Leather is more than just a material for a holster; it is a tradition. Although many different materials are used for holsters in the market today, leather still holds its own charm. Apart from having a chic and all time trendy look to it, leather is also extremely comfortable. It perfectly balances the requirement of durability and style. In fact, some leather holsters in museums look really good despite being over a hundred years old.
Leather holsters are a clever pick for concealed carry holsters owing to their fit and offer of quiet draw.
Since when?
Leather holsters started playing their roles in holstering ever since the need for safe carry and storage of guns had arisen. Since the very beginning, leather had been an ideal choice for making of holsters, due to numerous reasons. Cowhide and horsehide were the most common sources of obtaining the substance. Alternative to these were sharkskin, elephant hide, ostrich hide, etc. A unique property of leather is its ability to form itself around a handgun. The leather is cut and shaped into a fine looking holster.
Why choose a leather holster?
There are many advantages of a leather holster:
- Durability–
Leather is known for its flexible and durable properties. It can withstand a lot of rough use. Due to its flexibility, it can be crafted into wonderful designs. Leather, if cared for properly, can last you your entire lifespan and you may never have to worry about replacing it.
- Comfort–
Leather is softer and more comfortable compared to its counterpart materials. Leather is more comfortable than kyndex (a newer plastic-like composite material for holsters).
- Elegance–
One of the most favorable features of leather is, the longer it is used, the better it looks. Natural markings develop on leather with time. This makes the holster more appealing to the eye and have a unique style.
- Quiet draw–
The best factor of owning a leather holster is its quiet draw.
- The perfect fit–
Leather has a natural inclination to shape itself according to the gun. Similarly, it will also tend to mold according to your body. Hence, with time, it turns into a perfect fit for your gun model, as well as for your body. Although initially drawing maybe difficult during the break-in period (which can last from about two-three days to a week), once the leather gets molded, it becomes really smooth. Using a leather conditioner, as well as massaging the leather might be some of the fastest ways to accelerate the break-in process.