Who is 1791 Gunleather?

The 1791 in Gunleather’s name is not an indicator of how long the company has been around. And while they haven’t been around all that long, it doesn’t mean that they aren’t making a name for themselves.

1791 Gunleather has only been around since 2015, and in those years, we’ve seen what they call "Kydex-like retention" with the quality you expect from leather.

In this blog, we’re going to talk about a few of the products they offer and give you an idea of what you can expect from leather holsters.

About 1791 Gunleather

1791 prides itself on the following list, and some of these things set them apart from several other leather holster manufacturers.

• Handcrafted holsters
• Incorporates 4 generations of professional leather artisans
• 100% certified American Heavy Native Steerhide holsters
• Reinforced Stitching
• Strong Steel Clips
• Lifetime Warranty
• Multifit Designs

Inside the Waistband Leather Holsters

Inside the Waistband or IWB means you wear your holster inside the waistband, instead of outside. It’s also easier to conceal and typically more secure than OWB.

1791 Gunleather has a variety of IWB leather holsters you can pick from. A pro specific to leather holsters is the comfort you get compared to kydex or other hard-formed holsters. Since they are smooth and have the flexibility to form to the body (after you break them in), it makes them a more comfortable IWB holster.

Hard plastic holsters aren’t flexible; they won’t form to your body. Yes, you can purchase add-ons to push the butt of your pistol against the body. Still, it won’t help make the material itself more comfortable, especially when wearing for long periods or while sitting, often a discomfort when carried appendix, also known as AIWB.

One feature we think is really cool about 1791 Gunleather IWB holsters is that some offer the ability to carry as an OWB holster. You can either attach one of the steel clips and attach IWB, or you can remove it and slide your belt through it, which by the way, they sell gun belts too.

Pros of IWB Holsters

• Easier to conceal since it’s held closer to the body
• More secure because it’s harder for others to gain access to your firearm in an unforeseen altercation

Cons of IWB Holsters

• Typically more uncomfortable than OWB, although leather can be a more comfortable option if carrying in this fashion.

Outside the Waistband Leather Holsters

Outside the Waistband, or OWB, means you wear your holster outside the waistband, instead of on the inside. While this option might be more comfortable for some, it is less secure (meaning it’s easier for someone else to access) and can be harder to conceal. 

This is something you’ll want to keep in mind when purchasing a leather holster, especially for OWB carry, as it gives others easy access to your sidearm.

One thing that’s cool about some OWB leather holsters by 1791 Gunleather is that they do have thumb-break holsters. This simple addition makes it a little more difficult for others to access during an altercation. Or, if you find yourself running, you don’t have to worry about your pistol falling out of your holster. And since 1791 prides itself on creating leather holsters that have retention like that of Kydex holsters (Ultra Custom Holsters), if you’re not happy with the retention level in your leather holster, you have 30 days to return the holster.

1791 Gunleather also offers OWB holsters with an extra carry capacity for an additional magazine. And they have a 3-way ambidextrous option, which I personally love since I’m an ambidextrous shooter.

Pros of OWB Holster

• Typically more comfortable than IWB as there’s not as much contact with the skin, and sitting down is more comfortable
• Easy to draw and holster with one hand after breaking in (leather holster specific)

Cons of OWB Holsters

• Less secure than IWB
• Limits the type of clothing you can wear (if you’re carrying concealed and don’t want to print, especially if you’re small in stature)

Ultra Custom Holsters

1791 Gunleather also offers an Ultra Custom holster option. There are a variety of pistols this holster will fit. However, the downside is, they only have it available for right-handed shooters. So, if you’re a right-handed shooter, this will work great for you. It comes with Memory-Lok technology, enabling you to have a custom fit with Kydex-like retention while still having the comfort you expect from leather. 

Pros and Cons of Leather Holsters

Like those found at 1791 Gunleather, leather holsters are beautifully crafted, and leather doesn’t have the sharp edges found on other holsters, which means they can provide a greater comfort level. However, there are some things you should keep in mind when purchasing a leather holster.

Breaking In Your Leather Holster

Typically, a leather holster needs to be broken in. Genuine leather is stiff, and this can make it challenging to reholster your handgun. However, once broken in, this should become easier. So, if you’re new to leather holsters, keep this in mind, as it might take some time to get an optimal fit.

But, once it’s broken in, it’s less irritating than harder materials, and the contact points won’t stab like the sharp edges of many other types of holsters. Overall, leather is more comfortable, especially if you carry AIWB; it just takes a little time to break in.

The downside to leather holsters is that they lose shape over time, and as a result, they can be challenging to reholster when they’re older, as well. In this case, it’s best to purchase a new holster.

The Significance of 1791

December 15, 1791, the U.S. ratified the Bill of Rights, which consists of the first ten amendments of the U.S. Constitution. This matters to you because the Second Amendment listed pertains to your right to keep and bear arms.

The Second Amendment has been analyzed and challenged for years now. The ratification of your amendments is important because that’s when those rights were given formal consent and made official.

On December 15, 1791, your right to keep and bear arms was given formal consent; they were made official and confirmed a part of your fundamental rights.

1791 Gunleather’s love and appreciation of the Second Amendment is where their name comes from, and it’s why they’re so passionate about gunleather.