The El Dorado Western Gunfighter Rig is a traditional open-carry holster and cartridge belt inspired by the classic John Wayne style seen in mid-century Western films. Designed around a strong-side, drop-holster configuration, this rig reflects the functional layouts commonly used in Cowboy Action Shooting (SASS/CAS), Western reenactment, and collector displays.

The overall design emphasizes balance, accessibility, and period-correct presentation rather than modern concealed-carry features.

Real-World Use Context

In Cowboy Action Shooting and historical Western exhibitions, shooters often rely on wide gun belts and drop-style holsters to maintain consistent positioning and a natural draw angle. The El Dorado rig follows this established approach, pairing a belt-mounted holster with a supportive cartridge belt to keep the revolver stable at the hip during movement, staging, or competition scenarios.

This configuration mirrors historically accurate Western carry methods rather than contemporary tactical systems.

Holster Design & Carry Style

The holster is built as a strong-side hip, drop-style gunfighter holster with an open-top profile that allows unobstructed access to the revolver. Its shape and ride height are intended to keep the grip naturally aligned with the hand while maintaining stability during wear.

Key design characteristics include:

• Strong-side hip carry
• Drop-style holster riding below the belt line
• Open-top Western profile for a smooth draw
• Reinforced leather body to help maintain shape
• Integrated hammer thong for added retention
• Fully stitched construction with finished edges
• Smooth interior lining to reduce wear on the firearm

This holster is designed for open carry only and is not intended for concealed carry applications.

Cartridge / Money Belt Configuration

The rig includes a wide Western-style cartridge (money) belt designed to support the holster while distributing weight evenly around the waist. The belt features evenly spaced cartridge loops sized for common single-action revolver calibers used in Cowboy Action Shooting.

Belt features include:

• Wide profile for improved stability
• Cartridge loops arranged along the exterior
• Traditional buckle closure
• Adjustable sizing to allow fit in or out
• Reinforced holster mounting area

This belt style is commonly favored in Western shooting disciplines for comfort, balance, and authenticity.

Firearm Compatibility

The El Dorado Western Gunfighter Rig is intended for traditional single-action revolvers commonly used in Western shooting sports and reenactment.

Compatible firearms typically include:

• Colt Single Action Army (SAA)–pattern revolvers
• Uberti and other Colt-style replicas
• Ruger Vaquero and similar single-action models
• Remington single-action revolvers
• Smith & Wesson Schofield–style revolvers

Supported barrel lengths:

• Approximately 4½ inches to 7½ inches

Supported calibers:

• Common revolver calibers from .22 through .45

Firearm model, barrel length, and caliber should be specified at the time of order to ensure proper holster fit.

Customization & Orientation

• Available in right-hand or left-hand draw
• Built to the selected firearm model and belt size
• Optional second matching holster may be added
• Additional holster can be configured in an alternate orientation if required

Each rig is produced based on the customer’s selected options.

Intended Use

This Western gunfighter rig is suitable for:

• Cowboy Action Shooting (SASS / CAS)
• Western reenactment and historical events
• Film, stage, or exhibition use
• Collectors seeking a John Wayne–style Western rig

What’s Included

• One Western-style drop holster
• One matching cartridge/money belt
• Integrated hammer thong retention strap

Important Notes

• Open-carry design only
• Not intended for concealed carry
• Natural leather grain, color variation, and stitching variation are normal
• Made-to-order production timelines apply

This description is prepared by the Hunting Holsters editorial team to provide accurate, practical information for customers seeking traditionally styled Western holster equipment. Content is based on product design, visible construction features, and established Cowboy Action Shooting standards.

have questions?
we've got answers

frequently asked
questions