The 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand Made a Bold First Impression
The 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand isn’t just another holster; it’s a statement. It whispers of classic craftsmanship while promising modern performance, all wrapped in a rich, signature brown leather. This outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster is explicitly designed for 1911s, aiming to provide a secure and comfortable carry solution.
I’ve spent over a decade immersed in the world of tactical gear. I’ve always struggled to find a holster that marries functionality with a touch of class. Most of the Kydex options I’ve encountered feel cold and impersonal. This is what drew me to the 1791 Gunleather offering.
The unboxing experience was pleasant, with the aroma of genuine leather immediately filling the air. The holster felt solid and well-constructed, a testament to 1791 Gunleather’s commitment to quality. Its rich brown hue and clean stitching exuded a sense of timeless elegance.
I considered options from Galco and DeSantis, both reputable leather holster manufacturers. However, the BH1 stood out due to its specific design for 1911s without rails, and the promise of a comfortable, body-hugging fit. The price point, at $56.99, also made it an attractive choice compared to some of the higher-end leather options.
My initial impression was one of excitement tempered with cautious optimism. Leather holsters require a break-in period, so I knew the true test would be how it performed over time. I was eager to see if the BH1 could live up to its promise of comfortable all-day carry and reliable retention.
Real-World Testing: Putting 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand was the shooting range, followed by a weekend camping trip. At the range, I focused on drawing and re-holstering drills, assessing the holster’s retention and accessibility. I also wore it during various activities on the camping trip.
The holster performed well in relatively dry conditions at the range. However, I noticed the leather became slightly softer and more pliable during a light drizzle on the camping trip. Drawing and re-holstering remained consistent.
Initially, the holster felt a bit stiff, requiring some effort to draw the 1911 smoothly. This is typical of new leather, and I anticipated a break-in period. The high sweat guard provided a comfortable barrier, as advertised, preventing the hammer from digging into my side.
The only surprise after the first use was the slightly snug fit. It required a bit of coaxing to fully seat the 1911. I was confident this would improve with repeated use as the leather molded to the gun.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand has proven to be a reliable and comfortable carry solution. The leather has softened considerably, allowing for a smoother, faster draw. The holster now retains the 1911 securely without being overly tight.
Durability has been impressive; there are no signs of excessive wear or tear. The stitching remains tight and intact, and the leather has retained its shape and color. I expect it to last for many years with proper care.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a leather cleaner and conditioner every few weeks keeps it looking and feeling its best. Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture.
Compared to previous leather holsters I’ve used, the BH1 stands out for its comfortable design and secure retention. It outperforms some generic leather holsters I’ve tried. It provides a more tailored fit and a more secure carry experience than some Kydex options I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand
Specifications
The 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand is crafted from premium steerhide leather. It is specifically designed for right-hand draw and accommodates 1911s with barrel lengths from 4 to 5 inches. It also features a high sweat guard.
This holster is an OWB (Outside the Waistband) design. Its key specification is its compatibility with railed and non-railed 1911s, offering versatile use.
Performance & Functionality
The 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand excels at providing a secure and comfortable OWB carry experience for 1911 pistols. Its molded leather construction ensures excellent retention. The sweat guard adds to the comfort during extended periods of wear.
Its primary strength lies in its combination of classic aesthetics and reliable functionality. A potential weakness could be the break-in period. New leather requires some time to mold to the firearm.
It definitely meets expectations, especially given its price point. It delivers a comfortable and secure carry solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The BH1 boasts a classic, streamlined design. The high-quality leather and meticulous stitching give it a premium feel. It’s designed to ride high and tight against the body, minimizing printing and maximizing concealment.
The holster is very user-friendly. It’s easy to attach to a belt. The initial stiffness of the leather creates a learning curve for the first few draws.
Durability & Maintenance
The 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand is built to last. Its high-quality leather and reinforced stitching ensure long-term durability. It requires minimal maintenance, primarily regular cleaning and conditioning with leather care products.
Maintaining the holster is simple. Regular cleaning will extend its lifespan and keep it looking great.
Accessories and Customization Options
The 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it’s a standalone holster. However, its compatibility with standard belt sizes allows for pairing with various belt options.
There are no real customization options, apart from potentially dyeing or adding embellishments to the leather itself. This holster is designed for function over modification.
Pros and Cons of 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand
Pros
- Classic and aesthetically pleasing design with a rich brown leather finish.
- Comfortable to wear, thanks to the high sweat guard, minimizing contact between the gun and the body. This is a game changer for all-day carry.
- Secure retention ensures the 1911 stays in place during movement, providing peace of mind.
- Durable construction using high-quality steerhide leather and reinforced stitching, promising long-term reliability.
- Affordable price point compared to other premium leather holsters on the market, making it an excellent value.
Cons
- Requires a break-in period for the leather to soften and mold to the 1911, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- Limited customization options beyond basic leather care and belt pairing, restricting personalization.
Who Should Buy 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand?
The 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand is perfect for 1911 owners who appreciate classic aesthetics and prioritize comfort and secure retention. It’s ideal for those seeking a reliable OWB carry solution for range use, concealed carry (where permitted), or general everyday carry.
Those who prefer immediate use without a break-in period or require extensive customization options should skip this product. Polymer or Kydex holsters might be more suitable.
A high-quality leather belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper support and weight distribution. Regular leather cleaner and conditioner will keep the holster in top condition.
Conclusion on 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand
The 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand is a well-crafted and thoughtfully designed holster that offers an excellent balance of style, comfort, and functionality. Its secure retention, comfortable sweat guard, and durable construction make it a reliable choice for 1911 enthusiasts. The reasonable price point further enhances its value proposition.
At $56.99, the price is absolutely justified, given the quality of materials and craftsmanship. You’re getting a premium leather holster without the premium price tag.
I would absolutely recommend the 1791 Gunleather BH1 Signature Brown Leather OWB 1911 5″ Right Hand to anyone seeking a classic and reliable OWB holster for their 1911. It’s a solid investment that will provide years of comfortable and secure carry. If you’re ready to upgrade your carry experience, give the BH1 a try; you won’t be disappointed!