What is a Western Rig Holster? A complete guide

“Western Rig” Holsters refer to belt + holster combinations evoking the spirit of American Old West culture – think cowboys, revolvers, cartridge loops on gun belts and quality leather work that lasts. A typical vendor describes their model as offering it for any caliber from.22 caliber up to.50 caliber with 4 5/8″, 5 1/2″”, and 7 1/2′”.

Stoner Holsters

According to one supplier, authentic western rig holster are typically constructed from premium saddle leather, designed specifically to hold revolvers while channeling frontier styling. Kirkpatrick Leather Holsters

Simply stated: It’s more than a holster; rather it is an integrated belt system designed with aesthetic, historical significance, and functional considerations to accommodate carrying handguns in the “cowboy” style.

Why Select a Western Rig Holster?

There are various compelling reasons for someone to opt for a western rig setup, whether for practical carry, competition, reenactment or just style purposes.

1. Historical & Aesthetic Appeal

If you appreciate cowboy gear, ranch style firearms or vintage western firearms, a western rig is an essential piece for both style and functionality. From leather straps and loops to single-action revolver carry positions–this evokes old west charm! For instance: Hunter Company has a series of western holster series “based on authentic designs worn in the Old West.”

2. Built specifically to be rugged and accommodate revolvers

Western rigs are commonly designed for single-action revolvers (classic six-shooters), often featuring heavy-duty leather construction with sturdy belts and stitching for lasting use. One company notes: “We use only premium American vegetable tanned leather… Our holsters will last not just years but decades!” Kirkpatrick Leather Holsters

If your carry style or interest leans more toward rugged or visual aesthetics, this matters.

3. Flexibility for shooting sports or themed carry

No matter your purpose – cowboy action shooting, historical re-enactment or simply creating an eye-catching carry rig – western style holsters offer something extra than plain modern OWB holsters. One site notes: “Western style holsters offer traditional looks with reliable performance designed specifically for revolvers that are popular among cowboy action shooters, collectors and Western enthusiasts.” Craft Holsters offers several models that fall into this category.

What to Consider When Selecting One

If you are considering the purchase of a leather holster, here are a few key aspects that need to be evaluated.

 Custom-tailor your Holster

To ensure an ideal fit for your gun (barrel length, frame size and style). Western rigs typically accommodate for 4 5/8” or 5 1/2” barrels while Stoner Holsters

Without proper fitting holsters can hinder draw speed, retention and comfort levels significantly.

Leather quality and craftsmanship

Look for full-grain or premium saddle leather, excellent stitching, and sturdy hardware (rivets or buckles). High quality materials will resist wear and maintain their shape over time – as one maker puts it: thick leather with heavy hardware designed to last decades (Kirkpatrick Leather Holsters are an example).

Belt and Holster System Design

As western rigs typically consist of gun belt and holster (possibly with cartridge loops or other accessories), check belt width, loops/cartridge loops, attachment method, ride height (how high or low the holster sits), support hand (right or left), ride height, attachment method and whether or not it supports your carry hand. For instance: Lone Star Holsters make such rigs that come equipped with two quarter inch belt, double mag pouch and leather holster specifically designed to make an easy draw;

Retention & Draw Style Whilst these rigs often echo older carry methods, make sure you assess how the holster holds onto the gun (strap, thumb break, open top). Likewise, older-style holsters such as Mexican Loop or Buscadero Rig can vary in terms of how quickly you can access your firearm – these may take up to 5 seconds more for accessing. Lone Star Holsters provide fast access options compared to such older options.

Use Case and Comfort

When looking for the ideal belt to wear daily (rather than just once in awhile), keep comfort, weight, ride type (hip, cross-draw or low ride), cartridge loop weight (leather can get heavy over time), sitting and bending comfort as key criteria in mind.

Learn How to Maintain One

A good rig will only do its job effectively with proper care, maintenance and selection. Here’s how you can maximize its performance.

Wear your belt correctly: Western rig belts tend to be wider and stiffer than basic duty belts; therefore, make sure it sits firmly around your waist or hips so your holster stays stable.

Break in Leather

Just as with good boots, leather holsters and belts benefit from being broken in over time to adjust to both your gun and body. By doing so, they will conform more naturally over time.

Maintain the leather with regular care: Use leather conditioner or dressing (one vendor offers “Add Leather Dressing (+$4.25)”) to protect it from drying out or cracking, which could prevent further cracking of its surface.

Stoner Holsters Check Belt Loops/Stitching

Because many rigs feature cartridge loops or accessories with cartridge loops or cartouches, make sure none are fraying or weakening under pressure to ensure safe carrying capacity. Fraying could result in serious carrying impairment.

Draw Practice: If you plan to use the rig for action shooting or carry, practice drawing until you become comfortable with its ride height and holster design.

Check holster fit: Be sure that the gun is secure but still easily accessible; too loose will put it at risk of shifting, while too tight may slow draw or cause wear to its finish.

Final Thoughts

A western rig holster is more than just an everyday carry accessory–it is also an opportunity to honor past generations by paying homage through style. When selected wisely, these western-inspired pieces of leather craftsmanship can add vintage flair and provide modern functionality if chosen smartly. If vintage-inspired carry and handgun ownership appeals to you, a western-rig holster could make a unique statement about who you are as an individual.