Kimber 1911 Holster Options – OWB, IWB, Shoulder

Some would consider 1911’s to be the most American handgun. Of course, it doesn’t get any better than the Kimber 1911. You being here means you’re looking for the best Kimber 1911 holster, of course.

Many industries have chosen and switched to using Kimber’s firearms, and as I’m sure you know it’s because they are dependable, top-quality, and accurate. What kind of holsters exist to match their quality, then?

While we’ll go over a few options, I’d like to start off with my favorite holster option for the Kimber 1911.

	Product Name	Where to Buy
	Fobus Standard Holster RH Paddle KM3
	Galco Combat Master Belt Holster
	Relentless Tactical The Ultimate Leather Gun Holster
	The Ultimate Suede Leather IWB Holster
	Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder Holster for Kimber 1911

1. FOBUS STANDARD HOLSTER RH PADDLE KM3

The Fobus Standard Holster RH Paddle is a high quality, reliable holster for the Kimber 1911. Because it is left open at the bottom, it is able to fit a variety of 1911’s, and is an excellent fit for your Kimber. Keep in mind though, this holster only has right handed as an option.

This holster does a great job of bearing the weight of the Kimber 1911, is reliable, and is quality made. Keeping in mind it’s only made for the right handed carrier, it’s a great choice when it comes to this model.

Fobus Kimber 1911 Holster Features

• Rubberized paddle version
• Maintenance free-no oiling needed, doesn’t breathe or sweat
• Lifetime warranty

While I will give a list of some other holster that I think are great, let’s take a minute to discuss 1911s in general.

About 1911 Handguns

Perhaps you’ve heard a lot about 1911’s, and by that I mean the controversy of whether they’re the best models or not. While I can’t decide that for you, I can give some of the facts about 1911s and what makes them so popular, despite the debate.

HISTORY OF THE 1911

John Browning was the inventor of the original 1911, and it was adopted by the U.S. Army on March 29th, 1911. Thus, the official name was given to it as the Model 1911 (also referred to as the M1911).

Over the last 100 years, many variations and models have been made to better the original copy, making the ancestry of the M1911 very long and historical. The term 1911 has come to reflect many types of this pistol, classifying nearly all 1911-type handguns under the name.

Is the 1911 OUTDATED?

Yes, one of the debates is whether the 1911 is outdated or not. When you take a look at it, it really cannot be classified as outdated. There are multiple manufacturers and designers who have credited John Browning’s original invention as the basis for their creation.

While the models vary from maker to maker, and time does develop new technology, there is an underlying skeleton that points back to Browning’s original that keeps it a classic even to this day, now over 100 years later.

CARRIERS OF M1911

While you might be wondering who uses these, you won’t have to look very far. There are military units who still use it, such as the MARSOC Marines, and many branches of law enforcement as well. You’ll also find it widely used in competitive and athletic shooting, being a dominant firearm that has won championships and remains a leading sidearm.

Of course, whether you are or are not any of these, there are also a vast amount of people who use it for self and home defense.

BEGINNER SHOOTERS AND 1911’S

If you have the proper training, utilize the fundamentals of gun safety and marksmanship, the 1911 is not a bad choice for beginners at all.

One concerns novice might have would be the weight of the gun. Some 1911’s are known for being heftier, but there are lightweight options among the different manufacturers. It is also a common choice for smaller people due to the narrow grip and slide, and can be handled with ease given the quality of the training put into it.

What is so Great About the 1911?

Like I mentioned before, there’s debate on whether it’s the best or not. The 1911 has its own faithful users who claim it to be the best, but what makes it the best in their eyes?

Accuracy. While some guns are more complex and accuracy is not their quality with the novice shooter, the 1911 does have more capability to be more accurate than most. I can’t claim it to be the best, since that is debatable as so clearly seen throughout the firearm world, but I can say it’s definitely one I’d consider.

The Trigger. One of the things that makes it so wonderful to shoot is its light trigger. It is described as crisp and sweet by many avid 1911 fans, and requires very little pressure to engage. This can be seen as dangerous, but in competitive shooting it is a prime aspect.

Customization. The aftermarket of the M1911 is unmatched as of yet. No other gun models out there have as many aftermarket parts as the 1911’s do so if that’s a priority for you, you can see why many people rave about them.

Variety. Yes, I’ve said it throughout this that there are many makes and models. Over a century worth! This can be seen as a benefit since you are almost guaranteed to find something that fits your liking.

What is so Bad About the 1911?

Now you have the other side. The ones who prefer their glocks or other sidearm, and don’t see the use of the 1911. Why, though? Given all those good things above, why is it they deem there is better?

Cost. Right of the bat, money can be a huge issue for a lot of people. This being especially true when the lowest and simplest models of 1911.

Safeties. The 1911 has multiple safety devices, which to some can be seen as a plus. However, it has been argued that these safeties are excessive and may put someone in harm in a dangerous self-defense situation. Overlooking them will leave the firearm useless in a time of need, and can result in a severe cost.

Ammunition Capacity. The majority of M1911’s are single stack, which for such a size and style of pistol is very underdone to many. While you can get a double stack 1911’s that match their competitors, they are much more difficult to come by.

Weight. This gun packs on almost an extra pound compared to any other single stacked polymer-framed pistol, and is still heavier than a fully-loaded Glock 19. While it doesn’t sound like too much weight, in the long run it will weigh on you. This does seem pointless to some because of the fact that you’re carrying half the ammunition as the Glock, all for just about the same weight, if not more.

Ultimately, the choice is yours what you prefer. The world can go on debating, but it is your personal preference that determines what side of the fence you fall on, and no one should guilt trip you about it.

Best Holster for 1911 Kimber Alternatives

Onto the other Kimber 1911 holster options, these just might fit your fancy for the Kimber 1911.

2. GALCO COMBAT MASTER BELT HOLSTER

For a quality, genuine leather holster this one is just the right pick I think. Being made of 100% saddle leather and double stitched seams, this hand-molded holster is a great option.

Galco Combat Master Belt Holster Features

• Saddle leather material
• Open muzzle
• Open top
• Retention
• Left and Right option available

3. RELENTLESS TACTICAL THE ULTIMATE LEATHER GUN HOLSTER

Another leather option handmade in America with quality cowhide leather, this holster makes the top picks list. Made to fit close to body and keep good retention, you’ll find this holster to be a reliable choice.

Relentless Tactical The Ultimate Leather Gun Holster Features

• Genuine cowhide leather
• Open muzzle
• Variety of carrying options

4. THE ULTIMATE SUEDE LEATHER IWB HOLSTER

If you’re looking for a holster built specifically for IWB, this genuine suede leather one is a good option. It’s made in America, quality material, and very comfortable.

Ultimate Suede Leather IWB Kimber 1911 Holster Features

• Suede leather
• Right and left option
• Lifetime warranty

5. Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder Holster for Kimber 1911

Last but not least on the list is for those looking for a Kimber 1911 shoulder holster option.  The Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder System has a comfortable and adjustable fit, with a horizontal orientation for easy access to your firearm.

Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder System Kimber 1911 Shoulder Holster Features

• Premium steerhide
• Right and left option
• Versatile, wide range of fits

Kimber 1911 Holster Options – Conclusion

The Fobus Standard Holster RH Paddle KM3 still remains my personal favorite of the choices. It handles the weight of your Kimber 1911, conceals well, and is highly dependable.

Of course, perhaps you like another of the options a little more. Let us know your favorite, or if you find another holster that works well. We always enjoy hearing from our readers.

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