Leather vs Nylon - a Gun Holster Choice

A frequent question – which type of holster should I purchase for concealed carry – a leather holster or a nylon holster? It’s a fair question – but there’s no simple answer - as with many situations of choice. A number of variables come into play when choosing between leather and nylon. For instance, what type of holster are you planning to purchase? Will it be an ankle holster, a belly holster (or waistband holster), an inside the pants holster, a shoulder holster, a hip holster (or side holster). It would be hard for me to recommend a leather shoulder holster to many customers. They are quite expensive and rarely comfortable until thoroughly broken in. Additionally, leather shoulder holsters are much heavier than there nylon counterparts.

Often, leather holsters cost 3 to 4 times more money than nylon. The primary disadvantage of increased cost is not an obvious one. It’s been my experience – most people who carry a concealed handgun will purchase a number of holsters before finding those two or three they like. This fact alone is enough of a deterrent to prevent me from recommending many leather holsters.

Additionally, some types of concealed carry holsters are not available in leather – nor are they practical. For instance, the belly holster (or waistband holster) is only practical in a stretching nylon material. These holsters are quite popular for concealed carry – particularly when the weather dictates less clothing.

Before getting down on them – allow me to assert those qualities I enjoy in a good leather holster. Leather has an amazing quality – as a holster is broken in – it begins to mold to your body – and to your firearm. It’s quite durable and for the most part – comfortable.

Nevertheless, in most situations, the conclusions are the same – nylon is generally preferred over leather in the short term. Leather holsters are sort of a luxury item – purchased out of desire – rather than need.

E Lawrence Welch

Pyle Mountain Holsters