The Colt 1911 — officially the Browning M1911 — has been around since, well, 1911. Since then, it’s seen use in dozens of armies and wars and remains in active use by police, military, and special forces units around the globe. Meanwhile, it’s one of the most popular civilian pistols in the world.
There are several reasons for this, but it boils down to reliability, a big, stable grip, and powerful .45 ACP ammunition. But that big, heavy frame makes concealed carry a challenge. And that’s why we set out to find the best 1911 shoulder holster.
When making our selections, we looked primarily for comfort and a good fit for your pistol. There are several models of leather shoulder holsters on our list, primarily because they’re a lot more comfortable than a Kydex holster against your ribs. But there are synthetic options, too, for those of you who prefer plastic.
10 Best 1911 Shoulder Holsters
1. Galco Miami Classic II
Galco Miami Classic II
Features
- Made using the finest materials
- Used by Law Enforcement, Military, and citizens alike
- Tested for durability and quality
- 1911 5-Inch Colt, Kimber, Para, Springfield
The Galco Miami Classic II is an updated version of their legendary Miami Classic.
Key Features
- Horizontal carry
- Molded leather construction
- Leather thumb brake
- Fits any 5-inch 1911
- Right-handed design
- 2 built-in magazine pouches
The Miami Classic II is Galco’s latest take on their longstanding Miami Classic. This harness features a holster and a pair of magazine pouches on a leather harness. The harness secures the holster and pouches on either side, using a pair of durable aluminum pivots on each attachment to allow for as much flexibility as possible.
The holster and magazine pouches are both manufactured from top-grain leather. The holster supports your 1911 in a horizontal position and is molded to fit your pistol like a glove for retention, with a fat leather thumb break for added security.
The magazine pouches don’t have any retention straps, but they do allow you to clamp them in tightly with a Phillips head tension screw. You’ll find the same feature on the holster.
At this time, the Miami Classic II is only available for right-handed use. It’s also fairly expensive. However, it’s one of the most rugged shoulder holsters available, and we had no design complaints at all.
Pros
- Adjustable pistol and magazine retention
- The harness fits most shapes and sizes
- Durable construction
- Easy draw
Cons
- Expensive
This Galco is designed to fit just about anybody.
2. King Holster
Features
- Includes Universal Double Mag Pouch sized to fit single and double stack 9MM / 40 / 45 mags.
- Right or Left Hand Options Available. Please request LEFT Hand rig directly with seller soon after purchase. Right Hand version will be sent by default.
- Durable tactical construction that is comfortable, light weight and discrete
- Fully adjustable to fit small or large body frames.
- Security Guard Professional Tactical Duty Gear.
King Holster is a nylon holster with a horizontal carry.
Key Features
- Horizontal carry
- Nylon construction
- Nylon thumb brake
- Fits standard, 5-inch 1911 frames
- Ambidextrous design
- 2 built-in magazine pouches
King Holster is built around a nylon webbing harness. This harness connects attaches to a 1911 holster, as well as a dual magazine pouch. All of the plastic connectors are easily removable, which allows you to switch the holster and mag pouches around for left-handed use.
The holster and the mag pouches are both stitched from padded nylon. The thumb brake on the holster secures with a metal snap, for reliable retention and an easy release. Both mag pouches feature retention straps, which are secured with a velcro grip.
All of that being said, there are a couple of downsides to this shoulder rig. To begin with, the soft nylon holster can snag on your gun’s front sight, interrupting your draw at a critical moment. The overall construction is also flimsy, with single stitching even on stress points. This is a budget-rate holster, though, and it’s a good value for the money.
Pros
- Good retention
- Near-universal fit
- Affordable
Cons
- Flimsy construction
- Nylon holster can snag front sight
This is a good choice if you’re buying your 1911-holster on a smaller budget.
3. ALIS453 Leather
Features
- Premium Cowhide Leather Shoulder Holster with very nice stitching and also with soft fabric interior lining. Hangs vertically under left shoulder for maximum concealment and comfort. Right Hand.
- Double magazine case fits most double stack 9mm and holds two magazines upside down for easy access. Freedom of movement; 7 Way Size Adjustment for a perfect fit on one side and the other side adjustable tie-down straps to attach to your belt supports for comfort, belt loop holds the holster securely if you have to run.
- Fits Medium through X-large chest size, but will not fit XXL and larger. Provides a strong, good looking, and long wearing holster.
- Fits most of the semi autos up to 5" barrel size such as Colt 1911, SIG P220-229, Springfield XD, Beretta 92, Ruger P85-95, S&W M&P, CZ-75, Ruger GP100, Security Six, S&W K and similar.
- Directly from the manufacturer. We have been manufacturing holsters for over 35 years. We use only premium cowhide leather and vegetable dyes. DON’T SACRIFICE PRICE FOR QUALITY, WITH KINGDOM HOLSTER YOU GET EVEN MORE WHAT YOU PAY FOR.
The Alis Leather features durable leather and stitching.
Key Features
- Vertical carry
- Leather construction
- Leather retention straps
- Fits a standard, 5-inch 1911
- Right-handed design
- 2 built-in magazine pouches
The Alis has a flexible, four-point leather harness. This harness supports a large pistol under your left arm and a dual magazine pouch under your right. Currently, this shoulder holster is only available for a right-handed draw.
The holster itself is stitched from premium leather, with a soft fabric liner to prevent scratching. It includes a leather retention strap that runs over your trigger guard and secures with a metal snap that’s easy to pop open with your index finger.
This holster supports any standard 5-inch 1911, but because it’s made of thin leather, it takes a few days to break in completely. Spend some time wearing it around the house before you take it out in public.
The magazine pouches are constructed from heavier grade leather, and also feature leather snap-down retention straps.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Minimal printing
- Easy draw
Cons
- Needs to be broken in
This Alis has a flat, vertical profile for minimal printing.
4. Galco Classic Lite
Features
- DESIGNED TO FIT GLOCKS: Galco's Classic Lite Shoulder System is designed to fit Glock 17 Gen 1-4, Gen 5, 19 Gen 1-4, 19 Gen 5, 19X, 22, 23, 26 Gen 1-4, Gen 5, 27, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 45.
- COMFORT AND VERSATILITY: The Classic Lite Shoulder System provides the same comfort, security, and stability of Galco's professional-grade shoulder systems, and utilizes the same trademarked Flexalon swivel back plate. The tool-free harness fastener system offers better security, ease of assembly, and greatly reduced chance of fastener loss.
- FULLY MODULAR: Like our professional-grade rigs, the Classic Lite is fully modular. It includes a holster, harness, vertical single magazine carrier with secure flap for autos or double drop pouch for revolvers, and a set of harness fasteners for a secure fit.
- PREMIUM MATERIALS: Using premium Center Cut Steerhide allows us to offer a very reasonably priced alternative shoulder system with a proven track record.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Premium Center Cut Steerhide is an extremely durable steerhide with the outer and inner layers removed, resulting in a napped texture on both sides of the leather. Center Cut Steerhide works equally well for holster designs both because of its sturdiness and because its exterior does not show scuffing or scratches.
The Galco Classic Lite is a slimmed-down version of the original Miami Classic.
Key Features
- Horizontal carry
- Leather construction
- Leather thumb brake
- Fits a standard, 5-inch 1911
- Available left or right-handed
- Built-in magazine pouch
- Cuff and case accessory attachments are available
The Galco Classic Lite is designed with a similar adjustable leather harness to the Classic II we already reviewed. As a result, it fits everyone. While the holster is marketed for Glock use, it’s made from soft leather, and it will really fit just about any pistol up to 5 inches in length.
To get a good fit, you may need to loosen the retention adjustment screw. Don’t be afraid to leave it a bit tight at first, and wear your pistol around the house for a few days to break the leather in. The leather thumb brake is secured with a metal snap and is easy to operate.
The other end of this harness holds a single magazine pouch, with a heavy leather retention strap. It can also be swapped out for other attachments, including Galco’s magazine and cuff pouches. This makes the Classic Lite a good choice for plainclothes law enforcement.
Pros
- Comfortable and adjustable
- Good for law enforcement
Cons
- Requires some breaking in
The Galco Classic Lite is well-designed for law enforcement officers.
5. Desantis New York
Desantis New York
Features
- Shoulder holster
- Crafted from top-grain cowhide
- Molded to fit the exact firearm it is designed to carry
- Country of Origin:United States
The DeSantis New York Undercover is molded for maximum retention.
Key Features
- Horizontal carry
- Molded leather construction
- Leather thumb brake
- It Fits Colt Commander pistols
- Right-handed design
- Built-in dual magazine pouch
The Colt 1911 Commander has a shorter barrel than the standard, government-model 1911 — 4 ¼ inches instead of 5 inches. This makes it a more sensible concealed carry gun, but it makes it harder to find a molded holster.
That’s where the DeSantis Undercover comes in. This is a tough, molded leather shoulder holster that’s designed to fit snugly on the 1911 Commander.
It provides strong retention, with a sturdy leather thumb brake that snaps shut for added security. The other side of the harness supports heavy gauge leather magazine dual magazine pouches, which are also held shut with steel snaps.
The harness itself adjusts with metal buttons and is comfortable to wear. The top grain leather shoulder straps are soft, supple, and comfortable enough to wear all day without any issues. While the DeSantis holster is fairly pricey, you get plenty of quality for your dollar.
Pros
- Wide, comfortable shoulder straps
- Strong retention
- Durable, top grain leather material
Cons
- Pricey
This is a durable, comfortable way to carry your 1911.
6. World War Supply
Features
- M7 Shoulder Holster
- Premium Black Drum Dyed Leather
- Expertly Handcrafted Replica
- Officially Licensed World War Supply Product
- Fits USGI M1911 .45
The World War Supply is identical to the models worn by World War II tankers.
Key Features
- Vertical carry
- Leather construction
- Leather retention strap
- Fits barrel up to 5 inches
- Right-handed design
- Genuine World War II replica
The World War Supply Tanker Shoulder Holster is a replica of US Army-issue tanker holsters. This makes it ideal for history enthusiasts and re-enactors who want their gear to be as authentic as possible. The disadvantage of this design is that you’re getting a holster that’s made for combat, not for concealed carry.
The leather shoulder strap is tough and durable, with heavy stitching, and a thick shoulder pad that’s designed to be worn for days. It secures the holster with sturdy brass clips. While the clips have plenty of play in them for freedom of motion, they can jangle and make noise.
The holster itself is stitched from soft leather, with a suede lining to protect your gun. The leather retention strap is positioned to be opened with your index finger as you move your hand forward to draw. Because this is soft leather, you’ll need to break the holster in for a few days. Whether you do this in your home or while riding around in a tank is up to you.
Pros
- Quality construction
- Good choice for historical enthusiasts
Cons
- Does not offer good concealment
- Requires some breaking in
This holster is crafted from quality, durable leather.
7. Aker Leather 101
Features
| Binding | Sports |
| Brand | Aker Leather |
| Label | Aker Leather Products |
| Manufacturer | Aker Leather Products |
| Product Group | Sports |
| Product Type Name | SPORTING_GOODS |
| Publisher | Aker Leather Products |
| Studio | Aker Leather Products |
| Title | Aker Leather 101 Comfort-Flex Shoulder Holster |
The Aker Comfort-Flex is molded for maximum retention.
Key Features
- Horizontal carry
- Faux leather strap and molded leather holster
- Leather thumb brake
- Fits up to 5-inch 1911 pistols with strong side safety
- Right-handed design
- Built-in dual magazine pouch
Aker Comfort-Flex Shoulder holster fits all 1911 pistols up to 5 inches in length. It secures your pistol via tension, with a bit of added security thanks to the fat leather thumb brake.
The harness is made of faux leather, which is disappointing given the steep price. While it’s soft, flexible, and comfortable, we’re just not sold on durability.
The same can’t be said for the dual magazine holster, which features heavy gauge leather and tough stitching. Each magazine gets its own leather snap-down strap for retention.
While most horizontal pistol holsters actually hold your pistol at an angle, the Aker holds it almost totally flat, which makes for difficult concealment unless you have a very large chest.
Pros
- Strong retention
- Easy release
- Comfortable
Cons
- A bit pricey
- Difficult to conceal
This is a comfortable holster with an easy release.
8. UTG LE Grade
Features
- Universal fit Compatible with most compact to full size pistols
- Fully adjustable design fits most body types
- Padded shoulder harness for maximum comfort
- Universal holster with hook-and-loop strap adjustable for different pistol slide lengths
- Inverted dual magazine pouch with hook-and-loop closures for quick speed reloads
The UTG Deluxe Universal features a wide, padded shoulder strap.
Key Features
- Horizontal carry
- Nylon construction
- Nylon retention straps
- Fits up to 5-inch pistols
- Ambidextrous design
- 2 built-in magazine pouches
- Wide, padded shoulder strap
The UTG Deluxe is the second budget option on our list. While King Holster offered stronger retention, the UTG Deluxe is king when it comes to comfort. The webbed nylon harness attaches to a wide, quilted pad that stretches over both of your shoulders.
On one side, it connects to a nylon holster, and on the other side, to a dual magazine pouch. The connections are plastic quick-release clips, so you can easily modify the Deluxe to be left or right-handed. Both your pistol and your magazines are secured by velcro straps.
This is an inexpensive holster, so it’s going to have some issues. Specifically, the stitching isn’t very durable, and the nylon won’t last nearly as long as leather. That said, it will get you carrying.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Very inexpensive
Cons
- Cheap construction
- Limited concealment
This is an exceptionally affordable 1911 shoulder holster.
9. Premium Leather Vertical
Premium Leather Vertical
Features
- KA1-VR KOZA // Vertical Shoulder holster Made from Premium Genuine Leather. Hand-made molding for a perfect fit.
- WARNING: Not compatible with red dot optics. The system comes UNASSEMBLED. Buyer needs to combine 3 parts ( Holster/ Leather Harness/ Magazine Case ) and adjust the Leather Harness with the screw-rivet system to fit perfectly to own body size. The SHOULDER STRAPS are fits up to 48 chest.
- Belt tie-down on the back side of the holster helps keep the holster firmly in place when drawing the gun. Sight rail space to protect the leather and muzzle sight. High concealment. The retention strap helps keep the gun securely in place. It has a snap closure on the front of the holster. A plastic tab on the holster strap provides fast pulls.
- Double magazine carrier can be attached to the belt both from the holster and magazine carrier for a more comfortable pistol carrying experience. It has adjustable tension screws for customized retention.
- PLEASE NOTE: The holster may appear to fit too tight at first and when holstering your gun the first time. This is for long usage of your holster, considering the fact that the leather will relax with use.
The Premium Leather Vertical features wide leather shoulder straps for comfort.
Key Features
- Vertical carry
- Leather construction
- Leather retention straps
- Fits up to 5-inch 1911 barrels
- Right-handed design
- 2 Built-in magazine pouches
The Premium Vertical is built around a sturdy leather harness. The harness is adjustable, and features flared shoulder straps for extra comfort. The holster mounts on the left side of the harness, and the magazine pouches mount on the right. Currently, Galco does not offer a left-handed version of this holster.
The holster itself is loosely molded and uses a leather trigger guard strap to restrain your pistol. It rests vertically, directly under your arm, to conceal your 1911 as much as possible. Your magazines ride on the opposite side, in thick leather pockets with heavy leather straps.
This is a pricey holster, but it’s well worth the money. All the leather is top-grain, heavy gauge, and held together with tough stitching.
Pros
- Durable engineering
- Minimal printing
- Wide, comfortable straps
Cons
- Expensive
This holster offers a vertical position for minimal printing.
10. Master’s Premium
Master's Holsters
Features
- VERTICAL Shoulder Holster with Double Magazine Case for standard DESERT EAGLE with 6" bbl
- Custom molded by hand from heavy, top grain premium cowhide leather with beautiful stitching and first class craftsmanship
- Soft SUEDE Leather Lining Inside
- Eagle Head engraved on leather on surface of the holster
- Fully adjustable leather harness with screw-rivet system to fit you perfectly
The Master’s Premium is as rugged as your Desert Eagle.
Key Features
- Vertical carry
- Leather construction
- Leather retention straps
- Fits a 6-inch Desert Eagle barrel
- Available left or right-handed
- 2 built-in magazine pouches
The Master’s Premium is similar to a lot of other leather holsters. It supports your pistol and magazines on opposite sides of a four-way leather harness and is available both left and right-handed. What makes the Master’s Premium special is that it’s molded for the Desert Eagle, the biggest 1911 out there.
The holster itself has a soft finish and holds your pistol in place with a leather snap strap that runs over the back of the grip. The dual magazine pouch is heavy gauge and supports the fat magazines the Desert Eagle requires.
Here’s the thing with shoulder carrying a Desert Eagle: unless you’re the size of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, it’s going to show. That said, this is a solid option for police and security who prefer to shoulder carry for discretion.
Pros
- Durable build
- Strong retention
Cons
- Fairly pricey
- Poor concealment
There aren’t many shoulder holsters out there that can carry a Desert Eagle. This one will.
Bottom Line
As you can see, there are enough 1911 shoulder holster options available to fit virtually anyone’s needs. That said, as we stressed in our opening, 1911 is a very large pistol, and concealing it can be challenging.
With a shoulder holster, your jacket or sports coat can do most of the concealment work. Beginners might want to consider a 1911 vertical shoulder holster since this configuration keeps more of the pistol under your arm. On the other hand, a vertical pistol is harder to draw than an angled one, so your mileage may vary.
At the end of the day, the best shoulder holster is going to be the one that’s most comfortable for you and provides the right balance between concealment and an easy draw.
Check out all the other clothing/outfit related articles put together by the expert team here at Guns & Safety Reviews;
- Ankle-Holsters
- Kydex-Holsters
- Glock-19 Holsters
- Belly-Band-Holsters
- Shoulder-Holsters
- Ankle-Holsters for Glock-26
- Holsters for Running
- Concealed-Carry Belt
- Concealed-Carry Vest
- Range Bag
The Review
Best 1911 Shoulder Holster
We've reviewed the best 1911 shoulder holsters on the market today to help you choose the best and most suitable product.
Review Breakdown
- Galco Miami Classic II
- King-Holster
- ALIS453 Leather
- Galco CL224 Classic
- Desantis New York
- World War Supply
- Aker Leather 101
- UTG LE Grade
- Premium Leather Vertical
- Master's Premium
Best 1911 Shoulder Holster DEALS
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