Mostly because sitting with a 6" N frame on a belt could be problematic, I'm thinking about a shoulder rig. Who here has been down this road, and can speak to all phases of the concept, from excited anticipcation, through actual use, all the way to disgusted abandonment of the effort?

The vintage Safariland and Bianchi models look great -- nice tan leather and plenty of it -- but they also look like they'd hang to your knees. The adjustments for vertical position on the belt only go so far, and it loosk like there's a lot of extra harness left over. I'm not concerned with how conealable it is, but how comfortable and practical. I imagine the leather harness creates sweat issues in warm weather...

If the classics are not ideal designs, what modern maker produces something taht woudl keep the big N frame snug up under the arm? Galco vertical system...? Lining is a factor. I know Galco doesn't line many models.

Thanks.

If it were me, instead of putting money into a shoulder holster for a 6" N Frame I'd be saving up to buy a smaller carry gun like a 3" K Frame (M65, M66, M13, M19) if you like .357 Mag's. IMHO a 6 inch N Frame is just plain too heavy & bulky to CCW......... but that's just me.

IF you are hunting with a handgun, then that's a whole different story. Most fellas I know who hunt with N Frames have the type of holsters that go across the front of your chest and have padded straps for comfort. They are usually worn outside your clothing though.

I recently got an older used Bianchi X-15 holster to carry my 6" 686 in. Since it's winter time, it conceals under a jacket quite well. On the warmer days an unbuttoned over shirt conceals it enough to my liking, as long as the shirt tail comes down enough.

I'm 6' tall, and the holster hangs down a little lower than the opening than my pants pockets, but I don't have it adjusted to where it's riding as high as possible.

My only complaint about the X-15 is the nylon strap, because when adjusted tight, it rides up in your arm pit. But if you know anyone who can do any leather fabrication, get a couple of straps and have them rig it up similar to the Lawman Leather Dirty Harry setup.

As to the lining, it appears it's nothing more than the shiny side of the leather, but since mine was used it is flaking where the rear and front sights rest.

I have Bianchi X15 and Galco vertical shoulder holsters, but the used S&W brand vertical holster (commonly available for about $35) I recently purchased is more comfortable with my 6" revolver because the belt attachment locks tight with velcro rather than using a strap that allows your belt to move several inches up and down in. The revolver feels lighter because the belt attachment requires the belt to support more of the revolver weight.

The big problem with most shoulder holster designs is that elastic strap. It's narrow and digs into you. It doesn't have the strength to securely hold a heavy revolver. And that strap wears out quick and becomes worthless. Another issue is the shoulder holster wearer. Most people don't take the time to properly adjust the holster.

I've used the Bianchi X series quite a bit along with other brands. For the last couple of years I've carried a M66 (yes I know it's a not a N frame) in a modified Bianchi X-2000.



I've carried my 6 inch N frames as well as a 5.5 inch Ruger Redhawk in shoulder holsters as well. Properly set up and with the right straps they work.

Here's some of my Bianchis.


I replaced the elastic strap with a leather harness that is wider, adjustable, and holds much more secure.



Another option is to get a holster with a leather harness. On the auction sites you sometimes find Bucheimer, Clark, and other brands. These are usually called "Dirty harry" holsters since they are similar to the holster used in the movie.



Here's a side by side shot of a Bianchi with the leather harness and a Bucheimer. Both holsters have 6 inch N-frames.



Shoulder holsters don't work for everyone though. If you are carrying concealed and don't like wearing a cover garment a shoulder holster is not for you. I usually wear a sport jacket or a BDU type shirt.

Shoulder holsters do work if you have the right gear, are properly set up and adjusted, and you dress appropriately.

Arisin Wind,
That is the exact idea I plan to do with my X-15, just need to get some leather first.

Did you do that yourself?

Sure did. I made one several years ago and then made some for sale to friends, people at the range, hunting buddies and people on forums.

The nice thing about the design pictured is you can quickly switch the harness from holster to holster.

I wasn't specific. I have a Cmdr for carry in a Sparks Summer Special. Wanted something to tote the N frame around the woods in, and I like vintage leather on vintage guns, so I thought oif these two. I love the lins of the 2.5" 19/66, but I have no use for the cartridge. Wish I did.

If you don't mind me asking, where would you find the leather to do this? The local hobby shops only have squares of leather and not long enough to make some straps.

Tandy Leather. You'll need 1" and 3/4" straps, 1" buckles, Chicago screws, and #24 snaps.