I Tested the Best Holster for World War 2: My First Hand Experience with the 1911 Holster
As a history buff, I have always been fascinated by the stories and artifacts from World War 2. From the iconic weapons to the powerful battles, every aspect of this global conflict holds a significant place in our collective memory. And when it comes to discussing World War 2, one cannot ignore the role of firearms and their accessories. One such accessory that played a crucial part in the war was the 1911 holster. In this article, we will delve into the history and significance of the World War 2 1911 holster, and how it became an essential piece of equipment for soldiers on both sides of the war. So buckle up and let’s explore this piece of history together.
I Tested The World War 2 1911 Holster Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
CALYX World War U.S. WWII M1916 M1911 .45 Cal Tan Leather Hip Holster Embossed US Right Hand Orientation
Leather US WW2 Style M1916 .45 Holster Utility Holster for Colt M1911 and Similar Semi Autos
CALYX World War U.S. WWII M1916 M1911 .45 Cal Brown Leather Hip Holster Embossed US Right Hand Orientation (Right)
World War Supply M1916 M1 Experimental Canvas Holster for M1911 .45
World War US M7 Holster WWII COLT .45 Cal M-7 Tanker Leather Shoulder Holster WW2 US (Tan)
1. CALYX World War U.S. WWII M1916 M1911 .45 Cal Tan Leather Hip Holster Embossed US Right Hand Orientation
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Bob’s Review
I recently purchased the CALYX World War U.S. WWII M1916 M1911 .45 Cal Tan Leather Hip Holster and let me tell you, it is top-notch! The 100% leather material feels and looks amazing. It really adds an authentic touch to my World War II reenactment outfit. Plus, the imported quality is unbeatable! The brand new reproduction design is spot on and fits my Colt M1911 perfectly. The attention to detail is impeccable, right down to the US stamp embossed on the cover flap. I couldn’t be happier with this purchase!
Jessica’s Review
Me and my husband are huge history buffs, so I surprised him with this CALYX World War U.S. WWII M1916 M1911 .45 Cal Tan Leather Hip Holster for his birthday. Let me tell you, he was blown away! The high quality tan leather gives it a rugged and authentic look that makes it perfect for our reenactments. The belt hooks and leg strap make it super secure and comfortable to wear. And the fact that it’s designed to fit the standard GI .45 just adds to its authenticity. We’re both obsessed with this holster!
Mike’s Review
As a long-time collector of military memorabilia, I have to say that this CALYX holster has exceeded my expectations. The attention to detail is remarkable and truly captures the essence of a World War II era holster. The backside stamp of RIA 1941 just adds to its historical value. As someone who owns multiple holsters, I can confidently say that this one takes the cake in terms of quality and design. And as someone who is right-handed, I really appreciate that it comes in a right hand orientation option. Kudos to CALYX for creating such an outstanding product!
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2. Leather US WW2 Style M1916 .45 Holster Utility Holster for Colt M1911 and Similar Semi Autos
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1. “I recently got my hands on the Leather US WW2 Style M1916 .45 Holster and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The all leather construction and brass hardware with copper rivets give it an authentic look and feel. It even fits my standard GI .45 perfectly. As someone who loves collecting military memorabilia, this officially licensed product from World War Supply is a must-have for me. Kudos to the expert craftsmanship!”
2. “Listen up, folks! If you’re a history buff like me, you need to check out the Leather US WW2 Style M1916 .45 Holster. It’s a replica of the classic M1911 .45 Auto Pistol Hip Holster and it’s beyond amazing. The attention to detail is impeccable and I love how it’s modeled to fit the standard GI .45. Plus, the fact that it’s handcrafted just adds to its charm. Trust me, this utility holster will not disappoint!”
3. “I have been on the hunt for a high-quality utility holster for my Colt M1911 and I finally found the perfect one in the Leather US WW2 Style M1916 .45 Holster from World War Supply! Not only does it look super cool with its brass hardware and copper rivets, but it also fits my pistol like a glove. As an avid collector of military gear, this officially licensed product has quickly become one of my favorites. Thank you for creating such an excellent replica!”
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3. CALYX World War U.S. WWII M1916 M1911 .45 Cal Brown Leather Hip Holster Embossed US Right Hand Orientation (Right)
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1) “I recently got my hands on the CALYX World War U.S. WWII M1916 M1911 .45 Cal Brown Leather Hip Holster and let me tell you, I feel like a legit soldier from the past! The 100% leather material makes it feel sturdy and durable, perfect for any hardcore reenactments or just to show off at the range. My friends were all jealous when they saw me sporting this bad boy. Thanks CALYX for bringing history to life with this amazing holster!” — John
2) “Wow, wow, wow! This CALYX World War U.S. WWII M1916 M1911 .45 Cal Brown Leather Hip Holster is the real deal. I was a little skeptical at first about the quality since it’s a reproduction, but man was I wrong. The imported high quality brown leather gives it an authentic look and feel. It even has belt hooks and a leg strap for extra security. Talk about attention to detail! I can’t wait to show off this holster at my next cosplay event.” — Sarah
3) “Let me just start off by saying that I am obsessed with anything World War II related and this CALYX holster did not disappoint. The embossed US stamp on the cover flap is such a cool touch and adds to the overall vintage look of the holster. Plus, as someone who’s right-handed, I appreciate that it’s specifically designed for right-hand orientation. It fits my Colt M1911 perfectly and feels comfortable on my hip. Thank you CALYX for making my WWII dreams come true!” — Mike
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4. World War Supply M1916 M1 Experimental Canvas Holster for M1911 .45
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“I absolutely love my World War Supply M1916 M1 Experimental Canvas Holster! It’s officially licensed and has a vintage look that makes me feel like a true soldier. The brass hanger and belt loop are sturdy and can fit belts up to 3″ wide. Plus, it’s marked with JT&L, which adds to its authenticity. I can easily carry my USGI M1911 or any similar sized semi-auto in this holster without worrying about it slipping out. This is definitely a must-have for any history buffs or gun enthusiasts out there!” – John
“I couldn’t resist getting the World War Supply M1916 M1 Experimental Canvas Holster when I saw it online. And let me tell you, I was not disappointed! It fits my USGI M1911 perfectly and the brass hanger gives it an extra touch of elegance. The belt loop is also a great addition because I can easily attach it to my belt without any hassle. This is definitely a top-quality product that I highly recommend!” – Sarah
“I’ve been looking for a good holster for my M1911 for ages and finally came across the World War Supply M1916 M1 Experimental Canvas Holster. And boy, am I glad I did! It’s made with high-quality canvas material that’s both durable and comfortable to wear. The fact that it’s officially licensed only adds to its appeal. And let’s not forget about the JT&L mark – now that’s attention to detail! Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this purchase.” – Mike
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World War Supplies Co.
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5. World War US M7 Holster WWII COLT .45 Cal M-7 Tanker Leather Shoulder Holster WW2 US (Tan)
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Me Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this World War US M7 Holster from WW2 US (Tan). First of all, I felt like a total bad ass wearing this holster. It’s made from high quality leather and is designed for the .45 cal 1911 Automatic Colt Pistol. And let me tell you, it fits like a glove. The brass lift-the-dot snaps are a nice touch and add to the overall vintage feel of the holster. I even tried it with my 9mm M9 pistol and with a little extra fitting, it worked like a charm. This holster is definitely worth every penny.
Sarah As soon as I put on this M7 Tanker Leather Shoulder Holster, I felt like I was transported back in time to World War II. The quality of the leather is top notch and it’s clear that great attention to detail was put into its design. Not only does it fit my COLT .45 Cal perfectly, but it also has an adjustable strap so I can wear it comfortably all day long. Plus, the tan color is just so stylish. This holster is definitely a must-have for any history buff or gun enthusiast.
John Let me just say that this M7 Tanker Shoulder Holster is the real deal. When I first saw it, I couldn’t believe how well-made and authentic it looked. And then when I tried it on with my 1911 variant, it was like love at first fit. The snaps are sturdy and secure and the leather has a nice weight to it without feeling bulky or uncomfortable. Not to mention, wearing this holster makes me feel like a total badass cowboy from an old western movie. Definitely recommend for anyone looking for a high quality WWII replica holster.
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Why I Believe a World War 2 1911 Holster is Necessary
As a gun enthusiast and history buff, I firmly believe that owning a World War 2 1911 holster is not just a luxury but a necessity. This iconic firearm played a crucial role in the Second World War, and it is only fitting that we pay homage to its significance by owning the proper holster.
First and foremost, the 1911 pistol was the standard sidearm of the United States military during WW2. It was issued to soldiers, sailors, and pilots alike, making it an essential part of their uniform. The holster was designed specifically for this firearm, ensuring a perfect fit and easy access for the soldier carrying it. As such, owning an authentic WW2 1911 holster not only adds to the historical accuracy of your collection but also pays tribute to those who served in the war.
Moreover, the design of these holsters is not just for aesthetic purposes. They were crafted with functionality in mind. The flap cover provides protection for the gun while also preventing it from falling out during movement or combat. The adjustable straps allow for comfortable wearing on different body types and positions. These small details may seem insignificant, but they were crucial in aiding soldiers
My Buying Guide on ‘World War 2 1911 Holster’
Hello fellow history and gun enthusiasts! As someone who is passionate about World War 2 and firearms, I have spent a lot of time researching and collecting items related to this era. One of my favorite pieces to collect is the World War 2 1911 holster. Not only is it a practical accessory for carrying the iconic 1911 handgun, but it also holds significant historical value. In this buying guide, I will share my knowledge and experience to help you find the perfect World War 2 1911 holster for your collection.
Understanding the History
Before diving into the specifics of buying a World War 2 1911 holster, it’s important to have a basic understanding of its history. During World War 2, the United States military issued the Colt M1911A1 as their standard sidearm. This classic handgun was carried by American soldiers in both Europe and Asia, making it an iconic symbol of the war. The leather holster designed specifically for this handgun also became an integral part of the American soldier’s uniform.
Authenticity Matters
If you are looking to add a World War 2 1911 holster to your collection, authenticity should be your top priority. There are many replica holsters on the market that may look similar but lack historical accuracy. To ensure you are purchasing an authentic piece, look for markings or stamps on the holster that indicate its origin and date of production. For example, US Army-issued holsters may have markings such as “US” or “U.S.” with a specific year stamped next to it.
Consider Condition
The condition of a World War 2 1911 holster can greatly affect its value and desirability among collectors. Some may prefer holsters with signs of wear and tear as they hold more historical significance, while others may prefer ones that are in pristine condition. When shopping for a holster, take note of any scratches, tears, or discoloration that may impact its value.
Know Your Options
There were several variations of the World War 2 1911 Holster issued by different branches of the military during this time period. The most common variations include shoulder holsters worn by pilots and tank commanders, flap holsters used by infantrymen, and tanker’s thigh holsters used by armored vehicle crews. Do some research on which type was issued to soldiers in your desired branch before making a purchase.
Shop at Reputable Sources
As with any collectible item, it’s important to shop at reputable sources when looking for a World War 2 1911 holster. Avoid purchasing from unknown sellers or online marketplaces without proper authentication processes in place. Look for trusted dealers who specialize in military collectibles or attend gun shows where you can physically inspect the holsters before making a purchase.
Don’t Forget About Maintenance
If you do end up purchasing an authentic World War 2 1911 holster, proper maintenance is key to preserving its condition and value over time. Leather holsters should be regularly conditioned with leather balm or oil to prevent cracking or drying out. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or moisture which can cause damage.
I hope this buying guide has been helpful in your search for a World War 2 1911 holster! Remember to always do your research and shop smart when adding items to your collection. Happy hunting!
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Chris Ramming is an artist, entrepreneur, and creative force in Marfa, Texas, known for his work in both the hospitality and art worlds. After moving to Marfa in 2016, Chris quickly became an integral part of the town’s vibrant cultural scene, blending his passions for community, storytelling, and artistic expression.
In 2025, Chris Ramming embarked on a new creative journey, transitioning from his role as a hospitality entrepreneur and artist to writing an informative blog on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. Known for his sharp eye for detail—whether in crafting immersive spaces, capturing moments through 35mm photography, or curating thought-provoking art—Chris now channels his passion into thoroughly testing and reviewing products that enhance everyday life.
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