Collection: Kimber 1911 Holsters

Yes. While all are part of the 1911 platform, slide and frame length vary by model. For example, Ultra models use a 3-inch barrel, Compact and Pro models use 4-inch barrels, and Custom or Royal models run 5-inch slides. A holster must be molded specifically to match each barrel length and trigger guard for safe retention and optimal draw.

Yes. The TLE/RL 4-inch and 5-inch railed variants require holsters that account for the added width and profile of the accessory rail. A holster molded for a non-railed 1911 will not fit these versions properly. Always verify rail compatibility when selecting a holster.

IWB (inside the waistband) holsters offer greater concealment, especially for compact models like the Ultra 3-inch. OWB (outside the waistband) holsters, such as paddle or belt slide styles, are typically more comfortable for full-size 5-inch Custom models and are often preferred for range use or open carry. Choosing between IWB and OWB depends on your carry environment and clothing.

Appendix carry is possible with shorter 1911 models, particularly the Ultra 3-inch and some Pro 4-inch models. It’s important to use a holster with rigid trigger guard coverage, adjustable cant, and safe reholstering capability. Due to the single-action nature of 1911 pistols, extra care should be taken with cocked-and-locked carry positions.

Yes, but only with a well-designed holster. Kimber 1911 pistols with thumb safeties are commonly carried in condition one (round chambered, cocked, safety on). A proper IWB holster should fully cover the trigger guard, retain the firearm securely, and allow one-handed reholstering. This reduces the risk of disengaging the safety unintentionally.

Not always. If you're using a threaded barrel or compensator, an open-muzzle design is ideal. If not, a railed model simply needs a holster molded to accommodate the dust cover rail, even if the muzzle is closed. The key is matching both barrel length and accessory profile during selection.

Yes. Holsters like the ShapeShift Swivel Drop Leg and Alien Gear Chest Holster support 5-inch Kimber Custom and TLE models, offering secure open carry with added stability. These are popular for backcountry use, motorcycle riding, or field conditions where waistband carry may not be practical.

Ride height influences how deep the holster sits, which affects concealment and access. Cant angle adjusts grip tilt, helping conceal the longer grip of a Compact or Custom 1911. A forward cant is often used for 3–5 o’clock carry, while a neutral cant may be better for appendix.

Yes. Most Alien Gear holsters include passive retention adjustment, allowing users to fine-tune draw resistance. This is especially important with single-stack pistols like the 1911, which need tight, form-fitting shells to maintain consistent retention during movement.

Only if the models share the same barrel length, frame size, and accessory layout (e.g., railed vs. non-railed). A holster made for a 5-inch Custom II will not fit a 3-inch Ultra or a railed Pro TLE/RL correctly. For safety and reliability, always use a model-specific holster.