Best 1911 Shoulder Holsters For Everyday Carry


Whenever you watch an old western you can guarantee you’ll see a cowboy or a sheriff wearing a shoulder holster. Most of the time it will be paired with an ammo belt packed with ammunition. Although they were a common sight back then, in today’s day and age they have become quite rare. It’s really a shame because shoulder holsters are actually one of the best ways to carry a 1911. It doesn’t matter if you carry concealed or open carry a shoulder rig is a great option.

 


 

What is The Best 1911 Shoulder Holster?

1. Galco Miami Classic II 1911 Shoulder System

Galco’s Miami Classic II shoulder rig is by far the best 1911 shoulder holster the market. Originally called the jackass rig it was made famous by the tv show Miami Vice. Developed for the Chicago Police Department the Miami Classic became a Hollywood Icon. If you’re picturing a leather shoulder holster I can almost guarantee it’s a Galco.

Galco’s Miami Classic isn’t famous just for it’s looks. Over the past 40+ years the Miami Classic has become the favorite shoulder rig of professionals worldwide. Designed for law enforcement the Miami Classic is both easy to conceal and easy to draw. The Horizontal shoulder system makes the Galco Rig extremely easy to draw across your body. With magazines on the other side you’ll be able to draw your gun and grab additional magazines with your weak side arm. With two additional magazines you shouldn’t have to worry about running out of ammunition. The magazine carrier is designed with an open front for fast reloads.

Galco Designed the Miami Classic out of some of the finest holster materials on the market. The beautifully crafted leather holster truly is a work of art. Designed for the law enforcement community the Miami Classic will last through years of abuse. Tested for durability and quality over the 40+ years these holsters have been on the market. The Miami Classic is by far the most comfortable shoulder holster on the market. Galco included their patented spider harness so the holster swivels with your body. With four pivot points the spider harness moves independently with your body. You won’t have to worry about the holster catching while you turn or uneven weight distribution. If you are in the market for a leather shoulder holster you need to buy the Galco Miami Classic Shoulder Rig.


2. Galco Classic Lite Shoulder Holster System

If you don’t carry your 1911 every day it’s going to be hard to justify purchasing the above Galco Miami Classic. Luckily the Galco Classic Lite Shoulder Holster system is much more affordable. You aren’t going to miss much with the Galco Classic Lite shoulder system.

This really is the perfect rig for carrying your 1911. It was designed to be a lightweight and comfortable shoulder rig. It’s the perfect concealed carry holster for under a well fitted suit jacket or business casual jacket. When you need to wear a button up shirt to work the Classic lite is the perfect solution. It fits neatly under a lite jacket and the slim design means you won’t have to worry about printing.

The classic lite gives you all the comfort and versatility of Galco’s professional rigs at a fraction of the price. Using premium center cut steerhide allows Galco to offer a premium shoulder system at an affordable price. While it doesn’t use the above spider harness, it does use a very comfortable swiveling harness system. It’s a very sturdy design that offers a lot of flexibility and control. The rig comes with the 1911 holster and a single magazine holder. However the system is completely customizable and a two magazine pouch can be purchased separately. If you’re looking for a leather shoulder holster you can’t go wrong with the Galco Classic Lite Shoulder system.

 


3. UTG Deluxe Vertical Shoulder Holster

UTG’s Deluxe vertical shoulder holster is extremely nice for the price. UTG designed their deluxe holster to meet the demands of the law enforcement community. By increasing quality control and keeping the price low this holster is one of the most popular on the market.

Not everybody needs the most expensive holster on the market. Luckily UTG’s holster is extremely durable and costs less than a trip to the movies. UTG designed the holster out of a premium synthetic material with reinforced stitching. By double edge stitching all the pressure points this deluxe holster should last through years of use. Featuring fully adjustable shoulder and neck straps, this holster can be adjusted to fit almost anybody. The shoulder harness has a reinforced foam padding for extra comfort. You might notice a bit of chafing over the first couple weeks, but it should quickly go away.

Both efficient and comfortable, the UTG holster will perform in even the toughest environments. Using a standard vertical shoulder system and cross draw magazine pouch you’ll be able to quickly draw and reload your 1911 when you need it most. UTG chose Law Enforcement grade velcro to ensure your magazines and firearm are secure. When sized properly the UTG deluxe holster will stay secure throughout all tactical and cardiovascular exercise. By using an adjustable thumb break system you’ll be able to draw your 1911 in a matter of seconds. If you want to save some money without suffering on quality buy the UTG Deluxe Shoulder Rig System.

 


4. Condor Tactical Vertical Shoulder Holster

Condor tactical makes another affordable option for carrying your 1911. Using a lightweight design the Condor Tactical rig is one of the most comfortable holsters on this list. Condor Tactical is a big name in the Law Enforcement communities thanks to their affordable price points and high quality products.

Condor Tactical’s Vertical Shoulder holster is going to be hard to beat. Designed for discriminating tactical shooters, these shoulder holsters are sure to fit your needs. With multiple color options and an affordable price tag you’ll be able to buy a rig to match all your gear. On initial inspection it’s hard to see how nice this rig actually is. The lightweight nylon design paired with the comfort fit shoulder system makes this one of the most comfortable shoulder holsters on the market. When properly fitted you won’t have to worry about chafing or rubbing. By using a one size fits most design and easy to adjust straps anybody can find a comfortable fit.

Condor Tactical’s padded shoulder harness is one of the best features on this rig. The oversized harness spreads the weight throughout your back for a comfortable and sturdy fit. If you don’t have a properly fitted shoulder rig you won’t have a smooth draw. When sized appropriately you’ll be able to draw your 1911 in one smooth motion. The only thing holding you back is the double snap retention system which is easy to remove. With a little bit of practice you’l be able to draw your 1911 and reload in one smooth motion. Why don’t you save a little money and buy the Condor Tactical Vertical Shoulder Holster today.

 


So Why Would You Buy a Shoulder Holster for your 1911?

A well designed, well-fitted shoulder holster works extremely well for heavy handguns. Whether it’s your Smith and Wesson 500 or your 1911 you can find a shoulder holster that can comfortably handle the weight of your gun. In the correct situation they work better than hip mounted holsters because the weight is spread throughout your entire body. Take for instance one of my favorite guns to carry while hunting is my Ruger Super Blackhawk. When I carry it on my hip it requires a thick wide belt and often times by the end of the day I feel sore on the side of my back. On the contrast I’ve found that a properly fitted shoulder holster allows me to carry it days on end without pain. For some of my long barreled N-frame Smith and Wesson revolvers a shoulder holster is my only options.

Which 1911 Shoulder Holster is Right For You?

If you are going for an edc holster your best bet is going to be the Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder System. The timeless design and sturdy construction makes this a must have holster for everyday carry. A cheaper leather holster alternative would be the Galco Classic Lite. The affordable and comfortable design makes this holster hard to pass up. Not everybody needs a leather holster. If you’re looking for a nylon shoulder rig you can’t go wrong with the UTG Deluxe Holster or the Condor Tactical Holster.

 

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