So, you’re looking for the perfect 1911 holster, huh? You’ve come to the right place because we are diving into Comfort Meets Durability – The Best 1911 Holsters Today.
But First, What is a 1911 pistol?
The 1911 pistol is a classic and iconic firearm that has been around for over 100 years. The original was designed by John Moses Browning in the early 1900s and adopted by the United States military in 1911, hence its name.
1911 pistols are known for their accuracy and reliability, making them an ideal choice for self-defense or target shooting.
Despite its popularity, the 1911 pistol is not without its drawbacks. These are heavy guns and typically larger, making it difficult to conceal carry, but not impossible. There are several carry methods available such as well outside-the-waistband or shoulder holsters that make carrying this gun more manageable.
Our Research and Review Methods Of The Best 1911 Holsters
As a dedicated product reviewer, our goal is to provide you with the most authentic and unbiased information. We meticulously designed a comprehensive research and testing methodology that leaves no stone unturned. Below are the results of our reaserch.
Outdoor Mehtod’s Top 1911 Holster Picks
1. Relentless Tactical Defender Leather IWB Holster (Best IWB Leather Holster)
Oh look, another 1911 leather holster! The Relentless Tactical Defender Leather IWB Holster for 1911 Pistol is a great choice for anyone looking for an inside-the-waistband (IWB) concealed carry holster.
It’s handmade from genuine USA Bullhide leather, so you can be sure it’s built to last. It offers classic American craftsmanship, combining function, comfort, and durability.
The holster is designed to fit most 1911-style handguns with any barrel length. I have a Kimber 1911 and it fits perfectly. The leather is thick and sturdy but still flexible enough to make drawing your weapon easy.
It also provides excellent concealment due to its slim design and passive retention that allow you to keep your 1911 holstered. .
The holster is comfortable too – the edges are smooth and rounded so they don’t dig into your skin when carrying. And it comes with a lifetime warranty which is always nice to have in case anything goes wrong down the line.
Pros:
- Handmade with Genuine USA Bullhide Leather, ensuring durability and comfort
- Designed specifically for 1911 pistols, providing a snug fit
- Reinforced stitching adds extra strength and longevity to the holster
- Steel belt clip offers strong attachment to belts or waistbands
- Slim profile allows for easy concealment without printing
- Strong belt clips
Cons:
- Some users may prefer a wider range of color options
- May not be suitable for those with larger hands or longer fingers due to the compact design
- A break-in period might be necessary for optimal fit and comfort
2. Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster (Best Hybrid Holster)
Do not want leather holsters? The Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster is the perfect hybrid and one of the best 1911 holsters.
These iwb holsters are designed to make it easy to draw your gun quickly and safely when needed. The adjustable retention allows you to customize the fit of the holster to your specific needs, giving you greater control over how tightly or loosely your gun fits in the holster. This helps ensure that your gun won’t accidentally come out of the holster when you don’t want it to.
The Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster is also incredibly comfortable to wear, thanks to its CoolVent™ neoprene backing which helps keep sweat away from your body while carrying your firearm. The neoprene material also helps reduce friction between the holster and your skin, making it more comfortable for extended periods.
When it comes to safety, these IWB holsters have got you covered as well. Its steel core construction provides extra security for your firearm, so you can be sure that it won’t come out of the holster unless you want it to. Do not forget about its amazing trigger guard.
Plus, its adjustable cant and ride height allows you to customize where on your waistband the holster sits so that it’s not too close or too far away from your body for optimal concealment and comfortability.
All in all, if you’re looking for a hybrid holster for 1911 pistols that offer superior comfort, ease of drawing, durability, retention and fit customization, and safety – then look no further than the Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster! It’s truly one of the best holsters on the market today!
Pros:
- CoolVent™ neoprene backing provides comfort and sweat resistance
- Adjustable cant and ride height for customized fit and concealment
- Adjustable retention for added control over gun security
- Steel core construction ensures durability and firearm protection
- Easy and quick drawing of the gun
- Trigger guard
Cons:
- Some users may find adjusting the retention and cant challenging at first
- Neoprene backing may not suit everyone’s preference
- Hybrid holsters might not be the best choice for those who prefer all-leather or all-Kydex options
3. Desantis Thumb Break Scabbard (Best Thumb Break Option)
The Desantis Thumb Break Scabbard Holster for 1911 Gun is a great option for anyone looking for a secure and comfortable holster. It’s designed to fit the 1911 pistol perfectly, with a tight but breakable fit that holds the gun close and high.
The thumb break feature adds an extra layer of security, ensuring your gun stays in place even when you’re on the move.
The holster is made from high quality leather that are designed to last.
It also presents the firearm at an optimal draw angle, so you can quickly access your gun when needed.
This holster is ideal for people who want a secure and comfortable way to carry their 1911 pistol and who like the idea of a thumb strap.
It’s not suitable for those who prefer open-top holsters or don’t need the extra security of a thumb break feature.
Pros:
- Tight but breaks in to fit perfectly
- Holds the gun close and high and is comfortable AND secure
- Highly concealable carry holster
- Presents firearm at an optimal draw angle
- Thumb break adds an extra layer of security
- Cons:
- Not suitable for those who prefer open-top holsters
4. Blackhawk Omnivore (Most Versatile Holster)
If you’re in the market for a versatile and adaptable holster for your 1911 pistol, the Blackhawk Omnivore Holster is an option worth considering.
This unique holster is designed to accommodate over 150 different models of semi-automatic handguns with rails, making it a great choice if you own multiple firearms or frequently change between different pistols.
The Blackhawk Omnivore features a thumb-activated retention mechanism that securely locks your firearm in place while still allowing for a quick and smooth draw when needed.
The holster is made from durable injection-molded polymer, ensuring it’s built to withstand the rigors of daily use. It also came be carried as a paddle holster or belt loop. Whichever you prefer.
In terms of comfort, the Omnivore has a low-profile design that won’t add much bulk to your waistline. However, some users may find that the rigid polymer material isn’t as comfortable against their skin as softer materials like leather or neoprene.
The Blackhawk Omnivore offers excellent retention and fit, thanks to its adjustable thumb release mechanism. This feature ensures that your gun stays securely locked in place until you need it while still providing easy access when the time comes. Additionally, the holster’s Level 2 retention system adds an extra layer of security, making it more difficult for someone else to disarm you.
Safety-wise, the Omnivore covers the trigger completely, preventing accidental discharges when not in use.
Now, who is this holster for? The Blackhawk Omnivore is perfect for those who own multiple handguns with accessory rails or who frequently switch between different firearms.
On the other hand, the Omnivore may not be the best choice for those who prefer a more traditional leather or fabric holster, or for those who prioritize maximum comfort and concealment over versatility.
Pros:
- Accommodates over 150 styles of semi-automatic handguns with an accessory rail
- Active retention mechanism locks onto the proprietary Rail Attachment Device (RAD) for secure carry
- Streamlight TLR1/TLR2 Light Bearing models available
- Fits most pistols with or without mounted tactical lights
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Some users have reported difficulty in drawing from the holster due to tight fitment
5.Alien Gear ShapeShift Shoulder Holster (Runner up for Shoulder Holster)
Looking for some shoulder holster options? We got you covered. The Alien Gear ShapeShift Shoulder Holster is a great choice for anyone looking to carry their 1911 pistol in comfort and security.
This holster offers more customizability than most shoulder holsters, allowing you to adjust it to your exact specifications. It also features an active retention system, which ensures that your gun is secure while you’re carrying it.
The holster is made from high-quality leather, making it durable and long-lasting. The leather is also comfortable against the skin, so you won’t have to worry about chafing or irritation when wearing it for extended periods.
This bad boy has adjustable straps, so you can get the perfect fit for your body type.
Drawing your gun from the holster is easy and fast thanks to its active retention system. You don’t have to worry about fumbling with straps or clips; just draw and fire!
I know what you are thinking no straps?! The gun will fall out then! No it won’t, thanks to some extra terrestrial technology that provides excellent firearm retention, you don’t have to worry about your gun slipping out of the holster while you’re on the move.
This shoulder holster is ideal for those who want a secure and comfortable way to carry their 1911 pistol. It’s also great for those who want a customizable fit that will last them a long time.
However, this holster may not be suitable for those who are looking for something lightweight or compact; it’s quite bulky and heavy compared to other shoulder holsters on the market.
Pros:
- High-quality leather construction
- Active retention system ensures secure carry
- Adjustable straps provide a customized fit
- Easy and fast drawing of a gun
- Excellent retention prevents the gun from slipping out of the holster
Cons:
- Bulky and heavy compared to other shoulder holsters on the market is more expensive than other shoulder holsters
- The active retention system can be difficult to adjust
- Not as much protection from sweat as other holsters offer
6. Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder System for 1911 (Best Shoulder Holster)
The Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder System for 1911 pistol is a great holster that offers comfort, ease of drawing the gun, durability, retention and fit, and safety.
It’s made from a premium steer hide with a horizontal double magazine carrier and open front. The medium-width harness straps are comfortable and adjustable to fit most body types.
One of the best features of this holster is its design. It allows you to carry your handgun horizontally under your opposite arm. This makes it ideal for cross-draw.
The holster also has a good retention system that keeps your gun secure while still allowing you to draw quickly when needed thanks to its retention strap.
This shoulder holster is perfect for those who want an easy to use shoulder holster that offers great comfort and security. It’s lightweight and comfortable enough to wear all day without feeling too bulky or uncomfortable.
It is not for those who do not like shoulder holsters! Check out our article on shoulder holsters for 1911 for more information.
Pros:
- Comfortable medium-width harness straps
- Horizontal double magazine carrier with open front
- Premium steer hide construction
- Good retention system
- Allows for quick cross-draw when needed
Cons:
- It may take some time to get used to the fit of the holster.
- The system is not compatible with all barrel/slide lengths.
- The leather material may be uncomfortable for some users.
7.We the People Holsters (Best Red Dot 1911 Holster)
Back to a waistband holster! We the People Holster is made from high-quality materials such as Kydex and is specifically molded to fit 1911 pistols and 1911 pistols with a red dot attached.
It has a nice “click” when seated properly in the automatic locking system, and comes with a very sturdy belt clip or paddle that is placed on the back of the holster. It also has adjustable firearm retention, allowing you to customize how tight or loose it fits your gun.
As durable as it is the holster is designed to be comfortable, shows good retention, and has a solid amount of adjustability.
This holster is suitable for everyday use as it offers great comfort and concealability. It’s lightweight yet strong enough to provide reliable protection for your firearm.
The adjustable retention allows you to customize the fit according to your needs, while the retention system ensures that your gun stays securely in place even during vigorous activities like running or jumping.
Pros:
- Durable design
- Good retention
- Adjustable retention
- Durable construction
- Adjustable Cant and ride
- Both IWB and OWB carry options available
Cons:
- Metal belt clips would be preferable instead of plastic one
- They are more expensive than other holsters on the market.
- They may not fit all body types or sizes.
8.The Blade Tech Total Eclipse 2.0 OWB/IWB Holster (Best IWB/ OWB Holsters Combo)
The Blade Tech TOTAL ECLIPSE 2.0 OWB / IWB Holster is a versatile 1911 holster that can be adjusted from an OWB holster to IWB holster.
It is made with high-strength polymer and fits onto any 1.5” belt thanks to a strong belt loop on both sides of the holster.
This Blade Tech holster also features an adjustable retention system, allowing you to customize the draw of your gun.
The Total Eclipse 2.0 Holster from Blade Tech has a unique design that makes it stand out from other holsters on the market. It has a slim profile that allows it to fit comfortably against your body, making it ideal for concealed carry.
The holster also has an adjustable cant angle, which allows you to adjust the angle of the gun for a more comfortable draw. Additionally, the holster is ambidextrous, meaning it can be used by both right and left-handed shooters.
When it comes to quality and craftsmanship, this holster does not disappoint. It is made with high-quality materials and designed to last for years of use without any signs of wear or tear.
In terms of practicality, this holster is suitable for use in different scenarios such as law enforcement, military operations, or even everyday carry situations like going to the grocery store or taking a walk around town. It is comfortable enough to wear all day long without feeling too bulky or uncomfortable against your body.
In a nut shell, this holster offers great value for its price tag and would be suitable for anyone looking for a reliable and durable OWB/IWB holster that can be used in different scenarios and conditions without compromising on comfort or safety features.
Pros:
- Versatile – Can be adjusted from OWB to IWB
- Slim profile – Ideal for concealed carry
- Adjustable cant angle – This allows you to adjust the angle of the gun for a more comfortable draw
- Ambidextrous – Suitable for both right and left-handed shooters
- High quality materials – Designed to last years of use without any signs of wear or tear
- Retention system – Keeps your gun securely in place while still allowing for a smooth draw when needed
- Safety features – Adjustable retention system & ambidextrous design make sure your gun stays secure at all times
Cons:
- The holster can be difficult to adjust for left-handed users
- It may not fit securely on larger belts
How To Choose a holster from the Best 1911 Holsters
Whether you’re a first-time gun owner or an experienced shooter, selecting the perfect holster can be a daunting task. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll look at the important features to consider when selecting a holster.
Safety
The most important feature to consider when from the best 1911 holsters is safety. You want to make sure that your firearm is secure and won’t accidentally come out while in the holster.
Look for holsters with trigger guards that completely cover the trigger and hammer of your 1911 pistol too. This will help prevent any accidental discharges while carrying your firearm.
Concealability
Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters are usually the best option for concealing a handgun as they keep it close to your body and out of sight from prying eyes.
Look for holsters made from materials like leather or Kydex which are more flexible and less bulky than other materials. This will help ensure that your firearm remains hidden even when wearing tighter clothing.
Ease of Draw
When selecting a holster from the best 1911 holsters, it’s also important to consider how easy it is to draw from it quickly and efficiently in case of an emergency. Look for holsters with adjustable cant angles so that you can find the angle that works best for your body type and draw style.
It helps to look for holsters with adjustable tension screws which allow you to customize how tightly or loosely the gun fits in the holster as well.
Retention
Retention is another important factor to consider when selecting a holster as it helps ensure that your firearm stays in place even during physical activity such as running or jumping. Look for holsters with adjustable retention screws which allow you to customize how tightly or loosely the gun fits in the holster so that it’s easy to draw but still secure enough not to fall out during vigorous activity.
Some holsters come with built-in locking mechanisms which provide extra security against your gun accidentally coming out if someone else tries to take your firearm without permission.
Fit
Finally, make sure that you select a holster specifically designed for use with your 1911 pistol as they come in different sizes depending on barrel length (for example, 4″ vs 5″).
If possible, try on different models before making your purchase so that you can determine which one fits best with your body type and draw style.
FAQ
How safe is 1911 cocked and locked?
Carrying unloaded is always safer than cocked and locked, but if you are careful and know what you are doing a cocked and locked 1911 is relatively safe.
Is 1911 good for concealed carry?
The 1911 pistol can be a good choice for concealed carry, but it depends on personal preferences and specific factors. Here are some aspects to consider when deciding if a
1911 is the right choice for your concealed carry needs: size, weight, and caliber.