If you are a gun carrier, you are already aware of how important a holster is. It keeps your pistol secure, easily accessible, and safe from accidental fire. However, the wide variety of options can often confuse you. Is an OWB better than IWB? What is a shoulder holster exactly? How do you decide which gun holster is the right choice for you?
The blog discusses everything about a shoulder holster and its various types. We will also discuss how to wear this conceal cover and what the safety measures are to follow.
What Is a Shoulder Holster?
A shoulder holster is identified by its two straps, worn over the shoulder like a backpack. This cover keeps your gun secure on the left or right side, depending on your drawing position. In some cases, guns are kept in both straps, if that matches your duty requirement. Since the pistol is mounted at a height, you can easily hide it underneath your loose garments or a jacket.
Why Choose a Shoulder Holster?
A shoulder holster does more than free up your hands for other tasks. As a law enforcement officer, here’s how this pistol cover fulfils your concealed carry requirements:
Comfort
Unlike the standard covers, a shoulder holster doesn’t depend on your waistband or belt, making it comfortable to carry for long hours. It distributes the firearm weight across your shoulders and back, minimising load on the lower back.
Quick Access
A customised holster enables you to easily access the gun, often required in an intense environment. When the gun is secure under your arm, drawing it becomes easier without dealing with the buttons and zippers. The quick accessibility makes shoulder covers a popular choice among officers who encounter unpredictable situations every day.
Versatility
A shoulder holster is adaptable to all body types and sizes, making it a versatile addition to your concealed carry collection. Such a cover is also adaptable to various barrel lengths, enabling you to use it for large and compact handguns.
Concealment
The holster works well to hide your firearm under clothing. This discreet carry style ensures that you don’t draw attention and can use it as per your discretion. Since you carry the cover on your back, it also adds to your professional appearance, making it a fashionable concealment option for everyday wear.
Security
Your pistol remains intact in a shoulder holster, preventing accidental discharge. This enhanced security feature of concealed carry makes it ideal for individuals frequently engaged in dangerous situations.
Driving-Friendly
A custom shoulder holster is perfect for those who spend the entire day driving. It keeps the firearm easily accessible without having to deal with the pants belt or seatbelt.
Shop Our Best Leather Shoulder Holsters
A shoulder holster provides unparalleled comfort, accessibility, and concealment. Explore the variety of concealed carry options to select one that fits your requirements.
Types of Shoulder Holsters
A shoulder holster adjusts to your back and distributes the pistol’s weight equally. However, there are a few types of holsters to suit every gun carrier’s comfort:
Horizontal Holster
This is the most common type of shoulder holster, concealing your gun parallel to the ground. Suitable for seasoned officers, it comes with a harness wrapped around your shoulders and chest. The cover is generally made from nylon or leather and adds a professional touch to your ensemble.
Vertical Holster
Unlike a horizontal holster, a vertical holster features a harness wrapped around your chest and one shoulder. It keeps the pistol perpendicular to the floor and on the opposite side of the body. This arrangement allows you to smoothly draw out the weapon from the opposite hand, while standing or seated. The holster is typically made from nylon or synthetic material.
How to Properly Wear a Shoulder Holster
A shoulder holster allows you to wear a gun comfortably. However, it is imperative to know the right way of carrying the holster itself. Here is how to wear your concealed carry so the weight is distributed equally on your shoulders:
- Adjust the holster underneath your non-draw arm.
- Open up the harness and put it across your non-dominant arm.
- Ensure that the holster’s top part is facing outwards so that you can easily draw your gun. ·
- Put on the rest of the harness through your other arm, just like you would put on a backpack.
- Take note that the counterbalance magazine should rest securely under your dominant arm.
- Crosscheck if the harness straps aren’t inside out or twisted.
Best Clothing for Concealing a Shoulder Holster
Choose your outfit to ensure that your gun stays concealed and doesn’t leave a print. The best kind of clothing offers comfort, accessibility, and safety. Here are the right choices for you:
- Oversized or sports jacket
- Loose shirts or shackets
- Button-down shirts
- Vests
- Coats and sweatshirts
Shoulder Holster vs Waistband Holster: Which Is Better?
Shoulder and waistband holsters serve distinct purposes for the gun owner. When you have to decide between one of the types, it comes down to your needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of both holsters to help you decide.
Pros of a Shoulder Holster
- More comfortable to wear
- Most accessible, easily when seated or driving
- Generally, it comes with an additional magazine slot on the opposite side
- Ideal choice if you don’t usually wear a belt
- Works well in cold conditions when you are wearing multiple clothing layers
Cons of a Shoulder Holster
- Unfeasible to wear in summer, as you cannot properly conceal your pistol
- Can feel heavy due to the additional slot, causing you to slouch
- Restricts movement, especially troublesome during intense situations where you need to act quickly
- Takes longer to draw and can attract the opponent’s attention
Pros of a Waistband Holster
- Easy access to a gun
- Standard placement according to the law enforcement
- Easily conceals the weapon without additional clothing
- Quick time from draw to fire
- Easy to carry a full-size gun without bulkiness
Cons of a Waistband Holster
- Since this is the most common placement position, the opponent can suspect your pistol.
- Provides an easily accessible spot to steal a gun
- Can feel comfortable after prolonged wear
- Challenging to draw and fire when seated
Shoulder Holster Safety Considerations
If you are purchasing a shoulder holster for the first time, here are the safety measures to follow:
Read the Instructions
Every holster comes with an instruction guide. Go through the tips attentively and make sure you follow what the booklet says. Taking care of the directions will help you stay safe in every situation. They would also help you change the setup without accidental backfire.
Adjust the Rig
After you have worn the holster, adjust the straps for a comfortable fit. Remember that:
- The chest belt should not cinch you and feel uncomfortable. It has to remain in place, but that doesn’t mean you suffocate yourself. Also, increase the tightness as required if the belt seems loose.
- The shoulder straps are adjustable to suit your comfort. You can shorten or elongate it, depending on your requirement.
- Although a shoulder holster is designed to carry most pistols, it would not fit a weapon with additional lights or lasers. Select your concealed carry carefully to avoid inconvenience.
Maintain Caution
You might have to show your ID in certain situations, which might be placed near the shoulder holster. Proceed cautiously, as the person in front might get alarmed, resulting in an undesired situation.
Don’t Force Fit
Not every gun easily fits a shoulder holster. Try out the cover and see if they are a perfect match. An oversized or small cover can lead to difficulty in carrying the concealment. Check whether:
- The cover securely fits your gun without the risk of falling out
- Can hide it under your clothing without printing
- Can protect the gun from moisture and accidental trigger pull
- Allows easy draw and reholster in emergency situations
- It is comfortable to wear for long hours
How to Choose the Right Shoulder
Holster Here are the factors to consider when looking for a shoulder holster for your weapon:
Comfort and Fit
The first thing to check is whether the holster keeps you comfortable or not. Since everyone’s body type and shape differ, the right fit might also vary. Try on a few holsters to achieve the right comfort for everyday wear. A concealed cover has to do its job, that is, keep your pistol hidden without making you feel uneasy.
Material
A holster is available in various materials to suit everyone’s specific requirements:
- Leather: The material is flexible and comfortable. However, it degrades over time due to continuous exposure.
- Nylon: It is an affordable choice, but is less durable as compared to other materials.
- Kydex: The lightweight material holds onto its shape for a long time. However, it is noisier compared to leather and nylon.
Price
A shoulder holster comes in various price ranges, depending on your budget. Although an economical concealed cover is comfortable, it doesn’t promise durability. On the other hand, an expensive custom-made holster doesn’t break easily and fits your pistol easily. 4.
Retention
Retention is important when choosing a gun holster. The feature determines if your cover can hold position in extreme situations, like combat or intense road bumps. Choose a shoulder cover that securely holds onto your gun and doesn’t slip on the grip.
Movement
Law enforcement officers have varied duties. While some are involved in patrolling, others are always fighting the bad guys. That’s why it is important to check if the holster allows you to move around without losing the grip.
Customisation
Are you purchasing a one-size-fits-all cover? Although it can be more expensive to purchase a tailor-made holster, you want a system that lasts and can handle every situation like a pro.
IWB or Shoulder Holster – Which One Is Right for You?
Carrying a firearm for self-defence or duty is important. However, if you are new to the world of weapons, it can be difficult to decide whether an IWB or shoulder holster suits you.
Shoulder Holster
When you carry the holster, you don’t need a belt or feel the extra weight. This concealed carry distributes the weight on your shoulders and chest, keeping you comfortable for long hours.
However, the shoulder holster doesn’t hide your weapon very well. It is more about professionalism and comfort rather than concealment.
IWB Holster
AnIWB holster is ideal to keep your gun secure and easily accessible in combat. This is perfect for situations when you don’t want to be in the public eye and still feel safe. The gun is not visible until you need it.
However, an IWB concealed carry is not very comfortable. It attaches to your waistbelt, adding extra load. Also, you require prior training to reduce the draw time to fire for such holsters.
Conclusion
A shoulder holster is one of the most practical and comfortable concealed carry options for law enforcement officers. It distributes the weight, conceals underneath loose clothing, and keeps you ready for the action. However, you can find several types of shoulder gun covers, and selecting the right one depends on your gun type and requirements. Browse through an extensive range of options from Wright Leather Works to select the right fit for your everyday requirement.
FAQs
Is a shoulder holster a good choice?
A shoulder holster is a preferable choice for bulky firearms as it distributes the weight and doesn’t make you uncomfortable.
Are shoulder holsters legal to use?
The holster with a shoulder strap is legal in states where open carry is allowed.
Is a vertical shoulder holster better than a horizontal holster?
Both vertical and horizontal shoulder holsters work effectively. However, which is better depends on your requirements and comfort level.
Who usually carries a shoulder holster?
Mostly law enforcement officers and detectives carry a shoulder-strapped holster.
Can I carry a gun without the holster?
Yes, you can carry a gun without a cover. However, it is unsafe and can draw unnecessary attention to you.
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