Every handgun owner needs a quality holster, but the selection can be a complicated process even for the experienced shooter. The last thing you want is to not have your handgun accessible when you really need it. When shopping for a new holster, some of the most important things you need to look for are gun protection, accessibility and ease of use. Luckily for you, there is a wide range of options and styles on the market that will be sure to suit your needs.
The first thing you need to decide is what position you want to carry your handgun in. The most popular positions are inside the waistband, appendix inside the waistband or outside the waistband. You can also carry on your ankle or with a shoulder holster but depending on your attire, these may not always be the best option.
Outside the waistband holsters are typically reserved for larger framed pistols like the 1911. This is the most common carry method for police officers who need quick access to their handgun. A gun in this sort of holster is harder to conceal because you’ll need a cover garment such as a jacket. Most outside the waistband holsters are affixed to your belt utilizing a quick attach paddle or affixed belt loops. For right handed shooters the best place to mount your holsters is in the 3 o’clock position, or 9 o’clock for left handed shooters.
Most concealed carry individuals prefer inside the waistband carry. Once you master your draw using an outside the waistband holster, it is easy to transition to inside the waistband. Many holsters allow you to tuck a dress shirt into your pants, presenting a neat and clean appearance while also concealing your pistol. Belt mounting choices for inside the waistband pistols can get very complicated as there are tons of options ranging from j-hooks to spring clips and belt loops that are both soft and hard. Inside the waistband holsters are typically constructed from leather, kydex (which is also a plastic) or a combination of the two which is known as hybrid holsters. Placement along the belt line for right handed shooters should range between 3 and 5 o’clock or 7 and 9 o’clock for left handed shooters.
Appendix inside the waistband holsters have gained popularity in recent years but should only be used by advanced shooters. That’s because it places the gun in line with arteries in lower extremities. This carry position lets you hide, not only conceal, a 1911 much better than you would otherwise be able to at the 3 to 5 o’clock position. As a right handed shooter try to carry your pistol at approximately 11 o’clock, in the channel between your right leg and groin area. This is where you want the barrel of the pistol to ride. Typically the longer the pistol barrel, the better it stabilizes, especially when you’re performing rigorous activities. Because our mid sections are wider and flatter than our sides, this is a good place to carry a larger framed pistol such as the 1911. Since our arms hang at 10 and 2 o’clock, you have full control over the pistol with both hands and your arms will aid in natural concealment. This all leads to lightning fast draws as your hands require less movement.
Another important thing you will need to take into account is the retention system of the holster. Some holsters have straps that hold the handgun in place. Others have a button release or even use sheer friction and tension to hold the handgun in place. One thing to note is that if you’re at all concerned with the finish of your 1911, a quality leather holster will not scratch the slide of your pistol. Your handgun will be more prone to scratching if you use a holster that is composed of kydex. On the same token, a kydex holster will yield faster draws and re-holstering. These are definitely things you need to consider while shopping for a new holster.
Let’s take a look at some of the more popular holsters on the market today.
The Galco KingTuk offers broad, padded leather that extends the length of your 1911’s slide with Kydex molding that grips your gun securely. This prevents slips and makes for a fast draw with easy holstering. A nice feature of this holster is what they call a combat cut, which allows you to get a proper grip while the gun is still completely holstered. Two adjustable metal belt clips allow you to angle angle the holster to the perfect position. The length and overall size of the KingTuk enables the holster to fully distribute your 1911’s weight. The last thing you want with a holster is one where the entire weight of your gun is pulling down on one specific spot and making a burden to carry. After some time, the holster should contour perfectly to your body making it one of the more comfortable inside the waistband holsters.
Fierce Defender IWB Hybrid Holster
This hybrid tuckable holster is constructed out of a single piece of leather which means no stitching to come loose. The front and back edges are completely finished which is a nice touch in regards to aesthetics and comfort. This holster features an adjustable cant so you can adjust the angle of carry that best fits your preference as well as an adjustable ride height (this plays an important role in the weight distribution of your 1911). It also has high carbon spring clips that resist twisting, warping or breaking over time due to fatigue like plastic clips sometimes do. This holster is great for concealment because it allows you to tuck it in between your shirt and pants for the least amount of printing possible. Lastly the kydex offers you that smooth and quick draw that you need from a holster. The combination of both leather and kydex in this holster is what makes it a “hybrid”.
Galco Jackass Rig Shoulder System
Galco also offers their Jackass Rig Shoulder System. This is a classic, tried and true holster system that has been around for years. This rig will accommodate most 1911 model handguns with a secure and confident fit. With comfort in mind, the horizontal holster features swivel connectors that attach to the harness for you to be able to adjust it in a more diagonal position. This holster is made from premium Center Cut Steerhide which has been proven to be durable and dependable. The Galco Jackass Rig Shoulder System is the perfect companion for long drives as you have nothing digging at your waistband while you’re seated. Additionally, vehicle entry and exit as well as seat belt fastening is not an issue with this style of holster. Galco’s Jackass Rig is perfect for colder weather as you can easily conceal the holster with a jacket or blazer. Like most shoulder holsters, this one comes with an ammo carrier that is very secure and sturdy. This comes as an advantage to other holster styles that will not accommodate extra ammunition and magazines. What is great about this holster system is that it is completely modular. You may purchase separate accessories and components for it to really make it your own.
Blackhawk’s CQC Serpa is a slick 1911 holster with great value. Right away you’ll notice its unique retention system. Instead of relying on a button-release or strap, the Serpa keeps your pistol in place with a quick-release latch. You can easily pull this latch free while doing a natural drawing motion. This means you can draw and secure with one hand. The retention lock holds the gun firmly in place on the Serpa, with no jostling, bouncing or give. Also, the snap-on clip is sturdy and doesn’t wear or tear and you don’t even need a belt to use this holster, it will clip right on to your pants. The Serpa is composed of kydex so you can be sure that it will last you quite some time. This type of holster is perfect for wearing around the house, hunting or even open carrying if allowed. If you’re looking for a holster that is durable, affordable, and sleek, you’d be hard pressed to find a better deal.
Choosing a holster for your 1911 doesn’t need to be complicated. The majority of handgun owners utilize more than one style of holster because different kinds are needed for different situations. An inside the waistband holster for true concealed carry suits a vast number of handgun owners while paddle holsters are great for open carry, including around your own home, and a shoulder holster can be invaluable on long drives. Figure out what your needs are and select the holsters that best suit those needs. Holsters are a very personal choice and there’s no one design that everyone’s going to like, but we’re sure you’ll be happy with one of the examples we’ve mentioned here.
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