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Old 10-15-2017, 08:11 PM
Shotgungordo Shotgungordo is offline
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Default Shoulder Rigs?

Does anybody have any good suggestions/experiences with or for vertical shoulder harnesses? Not a big fan of the way Galco rigs look.. interested in any lesser known companies or individuals who make good rigs.


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Old 10-15-2017, 08:24 PM
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The Bianchi X15 is an excellent rig. Easy to draw.
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Old 10-15-2017, 08:38 PM
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[QUOTE=indigo22;139781979]The Bianchi X15 is an excellent rig. Easy to draw.[/QUOTE

Agreed. Design has been around over 40 years. I had one in the 1970s and carried a 2 inch Model 64 in it.
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Old 10-15-2017, 08:39 PM
Shotgungordo Shotgungordo is offline
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My only concern with the Bianchi x15 is that it’ll be longer than I like. I want to carry a 4” maybe a 5”


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Old 10-15-2017, 08:40 PM
M29since14 M29since14 is offline
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Safariland made a really nice one too, lined with their green "orthopedic elk." I preferred them to the X15. These days they're not always easy to find if you want one in really nice shape. I used them mainly to carry the gun in crummy, wet winter weather. I don't think I'd want to wear one all day, every day but they work pretty well - especially if you're wearing a couple of shirts.
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Old 10-15-2017, 11:54 PM
SeamasterSig SeamasterSig is offline
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Check out the Springbreak from Andrews Custom Leather. I believe it is an improved version of the old Bianchi X15. I had one made for a 4-inch model 66 and can confirm that the clam shell concept is a very functional design. And Sam Andrews' interpretation of it is outstanding. I had one made with speed strip pouches and also had him make a couple of sheaths to go with the rig as well. I used the excuse of taking the scenic route on a trip north as a reason to swing by Mr. Andrew's shop with a couple of my favorite Bark River knives for a custom fitting. Mr. Andrews was very friendly and gave me a tour of his shop. Based on what I saw that afternoon and my experience with the Springbreak, I can highly recommend Andrews Custom Leather. However, be prepared for a long wait if you place an order (which, unfortunately, has become the norm these days, as there aren't nearly enough true craftsman to keep up with rising demand).
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Old 10-16-2017, 08:28 AM
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A E Nelson Leather Co. Larry
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Old 10-16-2017, 08:30 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Shotgungordo View Post
My only concern with the Bianchi x15 is that it’ll be longer than I like. I want to carry a 4” maybe a 5”


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It comes in 3 or 4 different sizes....... I've got them for my 3" 60-10 .... 4" K and L frames and......... had one for a 6" L frame.
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Old 10-16-2017, 12:50 PM
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I have an old Bianchi X15 for a 6" Colt Python. The elastic strap has stretched over the years but it is a great shoulder rig and conceal that big revolver very well.
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Old 10-16-2017, 02:14 PM
Retired Chief Retired Chief is offline
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Rodek Leather Works. He will custom make what you want tailored for your specific pistol, all at a reasonable price. Ed Redek is a retired Illinois State Trooper. Charged me $70 a couple of years ago for a horizontal shoulder holster for my Star PD in .45 ACP. Included was a double mag carrier and a handcuff strap. Still use it OFTEN.
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Old 10-19-2017, 09:53 AM
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Default SHOULDER RIGS

I ordered a vertical shoulder rig from STONER HOLSTER. They have a couple of great features that I think sets them apart from all the others. Go to stonerholster.com and look at the Stormer vertical rig. P.S. They will be at the Indy 1500 gun show Nov. 3-5. Look them up, you may find just what you've been looking for.
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Old 10-20-2017, 06:16 AM
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Shoulder Rig's have never been comfortable to me - not even with a J Frame. I have tried many over the years and wound up selling all but two nostalgic Military models for a 1911 Gov't. and a 4" MAP revolver. They get worn once every year but not in a situation where concealment is an issue and I wear them over a sweatshirt or heavy shirt. Still, I could never get use to them for EDC. Maybe it's just me - - - YMMV
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Old 10-20-2017, 06:23 AM
Shotgungordo Shotgungordo is offline
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I think I’ve settled in on a holster. I going to give Sam Andrews my coin. I was just totally intrigued with his monarch rig after watching some YouTube videos. I’ll let y’all know how it works out...


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Old 10-24-2017, 01:57 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by sdb321 View Post
Go to stonerholster.com and look at the Stormer vertical rig.
That website is not working.
I would hesitate to buy something from anyone who cannot maintain their website.
Pretty much a necessity in this day and age.

Believe it or don't I use an el-cheapo Uncle Mikes generic shoulder holster for my 3" L frame and Charter 44's.
You have to eventually cut off and melt the ends of the spare material after getting the adjustments right if you don't want them flopping around.
Works pretty well for what it is but am looking for leather now that this thread has peaked my interest.

For hunting I have used a Hunter vertical leather holster I got at a swap meet designed for a Contender but it also fits my big Dan Wesson 7445.
I bought a HUSH chest holster for big revolvers I like the best especially when climbing trees with the 7.5" Redhawk.
There is nothing wrong with the ballistic material if the design is right.
It certainly is lighter.
I have several of the Bianchi Ranger belt holsters and the HUSH is also a member of that family.
Don't know if those are still made.
I do know they still service them as Bianchi fixed one a couple of years ago after the snap went bad.
Excellent service BTW for something I bought at least 20 years ago.
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Old 10-24-2017, 10:54 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Nemo288 View Post
That website is not working.
I would hesitate to buy something from anyone who cannot maintain their website.
Try stonerholsters.com
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Old 10-24-2017, 12:08 PM
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I carried my Dirty Harry Special in an x-15 for a long time. Worked well and was comfortable.
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Old 10-24-2017, 01:53 PM
BigMuddy BigMuddy is offline
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I have a Bianchi X2100 Phantom, similar to X-15, that works pretty well. I replaced the worn out elastic strap with leather a few years ago an it is an improvement. Carries a 6" 29, 25, and 657.

Dan
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Old 10-24-2017, 06:33 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by JayCeeNC View Post
Try stonerholsters.com
Thanks for correcting my obvious oversight!
That one works.
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Old 11-04-2017, 06:09 PM
sdb321 sdb321 is offline
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I picked up the Stoner Stormer shoulder rig Friday afternoon at the Indy 1500 gun show and I was blown away. The pictures on their web site doesn't do it justice. The quality is fantastic. I got mine in Havana brown and it is beautiful. Mr. Stoner fitted & trimmed my new rig on the spot. I wore it all evening and almost forgot I had it on. They will get my money from now on.
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