The Gun Counter

A friend got his CCW permit a couple of years ago, but has never gotten around to carrying. He has a Glock 27 .40, subcompact, I suppose. He thinks he wants a shoulder holster--he rides a Harley, and thinks an IWB or such will be a hindrance on the bike. Any suggestions? The guys at the indoor range all frown on shoulder holsters, they say somebody's always being swept by such a rig. Comment?

Several members use them, including myself. They work fine, if you have a certain purpose - I like them for carrying larger guns in the fall/winter, but I usually have other guns on as well.

I'm a fan of the Galco Miami Classic. Review in the Wiki.

Just wore it yesterday on an all day drive with no problem (Browning HP natch with 2 spare mags). Had to disarm while crossing the People's Republic of Ill-Annoy and simply secured weapon and ammo in cases in the back. Left the holster on and forgot about it until crossing the big muddy when I resumed my role as a citizen.

Toad has a review of of the Triple K Ultra as well. He referred to it as a

partially completed holster kit

Biggest rule is Don't Go Cheap! This is one item where you definitely get what you pay for.

ETA: As far as sweeping, you need to practice a bit to make sure your arm is clear when drawing. At one range they simply ensured that the shooter was on the far left of the line (right hand shooter, holster under left arm) and had a dedicated RSO watching him for a while. I know most ranges won't go to that trouble.

Some of those type of comments I've heard come from folks that don't like standing behind someone with a horizontal shoulder holster. they consider it being swept even when the firearm is secure in the holster and the owner isn't touching it. Not buying that. By that definition any holster has you sweeping at some point in your day, such as climbing stairs and someone is below you, etc.

+1

I use one in the winter or when I ride and can keep my jacket on. Galco is the clear winner.

I've sold a lot of shoulder rigs to bikers. It makes sense that it would be easier to keep covered up than a belt line holster while riding.

Just an FYI, the new "Alessi" holster company, also sells "partially completed holster kits." And, they aren't cheap. Parts are still well done, but there are some, pure boneheaded, mistakes. (Like using an uncut, conventional nut and bolt, instead of a chicago screw, and then molding the leather around the conventional nut and bolt to leave a bump to rub your side...)