Leather Holsters: IWB, OWB, and Shoulder Carry

There is a great deal of variety in the world of leather holsters, and you’re not pigeonholed into having to carry one way or the other. You have options. 

This is especially true if you carry a popular handgun like a Glock or a 1911, for both of which many different styles and types of holsters have been made. 

This being said, we’ll compare and contrast leather holsters for IWB, OWB, and shoulder carry here. 

Inside Waistband (IWB)

An IWB, or inside waistband holster, carries inside of your pants’ waistband, hence the name.

Advantages 

With IWB carry: 

• There is a smaller risk of printing since the gun is carried inside your waistband.
• Access is generally good and most users can draw very quickly, with adequate training. 
• You can wear pretty much any clothes with IWB leather holsters with minimal risk of printing. This makes it better for summer wear and hot weather. 
• IWB carry offers solid retention and a much lower risk of a hostile party getting access to your gun.

Disadvantages 

While IWB leather holsters are popular, some argue: 

• Access is better with OWB carry. IWB carry requires you to lift a garment for access. 
• Some find it less comfortable than OWB carry, especially with a larger handgun.
• Since the gun will be closer to your skin, you need to take care to let the gun breathe after you carry it. Contact with sweat and other oils in your skin, which can bleed through your clothing (or the leather holster) can cause corrosion.

Outside Waistband (OWB)

In outside waistband carry, the holster rides outside your waistband, generally on your belt. In all other respects, it is similar to IWB carry.

Advantages 

With OWB carry: 

• You’ll have unimpeded access to the handgun.
• Some argue that OWB carry allows for more comfortable carry with larger handguns.
• Some argue that OWB carry, especially with a soft and supple leather holster, is more comfortable overall. 
• An OWB holster will shield the gun better from your skin, alleviating some of the concerns associated with sweat absorption or contact and corrosion. 

Disadvantages 

While OWB leather holsters offer their advantages, some argue that: 

• Concealment is more difficult with an OWB holster. In fact, many OWB holsters are intended for open carry anyway.
• If the holster is intended for open carry, you can literally wear whatever clothing you want. 
• OWB carry enables theoretical access to your gun by an assailant. 

Shoulder Holsters

In shoulder carry, also called cross-draw, with a shoulder holster, the gun will ride against your ribs or under your shoulder on your non-dominant side. 

Though shoulder carry is preferred by some for its numerous advantages, there are special considerations that need to be taken when doing so.

Advantages 

Fans of leather shoulder holsters tout the following advantages: 

• They are much more comfortable with full-size handguns, including large revolvers, as they distribute the weight much more effectively. 
• With appropriate clothing, they allow for what might be called the highest standard of concealment.
• Wearing a shoulder holster when seated is much more comfortable than waistband carry. 
• Many shoulder holsters have space for spare magazines as well.

Disadvantages  

While there are many clear advantages to shoulder carry, you should be mindful of the following potential shortfalls

• A user must cross-draw a gun that is carried in a shoulder holster. Special training is needed to ensure you don’t muzzle yourself or sweep unintended targets when drawing. 
• Some have concerns that a shoulder holster can enable an assailant easier access to your gun.
• It is difficult to draw from a shoulder holster when your chest is pressed against the ground or a wall. 
• You can’t wear a shoulder holster with any clothing; you need an outer garment to conceal the holster and gun.

Why a Leather Holster in the First Place?

Now let’s take a closer look at some of the reasons that leather holsters remain great, and practical, even in the age of modern, advanced Kydex and thermoplastic gun holsters. 

• Leather is more comfortable, and while it does need to be broken in, over time it will fit you and your gun like a glove. 
• Leather is a natural material that can be sustainably produced. 
• Because it is soft and accommodating, leather will protect your gun, and won’t damage the finish like some hard holsters can. 
• Since leather is softer, it’s potentially less likely to print than a Kydex holster.
• Leather offers superior aesthetics, and over time a leather holster will develop a patina that is as unique as a fingerprint. 

These are only a few of the relative virtues of leather holsters, but they paint a good picture of the value offered. 

Explore Leather 1911 Holsters and More Here 

Need a new leather 1911 holster or some other old school leather holster for a revolver or something along those lines? We have you covered. Check out our full collection and get in touch with us if you have any questions before buying.