How to Wear a Shoulder Holster: A Step-by-Step Guide
How to Put a Shoulder Holster On
A shoulder holster is a type of holster that is worn on the shoulder, typically with the gun positioned in the center of the back. It is a popular choice for concealed carry, as it can be worn under a jacket or coat and is relatively easy to conceal. However, putting on a shoulder holster can be tricky, especially if you’re not used to it.
In this article, we will walk you through the steps of putting on a shoulder holster, from choosing the right holster to actually putting it on. We will also provide some tips for making the process easier and more comfortable.
So if you’re ready to learn how to put on a shoulder holster, read on!
| Step | Instructions | Image |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Put on your shirt or jacket. |  |
| 2 | Slide the shoulder holster over your shoulder. |  |
| 3 | Adjust the holster so that it is comfortable and secure. |  |
Choosing the Right Shoulder Holster
When choosing a shoulder holster, there are a few factors to consider in order to find the best fit for your needs.
Size
The most important factor to consider when choosing a shoulder holster is the size. The holster should be snug enough to keep the firearm secure, but not so tight that it is uncomfortable to wear. You should be able to easily draw the firearm from the holster without any difficulty.
To determine the correct size shoulder holster, you will need to measure your chest circumference. This can be done by wrapping a measuring tape around your chest, just below your armpits. Once you have your chest measurement, you can compare it to the size chart provided by the manufacturer.
Position
The next factor to consider is the position of the shoulder holster. There are two main types of shoulder holsters: cross-draw and strong-side.
- Cross-draw shoulder holsters are worn on the opposite side of your dominant hand. This makes it easier to draw the firearm from a concealed position. However, cross-draw holsters can be more difficult to wear comfortably, especially for people with long arms.
- Strong-side shoulder holsters are worn on the same side as your dominant hand. This makes it easier to draw the firearm from a more natural position. However, strong-side holsters can be more difficult to conceal, especially if you wear loose-fitting clothing.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which shoulder holster position is right for you is to try on a few different styles and see what feels most comfortable.
Material
The material of the shoulder holster is another important factor to consider. The most common materials used for shoulder holsters are leather, nylon, and Kydex.
- Leather shoulder holsters are the most traditional option. They are durable and comfortable, but they can be more expensive than other materials.
- Nylon shoulder holsters are a more affordable option than leather holsters. They are also lightweight and weather-resistant. However, nylon holsters can be less durable than leather holsters.
- Kydex shoulder holsters are a newer option that is gaining in popularity. They are very lightweight and durable, and they offer excellent retention. However, Kydex holsters can be more difficult to adjust than other materials.
The best material for a shoulder holster will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a durable and comfortable holster, leather is a good option. If you are looking for an affordable and lightweight holster, nylon is a good option. And if you are looking for a holster that offers excellent retention, Kydex is a good option.
Weight
The weight of the shoulder holster is another factor to consider. Heavier holsters can be more comfortable to wear, but they can also make it more difficult to draw the firearm. Lighter holsters are easier to draw from, but they can be less comfortable to wear, especially for extended periods of time.
The best weight for a shoulder holster will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are planning on wearing the holster for extended periods of time, a lighter holster may be a better option. If you are not concerned about comfort, a heavier holster may be a better option.
Retention
The retention of the shoulder holster is another important factor to consider. The retention system should be strong enough to keep the firearm secure, but it should also be easy to release the firearm when you need to draw it.
There are a few different types of retention systems used in shoulder holsters. The most common type is a thumb break. A thumb break is a flap of leather or nylon that covers the trigger guard. To draw the firearm, you must release the thumb break with your thumb.
Other types of retention systems include a button release, a strap release, and a kydex lock. A button release is a button that you must press to release the firearm. A strap release is a strap that you must unbuckle to release the firearm. A kydex lock is a kydex shell that surrounds the firearm. To release the firearm, you must push the shell open.
The best retention system for a shoulder holster will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are concerned about the security of your firearm, a strong retention system may be a better option. If you are concerned about the ease of drawing your firearm, a less-secure retention system may be a better option.
Putting on the Shoulder Holster
Once you have chosen the right shoulder holster, it is important to know how to put it on properly.
Preparation
Before you put on the shoulder holster, you will need to prepare the firearm.
1. Remove the magazine from the firearm.
2. Ensure that the firearm is unloaded.
3. Clear
How To Put A Shoulder Holster On?
3. Wearing the Shoulder Holster
Once you have your shoulder holster properly fitted and adjusted, it’s time to put it on. Here are the steps:
1. Put on your shirt or jacket. The shoulder holster will be worn over your shirt or jacket, so make sure these are on before you start.
2. Attach the holster to your belt. The holster will have a belt clip or other attachment method. Attach it to your belt at the desired height.
3. Slide the holster onto your shoulder. The holster should be positioned so that the gun is on the opposite side of your body from your dominant hand.
4. Adjust the holster for comfort. The holster should be snug against your body, but not too tight. You should be able to move around comfortably without the holster shifting or coming loose.
5. Secure the holster. Most shoulder holsters have a snap or button that you can use to secure the gun in place. Make sure this is done before you start carrying the holster.
Here are some tips for wearing a shoulder holster comfortably and effectively:
- Choose a holster that is made of high-quality materials. A good holster will be made of durable materials that will not wear out or damage your gun.
- Adjust the holster for your body type. Not all shoulder holsters are created equal. Make sure you take the time to adjust the holster so that it fits your body properly.
- Practice wearing the holster. It may take some time to get used to wearing a shoulder holster. Practice wearing it around the house or in the yard before you start carrying it out in public.
- Be aware of your surroundings. When you are wearing a shoulder holster, you need to be aware of your surroundings and be prepared to defend yourself if necessary.
4. Maintaining the Shoulder Holster
To keep your shoulder holster in good condition, it’s important to clean and maintain it regularly. Here are a few tips:
- Clean the holster after each use. This will help to remove any dirt, sweat, or other debris that may have accumulated on the holster.
- Use a mild soap and water to clean the holster. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the holster.
- Dry the holster completely after cleaning. Moisture can cause the holster to rust or mildew.
- Oil the holster regularly. This will help to keep the leather or other materials from drying out and cracking.
- Store the holster in a safe place. When you’re not wearing the holster, store it in a safe place where it will not be damaged.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your shoulder holster in good condition for years to come.
A shoulder holster is a great way to carry a concealed weapon. It’s comfortable, concealable, and accessible. By following the tips in this guide, you can learn how to put on, wear, and maintain a shoulder holster properly.
How do I put on a shoulder holster?
1. Choose the right holster for your body type and firearm. Shoulder holsters come in a variety of sizes and styles, so it’s important to find one that fits you well and is comfortable to wear. The holster should be snug enough to keep your firearm secure, but not so tight that it’s uncomfortable.
2. Put on your shoulder holster before you put on your shirt. This will make it easier to get the holster positioned correctly.
3. Adjust the holster so that the firearm is positioned comfortably against your body. The firearm should be in a position where you can easily draw it, but it should not be so low that it interferes with your movement.
4. Secure the holster in place with the belt clip or other attachment method. Make sure the holster is secure so that it will not come loose during use.
What are the benefits of using a shoulder holster?
- Shoulder holsters are very concealable, making them a good option for people who need to carry their firearm discreetly.
- Shoulder holsters allow for easy access to your firearm, making them a good option for self-defense.
- Shoulder holsters are comfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time.
What are the drawbacks of using a shoulder holster?
- Shoulder holsters can be more difficult to draw from than other types of holsters, such as hip holsters.
- Shoulder holsters can be more restrictive than other types of holsters, making it difficult to move around freely.
- Shoulder holsters can be more expensive than other types of holsters.
How do I care for my shoulder holster?
- To clean your shoulder holster, wipe it down with a damp cloth.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners on your shoulder holster, as these can damage the material.
- If your shoulder holster is made of leather, condition it regularly with a leather conditioner to keep it looking and feeling its best.
Where can I buy a shoulder holster?
You can buy shoulder holsters from a variety of retailers, including gun stores, sporting goods stores, and online retailers. When choosing a shoulder holster, it’s important to find a reputable retailer that sells quality products.
What are some common mistakes people make when wearing a shoulder holster?
- Wearing a shoulder holster that is too small or too large.
- Not adjusting the holster so that the firearm is positioned correctly.
- Not securing the holster in place properly.
- Wearing the holster over a bulky shirt or jacket.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help ensure that your shoulder holster is comfortable to wear and that you can easily access your firearm when needed.
In this article, we have discussed how to put on a shoulder holster. We have covered the different types of shoulder holsters, as well as the steps involved in putting one on. We have also provided tips for wearing a shoulder holster comfortably and safely.
We hope that this article has been helpful. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Here are some key takeaways from this article:
- Shoulder holsters are a convenient way to carry a handgun, as they allow you to keep your hands free.
- There are different types of shoulder holsters, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
- To put on a shoulder holster, first attach the holster to your belt. Then, insert the gun into the holster and adjust the straps so that the holster is comfortable and secure.
- When wearing a shoulder holster, be sure to keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. You should also avoid wearing the holster while sleeping or engaging in activities that could cause the gun to fall out.
By following these tips, you can safely and comfortably carry a handgun in a shoulder holster.