OK, I know the argument against shoulder holsters: possible sweeping your arm or others to your left. But I would like to see some discussion by shoulder holster users about their experience. I wouldn't use one at the range with someone to the left, but I've been thinking about using one for carry.
Here's why: I usually have a small DAO pistol or revolver in a pocket or belt holster at 4:00, with one in the pipe. This is OK in the summer when not encumbered by a lot of outer clothing, but no way I can get at it quickly when belted into a car or truck. I know, take it out and put it in an accessible place. But I almost never do this. I'm usually herding a couple of dogs and I don't want to faff around with a loaded handgun while they are scrambling around. I spend a lot of time in a vehicle or on a motorcycle. I would really be pissed if I was carjacked (especially with my wife in the car) and could not get to the gun in time to defend an attack. A shoulder holster seems like it would provide the best access, and is relatively easily concealed with an unbuttoned overshirt.
In cooler weather, a shoulder holster is natural under a jacket, and would be less vulnerable to fumbling than getting to a belt holster under a coat. To me, the advantages seem to outweigh the small potential risk, which can be mitigated (but not eliminated). So I've been thinking about it a lot, but haven't pulled the trigger, so to speak. Maybe some of you have considered things I have overlooked; change my mind. I'm thinking of a vertical holster, not horizontal or bottom draw.
Here's why: I usually have a small DAO pistol or revolver in a pocket or belt holster at 4:00, with one in the pipe. This is OK in the summer when not encumbered by a lot of outer clothing, but no way I can get at it quickly when belted into a car or truck. I know, take it out and put it in an accessible place. But I almost never do this. I'm usually herding a couple of dogs and I don't want to faff around with a loaded handgun while they are scrambling around. I spend a lot of time in a vehicle or on a motorcycle. I would really be pissed if I was carjacked (especially with my wife in the car) and could not get to the gun in time to defend an attack. A shoulder holster seems like it would provide the best access, and is relatively easily concealed with an unbuttoned overshirt.
In cooler weather, a shoulder holster is natural under a jacket, and would be less vulnerable to fumbling than getting to a belt holster under a coat. To me, the advantages seem to outweigh the small potential risk, which can be mitigated (but not eliminated). So I've been thinking about it a lot, but haven't pulled the trigger, so to speak. Maybe some of you have considered things I have overlooked; change my mind. I'm thinking of a vertical holster, not horizontal or bottom draw.