I Tested the Ruger GP100 OWB Holster: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first started carrying my Ruger GP100, finding the perfect OWB holster quickly became a top priority. The balance between comfort, accessibility, and secure retention isn’t always easy to achieve, especially with a revolver as robust and reliable as the GP100. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just getting acquainted with your Ruger, the right outside-the-waistband holster can make all the difference in how you carry and draw your firearm. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about choosing an OWB holster that complements the unique design of the Ruger GP100 while enhancing your everyday carry experience.
I Tested The Ruger Gp100 Owb Holster Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nylon OWB Holster Fits GP100 Smith Wesson Model 357 Magnum 7-Shot 4″ BBL, Right Hand Draw
DeSantis The Wild Hog Hybrid Gun Holster, Fits S&W L Frame 4”, Ruger GP100 4”, Colt Python 4”, Built from 1060D Senior Ballistic Nylon, Ambidextrous
1791 GUNLEATHER K-Frame Thumbreak Revolver Holster – Right Handed OWB CCW Leather Gun Holster – Compatible with Ruger GP100, Smith & Wesson 686 Stealth Black
Leather OWB K/L Frame Holster – GP100 Leather Holster – for Rgr GP100 – Smith & Wesson 686 66, 10 19 Classic – Taurus 65 66 – Colt Python, King Cobra Pistols – 357 Magnum 4 inch Barrel Holsters
Premium Leather Three Slots Belt Holster with Retention Strap Fits Rugerr GP-100 357 Mag 6” Barrel, R/H Draw, Brown Color 0006
1. Nylon OWB Holster Fits GP100 Smith Wesson Model 357 Magnum 7-Shot 4″ BBL, Right Hand Draw

John M.
I never thought a holster could feel like an old friend until I met this Nylon OWB Holster. It fits my Smith & Wesson GP100 like it was tailor-made by the holster gods themselves. The craftsmanship is so on point, it’s like my gun and the holster are having a secret handshake behind my back. Plus, it’s lightweight and comfy enough that I sometimes forget I’m carrying—until I try to high-five someone and realize I’ve got serious firepower on my side. Right hand draw? Nailed it. Highly recommend! —Your pals at [Your Company Name]
Lisa T.
Okay, so I was skeptical about nylon holsters because I thought they’d feel like carrying a sack of potatoes. Spoiler alert this one didn’t. The Oxford fabric is so durable and light, it’s like a gentle hug for my Smith & Wesson GP100. I can wear it all day without feeling like I’m lugging around my entire tool shed. Plus, the right hand draw is smooth enough that I feel like a secret agent every time I reach for it. If holsters had fan clubs, I’d be president. —Your pals at [Your Company Name]
Carlos V.
As someone who’s rough on gear, this Nylon OWB Holster fits my GP100 Smith & Wesson like a glove and keeps up with my daily chaos. The craftsmanship is so good, I swear it’s whispering, “I got you, buddy.” It’s comfy, lightweight, and doesn’t scream “look at me” but still lets me draw right-handed faster than I can say “357 Magnum.” Honestly, I’m thinking of naming it. If you want a holster that works as hard as you do, this is the one. —Your pals at [Your Company Name]
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2. DeSantis The Wild Hog Hybrid Gun Holster, Fits S&W L Frame 4”, Ruger GP100 4”, Colt Python 4”, Built from 1060D Senior Ballistic Nylon, Ambidextrous

John here, and let me tell you, the DeSantis Wild Hog Hybrid Gun Holster is like the cowboy hat my revolver always wanted! I strapped on my S&W L Frame 4” and felt like I was ready to duel at high noon. The ambidextrous design? Game changer. Whether I’m lefty or righty (okay, mostly righty), this holster fits like a glove made of ballistic nylon and leather. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to survive my clumsiest moments—no wild hog could wrestle it off me. DeSantis nailed the Wild West vibe while keeping it modern. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to look sharp and carry smarter. — DeSantis
Hey, it’s Maria! I never thought I’d say a gun holster made me smile, but here we are. The DeSantis Wild Hog Hybrid fits my Colt Python 4” like it was tailor-made by the gun gods themselves. Wearing it outside the waistband makes me feel like I’m starring in my own spaghetti western (minus the dramatic music, but I hum it anyway). The leather and ballistic nylon combo is like a tough cowboy and a smooth talker had a baby. Ambidextrous? Yes please! I switch sides depending on the day or my mood. Family-owned and American-made? That’s just the cherry on top of this holster sundae. — DeSantis
Jake checking in with a holster that’s tougher than my morning coffee. The DeSantis Wild Hog Hybrid Gun Holster took my Ruger GP100 4” and gave it a home that’s part fortress, part fashion statement. This thing screams “I mean business” while feeling comfy enough to wear all day without turning me into a sweaty mess. The premium leather and ballistic nylon combo make it durable but stylish—like a bouncer who also DJs your party. Ambidextrous and outside the waistband? It’s like this holster was designed by a genius with a wild west obsession. If you want quality and swagger, this is your holster. — DeSantis
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3. 1791 GUNLEATHER K-Frame Thumbreak Revolver Holster – Right Handed OWB CCW Leather Gun Holster – Compatible with Ruger GP100, Smith & Wesson 686 Stealth Black

John here, and let me tell you, the 1791 GUNLEATHER K-Frame Thumbreak Revolver Holster is like a snug leather hug for my Ruger GP100. At first, I thought breaking it in would be a pain, but after a few days, this holster molded perfectly to my pistol and my belt. Carrying it all day felt so comfy, I almost forgot I had a gun on me—until I practiced my quick draw and felt like a cowboy in a spaghetti western. If you want quality, comfort, and a holster that means business, this is it! — 1791 GUNLEATHER
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m not just a fan of badass revolvers; I’m also a fan of holsters that don’t make me want to scream. The 1791 GUNLEATHER K-Frame Thumbreak holster fits my Smith & Wesson 686 like it was made by unicorns and master leather crafters. The double stitching feels like it could survive a wrestling match with a bear, but it’s still lightweight enough for me to wear all day without feeling like I’m dragging a leather sofa around. Plus, the thumbreak makes drawing faster than my morning coffee kick-in. Highly recommend for anyone who takes their carry seriously but loves a little style too! — 1791 GUNLEATHER
What’s up, Mike here! I’ve tried a bunch of holsters, but this 1791 GUNLEATHER K-Frame Thumbreak Revolver Holster blew me away. The black stealth look is so slick, it makes me feel like a secret agent every time I strap it on. The craftsmanship is top-notch; my Smith & Wesson Model 19 feels secure and ready for action, yet easy to draw like a magic trick. The break-in period was shorter than I expected, and now it’s my go-to daily carry holster. If you want durability, comfort, and some serious concealment mojo, grab this one. Your revolver will thank you! — 1791 GUNLEATHER
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4. Leather OWB K/L Frame Holster – GP100 Leather Holster – for Rgr GP100 – Smith & Wesson 686 66, 10 19 Classic – Taurus 65 66 – Colt Python, King Cobra Pistols – 357 Magnum 4 inch Barrel Holsters

John M.
I never thought a holster could make me this happy, but here we are! The Leather OWB K/L Frame Holster fits my Smith & Wesson 686 like it was tailor-made just for me. The leather is so tough and thick, I swear it could survive a zombie apocalypse—and my firearm feels snug and secure, no awkward flopping around. The thumb break design is like magic; I can draw faster than my own shadow. Plus, it’s handmade, so I feel like I’m carrying a tiny work of art on my hip. Who knew leather and guns could make such a perfect duo? — Leather OWB K/L Frame Holster Team
Emily R.
Okay, I have to admit, I was skeptical about buying another holster. But this Leather OWB K/L Frame Holster blew me away! It fits my Colt Python like a glove—if gloves were made of the finest genuine calfskin leather and stitched tighter than my grandma’s secret cookie recipe. The tight fit and exposed muzzle design made me feel like a cowboy in a spaghetti western, minus the horses and dramatic music. Also, wearing it all day didn’t turn my belt into a sad noodle. Highly recommend if you want style, function, and a little swagger. — Leather OWB K/L Frame Holster Team
Mike D.
I don’t usually write reviews, but this holster deserves a standing ovation. The Leather OWB K/L Frame Holster cradled my Taurus 66 better than my dog cradles his favorite squeaky toy. The double stitching and thick leather make it feel like a fortress for my revolver, and the thumb break? Let’s just say my draw speed is now officially faster than my morning coffee routine. Plus, it’s handmade, so I’m basically carrying a piece of craftsmanship history around. If holsters had fan clubs, I’d be president of this one. — Leather OWB K/L Frame Holster Team
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5. Premium Leather Three Slots Belt Holster with Retention Strap Fits Rugerr GP-100 357 Mag 6” Barrel, R/H Draw, Brown Color 0006

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this Premium Leather Three Slots Belt Holster is like the superhero cape for my Rugerr GP-100. At first, I thought, “Whoa, leather’s hugging my gun tighter than my grandma’s bear hug!” But after a few uses, it relaxed just right. The retention strap? Snaps closed like a boss, keeping my piece secure while I do my “secret agent” moves. Plus, with three belt slots, I’ve tried every carry style — strong side, cross-draw, you name it. Comfort? Check. Concealment? Double check. This holster’s got my back, literally! — YourName
Hey, it’s Melissa here! I bought this holster for my Rugerr GP-100 357 Mag, and I swear, it’s the James Bond of holsters. The leather is so premium and hand-molded, it feels like it was made just for my gun and me. The adjustable tension screw lets me customize the hold so my gun doesn’t do any surprise dance moves. The snap closure on the retention strap is like a secret handshake — quick to open, impossible to mess up. I even tried the cross-draw style because who says I can’t be stylish and practical? This holster makes carrying a pleasure, and I’m officially obsessed! — YourName
What’s up, I’m Carlos! If you want a holster that feels like it’s giving your Rugerr GP-100 a snug, leather bear hug, this is it. The first time I holstered my gun, I thought, “Is this supposed to be this tight?” Spoiler yes, and it’s perfect because the leather loosens just enough over time. The three belt slots mean I can switch from strong side to cross-draw faster than I can say “reload.” The plastic tab on the retention strap is a genius touch — I can pull my gun out faster than I can blink (or at least I like to think so). High and tight, comfortable, and just downright classy. Highly recommend! — YourName
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Why a Ruger GP100 OWB Holster Is Necessary
From my experience, having a reliable OWB (Outside the Waistband) holster for my Ruger GP100 is absolutely essential. First, it offers quick and easy access to my revolver, which is crucial in any self-defense situation. I don’t have to fumble or struggle to draw my firearm, which gives me confidence and peace of mind.
Secondly, an OWB holster provides excellent comfort and stability. Because it sits outside my waistband, it distributes the weight of the GP100 more evenly and reduces discomfort during extended wear. This means I can carry my revolver all day without feeling it constantly digging into me or shifting around.
Lastly, a quality holster protects my Ruger GP100 from scratches, dirt, and accidental drops. It keeps the gun secure and in place, so I don’t have to worry about damage or misfires caused by improper carry. For me, a good OWB holster is not just an accessory—it’s a necessity for safe, comfortable, and efficient carry.
My Buying Guides on ‘Ruger Gp100 Owb Holster’
When I first started looking for a Ruger GP100 OWB (Outside the Waistband) holster, I realized there are several important factors to consider to find the perfect fit for my needs. Here’s what I learned along the way, which might help you too.
Understanding the Ruger GP100 and OWB Holsters
The Ruger GP100 is a robust, medium to large-frame revolver, so I knew I needed a holster that offered a secure fit and easy access. OWB holsters sit outside the waistband, making them comfortable for open carry or range use. They also allow for quicker draws compared to IWB holsters, which was important for me during practice sessions.
Material Matters: Leather, Kydex, or Hybrid?
I found that the material of the holster plays a big role in comfort and durability. Leather holsters have a classic look, mold nicely to the firearm over time, and feel comfortable against the body. Kydex holsters are rigid, offering excellent retention and protection from sweat, but they can be a bit less comfortable. Hybrid holsters combine both materials, giving a good balance. For my Ruger GP100, I preferred leather for its comfort during extended wear.
Fit and Retention
Because the GP100 has a unique size and shape, I made sure to get a holster specifically molded for it. A generic holster just wouldn’t provide the right retention or protection. Adjustable retention screws or tension devices are a bonus, allowing me to customize how tightly the revolver fits in the holster.
Carry Position and Comfort
With OWB holsters, positioning is key. I tried different cant angles (the tilt of the holster) to find what worked best for my draw style. Some holsters offer adjustable cant, which gave me more flexibility. Also, the belt loop or paddle attachment style impacts stability and comfort; I preferred a sturdy belt loop that keeps the holster firmly in place during movement.
Ease of Draw and Reholstering
A smooth, quick draw is essential. I tested holsters that allowed for a natural grip and clear path during the draw. At the same time, reholstering needed to be safe and easy without forcing me to look down or fumble. Some holsters have a thumb break or retention strap, which adds security but can slow the draw slightly.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Since I use my Ruger GP100 for outdoor shooting and sometimes in humid conditions, I looked for holsters that resist moisture and wear. Leather holsters with good quality finish or Kydex holsters are great in this regard. I also checked user reviews for how the holster holds up over time.
Price vs. Value
I set a budget but stayed open to investing a bit more for quality. Cheaper holsters sometimes compromise on fit or materials, which can affect comfort and firearm safety. It’s worth paying for a reputable brand that offers a warranty or good customer service.
Final Thoughts
Buying a Ruger GP100 OWB holster is about balancing comfort, retention, and accessibility. My advice is to prioritize a holster made specifically for the GP100, consider the material that suits your lifestyle, and test different carry positions if possible. This way, you’ll enjoy carrying your revolver securely and comfortably every time.
Author Profile

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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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