In high school, I wrote a research paper on the history of firearms (yes, it was back in the day when you could still talk about guns), and I quickly became obsessed with everything concerning firearms, or so I thought.
My fascination with firearms led me to delve into the different types of guns used throughout history and comparing calibers.
Ironically, I had never truly grasped the pivotal role of holsters in this narrative. My encounters with them at gun shows or leather shops had been nothing more than a passing fancy.
Little did I know that my journey would soon take a fascinating turn.
1800s
It should come as no surprise that the first holsters were made from leather because nearly all weapons have been carried in leather since the dawn of man.
In ancient times, pouches held small knives and stones, scabbards carried swords, and the first holster was invented in the 1800s.
In the 1830s, the pommel holster was invented to protect and hold the large pistols often found on the frontier. Civilians and military members draped the large pommel holster over the front of their saddles, providing easy access to their Colt Walker.
By the 1850s, civilians and the military used many styles of holsters, including the Slim Jim and Mexican Loop holsters (1870s). However, the military preferred holsters with flaps, which better protected their guns from the elements.
1900s
During World War 1, World War 2, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, leather holsters with flaps remained soldiers’ primary choice. However, during WW2, cotton holsters with top flaps were experimented with to hold the Colt 1911 45 ACP.
Soldiers used a waist or shoulder holster, depending on the branch of the military they were in.
Thanks to movies and television, we often think of the Buscadero as the original cowboy/outlaw holster. However, it wasn’t invented until the 1920s. While the military didn’t use it nearly as much as Hollywood, it gave rise to the ability to quickdraw, which is now a significant feature of most holsters.
In the 1970s, other materials began to be used more readily for making holsters. Padded nylon, Cordura fabrics, and Kydex holsters were offered to the public and used by the military.
When Operation Desert Storm occurred, leg holsters designed to strap to a soldier’s outer thigh were commonplace and manufactured from various materials, primarily Kydex with nylon and leather straps.
2000s
Since the conflicts of the late 1900s, holsters have made minor improvements but remain relatively unchanged.
Many civilians still prefer leather, but since leather is more expensive, the military often opts for synthetic holsters; plus, a synthetic holster allows the operator to customize it to fit their firearm perfectly.
Kydex holsters exploded in popularity because they can be molded to fit the gun and its attachments. They’re also designed to thoroughly secure the gun during rigorous activities until the soldier must quickly draw their weapon.
Parting Shots
Since holsters were invented, they’ve changed relatively little; if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! They’ve evolved from fitting revolvers into leather pouches to securing semi-auto pistols with crazy attachments into what is essentially an extremely durable plastic case.
As I carry my pistol, I have a greater appreciation for the holster that secures it to my hip, whether it’s a leather or Kydex holster.
But I’m still more obsessed with the firearm inside!
