Built for the True Classic Cowboy: Holsters That Honor the Rules and the Tradition

The Classic Cowboy / Classic Cowgirl category in SASS isn’t just another division—it’s a commitment to history. From the firearms you shoot to the way you dress and carry your guns, this category is about stepping back into the Old West and doing it right.

At Mernickle Custom Holsters, that mindset is exactly why we build holsters specifically for the Classic Cowboy shooter.

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Firearms of the Old West

Classic Cowboy competitors run firearms that reflect the heavy-hitting calibers and platforms of the frontier era.

Revolvers

• Any SASS-legal fixed sight revolver
• Must be shot Duelist or Double Duelist style
• Calibers must be .40 caliber or larger, rimmed cartridges
• Examples include .38-40, .44 Special, .44 Russian, .44-40, .45 Colt, .45 Schofield, or .36 caliber or larger cap and ball

Rifles

• Any 1873 or earlier SASS-legal rifle or replica
• Examples include 1860 Henry, 1866 Winchester, and 1873 Winchester
• Must meet the same .40 caliber or larger requirement

Shotguns

• SASS-legal external hammer double barrel, single shot, or lever action
• External hammers must function manually
• Faux hammers or internally cocked hammers are not allowed

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Where Holsters Matter Most in Classic Cowboy

One of the most important—and most misunderstood—rules in the Classic Cowboy category is holster placement.

Buscadero and modern drop holster rigs are not allowed.
Part of the revolver grip must be above the belt on which the holster hangs.

This single rule defines what a proper Classic Cowboy rig looks like. Your holster must ride correctly, look period-correct, and still allow an efficient draw for Duelist or Double Duelist shooting.

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Holsters Built Specifically for Classic Cowboy

At Mernickle Custom Holsters, we don’t adapt modern rigs to “sort of” fit Classic Cowboy rules—we design holsters from the ground up specifically for this category.

Classic HP Holsters

Our Classic HP holsters are a staple among Classic Cowboy shooters. They ride high on the belt, keeping the revolver grip clearly above the belt line, ensuring unquestioned compliance with SASS rules.

• Traditional high-ride positioning
• Proper cant for a smooth Duelist draw
• Secure retention with fast access

Traditional Slim Jim Style Holsters

For shooters who prefer the earliest frontier aesthetic, our Slim Jim style holsters stay true to historic Old West designs.

• Straight, slim profile inspired by mid-1800s holsters
• High-ride positioning that meets Classic Cowboy requirements
• Minimal bulk with timeless western craftsmanship

NEW: Classic Cowboy Drop Holsters

Our all-new Classic Cowboy Drop holsters represent the next evolution in Classic Cowboy leather—without crossing the line into illegal territory.

Unlike Buscadero or competition-style drop rigs (which are not allowed), our Classic Cowboy Drop holsters are engineered so:

• Part of the revolver grip remains above the belt, fully meeting SASS requirements
• The holster body is lowered just enough to improve comfort and draw ergonomics
• The look remains unmistakably Classic Cowboy, not modern or race-inspired

The result is a holster that provides a more natural draw, reduces wrist strain and fatigue during long match days, and keeps shooters legal, comfortable, and confident.

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Dressing the Part: Classic Cowboy Costuming

Classic Cowboy is a costume-based category. Competitors must select at least five approved items, worn during all shooting events and awards ceremonies.

• Chaps or chinks
• Western spurs with rowels and straps
• Cuffs
• Tie or scarf worn loosely or with a slide
• Vest
• Pocket watch with full-length chain
• Jacket
• Sleeve garters
• Knife (screw knives do NOT qualify)
• Botas, leggings, or braces

• No straw or palm hats allowed (except approved Victorian styles for ladies)
• Boots are required with traditional, non-lug soles
• Moccasins are not allowed
• Hats must be worn for the entire match
• Zippers are allowed but may not be visible

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Why Classic Cowboys Choose Mernickle

• Handcrafted using traditional western methods
• Designed specifically for SASS Classic Cowboy rules
• Built for real competition use
• Styled to honor the Old West

When you step to the line, your holster should do more than hold a revolver—it should complete the look, meet the rules, and perform flawlessly.

 

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Ride High. Shoot True. Stay Classic.

If you’re shooting Classic Cowboy or Classic Cowgirl, make sure your leather is doing the job right.

Mernickle Custom Holsters
Old West Craft. Built for Today.