Browning designed the 1911 in the late 1890s. In 1906, the U.S. armed forces were seeking to replace the current standard issue sidearm. The 1911 overpowered the competition, which consisted of firearms including the Savage Model 1907 and the Deutsche Waffen und Munitionsfabriken (DWM) Luger, chambered in .45 ACP. The pistol was adopted and given the official designation Model of 1911, which would later be changed to M1911. Three years later, the M1911 would take part in its first world war; The Great War.
The M1911 saw its first major use during WWI. The large caliber, semi-automatic pistol was a clear advantage over the .38 Long Colt M1892 revolver that it replaced. However, data collected in the harsh conditions of the muddy, bloody, four year war lead to the first major revision of the design. These changes, implemented in 1924, after the fighting had stopped, gave the M1911 its new designation as the M1911A1. Though the changes were largely external (a shorter trigger and a longer beavertail, among others), the intent was simply making the gun simpler and easier to shoot.
You need two world wars to make the opening statement of this article. Starting in September of 1939, we had one. Throughout the war, nearly two million M1911A1 pistols were produced. With increased demand, production was spread among several companies. Even Singer, known for their sewing machines, played their part in producing M1911A1 pistols. While WWII 1911 holsters were far from great, U.S. soldiers managed to deploy the pistols and cross the Rhine. The 1911 went on to be used in countless conflicts around the world including the Korean, Vietnam, and Gulf wars. Read more about the history of 1911 pistols.
Photo by Nighthawk Custom
CUSTOM SHOULDER HOLSTER FOR A 1911
The best 1911 custom holsters will hold your firearm securely. A shoulder holster for 1911 provides outstanding retention and comfort. Does anyone use 1911 shoulder holsters anymore?
Yes! A considerable number of gun enthusiasts still use their favorite 1911 holster shoulder for everyday carry. The holsters offer reliable stability of the firearm, outstanding comfort, and versatility. Most of all, this carry style will make you feel like a hero. It's your childhood memories and we believe it is worth it!
You will want to show your custom shoulder 1911 holster every day. But there are times when the open gun carry is not an option. Is it difficult to conceal a 1911 shoulder holster? It may be challenging. But with the right choice of clothes and a well-fitted custom shoulder harness, you can conceal a shoulder holster very easily. In fact, this may be the only option to carry and conceal 5" 1911 firearms. Custom 1911 shoulder holsters are the best way to conceal your Colt or Kimber.
Everyone who carries a 1911 pistol every day can tell one thing. The extra weight compared to the polymer frames can wear you down. The best thing about the shoulder holsters for 1911 is the weight. They distribute the weight of the firearm, and the extra magazines on your harness evenly. This simply makes your life more enjoyable, and your posture better. Bonus? Your back pain will decrease.
You will find the rigs perfect for special occasions. Imagine pairing anything else than your shoulder 1911 holster with suit. Well, it is convenient for the formal men-wear. But can you pair a harness with ladies' dress? Certainly not. It does not mean that there are no women 1911 shoulder rigs. These simply match other occasions. Ladies can use it for bike riding. As a woman, I love shoulder carry while hiking. Just admit it. There is nothing more epic and adventurous than a woman shoulder holster. Take a look at Lara Croft rocking her 1911 double shoulder harness holster!
If you love the style, be aware that we are custom shoulder holster makers. We can make holsters for pretty much anything. Some of our custom projects include shoulder carry systems for iPhones or knives. We even crafted a hand-made double whiskey bottle holster for partners!
Horizontal Shoulder Holster for 1911
THE BEST 1911 SHOULDER HOLSTER GUN POSITION
There are two main types of 1911 shoulder holsters - horizontal and vertical. Most firearm instructors hate the 1911 horizontal shoulder rigs. There is one simple reason. Your handgun is flagging anyone behind you when holstered. We believe this should not be an issue with a well-trained experienced shooter. The horizontal shoulder holsters for 1911 have their place in the world. They offer a more efficient underarm gun draw. It is important to ensure your firearm is well secured. We want to minimize the chance of accidental discharge. If you are new to gun carry and you have doubts, it is always best to go for the 1911 vertical shoulder holster. Even better. You do not need to compromise. Our ROTO shoulder 1911 holster is the perfect solution for you. The #1 selling item across all of our online stores. It gives you the benefit of the vertical shoulder holsters for 1911 on one hand and the smooth and efficient horizontal draw on the other hand. Our customers simply love the design. And we believe it is the most practical shoulder holster on the market. Its only downsize may be that it is not compatible with weapon-mounted lights and lasers. The ROTO system allows the holster to unfold. Once the safety strap is released by your forefinger, you're ready to draw.
The complete 1911 shoulder system comes in a package of 4 components. The 1911-specific holster, and counterbalance- a 1911 magazine pouch. Fully adjustable shoulder strap plus the tie-down adjustable straps. You will never run out of extra ammunition again. The counterbalance sits under your shooting hand. The 1911 holster is under the opposite arm. This makes the 1911 firearm accessible to your strong hand.
You can play around with the attachment. Create a dual shoulder holster for 1911 with one right-handed and one left-handed holster attached on each side. The last but not least, each shoulder set includes tie-down straps. these secure both, the holster and the counterbalance to your belt. This is a very important part. The strap truly does the trick when adjusted.
All of our counterbalances, holsters, and harnesses use the same attachments. It makes them completely interchangeable. This way you can get an extra compatible part if needed. No need to invest in a complete rig again. Imagine. You recently bought a laser/light for your 1911. You do not need to buy the whole set. Just get a holster for 1911 with laser/light and attach it to the harness and magazine pouch you already have.
