Have you been thinking of trying out a classic shoulder holster or chest holster? If so, we are discussing one of each today that are wortthy considerations.
Holsters have come a long way over the years. Some new models are made from polymer and retention devices that lock the holster up better than Fort Knox. In fact, I think there is even a holster called “Fort Knox”.
As these types of holsters grew in popularity over the years, leather holsters started to fade away somewhat. But like any type of classic, quality made gear, it’s coming back.
When I became a police officer, I started using polymer holsters with retention on them. But I was always a fan of quality leather products. My travel bag, wallet, shoes, and yes… many of my holsters were made from quality leather.
When I transitioned from a road officer to an admin position within law enforcement, I started wearing a shoulder holster. Not just because I like leather holsters, but because they work better in some cases than a bulky duty holster or IWB holster.
When you spend a lot of your time in a car, at a desk, or just wearing plain clothes, it’s hard to beat a good shoulder holster.
And don’t forget about chest holsters either. A chest holster places your firearm at the center of your torso, which provides quick access while keeping your waist free for other gear. This can be ideal for those who need a more accessible option for activities like hiking, biking, or working outdoors.
Two options from 1791 GUNLEATHER
So, if you have been thinking about picking up a shoulder or chest holster, check out the Pathfinder Chest Holster and the Nakatomi Special Shoulder Holster. Both are designed for multiple models (including some revolvers). The ones I selected are for the Glock 17 MOS.
While I’ve used a lot of products from 1791 GUNLEATHER and am a big fan, I never assume a product is what a company claims it to be. I want to use it and see for myself how it holds up.
Pathfinder Chest Holster
The Pathfinder Chest Holster from 1791 GUNLEATHER is a good solution for those who need to carry a full-sized pistol or revolver securely while freeing up as much of your body as possible.
A full-size gun on your hip is not ideal in some cases and is not what I would call comfortable. The Pathfinder Chest holster is made from premium 100% American heavy steer hide so you know it will last a lifetime. The finish on the outside of the holster is a soft tan without just a hint of a sheen to it. It uses a traditional snap with a leather strap to secure the gun in place.
What’s cool about this holster is it will accommodate an optic. Just about everyone these days wants an optic on their handgun. I’m a bit of a traditionalist, but I also appreciate some of the modern gadgets available today. Some of my guns have optics on them and some don’t. But at least you have an option with this holster.
Why Choose a Chest Holster?
As I mentioned above, a chest holster is ideal for outdoor activities like hunting, hiking, camping etc. If you need to carry a backpack this is a perfect option. It keeps your firearm accessible while freeing up your waist for gear like a climbing harness, utility belt, or backpack strap. Chest holsters are also perfect for situations where drawing from the hip would be too cumbersome or obstructed.
Features and Design
The Pathfinder Chest Holster features an adjustable harness system designed to fit most body sizes. Its wide, padded straps help distribute the firearm’s weight evenly, minimizing fatigue during long hikes or workdays.
The holster itself is molded for a precise fit to the firearm you choose, in this case, a Glock 17/19. The
Specs for the Pathfinder Chest Holster:
- Material: 100% American heavy steer hide leather
- Adjustable harness for a custom fit
- Designed to fit specific models
- Compatible with optic-equipped pistols
- Quick-access retention system
- Weight-distributing padded straps for enhanced comfort
Nakatomi Special Shoulder Holster
The Nakatomi Special Shoulder Holster from 1791 GUNLEATHER is a throwback to the iconic rigs made famous by ’80s action movies. We all grew up watching movies about the mob, big city detectives, and even military personnel wearing them.
Designed for both form and function, this shoulder holster is perfect for concealing but can also be used for open carry as well. Like I said, I used to wear a shoulder holster daily and for some applications, they are better than anything else.
Why Choose a Shoulder Holster?
A shoulder holster is perfect when you are seated, driving, or performing activities where a hip holster would be difficult to access. By positioning the gun under your arm, the horizontal Nakatomi Special Shoulder Holster makes it easy to access your gun at any time.
The double mag pouch hangs at a downward angle, so the mags are easy to draw. I found the balance to be excellent with this system as well.
Features and Design
The Nakatomi Special Shoulder Holster is constructed from premium leather and features an adjustable harness system for a customized fit.
The wide straps reduce pressure on your shoulders, making it suitable for all-day wear. This holster is designed to work with optic-equipped pistols, just like the chest holster.
A belt strap is provided on the bottom of the holster and mag-pouch for those who want to secure each side to your belt. To be honest, I have never used belt straps on horizontal holsters. Because I adjust them to fit up under my arms, there is not really any room for movement.
On vertical holster systems I use a belt strap because more of the gun hangs down by your side. But either way, they are also provided on this holster so they are there if you need them.
Specs for the Nakatomi Special Shoulder Holster:
- Material: 100% premium leather
- Adjustable harness with padded straps for comfort
- Designed to fit Glock 17 and other full-sized pistols
- Optic-compatible design
- Horizontal orientation for fast draw
- Dual magazine pouches for additional ammunition storage
Are They Comfortable?
Comfort is a little bit important when it will be hanging around your shoulders all day. I’ve worn some shoulder rigs that for whatever reason, made my back ache by the end of the day.
Fortunately, both of these 1791 GUNLEATHER holsters are comfortable to wear. I still do some corporate security work and wearing a full-size, concealed gun is required. I’ve used their shoulder holster and rig for several months now and is great.
The leather was just a little stiff at first, but after the first couple of weeks, it has just about molded to my body and gun. I even forgot to take it off a few times after getting home.
For the chest holster, I started wearing it anytime I did outdoor activities instead of wearing my leather belt holster with my Cobra Gun Belt. My experience with chest holsters is more limited than any other type, but I can say I’m becoming a big fan.
It really does keep your mobility and range of arms and legs to a maximum. If you need it, it’s within easy reach but still completely out of the way. I’m not sure if any other holster system provides that.
The only downside to a chest holster like this one is visibility. If you need to conceal a gun, this may not be the best option. But when that is not an issue, you may want to give them a try.
Final Thoughts
I found both of these holster systems to be functional, durable, and comfortable. The leather is great quality and setting them up didn’t take long.
When comparing the price to quality, my opinion is you get a great deal. Good leather will last just about forever if you take care of it. Plastic holsters will get scratched up over time and look worse as time goes on. Leather on the other hand, looks even better as it ages.
If you thinking about tying out a shoulder or chest system, give 1791 GUNLEATHER a chance.