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Craft Holsters - Holsters - 1911 Holsters - 1911 3 Inch Holsters
Holsters for 1911 3 Inch
How to choose the best holster for your 1911 3 inch
Choosing the right 3 inch 1911 holster depends on how you carry, your daily routine, and comfort preferences. A secure fit is critical for the shorter 1911 variant to ensure reliable retention and smooth draw. Look for holsters with mold-specific construction to match the contours of your 1911 3-inch barrel. Material matters too—leather offers comfort and break-in adaptability, while Kydex provides rigid retention and faster reholstering. For concealed carry, low-profile options minimize printing. For open carry or range use, consider models with reinforced belt attachments and adjustable cant.
Best 1911 3 inch IWB Holster
IWB Holster w Steel Clip – $89. This leather holster can be carried both IWB and appendix style, offering flexibility in how you choose to carry your 1911 3 inch. The steel clip design is perfect for those who dislike removing their belt when attaching or detaching the holster. It also features a reinforced thumb break strap, adding extra durability and increasing the holster’s natural retention, making it a highly secure option.
Best 1911 3 inch OWB Holster
Open Top Belt Holster – $89. The Open Top Belt Holster is an excellent choice for those seeking easy access and a quick draw. Its pancake design provides a slim, low-profile fit, ensuring that your 1911 3 inch remains concealed even in an OWB carry position. This holster is not only practical but also extremely comfortable for daily wear.
Best 1911 3 inch Shoulder Holster
Shoulder Holster System – $215. For shoulder holster fans, the Shoulder Holster System is the best option for the 1911 3 inch. This leather shoulder system allows you to carry your gun in a horizontal position, secured with a thumb break strap for added safety. The system includes a double ammo holder and tie-down straps that attach to your belt, offering excellent balance and security. As a bonus, the holster can also be used as a regular belt holster, giving you two carry options in one.
Carry Options for 1911 3 inch holsters
Concealed Carry
Carrying a 1911 with a 3-inch barrel makes concealment easier, but choosing the right holster enhances comfort and security. Whether inside-the-waistband or shoulder-carrying, the holster must offer balance, minimal bulk, and solid concealment.
IWB Holsters
A 3 inch 1911 IWB holster offers excellent concealment without sacrificing accessibility. The best IWB holster for 1911 3 inch models should provide a slim profile, strong clip retention, and adjustable cant. Look for sweat guards and comfort backing if you carry all day. These features reduce irritation while keeping your firearm positioned securely against the body.
OWB Holsters
A 3 inch 1911 OWB holster provides easy access and superior comfort, especially when worn with a cover garment. It’s ideal for those who prioritize quick draw and minimal waistband pressure. Choose a model with custom-molded retention to prevent movement during activity and belt loops that hold tight through daily wear.
Shoulder Holsters
A 3 inch 1911 shoulder holster offers a practical option for those seated often or needing a deep concealment method under outerwear. Proper balance is essential with a shorter barrel. Look for adjustable straps and horizontal orientation to keep the holster stable while providing rapid access. A well-fitted 3 inch 1911 shoulder holster supports weight evenly and ensures discreet carry.
Material Options for 1911 3 inch Holsters
1911 3 inch Leather Holsters
1911 3 inch Leather holster offers excellent comfort and durability, molding to your body and firearm over time for a snug, glove-like fit. Made from premium full‑grain or Italian leather, they provide natural retention and protection while softening with use—often becoming comfier than synthetic options.
1911 3 inch Kydex Holsters
Kydex holsters are ultra‑lightweight and rigid, offering precise, custom molding that securely retains your firearm—even under demanding conditions—without needing a break‑in period. Their material resists chemicals and weather, provides adjustable retention (often reaching Level II–III), and delivers a satisfying “click” on draw and reholstering.
1911 3 inch Nylon Holsters
Nylon holsters are lightweight and cost-effective, made from durable, breathable materials like ballistic or Cordura nylon, making them ideal for concealed carry without adding bulk. Semi-universal designs molded around your firearm—and often compatible with similar-size guns—offer decent retention through body and belt pressure, especially for IWB use.
See Our Holsters in Action
Our 1911 3 inch holsters are designed for practicality and comfort. This video provides a close-up look at the holster's fit, the smoothness of the draw, and how it maintains a low profile under various clothing styles.
Summary
Finding the right 1911 3 inch barrel holster means understanding your carry needs and comfort requirements. Whether you prefer a 3 inch 1911 IWB holster for discreet daily carry, a 3 inch 1911 OWB holster for range use, or a 3 inch 1911 shoulder holster for balanced distribution, each option supports your firearm with secure retention and smart design.
Check favorite holster carry styles
About 1911 1911 - 3"
Gun Facts
| Barrel length: | 3" |
| Caliber: | 45/9 |
| Stack: | 1 |
| Width: | 1.28" |
| Height: | 5.25" |
| Length: | 6.8" |
Holsters for 1911 1911 - 3" reviews
10 reviews
Latest reviews
Bad Man
I have been in military special operations, a LEO, and a PMC for over 20 years. This is easily one of the best holsters I have ever purchased. My EDC is an old Springfield Armory 1911 Micro Compact.45 with the 3 inch barrel. My EDC fit snug as a bug straight out of the package. No break in required whatsoever. The leather is THICK. The reinforced upper portion allows for easy reholstering. I know kydex and appendix carry is all the rage, and if that works for you: GREAT! ME? I think a classic weapon deserves a classic holster.
09/06/2025
United States
Rick W.
Excellent fit and craftsmanship. It would be nice to have a break-in kit. Delivery was sooner than stated. This makes 3 holsters I have purchased from this company. I expect to purchase more of their products.
07/19/2024
United States
Ed A.
Beautiful holster. It was the perfect fit. I’m going to order another holster for my Sig.
07/03/2024
United States
Need a Holster for Another 1911?
Best Gun Holster Accessories
Choose the right accessories below that will enhance your carry. Don't forget that a proper magazine pouch, a belt or a concealed carry bag are always good choices.
MAGAZINE
POUCHES
Get yourself a custom mag pouch or speedloader pouch. Because there is never "enough ammo" right?
See Magazine Pouches
GUN BELTS
A solid and stable gun belt is what you need to prevent your holster and the rest of your EDC from sagging.
See Gun Belts
care kits
Don't forget to get yourself a handy kit that contains everything you need to make sure your holster will last you a lifetime.
See Care KitsLight bearing holsters are quickly becoming a preferred choice among firearm enthusiasts for their functionality and innovative features. Whether you're in search of a light bearing leather holster or a light bearing nylon holster, Craft Holsters has a vast array of options to cater to your unique needs.
What is a Light Bearing Holster?
If you're an aficionado of cutting-edge firearm accessories, you've likely come across a light bearing holster. This special type of holster is designed to accommodate a handgun equipped with a tactical light or tactical laser, providing the perfect amalgamation of functionality and style. Initially adopted by law enforcement and military professionals, these holsters are now becoming a staple among civilians, especially those who prefer a holster with light for nighttime use or low-light environments.
Key Benefits of Light Bearing Holsters
- Modern and innovative design, marrying style and function
- Suitable for both concealed and open carry with light bearing iwb holster and light bearing owb holster options
- Exceptional balance and premium comfort when carrying
- Quick and easy access to your firearm, especially in low light conditions
- Can accommodate various handgun models with tactical lights
- Ideal for larger pistols with light attachments
- Often features additional compartments for ammunition storage
- Easy concealment with styles like the light bearing iwb holster, even in warmer months
Main Types of holsters with light
Craft Holsters specializes in bringing a wide range of light bearing holster choices to cater to different preferences and needs. Here's a sneak peek into our major categories of light bearing holsters:
IWB Holsters
Just like the name suggests, IWB holsters with light are a type of concealed carry holster worn inside the waistband, most frequently attached to the 1 o’clock or 3 o’clock waist area.
OWB holsters
These are mainly used for outside waistband carry and they fall under the category of open carry holsters.
Shoulder holsters
Explore our collection of pistol holsters with light for shoulder carry that allows you to carry your light-equipped pistol with utmost convenience and style. In general, shoulder holsters offer probably the highest level of comfort and are quite easy to conceal, especially in colder months.
Materials
At Craft Holsters, we utilize a range of premium materials to craft the perfect light bearing holster for you. Here’s a glimpse into our craftsmanship:
Leather Holsters
Our light bearing leather holsters are renowned for their quality and durability, promising a lifetime of utility and elegance.
Kydex and Nylon Holsters
Apart from leather, we also offer a range of light bearing kydex holsters and light bearing nylon holsters, promising durability and a comfortable carrying experience.
Light Bearing Holsters FAQ
What is a Light Bearing Holster?
A light bearing holster is a specially designed holster that can accommodate a handgun equipped with a tactical light, providing easy access and secure storage for your firearm. It is an essential accessory for those who prefer carrying a pistol with a light attachment.
How to Make a Light Bearing Holster?
Creating a light bearing holster involves utilizing premium materials like leather, kydex, or nylon, and crafting them to fit specific handgun models with light attachments perfectly. At Craft Holsters, each holster is carefully designed to provide a secure fit for your firearm with a light. However, making one at home would involve precise measurements and skills in crafting materials. It is recommended to consult detailed guides or seek professional assistance.
What are the Best Light Bearing Holsters?
The best light bearing holsters are those that are crafted with precision and quality materials, offering a perfect fit for your firearm and ease of access. Our top recommendations at Craft Holsters include:
- IWB Holster w Steel Clip (Light/Laser)
- Shoulder Holster System (Light/Laser)
- Comfortable Belt Holster (Light/Laser)
How to break in a light-bearing holster?
If you get one of our holsters with light molded exactly for your gun and tactical light or laser, you most probably won’t have to bother with holster break-in. However, in case your new holster feels a bit too tight, just follow our Break-in Guide. And if you don’t have any break-in solution at hand, feel free to get our Small Break-in Kit, which comes with everything you need for a successful shoulder holster break-in.
Most User Recommended Tactical Lights
There are many tactical lights on the market, we created a list of the most sought after pistol lights and we have custom made holsters ready for them. Here they are
Holosun P.ID plus Holsters
Inforce Wild 1 Holsters
Inforce Wild 2 Holsters
Lasermax Laser Max (Ruger LCP Only) Holsters
Nightstick TCM 550 xl Holsters
Nightstick TSM 14G Holsters
Olight Baldr Mini Holsters
Olight Baldr PRO Holsters
Olight Baldr pro R Holsters
Olight Baldr S Holsters
Olight PL 3 Valkyrie Holsters
Olight PL MINI 2 VALKYRIE Holsters
Olight PL MINI VALKYRIE Holsters
Olight PL PRO Valkyrie Holsters
Olight PL Turbo Valkyrie Holsters
Olight PL-3 R Holsters
Sig Sauer alpha foxtrot s15 Holsters
Sig Sauer foxtrot365xr Holsters
Sig Sauer foxtrot 1x Holsters
Sig Sauer foxtrot 2 Holsters
Solofish laser light combo Holsters
Streamlight TLR-6 1911 Holsters
Streamlight TLR-8 sub Holsters
Streamlight TLR-8 Holsters
Streamlight TLR-1 Holsters
Streamlight TLR-1 HL Holsters
Streamlight TLR-1 HL X Holsters
Streamlight TLR-2 HL Holsters
Streamlight TLR-7 sub Holsters
Streamlight TLR-7 SUB Glock Holsters
Streamlight TLR-7 SUB Hellcat Holsters
Streamlight TLR-7 SUB SIG Holsters
Streamlight TLR-7A Holsters
Streamlight TLR-7X Holsters
Streamlight TLR-7 HL-X Holsters
Streamlight tlr1 s Holsters
Streamlight tlr7 Holsters
Streamlight tlr7a Holsters
Streamlight tlr 9 Holsters
SureFire X300U Holsters
SureFire X300U-A Holsters
SureFire X300U-B Holsters
SureFire x400u Holsters
SureFire xcs Holsters
Viridian C5L Holsters
Viridian E Series FDE for Hellcat Holsters
