Secure Your 1911: Top 15 1911 Holsters for Unmatched Concealment and Safety

If you’re a fan of the classic 1911 pistol, you’ll love our roundup of the top holsters on the market. Let’s take a closer look at the best options available to ensure your 1911 is always by your side and ready for action.

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Reviews

1911 Pro Ball Joint Competition Holster for Right-Hand Draw

As a shooter myself, I recently had the chance to test the 1911 Pro Ball Joint Competition Holster with a 4.25” no rail design. This holster brings a whole new dimension of comfort and precision to the game. It stands out thanks to the adjustable ride height, which makes it easy to customize the fit just for me.

The aluminum ball joint and Kydex shell ensure a perfect hold on my gun, without adding any unnecessary weight. Not only does it feel amazing to draw and shoot, but the optic compatibility really comes in handy when I’m in a competitive setting.

I highly recommend this holster for anyone looking to take their shooting skills to the next level. However, if you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider other options as this one can be a bit pricey.

But once you try it, you’ll see why it’s worth the investment.

Comfy Cozy Partner 1911 Holster for Right Hand

The Cozy Partner is an inside-the-pant holster designed for those who carry a 1911 handgun. This stylish holster boasts precise molding for secure handgun retention, with the added convenience of a memory band that retains the holster’s shape for easy reholstering. The split belt loop ensures a snug fit on belts measuring 1.5” to 1.75”, but it must be paired with a separate belt for optimal performance.

Overall, the Cozy Partner is a reliable option for gun enthusiasts looking for a comfortable and safe holster for their 1911 handgun.

C&G Holsters 1911 TACTICAL Kydex Holster - Open Bottom, Tall Sight Channel

C&G Holsters’ 1911 TLR-1/HL OWB Tactical Kydex Holster is a top-quality choice for those seeking custom-made, light-bearing solutions. Ideal for versatile carry in a variety of situations, this holster promises security, durability, and an American-made construction. The open bottom feature accommodates threaded barrels and compensators, while the tall sight channel is designed with suppressor height sights in mind.

Whether carrying an everyday carry (EDC), a range, or a night carry with a light, this holster is a reliable choice for gun enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Desantis Sof-Tuck Right Hand Tan Holster for 1911 Firearm

Desantis’ Sof-Tuck 1911 Right Hand Tan Holster is a versatile and comfortable choice for concealable firearms. This Inside Waistband (IWB) holster with adjustable cant can be worn strong side, cross draw, or on the small of the back, providing flexibility to suit your needs. Made from soft, no-slip suede and reinforced with premium saddle leather at the top for easy re-holstering, this holster is built to last and offers a secure fit for your 1911 Officers/Defender.

With multiple hand options available, this holster is a great addition to your arsenal.

Versacarry Element IWB 1911 Holster in Brown for Right-Handed Users

The Versacarry Element Holster is a comfortable and discreet choice for carrying your 1911-style gun. With a raised protective backing and ample spare magazine storage, it ensures both the weapon and its ammunition are well protected while minimizing the risk of accidental discharge.

The adjustable cant allows for optimal concealment, while the easy-on/off clips make it simple to put on and take off throughout the day. Made from high-quality, leather, this holster provides a comfortable, yet snug fit for your gun, offering a great balance of functionality and style.

However, some users have reported that the leather may cause skin staining and that the belt clip is not suitable for left-handed shooters. Overall, the Versacarry Element Holster is a reliable and well-crafted choice for those looking for an IWB holster for their 1911-style handgun.

Blackpoint Tactical Right-Hand 1911 Outback Chest Holster

This Blackpoint Tactical Blk PNT RH Outback Chest has been a game-changer for me during my outdoor adventures. The sleek design and lightweight materials make it a comfortable and unobtrusive choice for carrying my firearm when belt carry isn’t an option. The handcrafted KYDEX holster shell and fully adjustable harness system ensure a robust and secure carry, without sacrificing access or strength.

I was particularly impressed with the three-strap system: the Dynamic Bungee Strap provides flexibility for movement, the Static Buckle Strap makes for easy on/off, and the Shoulder Strap allows for height adjustment. All of these features combined with the strong and durable ULTRAcomp harness material make this an ideal solution for chest carry.

What really sets this holster apart is the adjustable retention and mounting attachments on all four sides. It’s easy to adjust the holster angle to your preferred position, and it’s a great feature for personalization and ease of use. Overall, the Blackpoint Blk PNT RH Outback Chest is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable chest carry option for their 1911 firearm.

Open Top Duty 1911 Holster for Right Hand - Vintage Brown

Recently, I had the pleasure of trying out the Texas 1836 Cannon Vintage Edition Open Top Holster. This holster is made from premium cowhide leather that’s both flexible and ultra-durable. It’s handcrafted to perfection with a luxurious look and multi-fit design. I loved the double-stitching, which made it a secure fit for my gun.

The draw was exceptionally smooth, allowing me to access my weapon quickly when needed. I felt confident knowing that my weapon would never accidentally slip out of the holster. Overall, the Texas 1836 Cannon Vintage Edition Holster offered both style and functionality, making it a great choice for carrying my 1911 in an outside-the-waistband holster.

Mini Slide 1911 Right Hand Gun Holster

The Mini Slide is a high-quality holster designed to accommodate the 1911 pistols, specifically for right-handed users. With its premium saddle leather construction, featuring both external and internal stitching, it boasts a highly detailed molded fit that ensures the holster is snug and secure on the belt. The Mini Slide also features a convenient adjustable-tension device, offering users flexibility in terms of how tight or loose they’d like the holster to be.

It is available in both black and tan unlined leather, and the belt slots measure 1 3/4” wide. Although it has a decent rating, it is not highly rated, with only 2.5 stars and 2 reviews, so it may be necessary to explore other holster options for the best fit and quality.

Vedder Holsters: Sig Sauer 1911 ProTuck IWB Holster

The ProTuck IWB holster from Vedder Holsters is a high-quality holster that stood out to me when trying it out. It’s made with premium leather and tough Kydex, which created a perfect fit for my Sig Sauer 1911 with no rails. The holster felt comfortable and secure on my waist, with its natural hug and two points of contact to keep my gun in place.

The leather-backed wings offered excellent weight distribution and added extra comfort to the holster. The custom sight channels accommodated my gun’s standard sights and kept my slide clean with the sweat shield. I appreciated the fully adjustable retention that allowed me to choose my desired level of tightness.

The rock-solid steel clips with a tuckable design provided deep, print-free concealment. The holster clips backed with leather wings hugged my body, providing greater concealment and comfort. The holster’s adjustable ride height and cant options gave me control over my holster’s positioning.

Overall, the ProTuck IWB holster offered excellent concealment, comfort, and a perfect fit for my 1911. It’s made with quality materials and designed for practical use. The 30-day risk-free trial and lifetime guarantee give you peace of mind when investing in this holster.

Houston Gun Holster: Eco Leather Concealed Carry for 1911 5” & 4” Barrel

The Houston-Eco Leather Concealed Carry Holster seamlessly fits both 1911 5” & 4” barrel and Browning 9 mm pistols. A solid metal clip ensures holding and retention, while the sweat-resistant design keeps you feeling fresh.

Handcrafted in Argentina, this holster is a perfect blend of resilience, comfort, and protection.

Crossbreed Founders Holster for 1911

The CrossBreed Chest Rig Holster is a reliable option for those looking for a versatile and comfortable way to carry their 1911 pistols. With multiple points of retention adjustment, this holster ensures a secure fit and allows you to have the perfect support for your handgun. The Reckoning-style setup provides a thick leather backer that evenly supports the weight of heavier platforms, ensuring your gun feels sturdy and secure when worn.

Additionally, a soft suede backer offers breathability against the body, making it an ideal choice for long hours of wear. With three different straps available, you can achieve the proper support and adjustment needed for a perfect fit. Overall, this Crossbreed Reckoning-style chest holster is a great choice for those who need a reliable and secure way to carry their 1911 pistols.

1791 Optic Ready 1911 Western Holster in Signature Brown

As I’ve been exploring different holster options, I stumbled upon the 1791 Optic Ready 1911 Belt Holster BH1 in Signature Brown. It quickly caught my attention with its impressive 3,375 reviews and a solid 4.0 rating.

I’ve been using this belt holster for a couple of months now and have to say, it’s a game-changer. Its handcrafted design using genuine American leather exudes quality, providing a premium feel that sets it apart from other mass-produced options. The open-top design allows for a quick draw, making it convenient for users who need to act quickly.

Although the holster is multi-fit, meaning it can accommodate a range of firearms, the reinforced stitching ensures that it maintains its quality and durability. Plus, the sweat guard or shield is a thoughtful addition, protecting both the user and the firearm from accidental contact.

However, one downside is that the holster might be a bit bulky for some users, although this could be a personal preference. Overall, I’m quite satisfied with my 1791 Optic Ready 1911 Belt Holster BH1, and I’ve come to rely on it for my daily carry.

Desantis Black Cozy Partner Holster for Colt Gov Model 1911

As a dedicated firearm enthusiast, I recently had the exciting opportunity to test drive the DeSantis Cozy Partner Holster for my Colt Gov Model 1911, and let me tell you - it’s a game-changer! The moment I took a look at it, I was impressed by the tension device and the precise molding, which ensure a top-notch handgun retention.

On my day at the shooting range, I experienced the need to quickly re-holster my pistol. Thanks to the memory band retaining the holster’s shape, I was able to do so efficiently using only one hand! An additional advantage is the 1 1/2” split belt loop which makes this holster incredibly versatile.

Although there were a couple of minor issues, namely the lack of models featuring both the tension device and memory band, and the seemingly non-adjustable or unavailable belt loops in smaller sizes, the Black Cozy Partner Holster by DeSantis Gunhide has nonetheless made a significant impression on my everyday carry routine. It provides a reliable and comfortable way to protect my 1911 when I’m out and about.

1911 Springfield Rail Holster for OWB Concealed Carry

Designed with the modern-day pistol enthusiast in mind, this 1911 Springfield 5” (Rail) Holster is a versatile and reliable choice for concealed carry. The combination of lightweight materials and durable construction ensures dependable performance on and off the range.

The 1.50” belt loops provide a secure fit and easy access to your firearm, while maintaining a discreet and low-profile appearance. This holster caters to a wide range of applications, making it an excellent choice for law enforcement, personal protection, and enthusiasts seeking the convenience of rail-mounting accessories.

Bravo Concealment 1911 Western Holster: Torsion IWB Concealed Carry

The Bravo Concealment Torsion 1911 IWB holster has been a game-changer in my daily concealed carry routine. The adjustable retention feature allows me to customize the level of grip on my firearm, providing a secure and comfortable fit. The polymer injection mold ensures a precise fit for my 1911, and the deeper concealment with Torsion technology keeps the holster hidden effectively.

However, the holster does have a slight learning curve when it comes to re-holstering, but once you figure it out, it becomes a smooth process. One downside I’ve noticed is that the small clip seems to add a bit of weight to my outfit, but overall, the minimal mass increase is worth it for the exceptional concealment and security provided by this holster.

Buyer’s Guide

When buying a 1911 holster, there are several factors to take into account to guarantee compatibility, durability, and ease of use. Here’s a comprehensive guide to assist you in making an informed decision.

Material

The material that the holster is made from significantly impacts its overall quality and durability. Common materials include leather, nylon, and Kydex. Leather holsters are renowned for their traditional look and soft feel, whereas nylon holsters tend to be more budget-friendly. Kydex holsters, constructed from rigid plastic, offer exceptional retention and durability.

Construction

Consider the holster’s construction technique, such as a single clip, double clip, or paddle-style design. Single clip holsters offer minimal contact with the user, while paddle-style holsters attach directly to the belt. Double clip holsters are ideal for those who prefer a more secure fit around the waist. Take your preferences and level of activity into account when selecting a construction style.

Retention

Retention is vital to keep your firearm in place while still enabling quick access when necessary. Look for adjustable retention holsters, which frequently incorporate a thumb-break feature or a tension screw that can be tightened or loosened for varying levels of retention. This feature ensures the holster can comfortably and securely accommodate various firearms.

Comfort

A comfortable holster is crucial for everyday carry, minimizing contact with your skin and clothing. Leather holsters can become more comfortable over time as they break in, while nylon and Kydex holsters may require longer to conform to your body. Proper sizing and padding in critical areas can significantly enhance overall comfort.

FAQ

What Kinds of 1911 Holsters Are Accessible?

Learn about the various types of 1911 holsters out there, including outside-the-waistband (OWB) and inside-the-waistband (IWB), shoulder, and ankle. Each design has its benefits for different carrying methods and scenarios. OWB holsters are well-suited for larger handguns and are usually simpler to access. IWB holsters, however, offer an added layer of concealment. Shoulder and ankle holsters provide even more discreetness; it’s just a matter of getting accustomed to how they work.

Pick the right holster type by considering your preferences, handgun size, and carry methods. Make sure to explore various styles and materials to find the right fit. Custom-made holsters can provide the perfect fit and superior security, but they might cost more than standard models.

Which Materials are Commonly Used for 1911 Holsters?

Leather, nylon, and Kydex materials are commonly used in 1911 holsters. While leather is natural and durable, it requires a breaking-in period and may not be entirely water-resistant. Nylon is lightweight and easy to maintain, offering quick handgun access. Kydex holsters are made from a plastic-like material, providing excellent retention and rapid access, lightweight, and water-resistant.

What Should I Consider for a Perfect Fit when Purchasing a 1911 Holster?

To find a holster that fits correctly, compare the manufacturer’s height and weight dimensions with your firearm’s carry height and overall size. Ensure the holster’s carry height matches your waistline for the best comfort. Consider your handgun’s weight and the holster’s design for comfortable wear, such as paddle or belt loop attachments.

How Should I Maintain My 1911 Holster?

Regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection are essential for keeping your holster in good condition. Clean leather or nylon holsters with a soft cleaning cloth and alcohol or conditioner, respectively. Check for any signs of wear, such as holes or torn stitching, and replace or repair as needed. Store the holster in a dry, clean area to avoid excessive wear from moisture and dirt.

What is the Break-in Process for a New 1911 Holster?

Breaking in a new holster involves wearing and using it for an extended period, allowing it to conform more closely to the firearm and your body. Proper break-in results in better retention and consistency when holstering. This process may take several weeks.

How to Choose Between OWB and IWB for 1911 Handguns?

Select the holster type that best fits your preferred carrying methods. OWB holsters are simpler to use and offer quick access, while IWB holsters are more concealed. Weigh the pros and cons of each style before making your choice. Practice proper holstering techniques for a comfortable and secure fit.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ I may earn from qualified purchases at no cost to you!