March 04, 2014
By Brad Fitzpatrick
Leather holsters have been used for ages because they offer reliable weapon retention, durability, comfort and aesthetics. Many designs and variations exist, but cowhide leather remains among the most popular holster materials on the market today.
However, for those folks seeking an added touch of class, holsters made from exotic materials offer a unique style and are tough enough to withstand the rigors of daily carry .
When it comes to unique style, exotic leathers are an excellent choice. You may be familiar with many hides like pig, alligator and ostrich. But other leathers such as cape buffalo, hippo, stingray, elephant, lizard and even frog are also available, each of which make for great holster designs. Which one you choose has to do with your personal needs, your tastes and your budget.
It's important to note that the leather holsters listed here all come from animals that are either farmed for consumption (pig and ostrich) or the skins are harvested legally from species that are not endangered .
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This showcase of exotic holsters is sure to take you for a walk on the wild side.
Andrews Hornback Crocodile Wrapid Thumbreak Holster Andrews makes this Wrapid Thumbreak Holster in Hornback crocodile. Crocodile and alligator skin is tough, and the hornback version gives each piece a uniquely rough exterior.
Price: $500
Andrews 2-Gun Alligator Rig This Alligator skin rig from
Andrews adds a unique, rough texture that is both durable and striking.
Price: gallery=72,200
Andrews Ostrich Saddle Holster This is an
Andrews Saddle Holster made from ostrich skin. Ostrich leg is a popular holster, and the skin has variable texture that looks great. It's also a very durable choice.
Price: $250
Andrews Spinal Stingray IPSC Saddle Holster This is an IPSC Saddle Holster made by Andrews leather in spinal stingray. Stingray skin has a smooth, tight surface that is comfortable to wear against the skin. It's also popular because it is resistant to the wear.
Price: $650
ETW Stingray Paddle Holster '[
ETW ] holsters are constructed from premium grade North American steer hide (highest quality leather available for manufacturing holsters) with your choice of exotic skin on the exterior, ' says Megan Whitley of ETW Holsters. This is an LCP paddle holster with stingray skin.
Price: $300-$425
ETW Chocolate Elephant Rig The
ETW Chocolate Elephant Rig (pancake holster, magazine holder and belt) has slots that accommodate dual layer gun belts up to 1 ¾ inches.
Megan Whitley of ETW says, 'Two slots allow the holster to be pulled tight to the body. The flat back side of the holster conforms to the curve of your hip and the sweat shield keeps the firearm from rubbing against your body for a comfortable all day carry. This classic design is fit for open or concealed carry. '
Price: $300-$425 (holster)
ETW Brown Pancake Gator Holster ETW's Brown Pancake Gator Holster has a glossy, highly-textured exterior. All ETW holsters are hand-molded using a technique called 'boning. ' The resulting holster offers superior retention qualities and a distinctive fit.
Price: $300-$425
ETW Shark IWB Holster Like all other
ETW Holsters, the IWB (inside the waistband) shark is made in America. Shark skin is smooth and comfortable to wear, even against skin, but it is an extremely durable exotic that can stand up to serious use. It's also one of the most economical options. ETW has two employees that make their exotic holsters, and between them they have over 40 years of combined leatherworking experience.
Price: $300-$425
ETW Ostrich Paddle Holster This is the
ETW Ostrich Paddle Holster.
'The comfortable leather paddle slides over the top of your pants so there is no need to wear a belt, ' says Megan Whitley. 'You won't find a holster easier to take on and off, perfect for people on-the-go. As a female I prefer this style. It isn't too bulky, it looks really good and I can't even tell I'm wearing it. Holster is lined inside and sweat shield keeps the firearm from rubbing against your body. ' .
Price: $300-$425
ETW Gator Inlay Paddle Holster The
ETW Gator Paddle Inlay has black trim with white alligator skin, a striking combination. This holsters offers the texture of gator skin with the comfort of smooth leather, and the bi-color design makes it look great.
Price: $300-$425
Galco Pigskin Holster Most of us don't consider pigskin exotic, but it has one of the tightest grains of any leather and it is very smooth and durable. It's also one of the most affordable options in exotic leathers. This
Galco model is designed to fit a standard 1911.
Price: $175
Galco Alligator Holster This is a
Galco alligator holster in dark brown. Alligator skin is perhaps the most distinctive of all exotics, and the rough texture gives these holsters a unique look. It's also very strong and durable, so gator skins aren't simply for looks.
Price: $495
Galco Stingray Holster Galco's 1911 stingray paddle holster is shown here. Stingray skin has a very smooth exterior and it is resistant to moisture, an important consideration when selecting a holster for concealed carry.
Price: $495
Galco Shark Holster Galco is one of the largest holster manufacturers, and they have a large lineup of exotic options. This black tigershark rig is a popular option.
According to Galco's Mike Barnham, 'Tiger Shark is our most popular exotic hide. It combines rarity, beauty and durability at a price most people can afford. '
Price: $269.95
Andrews Blue Frog Rapid Holster This is an
Andrews Blue Frog Rapid holster for a carry revolver. Most people don't immediately associate frogs with holster leather, but frog skin is tough and has a smooth texture.
Price: $300
