I’ve been using the Praetor Defense non-rail 1911 holster for a few weeks since I bought it from Weapon Outfitters. While I’m going to continue to use and test it, here are my initial thoughts.
I was excited to try out the 1911 version, because I love the Praetor Defense Glock 19 holster more than I love ice cream. The elements are all there – the compact layout, the quality hardware, the tough belt loops, and the flowing lines that result from the way Blade-Tech molds holsters.
This holster, like its Glock-oriented brother, places the pistol higher on the waist than some competing holsters. While I was happy with this placement for the Glock 19, I’m not in love with the positioning of the 1911 version. It seems to print quite a bit more than my Raven Concealment kydex 1911 holster – although the Raven is currently configured as IWB. And I’ve still not gotten used to the higher placement in terms of how the beavertail/grip safety, hammer, and thumb safety rub against my side.
Also, while I’m just fine with the lack of a sweat guard on the Glock 19 holster, its disappearance on the 1911 version means that the safety can be disengaged by the carrier’s body in the normal course of a day’s movement. This has only happened a few times, but it’s still a little annoying.
That said, I’d still buy this holster. In comparison with the Raven, I like the lack of cant, in that I can easily draw the pistol with my left hand from behind my back if I need to. It’s available immediately (here and here), is built like a tank, looks great, and offers excellent passive retention of the pistol.
I’d like input from those who have used this holster – do you agree or disagree with my comments?
