Shoulder Holsters - ready set GO!

[b4uqzme]

I recently bought an inexpensive Barsony shoulder holster for my GP100 and have been wearing it around the house/property lately. It took a little fidgeting to get it adjusted properly but it's really comfortable.

I do have to say that it's really just for carrying your weapon and not really conducive to fast draws. But if you want to carry a heavy gun, I find it a real good option. I was planning on an expensive leather rig and this was primarily just to try it out but I think I found one that works.

I've read a lot of stuff down-buzzing shoulder holsters in general and was curious what you all thought.

Flame on!

[downtownv]

I got a Galco Shoulder Rig that was given to me with my Sig229 from the Miami PD.
You described it's use well. Great for carrying a larger/heavier firearm, when OWB won't do.

[Bawanna]

I have a couple Galco shoulder rigs. I like the concept and have no issues with the draw etc. My only problem is the straps going over my shoulders apparently ride on nerves going up my neck and in 2 or 3 hours I'm semi paralyzed.

I used to carry large caliber handguns in vertical shoulder rigs that also attached to the belt, I got along with those fairly well.

My only other issue is if you get some place where it's too warm, it's near impossible to get rid of it. Like my belt rigs I can slip in my chair back pack or in the wifes purse almost without notice. Not so easy with a shoulder rig. If it weren't for messing with my neck I'd wear one a lot more often.

[Yogi 117]

Galco Classic Lites for my 1911 Commander & Glock26, Galco Miami Classic II for my Glock30. Love 'em all and wear 'em all a lot during the crappy NW winter weather. Any wear fine under a hooded pull over sweatshirt, which I wear frequently. Not so great for warmer weather, for obvious reasons. Great way to carry the heavier handguns. :D

[Alfonse]

I have one for a 1911. I wore it around the house a bit but have never found an occasion to actually use it.

[Bob T]

It does seem as though they would be more comfy, especially with large pistols, but I don't know how you could draw from one without sweeping everyone on your left, (or right if you are a lefty)

[downtownv]

It does seem as though they would be more comfy, especially with large pistols, but I don't know how you could draw from one without sweeping everyone on your left, (or right if you are a lefty)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iifIwDFMoqI

[Bob T]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iifIwDFMoqI

Thanks, but he clearly swept anyone to his left during the draw.

[b4uqzme]

Thanks, but he clearly swept anyone to his left during the draw.

Thanks and yes you need to be very careful on the draw as you will sweep. Keep that finger off the trigger until you are on target. The one I bought is a vertical holster and is even harder to draw from. I expect to use this more in the field for 4 legged critters vs. 2 legged. Either way, situational awareness will be important since it will take awhile to draw the weapon. The upside is, you can do your field work comfortably and still have your weapon ready.

I did exactly what he says not to do and bought a cheap vinyl rig but experienced a different outcome. It adjusted and fits well and I now have no reason to buy one that's more expensive. Did I just get lucky?

I do agree with Jim about adjusting it. The holster needs to ride pretty high and the straps cross in the center of your back. Since mine is a revolver holster, it has loops that attach to your belt. It also has a large leather shoulder pad on the holster side that spreads out the weight.

I'm going outside with the dogs and am strapping it on today. Hides well under a Carhart (duh). :D

[b4uqzme]

I have one for a 1911. I wore it around the house a bit but have never found an occasion to actually use it.

I actually anticipate using it around the house a lot. It is very convenient for that. You don't have to worry about what pants or belt you are wearing, you can just slip this thing on and load your weapon. I was finding myself using a tiny 380 and a pocket holster a lot when I wasn't prepared for traditional carry. And now that I find this shoulder holster comfortable, I think I am better off with 357 magnum. :) I can even see myself open carrying around the yard when (if) the weather gets warmer.

[ripley16]

...was curious what you all thought.


I've used several shoulder holsters over the years. My thoughts;

* They are not as easy to conceal as most people think. Even with smaller pistols they produce signs, bumps and bulges.
* Keeping one hidden by a cover garment can at times be problematic as the gun may swing around during even slight physical activity. Run with one and your ribs will not like it.
* The weight is noticeable after long hours, even with good rigs. The lighter the gun the better.
* Hold down straps are usually a very good investment. They lessen some of the above problems.
* The draw is more complicated but can be quite fast, or at least fast enough. One learns to "rip" the pistol out. No time for subtleness.
* Straps migrate and can sometimes be exposed.
* Be careful your rig doesn't squeak or make other tell-tale noises.

I've found I prefer the simplest holster I could find. This is a holster side and a single strap attached to my belt. It's light, easy on and off and has less heat build up. These include the excellent Galco Executive and the Galco Half Harness, (which I think is no longer made).

I've never carried a large frame pistol. My holsters are for the Sig P232, Beretta 84, Kahr mid/large size 9mm.

Here's the half harness.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i186/ripley16/Pistols/006.jpg (http://s72.photobucket.com/user/ripley16/media/Pistols/006.jpg.html)

The Executive. I like it because it has no thumb strap.
http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i186/ripley16/Pistols/Sig/sig004.jpg (http://s72.photobucket.com/user/ripley16/media/Pistols/Sig/sig004.jpg.html)