Some of the more popular pistol models on the market are 1911 pistols, despite their age. They are reliable, long-lasting, and when conventionally chambered (in .45 ACP) they deliver a lot of stopping power.
Of course this begs the questions, if you are going to carry one, should you choose a Kydex or a leather 1911 holster?
It depends. Both can be great, and this post will break down the reasons why so hopefully you can form a clearer picture.
Table of Contents
Why a Leather 1911 Holster?
Some of the best reasons that a leather 1911 holster can be a great bet include:
- The comfort of leather. Kydex and other thermoplastics are inherently stiff and uncomfortable. Leather is comfortable out of the gate and with time it will break in, form to your contours, and only become more comfortable.
- The classic appeal of leather. For better or worse, leather holsters offer a classic look. They’ll also form a patina over time which will be very unique and aesthetically pleasing.
- Secondary retention features. Most plastic 1911 holsters offer only a friction fit. Many leather holsters have secondary straps, flaps or buckles to secure the gun.
- Protection for the gun. Some friction-fit holsters will damage the finish of a handgun where they contact it. A leather holster won’t.
Why Not?
At the same time, leather may not be the best choice:
- Leather holsters rarely if ever offer the same degree of a friction fit as plastic holsters.
- Leather holsters require more care, conditioning and maintenance, whereas plastic holsters never do.
- If a gun is left in a leather holster for a prolonged period of time it may develop spots of rust or corrosion.
- Some leather holsters are stiff out of the gate and need to be broken in.
Why Kydex?
While leather 1911 holsters can offer a lot of value, Kydex holsters are often preferred because:
- Kydex holsters offer an excellent friction fit right out of the gate and do not need to be broken in.
- Some users find that it is easier to re-holster with a Kydex holster.
- Kydex, unlike leather, never needs to be cleaned or conditioned, making it much easier to care for than leather.
- Kydex is physically durable and will protect the gun well, since it is a hard-sided material, unlike leather.
- Kydex will not absorb moisture, so a gun can be kept in the holster for longer with less concern of rust.
Why Not?
All the same, there are some reasons Kydex holsters might not be seen as the ideal choice:
- Many users find Kydex to be uncomfortable, and it will not become softer or more comfortable with time, as leather will.
- Kydex holsters generally only offer a friction fit and do not offer secondary retention characteristics.
- Kydex 1911 holsters lack the classic appeal that only traditional materials like leather can offer.
Shop 1911 Holsters and Other 1911 Accessories and Parts at SARCO Inc.
Not sure which of these options is the best choice for your 1911 holster? You also might want to think about how you carry. For instance, leather holsters offer some flexible configurations, like shoulder holsters.
Either way, check out what’s in stock over at SARCO, Inc. They carry a wide variety of 1911 holsters, including leather and plastic options, as well as shoulder holsters, in addition to other 1911 accessories and parts.
Check out their collection and if you want any more information on the types of 1911 holsters out there, get in touch with them for more information. Their customer service team is helpful and would be more than happy to assist.
For more information about Springfield Parts and Bayonets For Sale Please visit: Sarco Inc.
