Best Holster for Ruger GP100: Our Top Leather Pick + Smart Alternatives

If you’re hunting for the best holster for GP100, a few models rise above the rest for durability, comfort, and real-world usability. Below, we name one clear winner for an everyday leather holster for GP100, then give two excellent use-case alternatives so you can match the Ruger GP100 (3", 4", or 6") to how you actually carry. We’ll finish with a quick comparison, fit notes, and an FAQ.

Best Leather Holster for Ruger GP100 (Overall)

DAO™ Strongside/Crossdraw Belt Holster — If you want one Ruger GP100 holster that does almost everything, pick the DAO. It’s premium steerhide with an adjustable tension unit and a glove-friendly retention-strap tab, and it rides equally well strongside or crossdraw. That versatility matters with a medium/large-frame revolver like the GP100, especially if you drive or hike a lot. Note: the DAO is not compatible with red-dot optics.

Why it wins: classic leather build, field-worthy security, and flexible carry positions—without feeling bulky on a good 1.5"–1.75" belt. Many owners specifically praise the DAO’s fit on GP100 variants, including the Match Champion.

Best Concealment (IWB)

Summer Comfort™ IWB — For discreet carry, Summer Comfort brings reinforced steerhide with a metal-stiffened mouth for easy one-hand reholstering, plus convenient snap-on belt loops. It’s a solid leather holster for GP100 when you want an inside-the-waistband holster that won’t collapse. (Fits are commonly offered for GP100 3" and 4".)

Best for: concealed carry under a cover garment with a sturdy belt; riders who want smooth leather against the skin and a clean, open-top draw.

Best Hybrid / Ambidextrous Field Carry

Switchback™ Strongside/Crossdraw — Prefer a tougher, weather-friendly hybrid? Switchback blends synthetics and leather for durability, works right- or left-handed, and can ride strongside or crossdraw. Notably, it’s offered for Ruger GP100 3", 4", and 6" barrels.

Best for: range days, trail use, and anyone who wants one rugged GP100 holster that can swap sides or positions as needed.

Bonus: Chest Carry for Backcountry

Great Alaskan™ Chest Holster (Revolvers) — If you hike, fish, or run a pack, chest carry keeps the GP100 accessible and out of the way of hip belts. Premium steerhide, smooth lining, wide shoulder strap, and an adjustable torso strap make it stable over layers. This makes it the ideal chest holster for the Ruger GP100.

Quick Comparison

• Overall everyday leather: DAO — steerhide, tension screw, secure strap; strongside/crossdraw.
  
• Concealment (IWB): Summer Comfort — reinforced mouth, snap loops, smooth ride inside the belt.

  
  

• Hybrid field / ambi: Switchback — synthetic/leather mix, ambi, fits 3", 4", 6" GP100.

• Backcountry chest: Great Alaskan — chest-style crossdraw with wide, comfortable straps.
  

Browse the full lineup: See all Ruger GP100 holsters → (including options like Phoenix and Combat Master pancake OWB belt holster).

Fit & Setup Notes (Read Before You Buy)

• Barrel length matters. Many models list distinct fits for 3", 4", and 6" GP100s—choose the exact barrel length when ordering.
  
• Optics & lights: Traditional leather belt holsters (e.g., DAO, Combat Master) often do not support red dots or weapon lights—check each PDP’s compatibility notes.
  
• Belt selection: A quality 1.5"–1.75" gun belt dramatically improves comfort and draw consistency with a GP100-size revolver.

  
  

Conclusion

For most shooters, the best holster for Ruger GP100 is the DAO thanks to its secure leather build and crossdraw/strongside flexibility. If you need concealment, go Summer Comfort; if you want a rugged ambidextrous rig, choose Switchback. When you’re ready to compare every Ruger GP100 holster, head to the category page: See all of our Holsters for the Ruger GP100

FAQ: Ruger GP100 Holsters

What’s the best holster for GP100 if I mostly carry on a belt?
The DAO is the best all-around pick for belt carry because it’s premium steerhide, secure, and works strongside or crossdraw.

Which leather holster for GP100 conceals the easiest?
The Summer Comfort IWB uses reinforced steerhide and snap loops to ride comfortably and reholster cleanly—great for 3" and 4" GP100s.

Is there a shoulder holster for a Ruger GP100?
Yes—Galco’s VHS 4.0 Vertical shoulder system includes GP100 fits and is popular for heavier revolvers when belt carry isn’t ideal. If you’re looking for a shoulder holster for the GP100, look no further!

I hike a lot. Is chest carry an option for the Ruger GP100?
Absolutely. The Great Alaskan Chest Holster (Revolvers) stabilizes the GP100 high on the torso for comfort with backpacks and waders.