Best Shoulder Holster (By Function) 2023
There’s a lot of back and forth about which kind of shoulder holster is the best, but the truth is, the best shoulder holster is the one that fits you the best. Finding that one holster might be tough because of clashing opinions, so I decided to make a comprehensive guide to help you come to a solid decision.
So, I’ve listed six of my top shoulder holster picks and sorted them according to the different purposes they serve, and more importantly, compiled a guide to buying and using a shoulder holster.
Before we get into the best shoulder holsters, let’s go over how you can benefit from using one...and of course remember the cool factor they can provide.
Advantages of using a shoulder holster
I’ve used all kinds of holsters but there are a few reasons shoulder holsters stand out to me:
- Comfort - Shoulder holsters distribute the weight of your firearm across your upper body, making them very comfortable to wear and use. This is especially useful if you carry heavy guns.
- Accessibility - If you’re right-handed, your shoulder holster will rest on your left side and vice versa if you’re a leftie, so you can easily cross draw with your dominant arm. Some holsters like the Galco VHS are ambidextrous and can be worn on either side.
- Compact - Shoulder holsters allow your firearm to lay flat against your body which is great if you need to navigate through tight spaces.
- Retention - These holsters have a secure hold on your gun, meaning you don’t have to worry about it slipping out when you're on the move. My hunts usually involve a lot of trekking so retention is very important to me.
- Storage - Some shoulder holsters have pockets that can help you carry around extra ammo.
Personally, these are some of the reasons I lean toward shoulder holsters but there are a few things that some folks might not like. Shoulder holsters can sometimes be seen through clothes, and while you can wear a jacket over it for better concealment, it can be inconvenient sometimes. Also, if you’re not used to cross-drawing, a shoulder holster might slow you down and the way your firearm sits might take some getting used to as well.
That said, shoulder holsters can be very useful in a lot of different situations; here are some of my favorite shoulder holsters in the market.
Best Shoulder Holsters
1. Best overall: Aker Leather 101 Comfort-Flex
- Uses durable full-grain leather
- Comfortable and allows movement
- Double mag pouch for storage
- Affordable
2. Best comfort: Bianchi X15
- Uses durable full-grain leather
- Fully adjustable and comfortable
- Fully detachable retainer strap
- Smooth draw
3. Best value: Safariland 7TS ALS Shoulder Holster
- Uses durable nylon blend
- Allows a smooth draw
- Light and comfortable
4. Best adjustability: Alien Gear Shapeshift Shoulder Holster
- Highly customizable
- Good concealment
- Very secure
5. Best vertical shoulder holster: Galco Vertical Holster System 4.0
- Made with durable premium steerhide
- Comfortable and concealable
- Easy assembly
- Ideal for hunters and outdoorsmen
6. Best horizontal shoulder holster: Galco Miami Classic II
- Made with durable premium steerhide
- Allows faster grasp when reloading
- Adjustable
- Comfortable and concealable
Best Shoulder Holsters of 2023 - Reviews
Out of all the shoulder holsters I’ve used, these ones have worked the best for me. I’ve categorized them according to what they are best at, like adjustability, comfort, and value. If you go through the list with your requirements in mind, you can narrow down your choices for a shoulder holster and find the exact fit you need.
Best overall - Aker Leather 101 Comfort-Flex
Grading
Quality - A-
Versatility - A+
Retention - A+
Comfort - A+
Overall - A+
The Aker Leather 101 Comfort-Flex is my overall best pick because it’s comfortable, durable, flexible, and affordable. While it isn’t the best in every category, it’s a very well-rounded holster that would be a great pickup.
I use this holster to carry my Glock 17 and magazines, and I really like the fit. I didn’t need much of a break-in to stretch it out, but I went through the process anyway and the result was a much smoother draw. I noticed the thumb break that retains the firearm in place was a bit tough to snap at first, but twisting the leather back and forth a few times sorted that too.
There’s a double mag pouch so I can carry a couple of magazines along with the firearm, and the pouch also helps with balancing the weight and the hold of the holster. A balanced holster keeps your firearm in place while walking or running, so I’d say the Aker Leather 101 Comfort-Flex does pretty well in the storage and balance department thanks to its magazine pouches.
The Aker Leather 101 Comfort-Flex is definitely true to its name; this is one of the most comfortable shoulder holsters I've worn. It hangs diagonally, which means it can spread the weight of the pistol across my back, and this is especially great if you carry heavier firearms like an M1911 or a Glock 20/21 so the weight doesn’t strain your side when you have to carry them for a long time. The pistol angles slightly upward when strapped in, which is good for two things: an easy draw and a comfortable carry position. The strap leather on the harness is soft, and flexible, and helps improve the comfort factor but the downside with the straps is that the leather started wearing off sooner than I thought.
I’m forgiving of the straps because the rest of the shoulder holster is sturdy and durable. The full-grain leather is thin and light to wear. I also really liked the hard-shell exterior and though the strap leather makes the interior a bit rough, it smoothes out with wear.
Besides, at a price range of $100-$150, the Aker Leather 101 Comfort-Flex gives a lot of value compared to many holsters at the same price point. This is a great deal for a full-grain leather holster, especially considering the comfort, fit, and storage.
- Pros
- Uses durable full-grain leather
- Comfortable and allows movement
- Double mag pouch for storage
- Affordable
- Cons
- Strap leather may wear out quickly
Best comfort - Bianchi X15
Grading
Quality - B+
Versatility - A-
Retention - A-
Comfort - A+
Overall - A-
My pick for best comfort is the Bianchi X15 because its material and adjustability give me a very snug fit when I wear it.
The Bianchi X15 has a fully adjustable cross-style harness to support and distribute the weight of the firearm evenly across the shoulders, which is good news for people with a large build because the harness can stretch up to 48 inches without straining. I had to adjust the straps for a bit to arrange them but once I got the right fit, it was quite secure and didn’t restrict my movement.
The material is treated so well that once I broke in the holster, the full-grain leather settled around my firearm all flexible and smooth. The material is so snug that the holster hugs my side despite how big it is–13 inches long in my case. Breaking it in wasn’t ideal by the way–it took me 3 days to get the fit I wanted.
The length of the holster is a plus for concealment too, if you have a firearm with a lengthy barrel. For example, an average holster might not have concealed a 6-inch barrel but the Bianchi X15 does the job–I found it quite easy to carry my Taurus 44 concealed under my overcoat without slowing down the draw. The holster is half-lined with full-grain leather on the inside, and I felt that it helps make the draw smooth as well.
Bianchi X15 has a lot of good things going for it but there’s just one big hiccup: compatibility. This didn’t happen to me, but I’ve heard the same complaint from many friends–the holster you get can have different specs compared to the one in the listing, meaning you can’t be certain the holster you’re buying fits the dimensions of your firearm. I’ve been lucky with my purchase but these issues can really throw you off your stride with a holster, so I recommend looking at reviews from people who own the same firearm you plan to fit into it.
If you do get your hands on the Bianchi X15 with the right fit though, you’re sure to get a super comfortable fit, a snug carry position, and a smooth draw.
- Pros
- Uses durable full-grain leather
- Fully adjustable and comfortable
- Fully detachable retainer strap
- Smooth draw
- Cons
- Listed specs may not be accurate
Best value - Safariland 7TS ALS Shoulder Holster
Grading
Quality - B+
Versatility - B+
Retention - A-
Comfort - B-
Overall - B+
Good quality shoulder holsters are usually in the expensive range from $120 to $300 and a major reason behind this is the material–premium leather that many use. The Safariland 7TS ALS is made of a nylon blend that doesn’t sacrifice any of the durability you get from high-quality leather but is still priced under 100 bucks.
The SafariSeven nylon blend is a proprietary material and it’s designed to be highly durable, so if you need a shoulder holster that stands up incredibly well against the elements, this is it. In fact, the material has been tested and proven to withstand temperatures between 300°F and -50°F and can be submerged in water for a long time without any loss of quality. You probably wouldn’t need to resist extreme situations like that in most cases, but it does highlight the holster’s rock-solid durability. The material is gentle on your firearm as well so there’s no risk of chafing or scraping your equipment.
Unfortunately, the same material isn’t as gentle on the skin, so if you need to wear this holster against your skin, I suggest taking the time to break in the holster and wearing it over clothing for some time to let the leather settle down.
I also like the Safariland 7TS ALS for its smooth draw and the Automatic Locking System (ALS) because I get a clean draw without compromising on safety. The thumb release does have to be broken in before it gives a smooth draw, but that only takes a couple of days to do. The ALS works once you holster: it locks the firearm and holds it in place when you move. It’s also fully operable with your thumb, meaning you don’t need to put in too much effort to secure your firearm.
I like how lightweight the harness is because it’s made up of a single strap and a thin cord to wrap around the torso, but the low weight of the harness comes at the cost of weight distribution. The cord doesn’t have enough surface area to distribute the weight, so it’s nearly impossible to wear it for a long time without straining your arm. Something to keep in mind is that this is a single-sided harness, which means the weight distribution is lopsided and can be uncomfortable to wear if you’re going running, hiking, or jogging. I usually wear this when I’m driving–my Glock 17 is pretty stable once it’s strapped inside and it conceals incredibly well as the harness is compact too.
The compact factor isn’t always a plus though; you can’t really fit in large or heavy firearms in this holster. The other issue is that the holster doesn’t accommodate tie-downs or additional attachments like magazine pouches because the holster is too small to fit extra accessories. While I like the fact that I don’t need a tie-down strap to attach the holster to my belt, I wish there was some space to add a small pouch.
I’m not going to expect a whole lot of premium features out of the Safariland 7TS ALS at 100 bucks because it gives the best value for this price point. It’s durable, safe, and comes in handy in situations I often find myself in like driving or walking, so for me, it’s certainly a solid choice.
- Pros
- Uses a durable nylon blend
- Allows a smooth draw
- Light
- Cons
- Not suitable to wear for a long time
- Doesn’t accommodate tie-downs or accessories
Best Adjustability: Alien Gear Shapeshift
Grading
Quality - A-
Versatility - A+
Retention - A-
Comfort - B+
Overall - A-
The Alien Gear Shapeshift Shoulder Holster is my top pick for adjustability because it lives up to its name—I use this for my Glock 19, and let me tell you, the angle of the holster, the height, and the suspenders are all fully adjustable to carry your firearm the exact way you want.
The holster can fit a range of handguns and the Kydex holster shell lets you switch holster platforms quite easily, so it’s very versatile. The shoulder holster also has two extra magazine carriers to pack more ammo and other than giving you extra storage, this also balances out the weight of your firearm so the holster moves with your body smoothly.
It’s super easy to conceal carry my firearm using this holster with the correct padding thanks to the slim design of the straps: the padding helps the holster cling to my torso and the slim design gives the holster a low profile overall. But I’ll be honest, it’s a bit of a hassle to adjust all the straps so the padding sits at the right place.
I personally didn’t like the thumb release on the holster. Its position was slightly uncomfortable for my grip and took me a while to get used to it. I also recommend keeping an eye on the screws, because mine loosened up and fell out once, but that’s nothing a regular check-up can’t avoid. Breaking in the holster took me 3 days so it’s not the quickest process, but once it stretched enough, the holster fit my Glock 19 like a glove.
The Alien Gear Shapeshift Shoulder Holster is pricey–it ranges around $280, but it’s lightweight, well-built, and adjusts well, so I don’t mind the hefty price tag. Its durability and flexibility definitely make the holster worth it in the long run.
- Pros
- Highly customizable
- Good concealment
- Very secure
- Cons
- Can be difficult to set up at first
- Uncomfortable thumb release
- Screws tend to loosen
Best vertical shoulder holster - Galco Vertical Holster System 4.0
Grading
Quality - A+
Versatility - B+
Retention - A+
Comfort - A+
Overall - A+
Galco is a well-loved name in the industry, and their shoulder holsters are one reason why. The Galco Vertical Holster System 4.0 is a strong contender for the overall best, but I put it in this category because this is a great pick for the folks who prefer vertical orientation in a shoulder holster.
The Galco Vertical Holster System (VHS) 4.0 is made from premium steer hide treated for contouring, which improves the retention of the holster. The holster also uses wide spider harness straps that can distribute the weight evenly, which is super important in a shoulder holster with vertical orientation as the weight can sometimes go lopsided. The straps fasten with Galco’s patented swivel connectors and allow you to adjust the holster to your fit quite comfortably.
Assembling the holster is simple because it has an improved key-hole harness fastener system, which helps figure out your fit and put the holster together super quickly. In fact, I assembled mine in 5 minutes and adjusted everything to my fit in less than 10.
The Galco VHS 4.0 also has top-notch concealment; I can pack two magazines and a full-size handgun under my jacket with no printing. The holster also has secure flaps for the magazine carriers and a retention strap to hold the firearm, making the holster pretty safe as well. The excellent concealment and safety are probably a couple of reasons why many law enforcement authorities use this shoulder holster. The holster also comes with space for optional accessories, so I added a new side pouch for more ammo. You can also attach ambidextrous tie-downs if you need that extra hold on your belt.
While the Galco VHS 4.0 is a great versatile holster that can hold a range of semiautomatic pistols and revolvers, its magazine carrier can’t hold magazines with exterior sleeves. You can always solve this issue by not adding a sleeve, but if you do need sleeves on your magazines, you might need to check them for compatibility with the carrier.
The Galco VHS 4.0 has some excellent features and they come with a matching price tag–this holster retails around $330, so if you are looking for a budget option, this may not be the one for you. However, if you’re a serious hunter or an outdoor enthusiast who likes a comfortable, reliable option to vertical carry, you can’t go wrong with the Galco VHS 4.0.
- Pros
- Made with durable Premium Steerhide
- Comfortable and concealable
- Easy assembly
- Ideal for hunters and outdoorsmen
- Cons
- May not accommodate magazines with exterior sleeves
- Expensive
Best horizontal shoulder holster - Galco Miami Classic II
Grading
Quality - A+
Versatility - B+
Retention - A+
Comfort - A-
Overall - A-
Galco made it to another spot on my list because their Miami Classic II is an outstanding shoulder holster with a horizontal setup. It’s super comfortable, conceals well, and has great accessibility–so checks the boxes of a quality shoulder holster.
The holster is made of premium steer hide, meaning it’s durable, flexible, comfortable, and of course, expensive. The holster is adjustable and fits up to 52 inches, so I tinkered a bit with the straps to get a comfortable fit. I was going to add tie-down attachments because I wasn’t too sure about how well the holster would stick to my side, but it turns out I didn’t have to worry–the holster sat well in the carry position even without the tie-downs.
I tend to go for vertical rigs because horizontal ones are not great at managing the weight of the firearm, but I didn’t come across that issue with the Galco Miami Classic II. It has tapered straps that are wide across the shoulders to distribute the weight evenly. The straps are thin everywhere else to keep a low profile so they don’t affect the concealment.
Speaking of concealment, the fact that the Galco Miami Classic II conceals so well is impressive because horizontal rigs are often tough to conceal properly.
One aspect that really impressed me was how my draw felt as smooth as butter in this holster–it was even smoother than the draw in the Galco VHS 4.0. I’d chalk this up to the orientation because there’s just more accessibility when the firearm is horizontal. There’s also a horizontal double magazine carrier to allow faster grasp if you need to reload quickly but the mags are only held in by friction, so they are not great for moving around. I have my doubts about the mags holding in during physical activity, but this setup is good for when you’re driving or sitting because of improved accessibility.
The Miami Classic II is a versatile shoulder holster and can hold subcompact to full-size handguns, but concealment becomes tricky when your firearm is on the large side. But if concealment isn’t a priority, you can even carry full-size handguns without straining your back or causing discomfort on your side.
This holster retails around $300, which is pretty pricey, but I’d say its quality is well-reflected on the price tag. If you’re looking for a horizontal shoulder holster with a good fit and a sweet draw, the Galco Miami Classic II is a great investment.
- Pros
- Made with durable premium steer hide
- Allows faster grasp when reloading
- Adjustable
- Comfortable and concealable
- Cons
- Expensive
- Magazines are held in by friction only
- Limited to handguns shorter than your torso is from front to back
Buyers Guide
If you're unsure of what to look for when choosing a shoulder holster, I’ve listed everything you need to know in the buyer’s guide below. Consider these factors to help you narrow down your options when looking for your best fit.
- Purpose - The way you use your firearm will tell you what you need to look for in a shoulder holster. For example, for easy cross-draw access, consider how the firearm compartment is positioned. If you like carrying a lot of ammo, look at holsters with more storage pockets.
- Type - Shoulder holsters can be horizontal, vertical, or angled, depending on the ‘cant angle’–the angle at which the gun rests on your hip. A vertical holster is good for larger firearms since its muzzle points down, but it has the slowest draw. A horizontal one would be faster but might print through your clothes with long firearms. Angled holsters are better for faster draws, but might not be as accessible if you have a larger chest.
- Hand orientation - Since shoulder holsters require a cross-draw, your gun holster should sit on the opposite side of your dominant hand. If you draw with your left, your holster should sit under your right arm, and if you draw with your right, it should be under your left. When choosing your shoulder holster, remember to pick the correct orientation as some shoulder holsters come in a specific orientation–left or right. If you get an ambidextrous one, remember to adjust the fit to your dominant arm.
- Permit - Check if your state requires a permit to carry a concealed firearm and whether you need to undergo training before getting one. You would need to submit an application and pay the relevant fee.
- Adjustability - A well-fitting holster is important for your safety. Your holster should have a secure retention strap to keep your gun in place and sit close to your body without restricting movement. Since some holsters are adjustable, you could resize them to fit your body type, because if it’s too loose or too tight it can be very uncomfortable and mess up your performance.
- Retention level - Retention is the grip your holster has on your firearm, and this is important because it makes sure your firearm doesn’t slip out of place. Most holsters have a retention strap that can be undone to draw your firearm, and they use snaps, velcro, or thumb breaks–make sure to pick something you’re comfortable using.
- Price - The price of a shoulder holster depends on its brand and model. It’s certainly possible to find affordable holsters, but you need to consider all their pros and cons to make sure you’re getting the most out of it. Premium holsters are made to certain standards and give you the assurance of a branded product, but keep in mind that price is not always an indication of quality, and that you should prioritize functionality at all times.
- Safety - Your firearm will be lying against your body, so it’s important to take safety into account. Check the angle of your holster, because your firearm may be pointing at the person behind you and if this worries you, you can go for a vertical holster since it points down instead. Don’t forget to check your trigger guard too, because if it’s in the wrong position, you could risk misfiring.
- Comfort - Some holsters are more comfortable than others. For example, holsters with thicker straps would distribute the weight evenly across your body instead of straining your shoulders. They might also include swivel points so you can move easily. If comfort is a priority for you, you might prefer neoprene holsters, which are more breathable than leather ones.
- Accessories - Some holsters have additional storage compartments for your magazines and ammunition. Extra storage is something you might want to prioritize if you plan on reloading a few times. These compartments can also balance out the weight of your gun holster so it sits more comfortably on your body.
- Durability - Your holster might go through different stress situations and weather conditions, so consider choosing a material that’s durable and weather-resistant. Materials like high-quality leather are a good option since they can withstand extreme conditions without losing functionality.
- Concealment - Holsters that aren’t bulky are much easier to conceal. These ones tend to have thinner straps and lighter materials so you can wear them under a shirt and minimize printing.
Your requirements for a shoulder holster may vary, but these factors will help you pin down the right fit and make a solid purchase. Once you have your new shoulder holster, you can shape it to the ideal fit by breaking it in.
How to break in a shoulder holster
Breaking in a holster is the process of stretching it out to comfortably fit your gun. Once you break in your leather holster, you’ll have a custom fit for your firearm which is great for retention. Here’s how to do it:
- Step 1 - Unload your gun and place it into a plastic bag, muzzle first. This will protect it while you’re breaking in your holster.
- Step 2 - Grab your holster and gently push your gun in. Make sure its buttstock is facing out. Close the retainer strap on the holster and leave it overnight.
- Step 3 - Check your holster the next day. Take the gun out, remove the plastic bag, and push it back in. Your holster should grip your gun firmly, but allow a smooth draw.
If you feel a bit more resistance than you like, wrap it up in the plastic bag and keep it in your holster for a few days but anyway, your holster will continue to break in as you use it. Keep in mind that it’s best to avoid using any lubricants since it could make your holster excessively slippery and cause your weapon to fall out.
How to correctly wear a shoulder holster
If your holster is too big for you, it could shift around as you move and if it’s too tight, it could ride up and cut into your shoulders. A bad fit either way can make your holster very uncomfortable and affect its concealability so to avoid that, here’s the correct way to wear a shoulder holster:
- Step 1 - Put your gun and magazine(s) in their relevant storage compartments.
- Step 2 - Put your holster on. It’s best to avoid having it contact your skin directly because it could lead to chafing. If you want more concealment, throw on an over shirt or jacket once you’re done.
- Step 3 - Make sure the firearm compartment is on the opposite side of your dominant hand. If you use your left hand, your firearm should be under your right arm, and if you use your right, it should be under your left.
- Step 4 - Adjust your straps. The straps should cross below your collar but above your shoulder blades. If you’re using a holster with belt-like straps, it might be easier to adjust to your exact size than those with snaps. Just make sure it sits comfortably and doesn’t restrict your movement.
- Step 5 - Adjust your holster. Your holster should be an appropriate distance away from your armpit and balance out the weight of your magazine compartment. You’ll also want to make sure the angle of the holster works with your dominant arm’s cross draw.
- Step 6 - This step is optional. If you feel like you need more stability, you can tie down your holster to your belt. Some holsters have built in tie-downs and some give you the option to attach them separately.
Customizing your holster’s fit to your body might take some time at first, but it’ll get easier the more you do it. That being said, make sure you’re buying a shoulder holster that works for you. There are a few things you should check out when making this decision, so consider all the factors that apply to you.
Conclusion
A shoulder holster can give you a safe, comfortable, and accessible carry position for your firearm. Your choice determines how well you’re prepared for unexpected situations and how secure your firearm is, so explore all your options and buckle up with your best fit!
FAQs
1. What types of guns can a shoulder holster fit?
Shoulder holsters are great for heavy handguns because they spread the weight of the gun across your body. If you're looking for a slim and compact option, go for pistols like the S&W Shield or Sig P365. But if you prefer full-size firearms, larger pistols with slim slides like the CZ 75 or a 1911 work great with shoulder holsters. When properly adjusted, you can carry a heavy revolver for days without a big hassle.
2. Are shoulder holsters safe?
Absolutely. The key to safety is selecting a high-quality holster to hold your gun in place and prevent accidental discharges. Keep in mind that proper training and handling techniques are always essential for safe use.
3. How do I break in a leather shoulder holster?
Place your unloaded firearm into a plastic ziplock bag and keep it in the holster. Then start wearing the holster during your day, even while doing household chores. Give it about two weeks and the leather will slowly mold into your desired shape to give you a comfortable fit. Keep in mind that a good holster continues to shape and fit better over time as you use it.
4. Is a vertical or horizontal shoulder holster better?
Deciding between a vertical or horizontal shoulder holster is all about what works for you. A vertical shoulder holster holds the firearm upright, making it easy to draw smoothly. It’s also good for larger, heavier guns. On the other hand, a horizontal shoulder holster is for discreet carry for smaller guns and is also safer because the barrel is pointed away from your body. Consider practicality, concealment, and overall comfort to decide which suits you best.
5. Is a shoulder holster open carry?
Shoulder holsters can do both concealed carry and open carry, depending on their design and how you wear them. For example, if your holster is covered by clothing, then it is concealed. There are also shoulder holsters made for open carry, where your firearm is visible. You also need to be aware of local laws and regulations regarding open carry and concealed carry to stay compliant.
6. What leather does Galco use?
Galco holsters are made using premium steer hide, known for its durability, and natural elegance. Galco is popular for good-quality material and their skilled craftsmanship in creating their holsters.
7. What is the best shoulder holster for Glock 17 and 19?
For the Glock 17, the Galco Miami Classic II is a good fit with its classic design, exceptional quality, and comfortable fit. It keeps your Glock secure and is easy to draw from, making it a reliable choice. The Alien Gear ShapeShift Shoulder Holster is well-suited for Glock 19. It offers a comfortable carry experience along with versatility and adjustable configuration. All holsters have their own unique features, so consider your personal preferences to pick the right one for your firearm.
Want a second opinion? Check out Travis Pike's picks for the best shoulder holster.
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