Shoulder holster suggestions.

keithdog

New member
I am interested in purchasing a shoulder holster for my Walther PPS-M2, but I am not that well versed on what and who makes a quality but comfortable shoulder holster. So many configurations available. This would NOT replace my every day carry holsters, but would add to my options when a shoulder holster would fit the bill. Any suggestions on what to look for, which style works best, and is more comfortable to wear? Any suggestions would be appreciated.
 
Can offer no advice on your specific Walther. But, I too, am intrigued with shoulder holsters. I have several. What I have found is they are "easy on" and difficult to remove. I have a big shoulders and really have never found one that was "flexible'. Be aware that they are sized differently and strongly suggest a trial fit BEFORE purchase. As to quality; you can never go wrong with Galco.
 
For relatively short-time (6-10 hours) wear with a pistol no heavier than a M1911, a shoulder rig may work for concealment purposes. The problem is that the spine and shoulders are a flexible "T". No matter how you secure it, a shoulder rig causes bending, both forward and to the side, which causes the body to unconsciously compensate with tension on muscles and tendons. This leads to fatigue, even if the straps cause little chafing. For anything heavier than about 38 oz., a high-ride crossdraw or straight draw, on a 2-inch or wider belt is a much more comfortable, secure and convenient is the way to pack a handgun.
I disagree. I've worn Galco shoulder holster for many years.

For me, at least, they are infinitely more comfortable and concealable than "cowboy" holsters.
 
I have 2 Alessi shoulder holsters, I wear them primarily when I'm traveling because a) the seatbelt doesn't fight the pistol, and b) there is easy access and presentation of the pistol when seated. I've heard rumors that Alessi is having production problems... which may be true, it took almost 9 months to get the holster for my Kahr. I would think Galco, who makes excellent holsters, would be a good choice as well.

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The 1911 holster is probably 30 years old... it's seen some use; the only thing going on with that is the snap in the trigger guard (that holds the pistol in the holster) is getting weak and needs replaced.
 
aviator holster

I have posted before that I use a leather, WWII pattern aviators holster on occasion and am quite satisfied with it for my application. It is not a concealment rig, the leather shoulder strap runs diagonally across the chest and is visible at the front while wearing any cover garment left open or unzipped.

The appeal for me is that it gets the handguns ( Ruger B-hawk 4-5/8, or S&W M27 up away from waist level, and is more comfortable when riding in vehicle or ATV. On muddy ATV rides, under a jacket, the guns stays dry and clean. In rainy foul weather, afoot or ATV, a jacket or coat covers the gun entirely, keeping it dry and clean as well.

Note that a trouser belt is not essential with a shoulder rig of any kind. If you are wearing sweats or a track suit, one can duck into a shoulder rig and still carry the trash or check the mail at the end of the lane w/o fooling with trousers and a belt. I suppose, come to think of it, the shoulder rig is the only holster not requiring clothes!!!!!!!!!!
 
In a close quarters mess, shoulder holsters make it too easy for someone to push your drawing hand inward and prevent you from pulling your weapon. It puts you in a bad leverage situation. Do some close encounter drills on the mat, and you'll see what I mean. I expose my holster by pulling my jacket forward\away from the opposite side with my weak hand. Just in case that grab misses, I go through the motion of pushing the strong side of my jacket back when my hand goes back to reach for the holster.
And cowboy holsters make it almost impossible to draw while seated. So both have their limitations.
 
I own four Galco shoulder holster rigs for different handguns. IMHO their quality and fitment/adjustability is about as good as it gets.

As noted above, I generally only wear them when either driving or riding a motorcycle. Most other occasions, for me at least, the draw and presentation is superior from a IWB/OWB holster.

But its all tools in a toolbox. You use whatever is right for the occasion.

Just MHO.
 
I have owned the Galco Jackass Rig for a couple different handguns and like the diagonal butt carry down position. It conceals well and makes for a good drawing position, IMHO.
They are pricy but the quality is there.
The rig takes some training as any new carry position does, but I like the weight carried on my shoulders in contrast to my hips.
 
Uncle Mike's.
"...too easy for someone to push your drawing hand..." You let the guy get waaaaay too close to your person.
 
I really appreciate all the comments and things to consider. I do like what I see from Galco. And although, it isn't mentioned here, I like what I see from DeSantis as well. Thanks again for all your responses.
 
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