It doesn’t get any more Western than the Galco 1880 holster and Western Cartridge Belt, or as I like to call it, the gunslinger getup.

The American West has long captured imaginations. From dusty showdowns at high noon to horseback chases across rugged terrain, the “outlaw days” have been immortalized in film, folklore, and fashion. It could have been the real-life antics of Jesse James or Hollywood versions of Wyatt Earp and Billy the Kid. But those days helped shape a lasting legacy of grit, guns, and leather.

Western films made legends out of Clint Eastwood, John Wayne, and Sam Elliott. Their iconic look included a cowboy hat, six-shooter, and a leather holster. It also defined an era that has lived on through people’s fascination with the wild West.

Now, companies like Galco Holsters are keeping that cowboy spirit alive. For fans of the Ruger Vaquero .357 Magnum, Galco’s 1880’s Holster Strongside holster and matching Western Cartridge Belt offer that perfect mix of classic style and modern craftsmanship.

Here’s a quick look at this classic gun and holster combo.

The Galco 1880s Holster Strongside

Let’s be honest, some gear just makes you feel like a cowboy. The Galco 1880s Holster Strongside is one of those pieces. Inspired by traditional frontier holsters, this design looks like it came straight off the hip of a Tombstone lawman.

Built from premium saddle leather, the holster is tough, gorgeous, and has the smell to prove its genuine leather. Galco uses full-grain leather, which means it’s made from the outermost layer of the hide, which is the strongest part. This kind of leather develops character over time, forming to your revolver and developing that slick, weathered look we all love.

One of the things that stands out to me the most about the 1880s Holster Strongside is that it gives off this simple, yet high-quality look. It’s designed for strong-side carry, meaning it rides on your dominant side for a smooth, natural draw.

The retention strap is a piece of leather that pulls over the hammer of the revolver.  Galco makes this holster available for several different models you can select from on their website. The one I have was made for the .357 Ruger Vaquero, and it fits like a broken-in baseball glove.

Galco 1880s Strongside Holster Specs:

• Premium full-grain saddle leather
• Hand-molded for Ruger Vaquero .357 Magnum
• Right-hand strongside carry
• Retention strap with brass snap
• Classic Western style
• Fits belts up to 3 inches wide
• High-ride design

Galco Western Cartridge Belt

A holster is only part of the look. For the full cowboy kit, you need the Galco 1880s Western Cartridge Belt. This iconic-looking belt is built to carry both your holster and your ammo.

The Western Cartridge Belt is made from premium center-cut steerhide leather and pairs perfectly with the 1880s holster. While it has the iconic “cowboy” look to it, it’s not just for show. There is no doubt this holster and belt can be worn regularly without any issues.

There are 18 leather ammo loops for carrying extra ammo. I know the whole point of the loops is for the ammo, but this is really what gives it that cowboy look.

As I mentioned above, this holster/belt combo was made for the Ruger .357 Magnum. The cartridges fit snugly in the ammo loops but are still easy to pull out when loading.  

The buckle is made of solid brass with a nickel plating. It has reinforced stitching around all stress points. Just like any good quality leather gear, this belt will last you decades with proper care.

Galco 1880’s Cartridge Belt Specs:

• Premium center-cut steerhide
• Holds 18 rounds of .357 Magnum
• Solid brass buckle
• Natural tan finish
• Compatible with Galco 1880s holsters
• Width: 3 inches wide
• Available in multiple sizes (order larger than pant size)

Bringing the Old West Back to Life

I’ll admit, I’m not a cowboy kind of guy. While I love leather holsters, especially shoulder rigs, I’m more of a modern firearms guru. But even I can’t help but admire this Old West style of gear.

My point is, this is kind of a cool setup to have, whether you’re into Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS) or just enjoying a piece of history. On range day, I run drills related to self-defense or work most of the time. Having said that, I’ll also admit I forget how relaxing it is to just have some fun plinking with old-school guns and gear like this.

Now, I’m not saying that I’m going to run out and buy a cowboy hat and some spurs for my boots. But spending some time with this Galco holster and belt makes me want to be in the middle of a Western action movie.

It’s about nostalgia, heritage, and the enduring appeal of the American cowboy. There’s something satisfying about loading your belt with shiny .357 rounds, holstering your Vaquero, and stepping out onto the dirt like you’re ready for a duel. Pair it with a Stetson hat and some boots, and you’re living the dream.

The 1880’s Holster Strongside retails for about $149, and the Western Cartridge Belt is a little more at $200.00. So, if you have a Western-style six-shooter, dust off your spurs, channel your inner outlaw, and let the six-shooter ride in style.