Finding the right Glock 19 holster shoulder can make all the difference in comfort, accessibility, and concealed carry confidence. Whether you’re a daily carrier or a first-time gun owner, navigating the range of options ensures secure, discreet, and stylish solutions. This guide breaks down the top choices and key factors to help you find your ideal shoulder holster for the Glock 19.
Glock 19 Shoulder Holster Types and Variations
| Type | Orientation | Material | Retention | Magazine Carrier | Adjustability | Concealment Level | Price Range | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Horizontal Shoulder Holster | Horizontal | Leather/Nylon | Thumb Break/Strap | Yes (Single/Double) | Straps/Ride Height | High | $100–$300 | Concealed Carry, All-Day Wear |
| Vertical Shoulder Holster | Vertical | Leather/Nylon/Kydex | Snap/Thumb Break | Yes (Single/Double) | Straps/Ride Height | Moderate-High | $100–$295 | Larger Pistols, Tighter Hold |
| Roto (Swivel) Shoulder Holster | Hybrid | Leather/Kydex | Thumb Break | Yes | Angle/Cant/Length | High | $175–$270 | Customizable Fit |
| Universal Fit Nylon Shoulder Rig | Horizontal | Nylon/600D Nylon | Snap/Velcro | Yes (Double) | Velcro/Straps | Moderate | $40–$90 | Budget Buyers, Beginners |
| Kydex Shoulder Holster | Horizontal | Kydex/Leather Back | Passive | Yes | Harness, Position | High | $200–$270 | Fast Draw, Durability |
| Classic Leather Shoulder Holster | Horizontal | Premium Steerhide | Thumb Break | Yes | Harness | High | $150–$300 | Traditional, Premium Seekers |
Everyday Usage of a Glock 19 Shoulder Holster
A Glock 19 shoulder holster is designed for discreet, accessible firearm carry across your upper body. Unlike waist, inside-the-waistband (IWB), or ankle holsters, a shoulder holster distributes the weight evenly, minimizing discomfort and fatigue during long hours.
Common Uses:
– Concealed Carry: Easily hidden under a jacket or loose shirt.
– All-Day Comfort: Gentle on the back and waist, ideal for those frequently seated (drivers, office workers).
– Quick Access: Enables a strong cross-draw action, particularly from a sitting position.
User Profiles:
– Law enforcement and military seeking comfort with a full-size pistol.
– Civilians prioritizing concealed carry with layered clothing.
– Enthusiasts carrying for hiking, travel, or casual wear.
A shoulder holster makes everyday carry practical for diverse lifestyles, letting you keep your Glock 19 secure, accessible, and out of sight when needed.
Key Benefits of Glock 19 Shoulder Holsters
1. All-Day Comfort
- Distributes firearm and spare magazines’ weight across shoulders and upper body.
- Reduces strain on hips and lower back, unlike belt-based holsters.
2. Excellent Concealment
- Designed to easily tuck under jackets, coats, and overshirts.
- Slim, low-printing design available in both horizontal and vertical options.
3. Enhanced Accessibility
- Cross-draw positions the pistol for rapid deployment, perfect for seated users (drivers, professionals).
- Easy access for left or right-handed shooters (ambidextrous options available).
4. Modularity and Versatility
- Many models offer both detachable holster and magazine pouches.
- Adjustable harnesses fit a wide range of body sizes and shapes.
- Suitable for casual, business, or outdoor environments.
5. Increased Carry Capacity
- Typically includes one or two magazine pouches, balancing gun weight and enabling longer readiness.
6. Secure Retention
- Features like thumb break straps, molded shapes, or Kydex shells increase retention and safety.
- Some offer full trigger guard coverage for accidental discharge prevention.
How to Choose the Right Glock 19 Shoulder Holster
Evaluate Your Primary Use
- Concealed Carry: Opt for a slim horizontal leather or Kydex holster with minimal printing.
- Extended/Professional Wear: Seek comfort-driven designs with padded, flexible harnesses.
- Outdoor/Active Use: Choose a robust, water-resistant nylon or hybrid for durability.
Consider Material
- Leather: Offers durability, classic style, and molds to the body over time.
- Nylon: Lightweight, budget-friendly, and often waterproof; ideal for active or outdoor use.
- Kydex/Hybrid: Highly durable, resists moisture, and supports rapid draws; often paired with leather backings for comfort.
Orientation and Draw Style
- Horizontal Rigs: Preferred for faster draw and easier concealment.
- Vertical Rigs: Secure the firearm against the body and may suit larger pistols or users wanting tighter retention.
- Roto/Swivel Rigs: Allow adjustment of cant/angle for personalized draw style.
Retention and Security Features
- Passive Retention: Uses friction or molding, favors speed but may reduce security.
- Active Retention: Employs straps, snaps, or thumb breaks, increasing safety especially in crowded or high-activity environments.
Adjustability and Fit
- Select holsters with harnesses adjustable for torso length, shoulder width, and overall ride height.
- Softer, wider straps add comfort, preventing digging or cutting into skin.
Magazine Pouches
- Choose between single or double mag carriers depending on your need for backup ammo and balanced weight.
Special Features
- Optic-ready models support red dot sights.
- Light-bearing versions fit Glock 19s with weapon lights.
- Ambidextrous or left/right-hand versions cater to dominant hand draw.
Practical Tips for Choosing and Using a Glock 19 Shoulder Holster
- Start with Proper Sizing: Measure your chest and shoulder size to match the harness for a snug, chafe-free fit.
- Wear the Appropriate Cover Garment: Jackets, blazers, or overshirts work best to conceal the holster and reduce printing.
- Practice Drawing Regularly: Develop muscle memory by training both standing and while seated for a safe, smooth cross-draw.
- Adjust Harness Frequently: Re-check fit after each wear, especially if carrying extra magazines, to maintain concealment and comfort.
- Balance Your Load: Use magazine pouches to counterbalance your Glock for better stability and less shoulder fatigue.
- Ensure Trigger Guard Coverage: Safety is non-negotiable; guarantee your holster offers full trigger protection.
- Check Retention Devices: Secure thumb breaks, snaps, and Velcro closures before heading out.
- Break In Leather Holsters: Use break-in kits or leather conditioner to hasten the molding of new holsters to your Glock 19.
- Maintenance: Clean nylon, leather, or Kydex per manufacturer guidance for a long holster lifespan.
- Review Your State’s Concealed Carry Laws: Shoulder holsters are legal for concealed carry in most areas, but always verify regulation compliance.
Glock 19 Shoulder Holster Technical Features Comparison
| Brand/Model | Material & Build | Retention | Mag Pouch | Adjustability | Optic/Light Ready | Hand Orientation | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kirkpatrick X400 | 8oz Premium Leather | Molded | Yes (Double) | Full (Size/Cant) | Optic Cut Option | Ambi/Custom | $260–$380 |
| Alien Gear ShapeShift | Leather/Neoprene/Kydex | Shell/Strap | Yes (Double) | Height/Cant | Broad (for Many Guns) | Left/Right | $200–$290 |
| Galco Classic Lite | Steerhide Leather | Thumb Break | Yes (Single) | Strap/Buckle | No | Left/Right | $150–$200 |
| Craft Holsters Roto System | Leather/Kydex | Thumb Break | Yes (Double) | Rotoswivel/Length | Yes (Some Models) | Left/Right | $165–$295 |
| Pro Carry Vertical | Soft Leather | Molded/Snap | Yes (Double) | Strap/Ride Height | No | Left/Right | $120–$200 |
| Universal Nylon Rig | 600D Nylon/Mesh | Snap/Velcro | Yes (Double) | Velcro/Straps | No | Ambidextrous | $40–$90 |
| Falco Custom Shoulder | Leather/Hybrid/Kydex | Customizable | Yes (1-2) | Full (Harness) | Yes (Options) | Left/Right | $150–$350 |
Usage, Benefits, and User Experience Insights
Everyday Scenarios
- Driving/Office: Unlike hip holsters that dig into seats, shoulder holsters offer swift access while sitting or in vehicles.
- Layered Outfits: Winter, travel, and professional wear make shoulder holsters easy to blend into everyday clothing.
- Active Movement: Secure harnesses keep the Glock 19 stable during movement, making them suitable for hiking or running if properly adjusted.
Benefits in Focus
- Reduced Back Fatigue: Distributing weight over shoulders benefits those with back injuries or discomfort from waistband carry.
- Concealment: Given good cover garments, printing is minimal—key for civilian carriers concerned about detection.
- Adaptability: Multiple draw angle and harness adjustments let you set up for perfect personal ergonomics.
User Tips
- Regular Fit Checks: Adjust straps as you change layers or gain/lose weight.
- Ambidextrous Usage: Try drawing with both hands for practice—some rigs can be reconfigured for left or right-hand use.
- Safety First: Always reholster carefully and keep the muzzle in a safe direction during draw and holster operations.
Conclusion
A Glock 19 shoulder holster can dramatically improve your concealed carry experience, boosting comfort and accessibility for both civilian and professional users. The key is to match your holster’s features to your lifestyle—considering material, adjustability, orientation, security, and carry needs. By investing in a quality shoulder holster and following best practices for adjustment and concealment, you ensure your Glock 19 remains secure, accessible, and virtually invisible during all-day wear.
FAQ
Can I use a Glock 19 shoulder holster for concealed carry?
Yes, shoulder holsters are excellent for concealed carry when used with an appropriate cover garment such as a jacket or overshirt.
Which material is best: leather, nylon, or Kydex?
Leather offers premium feel and molds to your body over time; nylon is lightweight and weather-resistant; Kydex gives the best retention and easy draw. Choose based on your comfort, style, and durability needs.
Are shoulder holsters comfortable for all-day wear?
Yes, especially if you select a model with wide, padded, or flexible straps and balance the rig with magazine pouches.
How do I adjust my shoulder holster for the best fit?
Most quality rigs offer adjustable harnesses. Loosen or tighten straps so that the holster rides snugly under your arm, with the pistol grip easily accessible and magazines evenly balanced on the other side.
Is there a risk of printing through clothing?
Minimal, if you wear appropriate layering garments. Horizontal holsters typically conceal better than vertical ones, but both can work well with jackets or coats.
Can I draw quickly from a shoulder holster while sitting?
Yes, the shoulder holster is among the fastest styles for drawing while seated (such as in a car or at a desk).
Will a Glock 19 shoulder holster fit other pistols?
Many shoulder holsters are model-specific, but some (like universal nylon rigs or modular systems) can accommodate other similar-size handguns. Always check manufacturer compatibility.
Is it safe to carry with a round chambered in a shoulder holster?
If your holster covers the trigger guard fully and provides secure retention, carrying with a round chambered is considered safe—just practice basic firearm safety at all times.
How do I maintain and care for my shoulder holster?
Leather should be conditioned to prevent drying; nylon and Kydex cleaned with soap and water. Regularly inspect retention devices and stitching for longevity.
Are left-handed or ambidextrous versions available?
Yes, many manufacturers offer left- and right-handed configurations, and some nylon rigs are fully ambidextrous. Always select the proper orientation for your dominant hand.