1911 Holsters: IWB vs. OWB

The 1911 is a legendary handgun, one that was in service in the United States in some form or other for about a century. It was also carried with distinction in the hands of American servicemen around the world through two world wars.

It’s not just history that has made, and keeps, 1911 pistols and clones popular. They are exceptionally reliable, relatively simplistic in terms of action, and with proper care, will last a lifetime. On top of that, since most 1911 pistols are chambered in .45 ACP, they offer a great deal of stopping power. 

But the 1911 is a somewhat large and heavy handgun. Even the smaller-framed variants are fairly large and heavy since 1911 pistols and clones tend to be made with steel frames. That begs the question of how it should be carried. 

Two of the most popular ways to carry a 1911 are inside and outside the waistband, respectively, which are more commonly known simply as IWB and OWB carry. 

But what are the advantages and drawbacks of IWB and OWB 1911 holsters? This post will break them down. 

Inside Waistband 1911 Holsters 

Inside waistband carry, or IWB carry, is a discipline wherein the gun is carried inside the waistband. Generally this discipline is practiced concealed but depending on whether or not the gun prints it might not be as practical for concealed carry as some other methods. 

With that said, a good IWB holster will sit inside the waistband and be snug against the body, helping to minimize printing, keeping the gun concealed for discreet carry. The fact that the 1911, especially original single-stack versions, is a relatively slim handgun, helps here. 

There’s more than one configuration of IWB holster, too. Some use metal clips to secure to the waistband, and others are designed to be tucked inside of it, allowing for deeper carry that can be more discreet, depending on the style of pants you’re wearing. 

IWB 1911 holsters are the preferred option when you intend to carry concealed, at least if the alternative is an OWB holster, since an OWB holster does not allow for concealment, at least with another layer. 

However, there are some drawbacks associated with IWB carry as well. For one, some people with certain body types consider it uncomfortable when compared to other carry methods. Larger handguns, like 1911 pistols, are also harder to conceal with an IWB holster. Some also find it harder to draw from an IWB holster than from an OWB 1911 holster. In addition, since the gun will be concealed within the waistband, it can potentially slow access to the gun. 

If you still intend to practice concealed carry but an IWB holster does not offer a comfortable or practical option for you, there are alternatives. One potential good one is a shoulder holster for a 1911, which will allow you to carry larger, heavier handguns more comfortably while concealed. You will just need to get comfortable with drawing from a shoulder holster, which takes more practice and discipline than drawing from the hip.

Outside Waistband 1911 Holsters 

On the other side of the aisle are OWB, or outside waistband, holsters. These are also very practical for larger, heavier handguns like 1911 pistols, and are especially popular for open carry, in which the handgun will not be concealed, so there are no concerns about printing or discretion. 

Like an IWB holster, an OWB 1911 holster will also ride on your belt or waistband, and may have belt loops or metal clips to secure it there, but unlike an IWB holster, an OWB holster will ride on the outside and will not conceal the gun. 

Because an OWB 1911 holster rides outside the waistband, it is better for larger handguns than an IWB holster, making it ideal for a larger 1911. In addition, most users find that access to the gun is unimpeded, which allows for potentially faster draw speeds than with an IWB holster. 

These holsters are ideal for carrying on trails or elsewhere where open carry is the goal, but it is also true that concealed carry is not entirely impossible with an OWB holster. You just may need an extra layer, or a longer garment, to cover the gun effectively. Granted, it will be harder to conceal a 1911 with an OWB holster but it is still not impossible. 

Ultimately, making it harder to conceal the handgun is the one big drawback of OWB carry, especially since they are excellent in terms of comfort and speed of access. 

Shop Synthetic and Leather 1911 Holsters Here 

Ultimately, if you carry on the hip, whether you prefer to carry IWB or OWB is up to you, but we carry a wide range of 1911 holsters, both synthetic and leather holsters, for you to choose from. Check out our collection and if you have any questions, get in touch with us and we will be more than happy to help.