Galco Combat Master Black Leather Belt Holster for 5-inch 1911 Pistols (Right Hand)

For discerning firearm owners who prioritize both rapid accessibility and discreet carry, the Galco Combat Master Black Leather Belt Holster stands as a testament to enduring quality and intelligent design. This professional-grade, outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster, specifically engineered for 5-inch barrel 1911 handguns, offers a blend of performance and classic aesthetics that has made it a favorite among law enforcement, competitive shooters, and responsible citizens for decades. When you’re looking for a reliable solution to carry your full-size 1911, whether for everyday protection, range sessions, or tactical applications, understanding the nuanced advantages of a holster like the Combat Master is crucial.

What makes an OWB holster truly effective for a classic pistol like the 1911? The answer lies in its ability to offer an uncompromised draw stroke while maintaining a low profile. The Galco Combat Master excels in this regard, thanks to its signature pancake-style design. This innovative configuration positions the belt slots on either side of the holster body, creating a natural leverage point that pulls the firearm exceptionally tight against the wearer's body. The result? A remarkably close-riding fit that minimizes printing, allowing even a full-size 1911 to virtually disappear under a light jacket or even a loose-fitting shirt. This level of concealment, often associated with inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters, is a significant advantage for those who prefer the comfort and rapid deployment offered by an OWB setup.

Crafted from premium, genuine American steerhide, each Galco Combat Master is hand-molded to fit specific handgun models. This meticulous attention to detail ensures a precise, glove-like fit for your 5-inch 1911. Unlike generic, mass-produced holsters, a hand-molded leather holster provides superior firearm retention through form-fitting tension, eliminating wobble and ensuring your pistol remains secure until you need it. The natural properties of high-quality leather also offer excellent protection for your firearm's finish, preventing the wear and tear often associated with synthetic materials.

Unrivaled Speed and Accessibility: The Open Top Advantage

One of the defining features of the Combat Master is its open-top design, which allows for immediate, full firing grip accessibility. In high-stress situations, or simply during competitive shooting, milliseconds can make a difference. The ability to establish a complete and uncompromised grip on your 1911 from the moment you initiate your draw is paramount. There are no thumb breaks, retention straps, or complex mechanisms to manipulate; just a smooth, unobstructed path to your firearm. This "speed-first" philosophy is integral to the Combat Master's utility as a serious defensive or competitive holster.

The twin belt slots are designed to accommodate belts up to 1.75 inches wide, ensuring compatibility with most standard gun belts. A proper gun belt is not just an accessory; it's a critical component of your carry system. It provides the necessary rigidity to support the weight of your firearm and holster, preventing sagging and further enhancing the holster's ability to pull the pistol in tight. When combined with a sturdy belt, the Combat Master's design distributes the weight of the 1911 effectively, contributing to all-day comfort, which is a major factor when considering a daily carry solution.

Precision Fit for Iconic 1911 Models

The Galco Combat Master is not a "one-size-fits-all" solution. It is specifically designed and hand-molded for a range of popular 5-inch barrel 1911 models, ensuring optimal retention and draw characteristics. This includes, but is not limited to:

• AMT Hardballer (5" barrel)
• Colt 1911 (5" barrel)
• Kimber 1911 (5" barrel)
• Para USA Single Stack Mag, Staggered Mag (5" barrel)
• Remington R1 (5" barrel)
• Ruger SR1911 (5" barrel)
• Smith & Wesson SW1911 (5" barrel)
• Springfield 1911 (5" barrel)
• Taurus PT-1911 (5" barrel)

If you own one of these iconic pistols, you can be confident that the Combat Master will provide a secure, custom fit that enhances both your ability to carry and your readiness to respond. This precise fit is a hallmark of Galco's dedication to quality and performance, setting their holsters apart in a crowded market.

Why Choose a Galco Leather Holster? Exploring the Benefits

When considering a holster for your 1911, the choice of material and manufacturer is paramount. Galco's long-standing reputation, established in 1969, is built on a foundation of quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and innovative design. Here’s why the Galco Combat Master, and leather holsters in general, remain a top choice for many:

1. Superior Durability and Longevity: High-quality leather, particularly American steerhide, is incredibly resilient. With proper care, a Galco leather holster can last for decades, often outliving several firearms. It resists abrasion, maintains its form, and develops a unique patina over time that adds character.
2. Comfort for All-Day Wear: Leather molds to the contours of your body with use, offering a level of comfort that synthetic materials often struggle to match. Its natural breathability reduces sweat and irritation, especially important for OWB carry where the holster is in direct contact with your body.
3. Silent Draw: Unlike some synthetic materials that can produce a "click" or "scrape" sound during the draw, leather allows for a remarkably quiet draw, which can be an advantage in tactical or self-defense scenarios.
4. Aesthetic Appeal: There's an undeniable classic appeal to a finely crafted leather holster. It complements the timeless design of the 1911, creating a cohesive and professional look.
5. Proven Retention: The hand-molding process creates passive retention that is both secure and predictable. The leather's inherent friction combined with the precise fit holds the firearm firmly without the need for active retention devices, which can sometimes slow down the draw.

Practical Applications and User Scenarios

The Galco Combat Master is a versatile holster suitable for a variety of carrying needs:

• Everyday Carry (EDC): For those with a concealed carry permit, the Combat Master offers excellent concealment for a full-size 1911, making it a viable option for daily carry under appropriate cover garments. Its comfort factor is key for all-day wear.
• Open Carry: In jurisdictions where open carry is permitted, the Combat Master provides a secure and professional presentation of your firearm.
• Range Use and Training: The quick draw and easy reholstering make it ideal for practice sessions, improving your proficiency and speed.
• Competitive Shooting: While some disciplines require specific holsters, the Combat Master’s speed and robust construction make it a strong contender for various competitive shooting events where an OWB holster is allowed.
• Home Defense: While primarily an OWB carry holster, it serves excellently as a secure storage solution when not on your person, keeping your firearm protected and ready.

When you're evaluating holsters, ask yourself: "What problems am I trying to solve?" If it's reliable concealment of a 1911, a fast, unhindered draw, all-day comfort, and long-term durability, the Combat Master consistently delivers. It's built for those who understand that a holster is not just a carrier, but a critical part of their self-defense system.

Caring for Your Leather Holster

To ensure your Galco Combat Master lasts for years, a little care goes a long way:

• Avoid Excessive Moisture: Leather is susceptible to water damage. If it gets wet, let it air dry naturally away from direct heat.
• Condition Periodically: Use a high-quality leather conditioner, specifically designed for holsters, to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. Galco's Leather Lotion is an excellent choice.
• Clean Gently: Wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt, then dry immediately.
• Store Properly: When not in use, store your holster in a cool, dry place, ideally unholstered to allow the leather to breathe.

By investing in a holster like the Galco Combat Master, you're not just buying a piece of equipment; you're acquiring a legacy of American craftsmanship designed to meet the rigorous demands of responsible firearm ownership. Its blend of classic design, modern functionality, and unparalleled quality makes it an outstanding choice for any 1911 enthusiast seeking the ultimate in OWB carry solutions.

Product Specifications Overview

Feature	Detail
Brand	Galco
Model	Combat Master
Firearm Fit	1911 (5" Barrel)
Color	Black
Hand Orientation	Right Hand
Material	Premium Leather (Steerhide)
Mount Type	Belt Slide
Style	OWB (Outside the Waistband)
Carry Position	Butt-Forward
Belt Fit	Up to 1.75" Wide
SKU	CM212B
UPC	601299030091