Shoulder Holster?

Question

I am looking for a shoulder holster for a Smith and wesson model 19 revolver with a 4 inch barrel.That does not cost an arm and a leg.

Answer 1

The truth is, you probably won't find a comfortable shoulder holster first time you buy. You can expect to purchase three or four before you find one that fits comfortably and conceals your revolver.

And if you are a big man, you will probably never find one that is really comfortable. I know, I've tried to find a comfortable shoulder holster for over 25 years.

The Uncle Mike holsters work, and can be fairly comfortable, but they tend to be bulky and print through your shirt or jacket.

Galco's Miami Classic has a very good reputation, but it ain't cheap.

I've carried a gun on a regular basis for the last 30 years. I consider strong side belt holsters, whether inside or outside the waistband to be the best way to carry a sixgun. IMNSHO, the very best IWB holster ever marketed is the Bianchi Pistol Pocket, with the Sparks Summer Special a not too distant second.

A good option for belt carry are the various pancake style holsters. Rob Leahy of Simply Rugged Holsters (http://www.simplyrugged.com/) makes some very good versions of the original Roy Baker Pancake Holsters, and some other very good concealment holsters. Check his line of gunleather, and if you order, tell him I gave him a high recommendation, he is a great guy and a great leathercrafter. BTW, Rob makes an IWB holster that rivals the Pistol Pocket and Summer Special.

With a cover garment, and a bit of thought, you won't have much trouble concealing that M-19 in a belt holster. I've carried a 4" M-686 or a 4.75" SAA in a belt holster for years.

One more thing. Don't skimp on quality. Good gunleather is not cheap. You've invested several hundred dollars in a fine handgun. You've invested more money in your CCW Permit. Don't risk your life by trying to carry your handgun in a $10.00 holster. Cheap holsters are machine made of thin, cheap leather. They will not hold their shape, and they will not securely retain when running, climbing or scuffling, nor will it rapidly release your handgun when you desperately need it. Buy quality, you will never regret it.

Doc

Answer 2

If you want a good comfortable leather holster you are going to pay for it if you don't then it will fall apart.

Galco Gun Leather makes soem high quality stuff.

On a side note: All of the ranges I shoot at say no shoulder holsters. They forbid them after one person decided to break the rules and put a round into the back wall of the range. Then he pissed his pants right there on the range. I am one that thinks they are not all that good I would get a IWB or a clip on holster first. That is juts me if you are set on a shoulder holster go for it.

Answer 3

There are many good ones out there, but no good cheep ones. The nylon hosters will not stay adjusted as the straps tend to slip in the buckles. I think leather is the way to go and then mostly for a hunting handgun. For ccw carry I would go with something that attaches to your waist band and rides up high, making for easy cover by your shirt or coat.

Answer 4

The nylon ones made by Uncle Mike's are very functionable and is about $40.

Answer 5

gunshops/pawnshops bargain bin can find great stuff like that