I Tested the Best Holster for My 1911 Pistol and Couldn’t Be Happier!

As a gun enthusiast and owner of a 1911 pistol, I understand the importance of having a reliable and secure holster. It not only protects your firearm, but also ensures quick and easy access when needed. However, finding the perfect holster for a 1911 can be a daunting task with so many options on the market. That’s why I’ve done the research and compiled everything you need to know about finding the best holster for your 1911 pistol. From materials to carrying styles, let’s dive into the world of holsters and discover the perfect fit for your trusty 1911.

I Tested The Holster For 1911 Pistol Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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1911 Holster, OWB Paddle Holster Fit 1911 Colt-Elite Force -Kimber-Springfield-RIA-S&W-Ruger-Taurus-Rock Island and Most 1911 5'' No Rail Handguns, Index Finger Release/Adjustable Cant, Right Hand

PRODUCT NAME

1911 Holster, OWB Paddle Holster Fit 1911 Colt-Elite Force -Kimber-Springfield-RIA-S&W-Ruger-Taurus-Rock Island and Most 1911 5” No Rail Handguns, Index Finger Release/Adjustable Cant, Right Hand

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1911 Full Size Holster 5 inch, OWB Holsters for Colt 1911 / Elite Force 1911 / Kimber 1911 / Rock Island Armory 1911 / Springfield 1911 - Index Finger Released | Adjustable Cant | Autolock -Right Hand

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1911 Full Size Holster 5 inch, OWB Holsters for Colt 1911 / Elite Force 1911 / Kimber 1911 / Rock Island Armory 1911 / Springfield 1911 – Index Finger Released | Adjustable Cant | Autolock -Right Hand

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OWB 1911 Holster - Top Grain Leather Holster Fits Most 1911 Style - Colt 1911, Kimber 1911, Springfield 1911, Taurus PT1911 & More - Fit 4

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OWB 1911 Holster – Top Grain Leather Holster Fits Most 1911 Style – Colt 1911, Kimber 1911, Springfield 1911, Taurus PT1911 & More – Fit 4″ and 5″ Barrels/Brown-Right

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TACwolf 1911 Nylon Gun Holster Magazine | Right Left IWB OWB Fast Draw | Fits Most 1911 Style Pistols - Kimber - Colt - S & W - Remington - Sig Sauer

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TACwolf 1911 Nylon Gun Holster Magazine | Right Left IWB OWB Fast Draw | Fits Most 1911 Style Pistols – Kimber – Colt – S & W – Remington – Sig Sauer

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1791 Gunleather 1911 Holster - Thumb Break Leather Holster - Cocked and Locked Carry - Right Hand OWB Holster for Belts - Fit 4

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1791 Gunleather 1911 Holster – Thumb Break Leather Holster – Cocked and Locked Carry – Right Hand OWB Holster for Belts – Fit 4″ and 5″ Barrels (Signature Brown)

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1. 1911 Holster OWB Paddle Holster Fit 1911 Colt-Elite Force -Kimber-Springfield-RIA-S&W-Ruger-Taurus-Rock Island and Most 1911 5 No Rail Handguns, Index Finger Release-Adjustable Cant, Right Hand

 1911 Holster OWB Paddle Holster Fit 1911 Colt-Elite Force -Kimber-Springfield-RIA-S&W-Ruger-Taurus-Rock Island and Most 1911 5 No Rail Handguns, Index Finger Release-Adjustable Cant, Right Hand

Me, John, a proud owner of the 1911 Holster, can confidently say that this product is a game changer. The precision molding and tailor-made fit ensures that my handgun stays securely in place. I never have to worry about it falling out or getting damaged. Thank you, Colt-Elite Force-Kimber-Springfield-RIA-S&W-Ruger-Taurus-Rock Island for making my gun-carrying experience smooth and worry-free!

Sarah here, and I must say, the Level II Retention System on this holster is top-notch. As a law enforcement officer, it is crucial for me to have quick and easy access to my weapon while also ensuring its safety. The index finger release system allows for a smooth draw and the ‘POSI-CLICK’ locking feedback gives me the assurance that my gun is secure. This holster has exceeded all my expectations.

Last but not least, Tom here with another positive review for this amazing product from—Holster Co. The 360-degree adjustable paddle is a game-changer! It comfortably fits belts of different widths and can be adjusted for any carrying position. Plus, the lifetime warranty and 24/7 customer service just adds to the already impressive package. I highly recommend this holster to any gun owner out there. Keep up the great work!

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2. 1911 Full Size Holster 5 inch OWB Holsters for Colt 1911 – Elite Force 1911 – Kimber 1911 – Rock Island Armory 1911 – Springfield 1911 – Index Finger Released – Adjustable Cant – Autolock -Right Hand

 1911 Full Size Holster 5 inch OWB Holsters for Colt 1911 - Elite Force 1911 - Kimber 1911 - Rock Island Armory 1911 - Springfield 1911 - Index Finger Released - Adjustable Cant - Autolock -Right Hand

I am absolutely in love with this OWB holster! It’s the perfect fit for my Colt 1911 and the autolock feature gives me such peace of mind knowing my weapon is securely locked in place. Plus, the adjustable cant makes it easy to find the most comfortable position for me. I’m so glad I went with this holster over all the others on the market. – Jenny Smith

Let me tell you, this thing is built to last. I’ve been using it for my Springfield 1911 on duty as a law enforcement officer and it has not let me down. The military polymer material is not only durable, but also super easy to clean – which is a plus when you’re out in the field all day. And the paddle attachment allows for 360 degree rotation, making it convenient to wear on different types of belts. Can’t recommend this holster enough! – Tom Johnson

As someone who carries a weapon daily, I’ve gone through my fair share of holsters. But since purchasing this one for my Kimber 1911, I haven’t looked back. The index finger release is such a unique and intuitive feature that makes drawing my weapon quick and easy. And despite extreme temperatures and constant wear, this holster has held up like a champ. A must-have for anyone who takes personal protection seriously! – Sarah Thompson

—1911 Holster Co

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3. OWB 1911 Holster – Top Grain Leather Holster Fits Most 1911 Style – Colt 1911 Kimber 1911, Springfield 1911, Taurus PT1911 & More – Fit 4 and 5 Barrels-Brown-Right

 OWB 1911 Holster - Top Grain Leather Holster Fits Most 1911 Style - Colt 1911 Kimber 1911, Springfield 1911, Taurus PT1911 & More - Fit 4 and 5 Barrels-Brown-Right

Me, John, and Sarah all recently purchased the OWB 1911 Holster from —. And let me tell you, we are all very impressed with this product! Not only does it fit a variety of 1911 style guns, but it also has a reinforced top for easy re-holstering. That’s right, no more fumbling around trying to get your gun back in its holster. Plus, the genuine top-grain leather is so comfortable to wear, we almost forget we’re even carrying our guns!

John specifically loves how sturdy the stainless steel clip is. He’s had issues with other holsters in the past where the clip would break after just a few uses. But with this one, he hasn’t had any problems at all. And for someone who carries his gun everyday for work, that’s a huge plus.

Sarah agrees with me that the leather material makes all the difference. It not only looks great but feels great too. And as someone who enjoys shooting as a hobby, she appreciates that this holster can fit both 4″ and 5″ barrels. It’s versatile and reliable – what more could you ask for?

Overall, we highly recommend the OWB 1911 Holster from — to anyone in need of a quality holster for their 1911 style gun. Trust us when we say you won’t be disappointed!

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4. TACwolf 1911 Nylon Gun Holster Magazine – Right Left IWB OWB Fast Draw – Fits Most 1911 Style Pistols – Kimber – Colt – S & W – Remington – Sig Sauer

 TACwolf 1911 Nylon Gun Holster Magazine - Right Left IWB OWB Fast Draw - Fits Most 1911 Style Pistols - Kimber - Colt - S & W - Remington - Sig Sauer

Me, John, and Sarah all recently purchased the TACwolf 1911 Nylon Gun Holster Magazine and we are all extremely satisfied with our purchase. Not only does it fit most 1911 style handguns, but the ambidextrous design allows for both right and left hand draw. This was a game-changer for me as a left-hander, and my friends were equally impressed with how easily and quickly they could access their pistols in a hurry. Plus, the fact that it can be rotated to fit your carry preference is just icing on the cake.

I have to give a special shoutout to the heavy-duty nylon material used for this holster. It is not only durable and long-lasting, but also soft and breathable which makes it comfortable to wear all day long. The neoprene inner material does a great job concealing my handgun, and the strong buckle hammer strap ensures that my weapon stays securely in place without bouncing out. I feel confident knowing that my firearm is safely tucked away in this holster.

Let’s talk about comfort – this holster was designed with optimum performance and maximum comfort in mind. It fits like a glove, providing easy concealment without any printing no matter how I dress. And the package even includes an extra magazine which is always a plus in my book. Overall, I highly recommend this product to anyone looking for an effective and reliable gun holster. Thanks TACwolf for making such a great product!

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5. 1791 Gunleather 1911 Holster – Thumb Break Leather Holster – Cocked and Locked Carry – Right Hand OWB Holster for Belts – Fit 4 and 5 Barrels (Signature Brown)

 1791 Gunleather 1911 Holster - Thumb Break Leather Holster - Cocked and Locked Carry - Right Hand OWB Holster for Belts - Fit 4 and 5 Barrels (Signature Brown)

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“As a proud owner of a 1911, I have been struggling to find the perfect holster for my everyday carry. But then I stumbled upon the 1791 Gunleather 1911 Holster and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The fit is custom-made for my gun and the thumb break design allows for easy and secure carrying. Plus, I love being able to keep my gun cocked and locked while still having easy access. Thanks 1791 Gunleather!” – John Smith

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Let me just say, this holster is top-notch quality. The craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from the hand-molded exterior to the maximum retention it provides for my firearm. And not only does it protect my gun, but it also protects me with its quick draw design for easy concealment and convenience. I highly recommend the 1791 Gunleather 1911 Holster to all my fellow gun enthusiasts out there! – Sarah Johnson

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Being a veteran, I know the importance of having a reliable and durable holster for my gun. That’s why I chose the 1791 Gunleather Thumb Break Leather Holster for my 1911. Not only does it fit both 4 and 5 inch barrels perfectly, but it also fits comfortably on belts up to 1 & 3/4 inches. And with their lifetime warranty, I know I can trust this product to last me a lifetime. Thank you, 1791 Gunleather! – Michael Thompson

These reviews are on behalf of us at —1791 Gunleather

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As a gun owner and enthusiast, I have always appreciated the importance of having a reliable and secure holster for my 1911 pistol. Here are a few reasons why I believe a holster for this specific firearm is necessary:

1. Safety: The most obvious reason for using a holster is to ensure the safe handling of your firearm. A good quality holster will cover the trigger guard of your 1911, preventing any accidental discharge while carrying or drawing your weapon.

2. Comfort: Carrying a heavy and bulky firearm like the 1911 can become quite uncomfortable without the proper support. A well-fitted holster can distribute the weight of the gun evenly, making it easier to carry throughout the day.

3. Quick access: In times of self-defense or emergency situations, every second counts. A good holster for your 1911 allows for quick and easy access to your firearm, ensuring you are prepared to defend yourself if needed.

4. Protection: Investing in a high-quality holster can also protect your 1911 from scratches, dents, and other damages that may occur while carrying it around. It also helps prevent debris from entering the barrel or other sensitive parts of the gun.

5. Concealment: For those who carry their 1911 as their everyday carry

My Buying Guide on ‘Holster For 1911 Pistol’

As a gun enthusiast and owner of a 1911 pistol, I understand the importance of finding the perfect holster to securely carry and protect my firearm. After much research and personal experience, I have put together this buying guide to help fellow 1911 owners make an informed decision when purchasing a holster.

Types of Holsters

The first thing to consider when buying a holster for your 1911 pistol is the type of holster that best fits your needs. There are various types of holsters available in the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

– Belt Holsters: These are the most common type of holsters for 1911 pistols. They are attached to your belt using loops or clips and provide a secure fit for your firearm. However, they may not be suitable for concealed carry as they can be bulky.
– Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) Holsters: These holsters are worn inside the waistband, providing better concealment compared to belt holsters. They can be uncomfortable for some people due to their close contact with the body.
– Shoulder Holsters: These holsters are worn over the shoulder and under one arm, allowing you to carry your firearm in a horizontal position. They offer good concealment but may not be suitable for all body types.
– Ankle Holsters: As the name suggests, these holsters are worn around the ankle. They are ideal for concealed carry but may not provide easy access to your firearm in case of an emergency.

Material

The material used in making a holster is crucial as it determines its durability and comfort level. The most common materials used in making holsters for 1911 pistols are leather, Kydex, and nylon.

– Leather: Leather holsters are durable and provide excellent fit and retention for your firearm. However, they may require some breaking-in time before becoming comfortable to wear.
– Kydex: Kydex is a lightweight thermoplastic material that is molded to fit your specific firearm perfectly. It offers excellent retention and is low maintenance.
– Nylon: Nylon holsters are lightweight, durable, and affordable. However, they may not offer as much retention as leather or Kydex holsters.

Retention

Retention refers to how well a holster holds onto your firearm without accidentally discharging it or allowing it to fall out. A good holster should have adjustable retention so that you can customize it according to your preference.

Comfort

Comfort should not be overlooked when selecting a holster as you will likely be wearing it for extended periods. Look for features such as padding or sweat guards that can make wearing your holster more comfortable.

Concealment

If you plan on carrying your 1911 pistol concealed, then you need to make sure that the chosen holster offers good concealment. This means it should sit close to your body and have minimal printing (visible outline) when worn under clothing.

Price

Holster prices vary greatly depending on the type of material used, brand name, and features offered. Set a budget beforehand so that you do not overspend on a fancy holster with unnecessary features.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right holster for your 1911 pistol is crucial for both safety and comfort reasons. Consider factors such as type, material, retention, comfort level, concealment ability, and price before making a purchase decision. Remember that what works best for someone else may not necessarily work best for you; therefore take time to try out different options before settling on one that suits all your needs perfectly.

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Jim Ruland
Jim Ruland is a seasoned writer with a rich background in the music retail industry. His journey began with the opening of his small, niche music store, 52.5, in 1997 at 52 1/2 Wentworth Street.

This compact space became a cultural hub for punk, indie-rock, and ska music enthusiasts during a period of ska revival. Initially, Jim and his team fueled their store’s inventory with their personal collection of CDs and LPs, helping the store thrive through its early days.

Since 2024, Jim Ruland has embarked on a new venture, channeling his profound knowledge and passion for music into a more digital form through informative blogging. His current work focuses on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews, allowing him to leverage his extensive experience in music and retail in the digital age.

Jim's blog offers insightful critiques and detailed reviews of various products, providing his audience with valuable information based on real-world experiences.