At a Glance: Best 1911 Holster
- BEST OWB HOLSTER: CYTAC OWB 1911 Full Size Holster
- BEST IWB HOLSTER: TACwolf IWB Holster
- BEST LEATHER HOLSTER: Relentless Tactical – The Defender Leather IWB Holster
Comparison of The Best 1911 Holster
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick
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CYTAC OWB 1911 Full Size Holster |
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View Latest Price |
Our Top Pick
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TACwolf IWB Holster |
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View Latest Price |
Our Top Pick
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Relentless Tactical – The Defender Leather IWB Holster |
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View Latest Price |
A great 1911 pistol holster is paramount so you can get to your weapon when you need it. Here are the best 1911 holders for your money going into 2021.
Imagine spending upwards of a grand on a 1911, spending every weekend down the range, then getting it stuck in your holster when you need to defend yourself with it. Every second counts in a life or death situation, so you need to be able to rely on the best 1911 holsters to ensure you can draw your weapon quickly.
Best 1911 Pistol Holders For Your Money
The 1911 is one of the most iconic pistols in the world with more than 100 years of history. That also means more than 100 years of people designing 1911 holsters. Good luck sifting through that! Fortunately, we’ve taken the time to compile this tried and tested list of the best 1911 pistol holders on the market today so you can save time shopping.
Best OWB Holster – CYTAC 1911 Full Size Holster
First up on our list of the best 1911 holsters is for those who want something reliable, adjustable, and comfortable. This CYTAC polymer 1911 holster will do the trick. It’s designed using military-grade polymer materials with extreme temperature tolerance and shock resistance. In other words, this 1911 holster will last you for years to come, regardless of the activities and environments you use it in.
The holster only comes in a right-handed variant. The paddle section can be adjusted using an Allen key to ensure you get the most comfortable fit. This is essential if you’re using it for everyday carry.
It’s designed to be carried outside the waistband while fitting close to the body so it doesn’t move around. You can make adjustments between 1.5″ and 2″ to cater to different belt designs. You could theoretically wear it under your waistband, as well, although this isn’t recommended for this design.
The holster has been designed for military, law enforcement, and the civilian market and it’s popular in the armed forces. It’s comfortable to wear and easy to clean, so you won’t have any trouble maintaining it.
The pistol pouch features an auto-lock mechanism for safety, as well as a quick draw design so you can access your weapon when you need it without delay.
This kit comes with a holster, a paddle, and an Allen key. It’s compatible with Colt 45 1911 5″, and Girsan MC, as well as replicas and others.
Pros
- Durable
- Adjustable
- Safety locking mechanism
- Suitable for duty carry
- Easy to draw from
- Firmly holds your gun in place – no rattle
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Will last a long time
Cons
- Doesn’t fit all models of 1911 – some reviews complain about it being too loose
- Not suitable for concealed carry
Best 1911 IWB Holster – TACwolf IWB Holster
If you’re looking for something simple that gets the job done, or even to use as a spare? The TACwolf IWB holster is a lightweight, no-thrills 1911 concealed carry holster on the market. It’s made of nylon, which won’t fit everyone’s preferences, but it’s still more than durable enough for everyday carry. The materials are neoprene nylon, which is a tough and breathable choice of fabric that will stand the test of time.
The TACwolf inside the waistband holster is ideal for concealed carry as it shows minimal printing and is comfortable enough to wear throughout the day. This holster is designed to be worn under the waistband so you can conceal your 1911.
Easy going holster that will fit most 1911, including Colt, Kimber, S&W, Sig Sauer, Remington, Ruger, and more. One of the standout features is that it can fit any barrel length thanks to the open bottom. Some might find this uncomfortable, although it’s an issue that can be navigated with undershorts.
The holster comes with two magazine holders that can also be attached to your pants, ensuring you have enough rounds to back you up in any situation.
Pros
- Ideal for everyday concealed carry
- Premium materials
- Can be worn strongside or cross draw
- Fits any barrel length
- Comes with two magazine holders
Cons
- Some buyers complain about discomfort, especially when carrying a gun with a larger than 4″ barrel
- Nylon material won’t last as long as the polymer
Relentless Tactical – The Defender Leather IWB Holster
This premium bullhide leather 1911 holster is one of the best 1911 concealed carry holsters. It is handmade in the USA by American craftsmen – none of that imported BS here. It fits most 1911 handguns, including those from Colt, Kimber, S&W, Sig Sauer, and many more. It also fits any barrel length thanks to the open bottom.
If you’re looking for that classic look, then this is the way to go. Relentless Tactical don’t mass produce their holsters, rather, each one is made with the kind of attention that is immediately recognizable and a quality that will carry you through the years without needing a replacement.
These holsters are designed with comfort and usability in mind. You can quickly draw your weapon without having to unlock any kind of mechanism. They also fit neatly inside your waistband, making them ideal for concealed carry. You’ll still need to avoid wearing tight fitting clothes to ensure that there isn’t any printing through your shirt.
Your 1911 won’t move around in a Relentless Tactical holster because your body will be holding it in place. Bullhide leather is more comfortable than other materials when pressed up against the body, which makes this a go-to option for everyday carry.
Relentless Tactical is so confident about the quality of their products that they offer a lifetime warranty on every one of them.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Premium bullhide leather will last years
- Lifetime warranty
- Can also be used for OWB carry
- Breaks into your weapon for a better fit
- Excellent retention
- Looks classic and premium
Cons
- Some complaint about front sights coming out the bottom and catching
- Some complaint about the tight fit
Bedone – Colt 1911 OWB Belt Paddle Holster
Bedone offers a simple and effective OWB paddle holster suited to guns with a 5″ barrel and made of high-quality lightweight polymer. The holster fits 1911s from most manufacturers, including Colt, Kimber, S&W, Taurus, Remington, and more.
This is a right-handed holster with a 360-degree adjustable paddle so you can fit it to your desired carry angle. You simply use an Allen key, which is included with the product, to adjust it.
It features an auto-locking safety mechanism that activates when you put your gun back in the holster. This holster also comes with a quick-release button that is perfectly placed to allow for easy and quick drawing.
This is a durable holster that will last you the rest of your life. Whether you’re carrying for duty or personal use, or out hunting, this is a reliable holster that will protect your 1911 and ensure you can get to it quickly when you need to.
Pros
- Durable and lightweight
- 360-degree adjustable paddle
- Features an auto-locking mechanism for safety
- Quick-release button for drawing
- Fits most 1911s
- Fits any barrel length
Cons
- There are some 1911s that won’t fit so do your research beforehand
- Not suitable for concealed carry
1791 Gunleather – 1911 Thumb Break Leather Holster OWB
The Thumb Break Leather Holster from 1971 GUNLEATHER is another fantastic option for stowing your pistol. This leather holster comfortably fits any 4″ or 5″ barrel and has brilliant retention with the thumb break fortification to ensure your firearm can’t be taken without your permission.
The holster is made from 100% certified American heavy native steer hide leather and is crafted by skilled artisans completely in-house. There is no cheap mass-production here, everything is carefully built with dedication and care.
The leather is much thicker than you’d usually find on a holster, which aids in its longevity and usability, especially when put up against the elements.
The 1791 GUNLEATHER holster is worn outside the waistband and can be attached in various positions. It’s a right-hand draw holster, with no option for you lefties out there, unfortunately. The holster fits onto belts up to 1 and ¾ inches.
Pros
- Well made with high-quality leather
- Smooth thumb break is easy to draw from while giving excellent retention
- Well-crafted, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing
Cons
- Some users note the thumb break disengages the safety from time to time
- Not suitable for concealed carry
- No left-handed option
Galco – Combat Master Holster for Kimber Colt 1911 5″ CM212
The Galco Combat Master Holster for Kimber Colt 1911 is made from premium American saddle leather in Arizona, right here in the USA. It fits your Kimber 1911 like a glove and will serve you well in any situation thanks to its combat and comfortable design.
This holster can be stored inside the waistband, or outside, giving you more flexibility when it comes to concealment. The open-top has been hand-crafted to ensure it provides excellent retention while also allowing the user to quick draw.
The holster can fit 1911s from Kimber, Colt, Springfield, and Para and will attach to belts up to 1 and ¾ inches. It’s a right-hand design and unfortunately, there isn’t an option for lefties. After all, lefties tend not to like firearms (eyy).
The leather will fit your gun over time and won’t make it snag. It’s a premium look and feel that’s held at just the right spot on the hip to be comfortable enough for everyday carry. Users comment on the fact that your 1911 won’t move around in this holster, but that it’s still very easy to draw from.
Pros
- High-quality leather
- Made in the USA
- Great retention but easy to draw from
- Custom built for Kimber 1911, but also fits others
- Looks great once the leather sets in
- Comfortable for open carry
- Sits close to the body
Cons
- No left-handed option
- Not for all sizes of 1911
Relentless Tactical – The Ultimate Leather Gun Holster
Another premium leather 1911 holster from Relentless Tactical. The Ultimate Leather Gun Holster lives up to its name. It’s made of American cowhide leather in a three-slot pancake design so you can attach it at multiple angles and easily conceal your firearm when wearing it.
This holster is designed to be worn outside the waistband (OWB) but can still be concealed with the right clothing. Comfort and accessibility are stand out points with the Ultimate Leather Gun Holster. It fits close to the body and has excellent retention, plus it can be worn strong side with a straight drop or butt-forward for a quick side draw.
This holster is right-side only and fits most 1911 handguns, including those from Kimber, S&W, Colt, Remington, Browning, Ruger, Sig Sauer, Taurus, and others. One downside is that there is no cutout for the mag release button, which can result in the magazine being released unintentionally on certain 1911 models.
This American-made leather holster is ideal for open carry. If you’re looking for something that looks great and gets the job done, then you can’t go wrong.
Pros
- American-made
- High-quality leather
- Fits most 1911 models
- Great retention
- Fits in multiple angles
Cons
- Some users point out that the magazine release button can be pushed in the holster
- Not suitable for concealed carry
Fobus – Evolution Holster for All Style 1911 Pistols
Fobus has a reputation for bringing great products onto the market and this R1911 Evolution Holster for 1911s is no exception. This all-round workhorse holster is perfect for everyday carry and is slim enough to be concealed behind the right clothing.
It’s made of lightweight polymer with a rubberized paddle and uses passive retention with an open top. It’s easy to draw from but the rubberized paddle offers enough friction to prevent the gun from moving around.
There is also a steel reinforced rivet attachment system for secure locking to your belt. It fits most 1911 models and allows you to adjust the retention with a screw, meaning you can always rely on the passive retention to comfortably and confidently keep your 1911 in place.
The lightweight one-piece right-handed design is an ideal holster for everyday carry and will last you years even when exposed to the elements.
Pros
- Small and easy to conceal
- Lightweight, one-piece design
- Fits most 1911s
- Rubber paddle for extra retention
- Adjustable retention screw
Cons
- Doesn’t fit all 1911 models
- Some users complain about it being too tight
Importance of Choosing a High-Quality Holster
Carrying a gun around all day can be an uncomfortable experience if you don’t have the right holster to match it. A 1911 is a heavy steel pistol, so you’ll want a secure and high-quality holster to store it so it doesn’t move around, whack and poke you, rub, and become more of a pain in the ass than a self-defense tool.
Simply put, a high-quality holster is likely to be:
- Comfortable to wear
- Secure for your gun
- Easy to draw your weapon from
- Able to stand the test of time
There’s also usability to consider. The last thing you want is your 1911 getting snagged on your holster when someone is running towards you with a knife. Buying one of the best 1911 holsters will ensure a design optimized for you to draw quickly.
We did a whole review on the Best 1911 Handguns for Concealed Carry you can read HERE.
It’s important that your holster can stand the test of time, not just to save you money from not having to replace it, but also to ensure it can take proper wear and tear without losing usability.
How to Choose a 1911 Pistol Holster
So you know you want a high-quality holster. But what should you be looking out for when shopping for one? That depends on what you’ll be using your 1911 for. Different holsters are better suited to different uses.
- Duty holsters: These are the type carried by law enforcement, private security, and military. Duty holsters are secured with a lock or clip to prevent someone from trying to take the gun from the carrier.
- Concealed holsters: A concealed 1911 holster will hold the gun tight against your body to prevent lumps and printing from being visible through your clothes. These holsters generally rely on friction to keep the gun in place.
- Competition holsters: These holsters are all about speed. They’re designed to allow the shooter to quickly draw their weapon and aren’t concerned about concealability.
- Hunting holsters: These are designed for the shooter to be able to draw their weapon from any position and also don’t lend themselves to concealed carry.
You should choose your 1911 holster based on what you’re going to be using your gun for. Don’t try to get a ‘one-size-fits-all’ holster because it’ll likely be ineffective. Shop with purpose, even if that means buying separate hunting and concealed carry holsters.
You also want to ensure your 1911 holster is built to be comfortable and light. Polymer 1911 holsters tend to be lighter, which can make a big difference in the overall drag of your firearm when you’re carrying it around all day.
Inside the Waistband V.S Outside the Waistband Holsters
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make when choosing a 1911 pistol holster is whether to wear it inside or outside of your waistband.
IWB Holsters
IWB, or inside the waistband, holsters naturally lend themselves much more to concealed carry because the gun is mostly covered by your pants. You just have to cover the grip of your pistol with a shirt or jacket. It goes without saying that an IWB holster has to be high quality – if you’re sticking a gun down your pants, then it’s nice to know it’s secured properly.
IWB holsters are more difficult to draw your weapon from as you’ll have to reach into your pants. They’re also less comfortable than OWB holsters because the gun will be pressed right up against you. This will take its toll if you’re walking around the city all day.
OWB Holsters
OWB, or outside the waistband, holsters are much easier to draw from quickly from a variety of positions. They’re also more comfortable to wear, assuming you have a good quality one that won’t move around much. OWB holsters aren’t as easy to conceal, especially for shooters with a smaller frame. You’ll usually have to wear the holster higher so you can cover your gun with a jacket.
You can get away with a lower-quality OWB holster, although it will be less comfortable. Your 1911 has more chance to move around and poke you if you’re weaning an OWB holster.
Material Options for 1911 Holsters
There are three main types of materials used for holsters: leather, polymer, and nylon. Nylon is generally not recommended because it lacks a robust build quality. Some of the best 1911 holsters are made from leather or a polymer.
Leather holsters
Leather has stood tall through the centuries as a reliable material for building holsters. Leather can withstand the elements well and can be molded to fit the dimensions of your firearm. The problem with leather material is that it can easily deform as you sweat into it and cast it to the elements.
It’s essential that you go to a high-quality seller to ensure you’re getting the best possible leather that will last. Failure to do this will result in you needing to buy a new holster before long.
Polymer holsters
The best quality 1911 holsters use polymer. These are lighter, more durable, and will last you forever if you look after them properly. Polymer holsters can be molded to the shape of your gun and they come in a variety of sub-materials.
Polymer holsters are light, will resist the elements, and they’re generally modular so you can use them with a variety of attachments.
Nylon holsters
While you can get a variety of nylon holsters, they’re not recommended thanks to their cheap build. It’s best to go with a polymer holster to get the best fit and comfort when carrying your 1911 pistol.
Concealment and retention
How well you can conceal your weapon is an important part of buying a holster. For those of you using your 1911 for hunting or duty, you won’t need to worry about concealment. But for most people, being able to conceal their firearm is a priority. The art of proper concealment means being able to completely hide your firearm from onlookers. That means no printing on clothes and no lumps visible, ever.
IWB holsters are better suited for everyday concealment, but tight clothes will reveal your 1911 even when it’s in your waistband. Choose slightly looser clothing that won’t give away what you’re carrying. Retention is how the gun is held in its holster. Most IWB holsters hold the firearm simply by trapping it between your body and your pants. This allows you to draw your weapon quicker, although it comes with the obvious drawback of being less comfortable.
Most OWB holsters hold the gun in place with a clip or locking mechanism. This is to prevent someone from trying to grab your weapon as much as it is to stop it from falling out while you’re on the go. You can also get concealed OWB holsters that are worn higher on the body and have a locking mechanism to keep your 1911 from going walkabouts.
Comfort and Adjustability
People come in different shapes and sizes, and only the best 1911 holsters are made to reflect that. It’s important to choose a holster that fits you right and that you can adjust in case you put on a couple of pounds. Buying a one-size holster is bound to result in discomfort, so always opt for an adjustable one.
Ideally, you want to try on a holster before buying it, but this isn’t always possible. The way it hangs with your gun in it is important. IWB holsters won’t move around, but then it’s down your pants, so you need to make sure it feels right there.
The Best 1911 Holster
The best 1911 holster, in my opinion, is The Defender 1911 Holster from Relentless Tactical. The high-quality leather build lends itself well to both retention and comfort. Better yet, this holster can be used in both IWB and OWB, giving you more flexibility when carrying. It looks the part and does its intended job without issue. It’s also American made.
