First Thoughts on the 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black Leather
The 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black Leather holster promises a blend of comfort and concealment, designed for a range of popular firearms. As someone who’s spent years experimenting with different carry methods, I was particularly intrigued by its multi-fit design and the promise of all-day IWB (Inside-the-Waistband) comfort.
For years I struggled to find a holster that could accommodate both my Glock 19 (similar in size to the Glock 17) and my slimmer S&W Shield without requiring separate holsters or sacrificing comfort. The 1791 Gunleather SCH appeared to offer a solution, so I was keen to see if it lived up to the hype.
Unboxing the 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black Leather, I immediately noted the quality of the leather. The “Night Sky Black” color gave it a professional and understated look, while the suede lining hinted at the comfort it promised.
Compared to a generic nylon IWB holster I had previously used, the 1791 Gunleather holster felt noticeably more substantial and well-crafted. It also felt like a more secure option than a minimalist trigger guard holster I sometimes use for appendix carry. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; it looked and felt the part, but the real test would be in how it performed during daily wear and range sessions.
I was excited to finally find a comfortable, versatile, and well-made leather holster that could accommodate my most frequently carried pistols. If this holster lives up to its claims, it would be a major win.
Real-World Testing: Putting 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black Leather to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test with the 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black Leather was at an outdoor range. I wore it during several hours of drills and target practice.
The weather was mild, but I paid close attention to how the holster felt against my skin while drawing and re-holstering. The open-top design allowed for a quick and natural draw, and the firearm felt secure during movement.
Initially, the holster felt a little stiff, but I expected that from new leather. After a few draws, it started to conform to the shape of my body and firearm.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily carry, the 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black Leather has held up remarkably well. The leather has softened and molded to my body, making it even more comfortable than the first day.
I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear, even with constant drawing and re-holstering. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a leather cleaner keeps it looking its best. Compared to my previous IWB holsters, the 1791 Gunleather holster is a significant improvement in both comfort and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black Leather
Specifications
The 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black Leather is an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster designed for concealed carry. It is crafted from leather with a suede lining and features a beveled steel clip for secure attachment to a belt.
The holster is designed to accommodate a range of firearms, including the Glock 17, S&W M&P Shield, and Springfield XD9. It comes in a “Night Sky Black” color and is a right-hand model, designated as Size 04. The multi-fit design makes this an excellent option for users who own multiple firearms and want a single holster solution.
Performance & Functionality
The 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black Leather performs its primary function—concealment—very well. The holster sits deep inside the waistband, minimizing printing even with lighter clothing. The open-top design allows for a fast and efficient draw.
The reinforced stitching adds to the holster’s durability and ensures that it retains its shape over time. While it may not offer the same level of retention as a Kydex holster with adjustable screws, it provides a secure and comfortable carry experience for everyday use. This holster meets expectations for a comfortable and concealable leather IWB holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black Leather boasts a well-thought-out design with comfort in mind. The leather is soft against the skin, and the suede lining prevents chafing during extended wear.
The beveled steel clip is strong and secure, ensuring that the holster stays in place on the belt. There is a slight learning curve with any new holster, but this one is relatively intuitive and easy to use, even for those new to IWB carry.
Durability & Maintenance
The 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black Leather is built to last. The high-quality leather and reinforced stitching suggest that it will withstand years of daily use.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. This holster is designed for long-term reliability with minimal upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black Leather does not come with any additional accessories. As a leather IWB holster, customization options are limited, but users can adjust the ride height slightly by adjusting the position of the belt clip.
The holster is compatible with standard 1.5-inch belts, which is the most common size for concealed carry. While it may not offer the modularity of some Kydex holsters, its simplicity and comfort are its greatest strengths.
Pros and Cons of 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black LeatherPros
- Comfortable for all-day IWB carry.
- Multi-fit design accommodates a range of popular firearms.
- High-quality leather construction for durability.
- Open-top design for quick draw.
- Secure beveled steel clip for belt retention.
Cons
- Leather may require a break-in period for optimal comfort.
- Limited retention compared to adjustable Kydex holsters.
Who Should Buy 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black Leather?
Pros
- Comfortable for all-day IWB carry.
- Multi-fit design accommodates a range of popular firearms.
- High-quality leather construction for durability.
- Open-top design for quick draw.
- Secure beveled steel clip for belt retention.
Cons
- Leather may require a break-in period for optimal comfort.
- Limited retention compared to adjustable Kydex holsters.
This holster is perfect for individuals who prioritize comfort and concealment for everyday carry. It is also well-suited for those who own multiple firearms within the compatible range (Glock 17, S&W Shield, Springfield XD9) and want a single, versatile holster.
Someone who prefers the secure click-in retention of a custom-molded Kydex holster might want to skip this product. A sturdy gun belt is a must-have accessory to pair with the 1791 Gunleather holster.
Conclusion on 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black Leather
The 1791 Gunleather SCHFor Glock 17/S&W Shield/Spring XD9 Black Leather is a well-made, comfortable, and versatile IWB holster that delivers on its promise of all-day concealment. The price of $42.00 is justified, considering the quality of materials and craftsmanship.
I would personally recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable and comfortable leather IWB option for their Glock 17, S&W Shield, or Springfield XD9. If you value comfort, versatility, and quality, the 1791 Gunleather holster is worth considering. Upgrade your carry today!