Both of these are close approximations of the originals. For anyone needing a working holster (as opposed to an original collector’s item), both of these options should be on your shortlist. While there are very small points in both builds that differ from the originals, these would likely pass muster—even for reenactors (just make sure you end up with the right color for the era you want to recreate). We wouldn’t want anyone to think we were promoting anachronisms.

The M3 Tanker is an homage to the not-quite-shoulder holsters American GIs wore in WWII. The GI Hip Holster is a throwback to the old GI flap holsters that were in service for the better part of the 20th Century. Both come in black or brown and are made by 1791 Gunleather.

Get side-tracked with the history of the M3 Tanker.

If you’re ever curious about military history, the internet is the greatest library available. Its search options suck, if I may be so blunt, but the information is there, typically buried deep in discussion threads. This is where the genuine experts live and die, and searching for the development of the M3 Tanker and the later M7 variant will yield hours of reading material.

The M3 was the original tanker holster of WWII. It held the gun up on the left side of your ribs, almost under your arm. This orientation was good for those in vehicles or those who did a lot of sitting, as it kept the gun from hanging obtrusively from the belt in tight spaces.

M3 Tankers have a long shoulder strap and a shorter belt strap. They were originally made by three companies: Boyt, Enger-Kress, and Sears Saddlery. All of them were brown.

Practice Makes Perfect

By the end of the war, the M7 had solved some of the problems of the M3 hanging too far under the arm. The M7 has an additional strap that allows it to be positioned further toward the middle of the torso, making it easier to access if it is worn under a jacket.

Postwar production of the M7 continued, and in 1956, the Army switched its dominant color scheme of boots and holsters—the uniform leather goods—from brown to black.

This isn’t completely useful information for most of us, and I didn’t know it before I began trolling forums during a recent bought of insomnia, but I’m hoping I’ll be able to whip it out in a pub trivia quiz one day and wow the ladies.

The GI Hip Holster’s Evolution

The USGI Model 1916 holsters were in production for a long time. They were far more common and made by at least 17 different makers. These flap holsters were a simple design that originated well before 1916—back in the 19th century at least, if not earlier. In their institutional usage, these designs evolved with the guns to fit those old Colt percussion guns, then single-action revolvers, then 1911s, then a series of double-action revolvers. They stayed in service until canvas versions replaced them.

The design has also evolved. Belt loop sizes change, the metal clip addition allows the holster to be worn on a web belt, and the color changes back and forth from black to brown (depending on how far back you want to trace the family tree).

A note on the evolution of holster: Flaps aren’t fast. What we think of now as the typical Hollywood-style gun rig began with a flap holster with its flap cut off. The flap, though, is a viable means of retention. For the military, which uses the sidearm as a secondary weapon, the flap is insurance that it stays in place.

However, you can see the change occurring with the M3 and its strap, which requires much less leather and holds the gun just as tightly.

A Note On The GI Hip Holster’s Break-In Period

When I first got this holster in for review, I couldn’t fit a 1911 in this holster much past halfway. Leather, though, is malleable and will stretch.

I don’t believe a break-in should be required, but that’s me. As such, I contacted 1791 and was advised to wrap the 1911 in a Ziplock bag and force it in. I assume this was meant to protect the finish from abrasion—after all, you may want to holster a really nicely blued-Colt or something else on the fancy side.

Wrapping a gun like this isn’t uncommon for holster makers. Wet-molded leather works best with the real gun in the holster, but you don’t really want to get guns wet, so the plastic helps. But 1791 wasn’t advising wet-molding, just stretching.

So unload, cock-and-lock (so it doesn’t slide out of battery), and jam it in was what I was told to do.

I pushed in, left it for a few hours, and then pushed some more. In the end, I had to fully jam the gun home by leaning on the grip with the holster firmly nose-down on a solid table. Only then could I get it to button shut.

Not So Easy

I want to be 100% transparent here: This was a pain in the rear. 1791’s holster is also a solid homage to the originals and worth the effort, but I’ve been working with this one off and on for a couple of weeks now, and it is to the point that I can get it in with a healthy amount of push, but it is still very tight.

While I characterize this as a pain, I want to focus on the positive. It isn’t like this is a cheap knockoff made of dried-up horsehide. This is a robust build and one that should age very gracefully. The time you might spend getting the fit right will pay off. The only thing to watch out for is your front sight. Don’t damage it by forcing the gun in, and watch for the backside of a steel sight (like the right angle on the Springfield Milspec below) cutting a channel inside when you draw.

Should you carry cocked and locked?

Maybe. The thumb safety is on the inside of the holster. There should be no way to disengage it by bumping the gun. This, though, should be one of those things you pay close attention to.

The grip safety may be depressed by the strap, which adds more responsibility to that thumb safety.

The trigger, though, is well protected. I would carry cocked and locked with no hesitation, but I’d make it a point to check the safety status from time to time.

On the flap holster, the grip safety won’t be depressed. It could be while you are holstering the gun, but you always have the thumb safety up when you’re not ready to shoot, right? Of course you do.

1791’s New Direction

Both of these have MSRPs under $100. This is a solid build for that, and one that has high material costs (both designs use a lot of leather). And I like the new direction for 1791. Finding good representations of military holsters isn’t easy. For guns like the Mil-Spec, which is a close homage to the old 1911A1, this is a perfect pairing.

In short, these are ideal for collectors who aren’t looking for originals they have to baby. They are meant to be carried and worn, and 1791 built them to take the abuse of actual use.

The post Classic 1911 Leather GI Holsters from 1791: M1916 and an M3 Tanker appeared first on The Mag Life.

The sight of a cowboy with a six-shooter on his hip and a lever-action rifle in his hand is an image synonymous with the Wild West. While the old Colt six-shooter reigned supreme among revolvers, the lever-action rifle was equally revered as a symbol of the cowboy era.

In films like “True Grit,” “The Rifleman,” and “The Magnificent Seven,” a rifle scabbard is a common accessory. Cowboys are often seen riding through dusty trails with their trusty lever-action rifles secured in leather scabbards. These scabbards not only provided protection and ease of access but also added to the rugged aesthetic of the era.

For those who admire the craftsmanship and legacy of these old-school guns, a Galco leather rifle scabbard is the perfect accessory to complete the experience. If you haven’t seen one before, I highly suggest you check it out. The lovely aroma of the fine leather alone makes it worth a gander.

Galco’s Rifle Scabbard

Galco Gunleather is renowned for its premium quality holsters, and its rifle scabbard is no exception. Designed specifically for lever-action rifles, this scabbard is an example of what leather quality should look like.

The Galco Rifle Scabbard is made from the finest saddle leather, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of the trail while providing a stylish and functional holster for your favorite rifle.

The scabbard’s design pays homage to the classic Western aesthetic, with intricate stitching and a rich, natural finish that highlights the beauty of the leather. Each scabbard is meticulously hand-crafted here in the USA. This ensures a perfect fit for your lever-action rifle, offering both protection and ease of access.

Galco’s product lineup is extensive, featuring a wide range of Western and cowboy holsters and gear. The rifle scabbard is just one example of the high-quality products available. Each holster is designed to meet the needs of gun enthusiasts who appreciate the blend of functionality and tradition. Whether you’re a cowboy action shooter or simply a fan of Western firearms, Galco has something to offer.

Galco Rifle Scabbard Specs:

• Material: Premium saddle leather
• Color: Natural
• Length: 32 inches
• Width: 7 inches at the widest point
• Weight: Approximately 2 pounds
• Attachment: Leather straps for securing to saddle or other mounts

What’s the Point of a Rifle Scabbard?

You might wonder why a rifle scabbard is a worthwhile investment for your lever-action rifle. The primary reason is practicality, especially for those who carry a lever-action rifle with them. And yes, there are times when a good rifle is needed. Farmers, ranchers, hikers, hunters, and others often choose to carry lever-action rifles with them.

Horses and Motorcycles

When it comes to those who ride horses, the lever-action rifle is an ideal rifle to keep attached to your saddle. The Galco rifle scabbard can be easily attached to the side of your saddle, which makes it easy to retrieve while you’re on the horse or standing beside it. While carrying a lever-action rifle on a horse is the most popular reason to own a scabbard, it’s not the only one.

For motorcycle enthusiasts, the Galco scabbard offers a unique and stylish solution for transporting your rifle. The scabbard’s robust construction ensures that your rifle remains safe, even during long rides on rough terrain. I know of a farmer who carries a lever-action in a scabbard attached to his four-wheeler as well.

Even if you don’t frequently carry your lever-action rifle on a horse or motorcycle, having a scabbard is still beneficial. It offers a safe and stylish way to store your rifle at home or in your vehicle. The leather straps on the scabbard can be used to attach it to the back of a seat or another secure location. This is a perfect way to keep your firearm accessible and protected.

Storage

Others may wish to own a rifle scabbard because they want a classic and stylish holster in which to store their rifle. A high-quality leather scabbard like the one from Galco looks impressive. But it also prevents scratches, dings, and your rifle from getting dirty during transport. It’s a practical accessory that enhances the overall experience of owning a lever-action rifle.

If you own a lever-action, you should own one of these

The Galco Rifle Scabbard may come with a higher price tag than some other brands (suggested retail price of $475). However, the quality and craftsmanship are unmatched. When you invest in a Galco scabbard, you’re purchasing a superior product that will last as long as the firearm it’s designed to hold.

I’ve worked in law enforcement for a long time and use polymer holsters on a regular basis. But there’s something special about owning a quality leather holster. It doesn’t matter if it’s a shoulder holster for your 1911, a gunslinger belt for your Colt .45, or a scabbard for your rifle. Leather holsters are just cool and elegant at the same time.

In the end, owning a Galco Rifle Scabbard is about more than just practicality; it’s about embracing the heritage and tradition of the Old West. It’s about adding a touch of authenticity and style to your lever-action rifle and ensuring that it remains protected and accessible.

Whether you’re riding the trails, cruising on your motorcycle, or simply storing it at home, it serves a purpose. For any gun enthusiast, a high-quality leather rifle scabbard is an investment that pays homage to a classic rifle. It’s no different than owning a classic leather gun belt for your old-school revolver. One isn’t complete without the other.

The post Galco Rifle Scabbard: A Quality Holster for Your Lever-Action Rifle appeared first on The Mag Life.

1791 Gunleather is based in Miami, Florida. As readers have probably guessed, this company chose 1791 as its name because of the importance of the aforementioned Bill of Rights.

1791 uses 100% certified American, heavy native steer hide in their holster construction. It states that four generations of professional leather artisans make its holsters. Its mission is to deliver the highest level of quality while maintaining excellent customer service. I can personally say that these are some very nice folks to work with, and they are very responsive. Every time I’ve contacted them, I’ve gotten a prompt response.

I requested a few of their holsters to review and was rewarded with fast shipping and friendly replies. So, let’s take a look at their holsters and see how they stack up in the real world.

The Holsters

I received three holsters for this review. Two are inside-the-waistband (IWB) models, while the third one is an outside-the-waistband (OWB) system. I mostly wear IWB these days, but I wanted to try one of their OWB holsters to get a feel for how they work.

BHC OWB Holster For Sub-Compact Firearms

I was impressed when I received 1791’s BHC OWB Holster for Sub-Compact Firearms for several reasons. The initial appearance is very nice, and I love the light brown color. The stitching is also impressive, as it’s even and elegant, offering a professional appearance.

Further, the leather is very thick and stiff, which lends itself well to carrying handguns in an OWB position. You don’t have to worry about the handgun and holster flopping around loosely on the outside of the belt. From this aspect alone, this holster is sweet!

One of the things that appealed to me about this holster is its compatibility with a wide range of handguns. 1791 claims it will fit the following handguns: 1911 3-inch, Bersa .380, Glock 42, 43, 43X, S&W Bodyguard .380 and CSX 9mm, Sig Sauer P365 and P365X, Springfield Hellcat, and “similar frames.” Well, now that’s quite a plethora of pistols and covers a lot of bases.

Initially, I wanted something to fit my Sig P365XL. But I also have the regular P365, the Glock 43X, and the Hellcat, so I’d be getting a holster that could fit several of my pistols, which is a huge win in my book. These days, more bang for your buck is a huge advantage.

Carry Performance

How did the holster work out? I have to say, it’s an excellent holster! I wore it with my 1791 leather gun belt, and the belt/holster combo fit together perfectly. The holster keeps every pistol I happen to be carrying tucked in tight to my side, which aids in concealment and also makes it feel comfortable. I’d say that this OWB holster is more concealable than some of those from other makers that I own because it’s so tight to the torso.

The exposed edges of the holster’s leather are given a smooth finish, so it looks professional and is pleasing to the eye. Overall, the holster is extremely sturdy and will undoubtedly last for a long time.

All in all, this holster looks good, feels good, conceals well, and fits a wide variety of pistols. It’s also very affordable; as I type this, it sells for $51.99. This one is hard to beat.

Fair Chase IWB Holster Size 3 for Sub Compact Firearms

1791’s Fair Chase IWB holster features ethically harvested whitetail deer hide leather construction, which is flexible and lightweight. The comfort level of this holster is extraordinary. Normally, I don’t care much for the softer inside-the-waistband holsters; I prefer the hard-molded leather holsters. Rigid holsters keep an open top while inside the pants, making it easier to holster a pistol when the holster is worn. Soft holsters do not, so that’s a disadvantage for them.

However, this particular soft holster has a few advantages worth mentioning. The leather is soft and acts as padding for the pistol against your skin. Hard leather and Kydex are rough and can be less than comfortable. The Fair Chase tucks into the pants and is far more comfortable than those hard holsters, making it more of a pleasure to wear.

The Fair Chase holster also has a sweat guard that extends a few inches above the mouth of the holster. When worn against the bare skin, that soft sweat guard cushions the firearm between the skin, making this holster even more comfortable.

As with all of 1791’s other holsters, the stitching in the Fair Chase is impeccable and durable.

Yet another advantage is that this holster is not molded precisely to one particular model of handgun, so it will fit a plethora of other pistols, including Colt 1911 3-inch, Glock 42, 43, 43X, Kimber 1911 3-inch, Springfield Armory Hellcat, Sig Sauer P365, P365XL, and 1911 3-inch, in addition to other similarly framed pistols. Once again, it’s nice having a holster that will work with several pistols.

As mentioned, I found the Fair Chase to be very comfortable to wear and it held my pistols securely. The spring steel clip holds the holster securely on the belt. It came in a dark brown finish that looks attractive and it won’t scratch the finish of your firearms. Overall, it’s an excellent holster. As this is written, it is available for an affordable $56.99.

SCH (Smooth Concealment Holster) IWB Holster For Sub Compact Firearms Size 3

The SCH IWB Holster is similar to the Fair Chase Holster. However, this one is made from 100% certified American cowhide leather, which is soft and breathable. It is also lined with suede, so once it’s worn in, the draw is incredibly fast, and it won’t scratch the finish of your firearms.

Overall, this holster is thicker and a bit stiffer than the Fair Chase, which makes it very comfortable to wear.

Aside from the material differences, the SCH is very similar to the Fair Chase Holster. It will also fit the same pistol models, giving it a ton of versatility. As this is written, this holster sells for $46.99 at GunMag Warehouse.

Lifetime Warranty

1791 offers a lifetime warranty. I had to order a screw for my gun belt because one of the two screws came loose and fell out without me knowing about it. I should have used Locktite. However, when I contacted 1791 to order a new screw, they sent a couple to me free of charge under their warranty. No hassles, no drama. Just immediate, efficient service that is, quite frankly, a rarity these days. Not only was it fast and efficient, but it was cheerful, which added to the experience.

Parting Thoughts

So far, every product I’ve used from 1791 has proven to be well thought out and executed. Their materials are excellent and hold up well to use.

I also like that they are versatile. One holster will usually accommodate a variety of handguns, which means I have to buy fewer holsters. Less money spent is always an attractive proposition. Further, the prices on 1791 holsters are certainly in line with those of other holster makers these days, so the buyer gets a good value for his expenditure. Finally, these holsters look good while on the job.

The post 1791 Gunleather: Quality Pistol Packin’ Leather appeared first on The Mag Life.

HSGI

High Speed Gear began in 1999 as a custom shop making gear for Marines at Camp Lejeune. Today, HSGI is the largest employer in Swansboro, North Carolina, manufacturing high-quality gear for the military, law enforcement agencies, emergency responders, and private citizens alike.

What kind of gear does HSGI make? Let’s put it this way: If they don’t make it, you probably don’t need it. Products range from pouches to belts, medical supplies, plate carriers, bags, holsters, slings, and other accessories. Every piece is satisfaction guaranteed and made in the USA! It doesn’t get much better than that. They’re a very solid company with high-quality products, and I’ve been using them for quite a while.

The Taco Pouch

HSGI’s Tacos are a line of magazine pouches that are about as versatile as you’ll find on planet Earth. You might ask how a magazine pouch can be versatile.

For starters, imagine a rifle magazine pouch configured to hold just about any rifle magazine ever made (within reason). One Taco pouch can hold magazines from the AR-15, Mini-14, AK-47, FN SCAR, AR-10, M1A/M14, Mini-30, and pretty much any others you’d care to name.

Construction and Features

How do they do that? It’s ingenious and yet simple. The front and back of the taco pouch are crafted of nylon, and it is available in black, Coyote Brown, MultiCam, Olive Drab Green, Grey, MultiCam Black, Woodland, and LE Blue color options. On the sides, there are polymer panels with an elastic shock cord woven all around the pouch. Further, the elastic cord can be cinched down to tighten the pouch or loosened to accommodate larger magazines. Easy peasy.

Having one type of pouch that will fit various magazines is super attractive because you don’t have to buy a bunch of specific pouches for different types of mags. Let’s say you run an AR-15, an AK-47, and an M1A. Normally, you’d need to buy specific pouches for each one. And you’d likely buy three different chest rigs for each platform because who wants to be taking mag pouches on and off every time you switch platforms? It’s expensive and time-consuming, and it prevents you from grabbing the chest rig for one particular platform and heading out at a moment’s notice.

With the Taco pouches, you don’t need to go through any of that because they’ll accommodate any platform that you’re running. One rig will do it all, which simplifies things.

Not only do the Tacos hold magazines, but they also hold some radios, flash bangs, and smoke grenades. It would be hard to ask for anything more.

Attachments

Tacos have a couple of options for attaching them to various equipment via strips of durable, vinyl-backed, heavy-duty nylon laminate, along with a snap closure, which creates a belt loop. The first-generation Tacos have three slits in the back, so they can accommodate belts of 1.5-1.75 inches, 1.75-2 inches, and 2-2.25-inches in width. The inside of this belt loop contains a patch of loop fastener to attach to a belt that has hook material so that it doesn’t move around.

Gen 2

Generation 2 Tacos have some added features and improvements. They’re constructed from a laser-cut nylon laminate wrapped over a woven thermoplastic core. The Gen 2 variety weighs almost 20% less than the original Tacos (weight is 2.23 ounces).

There are 1/2-inch MOLLE strips on the back of the Taco that allow the pouch to be mounted to either a belt or MOLLE gear. There are also screws, which can create more secure belt loops. Normally, the clip snaps are sufficient to easily attach the pouches to a chest rig or other gear, including a belt.

The belt option is nice in the event you aren’t going to be fully geared up, so you can have a spare magazine or two on your belt. Sometimes, more is better, such as home defense scenarios. To tell the truth, most of us don’t get fully kitted up to defend the house, and a spare mag or two is more than sufficient. Also worth noting is that there is an OTR (Over Top Retention) cover accessory, so the pouch can fully enclose the magazine.

Polymer Tacos

There is also a polymer Taco line of pouches with a myriad of variations. The body is simpler and made solely of polymer, differing from the other models, which have nylon fabric as a portion of their body. The polymer Tacos are a harder version of the original Taco, although the polymer is slightly pliable, so these pouches are still somewhat flexible. They have the same shock cord that the other pouches use, so they can be instantly adjusted to whichever magazines you happen to be using at that moment. These polymer Tacos also come in a wide range of colors.

Options

So far, we’ve looked at single-magazine Tacos, but there are other varieties to be had. There is a Double-Decker that holds one rifle mag and one pistol mag. The X2R holds two rifle magazines. There’s actually a handcuff-carrying Taco as well. There are pistol Tacos and even an Extended Pistol Taco that can hold pistol magazines as well as submachine gun magazines.

If you want a double rifle mag/double pistol mag pouch, they have those, too. An LE case holds a pair of handcuffs and a tactical light. There are also Tacos that hold a radio and one that holds a collapsible baton. The list goes on. Options for 40mm grenades, both single and double, also exist. Like I said, if you’re into options, you’ve come to the right place!

Closing Thoughts

HSGI’s Taco magazine and gear pouches offer a bewildering array of options for carrying magazines and other gear. Single pouches, double pouches, and all sorts of combinations abound, giving users as much versatility as they can handle.

The flexible mounting systems are a huge selling point because the Tacos can easily be attached to a regular belt or a rig with MOLLE attachments. The simplicity is the real gem of the system because the Tacos can be switched out without a hassle in a matter of seconds, and you don’t need an engineering degree to figure out how to accomplish it.

Furthermore, their ability to adapt to any magazine that the user happens to be employing at that moment really makes these pouches golden. Being able to use one rig for a multitude of rifles and pistols is true modularity and versatility. No longer does a person have to tailor their magazine pouches to a particular weapons platform, which saves both time and money.

HSGI has the market cornered as far as flexible, versatile magazine pouches are concerned. I haven’t found any others that come close to matching them. These Tacos are good to go!

The post High Speed Gear Tactical Taco Pouch: A Review appeared first on The Mag Life.

Even many IWB holsters are now made of plastic because they are made to fit specific guns. I stopped using some of my leather IWB holsters because they were much thicker than plastic IWB versions. But 1791 made sure that wasn’t an issue with the Fair Chase Deer Hide holster. Another feature I really like about this model is that it accommodates a tac-light and optic.

We tend to think of leather as an old-school style of holster that should be used with old-school guns. However, the ability to carry a modern gun with a light and optic in a quality leather holster is just cool—at least for those who appreciate leather holsters. Concealed carry has caused the handgun and holster market to prosper in recent years. More people are aware of the need for good-quality holsters than ever before.

Large enough for full-size handguns but thin enough for IWB

I’ve always thought a person should carry the largest handgun possible while still able to conceal it. Sometimes, a small compact gun is all we can get away with. But for those who want to carry something a little larger, 1791 Gunleather has a great IWB holster to check out. Instead of making a holster for a specific gun, they offer multiple sizes of holsters and list each gun that will fit in that size.

My Fair Chase Deer Hide holster is a size 4 and will fit some popular handguns like the CZ 75 PCR, Ruger SR9, Sig P365XL, and about 13 models of Glock. Most retailers will list compatible guns or ask which gun you are using to ensure you get the right size. 1791 Gunleather kept the leather thin on this holster to make sure it didn’t take up any more room than necessary. When I say it’s thin, I mean it’s .25 inches thick. That’s measuring the entire holster, not just one side.

About the 1791 Fair Chase Deer Hide Holster

The 1791 Gunleather IWB Light Bearing Holster features an open-top design tailored specifically for firearms with rail-mounted lights or lasers. The holster rides close to the body for concealable carry, holding the firearm upright to reduce imprinting through clothing. The back of the holster is tall enough to provide a barrier between you and the grip of your gun.

If you have ever carried an IWB holster without some type of barrier, you know how annoying it can be. Some of the texturing on today’s guns is so aggressive they can be painful when rubbing on your side. A heavy-duty metal clip fits over belts up to two inches wide and keeps the holster in place when the gun is drawn. If you haven’t used a deer hide holster before, it’s worth noting that deer hide is normally softer than cowhide holsters.

To show they stand behind their product, 1791 Gunleather offers a Lifetime Warranty on all their holsters. I’ve also contacted their customer service in the past and would call it excellent. That is not something you find very often in today’s world.

Using the Fair Chase Deer Hide IWB holster

I carried several guns in the Fare Chase holster to see how well it worked with different ones. I would normally advise people to stay away from “multi-fit” holsters. But in this case, the guns listed by 1791 Gunleather fit like they were made for each other. I carried my Glock 49 with an Aimpoint ACRO P-2 and Streamlight Holosun P.ID light in the Fair Chase holster.

Most of the time, I would carry this size of gun in an OWB holster. But I like trying new things, and it’s good to have options for carrying guns differently. Because of its size, I chose to appendix carry, which is starting to become a favorite of mine. It was more comfortable than I thought and held the gun in place nicely. I wore it for several days and did a variety of walking, sitting at my desk, driving, etc.

Is an IWB leather holster right for you?

I can easily say this is a comfortable, well-made holster. The quality of the leather is so nice; it’s a shame this is an IWB holster rather than an OWB holster. That strong leather smell hits you when you take it out of the package. Over time it may need oil or some type of leather conditioner to keep it in pristine shape. The inside is also soft enough that it will protect the finish on your firearm while carrying it around.

1791 Gunleather makes this model in 6 different sizes, so there are many options to fit whatever gun you have. If you want this style but prefer cowhide, try the “Smooth Concealment” holster. It’s the same style but made from 100% American Steer hide. I have one of these in a black finish, and it’s a little firmer than the deer hide holster. It’s the same thickness and made of the same quality.

The post 1791 Gunleather IWB Holster: A Review appeared first on The Mag Life.

But even with an IWB (inside-the-waistband) holster, there are multiple carry options. There isn’t a right or wrong carry method (within reason), and some methods work better for some people than others. The two carry methods I use the most are strongside carry and appendix carry. We will talk about both of those carry methods right after I go over the Safariland Species holster.

Safariland Species Holster

Because Safariland is primarily a maker of military and police holsters, it emphasizes quality. What stands out about its holsters is their security and durability. I’ve worn them for years on duty and have seen firsthand how well they hold up, and I even use them for my CCW needs as well.

The belt clip works with belts up to 1.5 inches wide and can be rotated to accommodate different angles of carry. This holster is affordable and arguably one of the best qualities on the market. Retail for the Species holster starts at $37.99.

Strongside IWB carry

For years, this was the carry method I used for CCW because it was the closest to the duty carry position. It feels normal to reach to my side for a firearm on duty because I train with it so much. I want my CCW weapon to be as close to this position as possible for muscle memory. Strongside carry is one of the most common methods of carrying a firearm, regardless of whether it is an OWB or IWB method. Another style is small of the back, but it’s not as common as strongside and appendix. Having the gun right on your side is not as concealable as other methods, but it’s more natural.

If you have multiple layers of clothing on, it takes a lot of practice drawing from this position. The clothing needs to be pulled aside while you draw. This means you need to be able to reach around with your support hand and pull your clothes out of the way. Another method is to use your thumb on your gun hand and push your shirt up over the gun as you reach for it.

Appendix IWB carry

I didn’t even try appendix carry for years because it felt a little sketchy to me. When carrying off-side, there isn’t a lot of your body that can get in the way if it goes off. With appendix carry, the muzzle of your gun is often pointing at the inside of your thigh when seated. Coming from law enforcement, this is also where many untrained criminals like to stick their guns. There is a big difference, however, between carrying a gun in a quality holster and sticking it in the front of your pants.

Most modern handguns are reliable and have various types of safeties to prevent the gun from going off unintentionally. Guns with shorter barrels work best with this method of carry. In the past, I’ve carried an M&P Shield, Kimber Micro 9, Ruger Max-9, and other compact guns without issue. If you are used to carrying a firearm on your side, it does take some training to develop that muscle memory. During an incident, you don’t want to reach to your side for a gun that’s in the front.

Which method is best for you?

After carrying both ways for some time, I’ve started to be fond of appendix carry for CCW and off-side carry for OWB holsters. One isn’t better than the other; they are just different. Both methods have advantages and disadvantages that each person will need to consider. If you’re not sure which method to use, try both for a while and see which one is more comfortable. Just remember to do some training on the range with any holster and carry position you choose.

The post Safariland Species holster: Appendix and Strongside Carry for CCW appeared first on The Mag Life.

Attaching a rifle, PCC, or shotgun to your vest or belt is something I haven’t seen before. I’ve always said the sling is the holster for our rifle, and that hasn’t changed. But this system is designed to work with or without a sling and it brings some benefits with it. The most obvious one is the ability to distribute the weight of the rifle to your vest or belt, even with a sling on. A sling is great for mobility and keeping your gun connected to you. But if you have ever stood around for long periods of time, the sling starts to wear on you, too.

With this system, you can place the Gen 2 holster wherever you want, so you can use it even while wearing the sling. When both the sling and holster are placed correctly, the sling will help hold the weight of the rifle while the holster keeps the gun from moving around.

Stratus Gen 2 Holster with QD Pin Combo

The “holster” is a patented device that works on your belt or MOLLE gear. Stratus makes several different quick-detach pins that work with the holster. Some connect to a Picatinny rail, but the one I’m trying out is for an AR-15. Stratus made a receiver back plate that has their QD pin on it. This does require removing the buffer tube and switching out the plate, but that’s not a big deal. I decided to install mine on an AR-15 pistol for now.

Installing the Receiver End Plate

The process of installing the receiver plate is not hard. But if you haven’t done it before, I recommend doing some research before you start. I won’t get into too much detail in this article because I’ve covered it several times in past articles. First, you will need to pull the stock or arm brace off the buffer tube. Remove the upper from the lower using the two takedown pins. Next, remove the buffer spring, and you will be ready to remove the back plate.

An AR-15 armorer’s wrench is needed to remove the castle nut on the buffer tube. This is what holds the back plate against the back of the receiver. As you loosen the back plate, watch for the rear detent spring that will come out of the back of the receiver. Once the back plate is loose and pulled to the rear, make sure you can turn the buffer tube. As you do this, keep your thumb over the top of the buffer spring detent because it will have some pressure on it from the spring under it.

Using the Stratus Gen 2 Holster and QD Pin

With the QD pen installed on your AR-15, you are now ready to try it out. I decided to put my holster on my vest instead of using it on my belt. A pistol grip shotgun or even smaller AR would work great on the belt. But my AR pistol is not the smallest, so I figured my vest would provide more support. I weaved the Molle on like any other pouch and placed the holster on the right side. I’m right-handed, so I wanted the holster to have easy access.

Note: my AR-15 was empty during this test. I ran, jumped, and even pulled on the rifle, but it wouldn’t come off. With enough force from another person, it could probably be pulled off, but just about any gear could at that point.

Is it a good idea?

Yes, it’s a great idea. I’m not advocating for using it in place of a sling, but it provides another option for holding your AR with a sling. This is a great way to attach it to your vest or belt for those who don’t like to bother with a sling on their rifle. I work in law enforcement, and this could be a great tool when you’re standing around with your AR for long periods of time.

It could be a great option on the range and while hunting as well. Stratus makes the QD pin for the Remington 870 and Mossberg 590, and I think this would be a great product to combine with a pistol grip shotgun. I will continue using the Stratus holster and see how well it holds up over time. But for now, I’m liking it.

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The Best P320 Holsters

We’ve picked five different holsters, each aimed at a specific purpose. Not everyone’s needs are the same, so we divided this category into five groups to bring you five holsters at the top of their genre.

For Duty – Safariland 7360 7TS ALS/SLS

When it comes to professional duty holsters, there are only a few names in the business worth mentioning. In that short list, Safariland consistently rises to the top with more contracts with Law Enforcement agencies and military forces than any other. Safariland invented the idea of duty-based retention, and the 7360 series is a level 3 retention holster, making it one of the safest options for the armed professional.

When the US military selected the Sig Sauer M17/M18 series pistols, they went with the 7360 holster for our troops. That’s a testament to the quality and design of the Safariland holster.

This system provides thermal-molded Safarilaminate construction. That’s a fancy way to say it’s tough and made to last. It’s polymer, so water and abrasion aren’t an issue. You’ll need a hammer and twenty minutes to break the thing.

The 7360 works with a number of weapon lights and all of Safariland’s various attachment systems. This rig comes in both standard and red dot-ready options. These rigs are the perfect duty option. They provide the security, access, and durability you need, combined with user modularity, mounting options, and the modern accessories we use on firearms. When it comes to a duty holster, there can be no compromise.

For Concealment – Safariland IncogX

From one Safariland to another.

Safariland has been fairly slow to get into the concealed carry market. Sure, they had some lower-profile OWB designs, but they only recently dived headfirst into the world of modern concealed carry. The IncogX came to be when Safariland teamed up with Travis Haley of Haley Strategic Partners. The IncogX is a modern AIWB holster made for modern guns like the P320.

The holster comes with a wing to help with AIWB concealment, but that wing can be removed for normal strongside IWB carry.

The Safariland has a dual clip design for excellent connection and support. It doesn’t twist, sag, or get away from me. Designed for a modern P320, the IncogX is red dot ready and has the option of a sidecar to carry a reload.

The IncogX hides the P320 very well. It has no problems disappearing under a shirt. It still provides an accessible and easy-to-draw option. Grip and rip the shirt, grab the gun and get to work. The outside of the holster is coated with suede for improved comfort. The IncogX is perfect for daily carry since it’s still a Safariland holster that’s tough as nails.

For Competition – Blackhawk L2C

There are lots of different kinds of competition shooting. Some sports involve very minimalist holsters that allow for an unbelievable draw. Others have a number of requirements to meet safety standards. Some competitions might not force you to use a holster with an active retention device, but you better because you’ll be climbing over all kinds of obstacles. With that in mind, one of the more generic but capable options is the Blackhawk L2C.

It incorporates a single action retention device that doesn’t impede a fast draw. It’s a good compromise in its offering of a fast draw and its ability to retain your pistol as you move and shoot.

The Blackhawk L2C places the retention device right behind the body of the holster, and your thumb naturally falls and meets the tab as you grip your gun. Press it inward and pull upward, and your gun is free, and you’re good to start shooting.

The Blackhawk L2C comes in a couple of configurations, including a low and high belt mount. It has a modular interface system, so it can be worn in a wide variety of ways. The all-polymer design is weatherproof, and there are various light-compatible models. All models are designed to accommodate a red dot sight. It’s a modern rig that rides the versatility line. It might not be great for a shooting sport with open race guns, but for most shooters, it’s perfectly adequate.

Shoulder Holster – Galco Miami Classic

Shoulder rigs might not be in vogue, but they are still a competent and capable way to carry a firearm. They do fill a niche for those who are constantly seated, like those on road trips or those who work in an office. From a seated position, the shoulder rig offers a lot of comfort and easy access. When I go on a road trip, there is only one shoulder rig I trust, and it’s the Galco Miami Classic. The Galco Miami Classic is truly a classic but has improved over the years in small ways.

This rig comes with the famed spider harness. This allows the four straps to move independently and prevent the rig from bunching up or constantly pulling or prodigy at the user.

This creates comfort and flexibility and allows for lots of movement. The Miami Classic holds a gun on one side and a dual magazine pouch on the other. Two spare mags are a ton of ammo, but it’s also a weight that helps offset the weight of your Sig Sauer pistol.

The P320 isn’t a small gun; even the compact variant feels a bit large. Never fear; the Miami Classic will conceal it and support it without difficulty. The Galco Miami Classic allows for lots of adjustments to fit a wide variety of users. It can fit my 6 foot 5 frame and still shrink down to fit a petite woman. The Galco Miami Classic requires training to properly use, but having to train should never be a deterrent.

For Bags and Packs – Raven Concealment Systems Vanguard 2 Lanyard Holster

I won’t lie; I’m not the biggest proponent of off-body carry. I don’t think it should be ignored outright, but to me, it’s not a primary method of carry. It’s for those times when wearing a holster isn’t possible, regardless of how, when, or why you carry off your body. There is a universal need for something to cover the trigger. Using a holster can be tricky, but Raven Concealment has you covered. The Vanguard 2 provides a very minimalist design for a holster.

This ‘holster’ only covers the weapon’s trigger guard, which is the most important part to cover. Covering the trigger guard prevents anything in your bag from interacting with it.

Just tossing your gun in a bag and hoping nothing happens isn’t failing to plan. It’s planning to fail. The Vanguard 2 covers the holster and has an attached lanyard.

Tie the lanyard to the bag, and when you draw, the lanyard tugs the Vanguard off your gun. This makes it super simple to get the gun in action. The Vanguard 2 has a nice positive snap over the trigger guard and provides good retention, but it’s not difficult to defeat. The Vanguard 2 isn’t isolated to bag carry, but that’s where I see it excelling.

Carry On

Carry on wayward, son, with your P320 until the work is done. The success of the P320 has proven that Glock might be losing their foothold ever so slightly. The gun is becoming quite dominant in the market and provides a very solid option for competition, concealed carry, duty use, and more. Your holster needs to match your purpose, and hopefully, we’ve given you an option for your purpose.

The post The Best P320 Holsters (By Purpose) appeared first on The Mag Life.

The explanation here is easy enough to understand. Safariland, as a larger corporate entity, began with holsters but expanded in many directions, including armor, forensics, and other LE-centric lines. Over 60 years, they bought John Bianchi’s leather line (now Bianchi holsters) and Bill Roger’s innovative thermoformed holster business (Roger’s Holsters, which they incorporated into Safariland).

Almost all of what Safariland calls “Concealment” holsters are holsters that originated as Duty Holsters. Take off the UBL and slap on a paddle, and presto: Concealment. Yet they’re not easily concealed, and they aren’t IWB.

There are a few notable models that have a dedicated following.

The Safariland Model 17

For years, Safariland relied on the Model 17 for IWB. The Model 17 is an effective and rather simple design. The thermoformed material—Boltaron—is quite thin. It is so thin, in fact, that it has a good bit of flex to it.

It will hold a gun secure, though. When a gun is in the Model 17, it provides the stiffness it needs to hold effectively. Once you draw, though, it may collapse down on itself under the tension of the belt.

The clip on this is metal, which many prefer over the polymer clips. It is certainly thin. The whole design is sewn together. The profile of the build won’t accommodate red dots or lights, but neither of those were in common usage when the Model 17 was designed.

The Safariland Model 27

The Model 27 takes the formality of the Safariland line to the next level. This is a dressy IWB design built with a thermoformed interior covered with black leather. The clip comes over the pants and behind the belt, with a slight J-hook to catch the belt on the draw.

When compared to the 17, the Model 27 is more rigid. The layered build of the holster, though, means added girth that you’ll need to conceal.

The Safariland Model 18

The Model 18 is similar, except the outside of the holster has a grey leather covering. The clip on the Model 18 has two loops that go over the belt. While the 18 is easy enough to get on and off, the loops print a bit more than the Model 17’s steel clip. The Model 18 is very comfortable to wear and the leather allows it to hold well against bare skin.

The Safariland 575

Here’s a bit of retail insight. Gun stores love mutli-fit holsters. The counter-staff can point at a holster aisle and say “and if you want an IWB holster for this [insert gun make/model here], look for the Safariland 575.”

One holster that fits a wide variety of guns is easy to stock and easy to order, and the 575 fits just a lot of guns.

It also incorporates the GLS (Grip Locking System). This attaches to the trigger guard.

Here, though, is the rub. While the 575 is cut for optics, the GLS system sits where a light would be inside the holster. So there’s no light compatibility.

And customers, though, don’t always want an active security mechanism on an IWB holster. This goes back to the thumb-safety debate on EDC guns. Any extra obstacle, be it the GLS lock or a manual safety, can stand in the way of an effective defensive use of a firearm.

Customers, Safariland found out, also like dedicated fits. While the 575 proved more popular than some of the other holsters in the IWB family, they are still an acquired taste.

Safariland Schema

The Schema is a wild departure for Safariland. The injection molded design is quite skeletal. This pulls out excess material that could print. The bulk in this holster is on the sides, and those sides are rounded–making them very comfortable to wear.

The Schema has a trigger guard detent. Like the 575, this holster isn’t light-compatible, but it is cut for optics. The clip can be turned to adjust the cant.

Schema is an incredibly easy holster to wear. It is quite compact and thin, provides a solid hold on the gun, and there are no obstacles between you and a solid shooting grip during the draw.

Species

Safariland launched Species and Schema in the same design cycle. There’s a reason for that. Both of these holsters provide dedicated fits that cover the top end of the best-selling gun lists. They’re designs that allow new fits to be added frequently–especially Species. But why double up?

Schema is odd. When it launched, the reaction was polarized. There were those who loved it and those who hated it, but few people in the middle. Species, as a thermoformed design, is far more traditional.

Species, too, appeals to those looking for a simple EDC holster. There are no light-bearing options, yet. There’s not an accompanying mag caddy.

Haley Strategic and the Incog X

Schema and Species opened minds about Safariland’s IWB line. The Incog X, though, is doing exceptionally well with those who are more determined with their concealed carry training. Incog X is an appendix carry holster that will accommodate lights, optics, and a spare mag.

The fuzzed exterior grips inside the pants and helps hold the holster steady–something harder to do on slick Kydex designs. The clip has adjustable shims that help push the holster deeper into the waist. It is an efficient design that is comfortable and highly effective.

Incog X is an odd build for Safariland but not for Travis Haley and Haley Strategic Partners. Haley’s team studies ergonomics and use cases and trains compulsively to work out their design concepts. One goal for this brand collaboration was to get HSP’s design into wider distribution–to make effective EDC available to anyone.

A change in the IWB tide?

From an end-user perspective, both Schema and Species drew attention. Both perform exceptionally well. Incog X, though, marks the first IWB holster Safariland has produced that those of us who are very discerning about concealed carry and active training have taken seriously.

The holster hasn’t been out a year, now, and they’ve added fits for the GLOCKS, Sigs, Staccatos, and more are coming. As of now, the intention is to drop a new fit every 4-6 weeks. While most are built for the small lights, like the TLR-7, more options are on the way.

And now, for the first time for Safariland, there’s a backward flow to the old business model. Rather than making a holster for LE and then hoping the rest of us might take an interest, Safariland has built for EDC, and LE agencies are picking up the designs for use with backup guns (Schema and Species) and for undercover units (Incog X).

The post A Deep-Dive into Safariland IWB Holsters appeared first on The Mag Life.

The Incog X, a collaboration between Safariland and Haley Strategic Partners, is an appendix carry IWB holster that is changing the way people think about Safariland’s approach to EDC.

Haley Strategic Partners and the Incog

The original Incog holsters were designed by Travis Haley. Like many innovations in this era, Haley’s design was a project meant to solve problems he was finding with other holsters. The early iterations were solid and were some of the first commercially available designs that offered the adaptability needed to really dial in a fit for both comfort and ergonomics.

Ten years later, the team at HSP wanted to revisit the design and take the concept into wider distribution. The original Incogs were pioneering designs. After a decade, there are many more Kydex options—hundreds more. What makes any one model better than another has been somewhat obfuscated.

But this is where HSP really shines. The company is dedicated to constant learning. Their innovations come from practical study in real-world conditions. The original Incog was groundbreaking, but the team had years of hands-on feedback to guide the changes they wanted to make for the holster.

Enter Safariland

I’m part of the team that’s working on the development of the Safariland Incog X. My role at Safariland allows me to bounce between sales and marketing, and to work closely with the engineers who are doing all of the complex fit work. I’m exceptionally proud of the work we’re doing, but it is really the vision of Travis Haley and the engineering expertise of Safariland’s Gary Grochowski that have made this new iteration possible.

What is the Safariland Incog X holster?

The body of the new Incog X holster is made of thermoformed Boltaron. The shells are thick, and covered with a micro-suede that gives the holster a slightly fuzzy feel. This tactile fuzz helps secure the holster against your skin.

The clips on the new Incog X are injection molded. The gap in the clip is wide enough to accommodate even thick carry belts, and have a slight angle that snaps over the belt to keep the clip from popping off, even during a violent adrenaline-fueled draw.

The position of the clips can be adjusted up and down, should you want to adjust the depth. The hole spacing here is also built to accommodate aftermarket clips, if you don’t want to use the ones that come with the Incog X.

The right-side clip pushes out against the belt and has three shims that provide different levels of push to angle the grip back into the body. This is one of the most useful tools for concealing the grip, which is often what prints most on an IWB hoslter.

Other Features

Inside the holster, molded into the design, is a passive retention detent. This provides a positive click when you slide the gun into the holster.

The mag caddy attaches to the left side of the holster, where the vertical clip connects to the holster body. These, too, are molded from Boltaron, and there’s just enough flex in this material to allow it to contour to the body.

The caddy itself is angled toward the support hand for an easy draw. The holsters are available with the caddy, or without, and the caddy itself is now available on its own in case you want to add it later.

All of the Incog X holsters are designed for use with optics. Even the SRO and RMR HD—two optics that lean well over the ejection port—will fit with no obstruction. This adaptability is a design element that should be standard on all holsters now but still isn’t.

Underneath the muzzle of many carry guns, now, are lights. The Incog X is available with or without light accommodation, and the pocket is sized for the most common of the sub-compact lights built for those specific guns. The Streamlight TLR-7 family has been the guide, so far, for guns with Picatinny rails.

Designing the Holster

From a design perspective, working with a single light model is optimal. These are built to work—in most cases—with any of the lights in the appropriate size range. This gets harder with the smaller versions of the guns, as the rails are proprietary and it forces light makers to make specific light designs or adapters for these designs. The P365s, for example, as opposed to the P365 Macro which has a standard pic rail and is therefore much more adaptable.

The first few fits focused on the largest demand—the GLOCK 19, G43, and G48, and the Sig P365 family. The list of fits in development is long, and the resulting success of the first launches has been solid, so the teams at HSP and Safariland are working on building out the next rounds.

In addition to new gun fits, there are left-handed models in the works. There’s been a strong demand for large light fits for the larger gun models, too. We’ve had folks ask for large lights for the G19 and even for the Macro

What the Incog X represents for a company known for its duty holsters

Safariland’s IWB line blew up last year with the Schema and Species lines. Both Schema and Species are fit-specific holsters—single clip designs that upped the game substantially.

These followed holsters like the 575, which is a rock-solid holster, but one that is designed to be a multi-fit (meaning each of the sizes can be adjusted to fit a wide range of handguns).

The Incog X comes with dual clips, more adjustability, a magazine caddy, and both light and optic capability. For many of us at Safariland who train regularly and carry every day, Incog X has replaced our EDC holsters. If for no other reason than the ability to carry a light, we’ve had to look outward for holsters, but not anymore.

This push toward advanced EDC holsters is a sign of the commitment that Safariland makes to its customers. We want everyone who chooses to carry to have the most capable, most secure holsters available, and Incog X is getting that reach.

Working with Haley Strategic Partners has been an incredible opportunity for Safariland. At every step of the process, from the inception of the concepts to the design of the clips to the revisions we’re making to existing designs as issues arise, the HSP team is there, providing direction.

What’s next for the Incog X line?

The initial design of the Safariland/HSP collaboration stretched out for more than a year. During that time, we scrutinized everything we could. There were many false starts and elements—like the clips—that required revision. Now, though, we’ve made the complex decisions and set the aesthetic principles that will make future fit additions much faster.

New fits will be coming more regularly. While the initial launch focused on GLOCK and Sig, other guns are coming—soon—possibly even by the time this is published. And we’re working with new guns that are coming, so we’ll be able to have holsters ready at the time of launch. Stay tuned.

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