I’ve been carrying a concealed pistol at 4 o’clock for more than 10 years, and it has its advantages. For one, you’ll get used to your pistol being there every time, so the movements to draw it become second nature. For another, your body will get used to and even accommodate the physical dimensions and weight of the gun. Try carrying on your weak side to see my point. Your body just won’t be as used to it.
But there are some disadvantages too. One in particular? Your body will get used to and even accommodate the physical dimensions and weight of the gun. That’s right, the advantage is also potentially a disadvantage. In fact, I’ve gotten so used to carrying in the 4 o’clock position that I have discovered I subconsciously lean over my gun in order to help conceal it. I do this when I carry while driving, standing, sitting … whatever. As such, my spine gets a bit out of alignment, and my muscles try to accommodate. As a result, I am more prone to injuring my back. And we all know how uncomfortable back pain can be.
Problem, Meet Solution
As such, one of my solutions to this kind of concealed carry discomfort is to carry in a totally different location on my body. And one of the better solutions I’ve found is to use a shoulder holster. This puts my gun under my left arm. The weight is distributed across the shoulder straps, which, in turn, keeps me from leaning over to my right side. That, in turn, keeps my spine and muscles in better alignment and condition, which, in turn, adds a whole level of comforting.
Many shoulder holster systems exist in the market, with features and prices all over the map. The Diamond D Leather Simple Shoulder Rig you see here is on the higher end of the price spectrum. Retailing for $210, it offers a host of high-end features which, if you’re into great concealment and maximum bodily comfort, make it a worthwhile investment.
Made from American saddle leather, the Diamond D rig adjusts up to a 58-inch chest. The shoulder straps are flexible and tough and rest just right on my shoulders and back, distributing the weight of whatever gun I’m carrying across the whole rig. For added control and fit, adjustable tie downs slip under and around a belt. I only use them about half the time, as they can limit some of the range of motion of my arms. Hanging off the left side of the rig is a custom, hand-molded holster (here, for a Glock 26 Gen 4) with a tension screw, thumb break and open muzzle design. Hanging off the right side is a double mag pouch that can accommodate short or long magazines. The rig can be created for right-handed or left-handed shooters.
Concealed Carry Casual
Shoulder rigs such as the Diamond D are not just for those who carry while wearing suits or sports jackets. They do work well under dressy attire, yes, but they also work well with casual clothes. While you won’t easily hide a shoulder rig under a single T-shirt, you can hide it pretty well under two shirts and certainly under a hoodie or a light jacket or similar garments. Also, the smaller the gun you carry, the easier you’ll be able to conceal the gun and its holster as it rides under your arm. For my average frame (5’10”, 175 pounds, 42” chest), a Glock 26 was the largest gun I could conceal well. Anything larger and it would be printing behind or in front of my arm.
Most importantly, carrying the Glock 26 and two reloads in the Diamond D rig not only concealed well but also kept me standing upright — not leaning over to one side or another. As a result, it is another level of comforting while carrying concealed.
*This was previously published as part of the April 14, 2017 Concealed Carry Report.
Sources:
Diamond D Leather: DiamondDCustomLeather.com
