Best Leather Shoulder Holsters of 2023
At this point, you are probably aware of the fact that shoulder holsters are the best option when it comes to concealed carry. They can be designed in different ways and made from different materials, but none of them is so popular as those created from leather.
They will provide you with durability, reliability, and a great level of comfort. That’s why we present you with the seven best leather shoulder holsters on the market right now.
What Is The Best Leather Shoulder Holsters?
1. Galco Classic Lite Shoulder Holster
Specification
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Magazine pouch included
- Adjustable
- Horizontal gun carry
It is a well-known fact that Galco makes some of the best shoulder holsters, and this is one of their most popular pieces. The Classic Lite Galco leather shoulder holster is designed with the softest and the most comfortable material of this kind, and it is super durable.
It has four thin straps that are connected in a back with a patch, and thanks to that, the weight of the weapon will be equally distributed while you are wearing it. This model is constructed of premium center cut steerhide, and it will provide you with horizontal gun carry.
On one end, there is a gun case that has a retention strap, and on the other, you will find a pouch, suitable for one extra magazine that’s also secured with flaps. The length of the holster can be adjusted, which means it will fit anyone, no matter how tall the person is.
Your revolver will be safe while in it, and the double dump pouch will make sure it doesn’t pinch you when being close to your body. The holster can welcome many Glock models, it’s adequate for semiautomatic pistols and double-action revolvers, and it will be suitable for both left-handed and right-handed people.
2. Aker Leather 101
Specification
- Adjustable
- Double mag pouch
- Comfortable
- Horizontal gun carry
- Made in the USA
This black 1911 leather shoulder holster is very elegant and classic looking, so you can wear it during the day or night, no matter the occasion. It’s made in the USA from the raw materials and finest vegetable-tanned cowhide, and it is designed with patented and specially made harness structure.
The Aker leather shoulder gun holster is extremely durable, and it has a long lifespan. The fact that it’s used by law enforcement and federal agents confirms that, and it guarantees its quality. It is made from four straps that go around both arms, and it provides a good gun balance.
There is a gun pouch for horizontal carry on one side, and a double magazine pouch on the other. The gun case comes with a retention strap, so your weapon will be in its place until you decide to pull it out. Thanks to the adjustable tension screws, you will be able to set it up correctly, so it suits your body.
This shoulder holster is compatible with Commander, 1911 Government, and Officer models without rails, and the case is molded to welcome these models perfectly. If you prefer to have a natural color of leather, you can order it too since the manufacturer provided these two options.
3. Masc Holster Suede Shoulder Rig
Specification
- Comfortable
- Comes dissembled
- Unpolished leather
- Adjustable
- High concealment
If you decide to purchase this model of leather holster, you have to be prepared to do the assembling part on your own. It is a natural leather piece that comes in three parts – leather harness, gun case, and magazine case, and you will have to set it up on your own.
The item is designed in a way that will allow you to carry a gun under one arm, in a horizontal position, and an extra magazine under another one. Thanks to the screw-rivet system, you can make each part fit you like it was made for you, and set the height of a holster as you like.
This model will provide you with high concealment, and you can wear it under a jacket or under a suit. It is made from heavy premium suede leather that’s not polished, so it has the most natural look. It’s very comfortable and flexible, as well as elegant, which means you can wear it on any occasion.
The great thing about the Masc holster is that you can attach it to your belt on both sides, which will offer you more steady and reliable gun carry. The manufacturer suggests placing a gun case under your left arm if you are a right-handed person, for a more natural and easy draw.
4. Shapeshift Leather Shoulder Holster by Alien Gear Holsters
Specification
- High-quality made
- Very comfortable
- Adjustable
- 30-day test period
- Lifetime warranty
ShapeShift is definitely one of the best leather shoulder holsters you can find in the market at this moment. It is made in a high-quality manner from genuine leather, and it comes with a custom fit case that will provide you with proper protection and retention.
This model has shoulder stripes that are wider in the upper part, which will give you a more comfortable feel and better weight distribution. And thanks to the four belts in the lower end, you will be able to adjust it perfectly to your body size and length. The cant also can be adjusted.
In contrast to the gun case, there is a double mag pouch that will not only give you a space for additional ammo, but will offer a great balance to your gun. This holster will allow you to carry a weapon in an open or concealed way, as you like at the moment.
The product is made in the USA, from high-quality leather that’s very durable, resilient, and will guarantee a long lifespan. There are even two belt hooks that will make sure your holster is attached to your belt and in its place all the time. The manufacturer will give you a 30-day test period to see if this holster suits your needs, but also a lifetime warranty.
5. Leather Shoulder Holster.38/.357 6”
Specification
- Affordable
- Comfortable
- Vertical gun carry
- Adjustable
- Thin leather
If you are looking for a budget-friendly shoulder holster made of leather, this is the one for you. It is an elegant but economic model you can use for concealed carry, and it is a super lightweight piece you won’t feel like a burden on your body.
We are talking about a vertical shoulder holster that has a gun case compatible with .38 and .357 revolvers with barrels that are up to six inches wide. Given that it is designed from very thin leather, most people are sceptical about its performance. But believe us when we say that it’s a very durable and reliable everyday holster.
The gun case has a retention strap, which means your weapon will be safe and in its place no matter what you do, up to the point when you decide to draw it out. It is a fully adjustable model that can be an adequate solution for people with different body types and sizes.
It is not the best model of a shoulder holster you can find, but given its price, it’s a quite decent solution. It comes in black color, and it has a wool lining. You will be very pleased with it if you are searching for a simple and reliable black leather shoulder holster for everyday usage.
6. Bianchi X15 Shoulder Holster
Specification
- Unique design
- Comfortable
- Reliable
- Adjustable
- Vertical gun carry
Now, this is a bit unusual and a very unique model of leather made shoulder holster, given its construction is not typical at all. It is a model that has a deep gun case suitable for Colt Detective Special, Walther, and other J frame gun types.
It has a specific frame that goes around one shoulder, and a belt that follows your backline horizontally, so it keeps the good balance of a gun when you are carrying it. The leather is thin but high-quality made, so it can withstand the weight of the weapon.
This shoulder holster model is suitable for people who prefer a more elegant and stylish look, and it can provide you with a concealed carry. Dual spring closure on the case will make sure you have good retention and great stability of a gun.
It’s a fully adjustable piece that will allow you to reach for your weapon quickly and effortlessly. The strap can be opened with a thumb, and the wide, x-style harness will make sure you are very comfortable while using it. It is constructed from a full-grain vegetable-tanned cowhide.
7. Barsony New Saddle Tan Leather Vertical Shoulder
Specification
- Adjustable
- Reinforced retention strap
- Very comfortable
- High-quality made
- Durable
Last but not least is this Barsony leather holster that’s super lightweight, durable, and fully adjustable. It’s made from tan leather, and every piece of it is covered with precision stitching. The gun case has a reinforced retention strap and a thumb-break system.
Besides that, it comes with a sight protector channel that’s sewn in, and that will provide your weapon with both safety and easy reholstering. The harness has an adjustable point on four places, so you will be able to set it up in a way that fits your body perfectly.
This is a very comfortable model of a shoulder holster, but also, it is built in a high-quality manner, so it has a long lifespan. There are even belt straps and loops, thanks to which you will be able to connect it to your belt in order to stay still and in one place.
The gun case is compatible with several weapon models. It is important to choose the holster that places a gun under your left arm if you are a right-handed person and vice versa. Given these straps that go around your shoulders and back are stretchable, you can wear this item all day long without feeling uncomfortable.
How to Choose the Best Leather Shoulder Gun Holster
When you are buying a leather shoulder holster, you need to make sure it’s very comfortable, so you can wear it throughout the day without feeling sore, and that it can provide you with a quick and easy draw. The whole piece should be adjustable, and it would be good that it can provide you with a concealed carry.
Durability
Leather holsters can be super durable, so much that you can count on them your entire life. But that depends on the quality of the leather, the way it was processed, and its thickness of it. Buying a leather holster it’s an investment, so you shouldn’t be in a position to pay for another one each year. That means you should be smart and think about the quality.
Functionality
It is essential to establish how functional your holster is. It needs to be positioned in a way that it’s easy to reach for the gun and holster it back after usage. The harness should be constructed so it can hold and balance the weight of the gun, and it would be good to have a mag pouch beside the gun case. All that will provide you with a reliable weapon carry piece you can count on.
Affordability
This is something that depends on the person’s perception of affordability. There’s no doubt that you can find a leather holster that’s not too expensive, but how it’s made and what features it can provide is a question. In general, holsters made of leather cost more than others designed from nylon, but they will also last longer, and they do have a certain classical vibe.
Concealment
You may not want to hide the fact that you are carrying a gun on you, but this type of holster should be able to provide you with that possibility. Leather shoulder holsters are usually designed for concealed carry, and they do not print on clothes easily.
However, some bulky gun cases may disclose the fact you have a gun on you. That’s why it is super important to try several holsters before deciding which one to purchase.
Frequently asked question
Is a Leather Shoulder Holster Suitable for Driving?
Yes. Leather holsters that are designed to go around your shoulders are very practical if you are sitting a lot, especially if you are driving because they are constructed in a way that will keep your weapon in a proper position all the time.
Certainly, you can wear them when you are running or simply walking too.
Is a Leather Shoulder Holster Safe?
This depends on how the shoulder holster is made and how it’s constructed, but in general, it is safe.
Most of them have good balance, and they will distribute the weight of your weapon equally, and in most cases, they have a retention strap on a gun case that will keep the gun in its position all the time.
Is a Leather Shoulder Holster Good for a Concealed Carry?
It is. Leather shoulder holsters are designed to allow you to keep your weapon well hidden no matter what you do. Their straps won’t ever print on your clothes, but you should check out if it’s the case with a gun case, since this part can be a bit bulky.
Besides that, leather shoulder holsters are very comfortable, which is important if you want them to remain concealed.
Are Leather Shoulder Holsters Bad for a Weapon?
This can be an issue with holsters made of leather. As it turns out, they can leave some marks on a gun after years of usage, especially if you are wearing them during summer, for a long period of time.
Besides that, the gun cases made of leather can collapse over time, given this is a natural material that can deteriorate, so it can be a problem when you pull the weapon out of it and try to re-holster it again.
Conclusion
According to many gun gear experts, there’s nothing better than leather for things like holsters. It is a material that will guarantee the product’s long lifespan, and it will provide you with a great level of comfort.
So if you are not limited to a low budget, you should definitely invest in one of these, you won’t regret it. Leather holsters are durable, pretty often very lightweight, and they are very adjustable, which is extremely important since your body size can change, and you want to use them for a long time.