Shoulder Rigs

[BIGSHCLUNK]

I'm sure this may have been covered here somewhere but.... I'm getting to an age where carrying in my belt is getting tough. Low back /sciatica issues. Who carry's with a shoulder rig? What to look for/what to avoid? Suggestions? Thanks 

[armoredman]

I used a couple of shoulder holsters back in the day and I have to say, there was ONE good one. That is the Miami Classic by Galco. Everything else turned into pain across the back of the neck or shoulders. You will pay good money for one, but you will get what you pay for.

[crosstimbers]

I'll say this, and hope it doesn't come across in a negative way.....I have yet to buy a commercial shoulder rig that worked for me for any handgun. The problem I have encountered is that like some clothing, shoulder rigs seem to be designed for the mythical "schvelte" person who resembles an Olympic athlete. They rarely fit those of us with an additional pound or two- even those that say they will.

That being said, I have had better results with hunting type handguns, in the area of "bandoleer" rigs. Not anything that would help for concealed or even open carry, just saying.

I guess it's possible that custom designs might do better, but I've never explored that route. I pretty much just keep a pistol in my vehicle, or tuck one in the back of my pants if I feel the need. I totally understand about the back problems with waist-level carry....just havent found a better alternative. Sorry to not be of better help.

[david s]

I've been having similar issues and needed to get stuff off my belt. Unfortunately, I'm not a fan of shoulder holsters. I finally went with a Coranado concealment vest. Weights still carried on the shoulders but without a shoulder holsters discomfort. Standard carry is an aluminum framed Commander sized 1911 that fits between the vest layers in about the position shown, I'm a lefty. You access the gun thru the vertical slot that's snap closed. One other option anyways.                                                                                           

[crc4]

I've worn shoulder holsters for 47 years and have found them comfortable. I'm normal-sized (5'10, 180 lbs, 42" chest, not svelte, and no big belly).

Shoulder holsters without loops to attach to the belt flop around. I only wear SH that have loops or straps that attach to the belt. This model doesn't bind on the back or neck, is very secure, and, except for the nylon strap, all quality leather. It is also a vertical holster which is easier to conceal (I don't like horizontal SH).

My favorite SH is a long-discontinued Bucheimer-Clark. It fits my S&W 4" K frames and now fits well with my CZ 75b.

This one is 47 years old, worn often, and still in top shape. I was fortunate to find another new-old stock BC last November.

I find this SH very easy to carry, excellent for in-car use, and with a jacket easy to conceal and fast to get in the hand.



 

[bubbas4570]

I will agree with most everything that crc4 said.  That type of shoulder holster is the best for concealment for any pistol larger than a subcompact type......mine looks to be identical in style.....I cannot recall the exact model number/maker from memory.  The vertical shoulder holster with the spring metal retention will hold on to many different types of pistols....mine works best with revolvers (what is was designed for) but will hold semi autos just as well.  The only difference between myself and crc4 would be that I don't use the hold down straps, as I find them more of an inconvenience than useful for me.

I h ave tried various kinds of "miami classic" versions (none were Galco) and they all left something desirable in the concealment department.


There is only one shoulder holster that was better than the Bucheimer-Clark style, and it was a homemade/handmade one that carried vertically with a leather "hinge" system that presented the pistol in a, more or less, horizontal presentation after unsnapping a strap on the rig.  It was designed by the maker for the 1911, and fit anything in a large frame, with carrying as easy as the Bucheimer-Clark horizontal style, with the benefits of the horizontal draw rigs.......I wish I could find that one, as it was lost many years ago somehow.

[jwc007]

I generally use a Vertical Shoulder Rig that I've had for decades, in Fall and Winter, when it can be covered by a Coat.
It will hold a variety of Pistols, but I tend to go for the Mid-Size Compacts.

[BIGSHCLUNK]

Thanks for the replies. This gives me a few things to consider. Depending on my day, it's either my PO1 or SW MP9 for carry. Would the SW (lighter) be a better bet or subjective/no difference ? I'm 68 my swimmer's body has been gone for awhile. Have any of you had any neck issues from using a shoulder rig? I got to say getin' old is no joke   

[RSR]

I prefer the chest rig holsters to shoulder holsters FWIW, at least anytime you're moving in an athletic or physical way...  Initially I was skeptical, but was needing a way to ensure crap didn't get into my holster when working around the farm/ranch -- dirt, cedar leaves/needles, twigs, rocks, grass, etc.  And that's by far the least exposed location, especially w/ a coat zipped over it.

Obviously, not so great for most true concealed carry, but definitely a tool to have in the tool belt. 

There are several makers and you can generally tell just from looking at them which ones will be comfortable and which won't...

[crc4]

Thanks for the replies. This gives me a few things to consider. Depending on my day, it's either my PO1 or SW MP9 for carry. Would the SW (lighter) be a better bet or subjective/no difference ? I'm 68 my swimmer's body has been gone for awhile. Have any of you had any neck issues from using a shoulder rig? I got to say getin' old is no joke

What makes my SH comfortable for me is:
1. The way the leather piece on the shoulder is wide - spreads the weight and doesn't cut into the shoulder. It also has the attaching opposite side strap lower on the back so it doesn't cut into the neck and collar area. Most other SH I've tried over 50 years fail miserably in those areas.

2. The vertical position of the handgun. By attaching to the belt, the holster keeps the center of gravity lower, makes for an easier draw, and allows my arm to naturally conceal the gun. I wouldn't have a SH that didn't attach to the belt on both sides. Imagine carrying a sack of groceries next to your chest as is common. Now imagine holding the groceries out with your arms extended. Which is easier and more comfortable?

3. SH may not work if one is very overweight in chest, stomach, or arms. In this case, it's not the shoulder holster's fault but rather the limitations of the individual's physical properties.

[armoredman]

I will agree with most everything that crc4 said.  That type of shoulder holster is the best for concealment for any pistol larger than a subcompact type......mine looks to be identical in style.....I cannot recall the exact model number/maker from memory.  The vertical shoulder holster with the spring metal retention will hold on to many different types of pistols....mine works best with revolvers (what is was designed for) but will hold semi autos just as well.  The only difference between myself and crc4 would be that I don't use the hold down straps, as I find them more of an inconvenience than useful for me.

I h ave tried various kinds of "miami classic" versions (none were Galco) and they all left something desirable in the concealment department.


There is only one shoulder holster that was better than the Bucheimer-Clark style, and it was a homemade/handmade one that carried vertically with a leather "hinge" system that presented the pistol in a, more or less, horizontal presentation after unsnapping a strap on the rig.  It was designed by the maker for the 1911, and fit anything in a large frame, with carrying as easy as the Bucheimer-Clark horizontal style, with the benefits of the horizontal draw rigs.......I wish I could find that one, as it was lost many years ago somehow.

Now that would be perfect for my 64-3, for carry when it's snake season, throw it on when walking the dog! No thumb break? I hate thumb breaks on a shoulder rig.