:.
812:.
787:.
762:.
736:.
711:.
686:.
661:.
474:.
415:(
397:(
130:)
124:(
119:)
115:(
105:·
98:·
91:·
84:·
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34:.
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