Why do so many custom holster makers, past and present, seem to prefer a closed toe design on their revolver holsters?

I've always preferred an open toe holster, or even one with a sewn in toe plug. I always figured the closed toe contributed more to muzzle wear on the sides than an open toe design. I really like the basic Threepersons design, and have several from El Paso Saddlery...but they're all closed toe.

Anyone have any ideas about why closed toe seems to be the predominant design? Is there some benefit that I can't see? Or is it just a question of style for each individual maker?

Yes there is really a good reason. Outdoorsmen required a closed toe design to keep mud and debris from entering the muzzle. Flap holsters were also highly regarded for the protection factor they offer. If you ever spent much time wandering the woods you will regularly trip, fall, have your legs go out from under you and the first thing that hits the ground before your butt does is the holstered handgun. I spent years wandering the woods and will never use any holster except a closed toe design. Yes it does wear the bluing off the muzzle and if that matters to you then a sewn in plug will help. I had an old rancher friend that worn out the toe of his rifle scabbard
and repaired it, so many times that the muzzle of his old Winchester was actually worn slightly flat on both sides where it made contact with the scabbard. Yes I do care myself but in an opposite view. I take extreme pride in wearing the blue off my guns as this is my proof that my guns had to work for a living. My old pre war Colt Woodsman has little blue left from years of riding in a Heiser flap holster. The checkering pounded flat from decades of riding under the seat of trucks make it look like it got drug through a knot hole backwards. I wouldn't trade it for 5 new ones.

I make them both ways depending on what they're for and the clients personal preference.
Personally, I prefer an open bottom holster for everday carry. I feel it lets any lint or gunk that that falls in to fall out whether it's on my belt or in my pocket.

For my neighbors chest holster I chose a closed bottom design to protect the muzzle. He wears it while fishing with a 410 gauge handgun and I feel that the closed design along with a couple of coats of topcoat provide more than enough protection from splashes.

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Keep on Chooglin'

Thanks for such a detailed explanation.