Aker Leather 107 FlatSider XR7 Shoulder Holster Review

Let’s Dive into Aker Leather 107 FlatSider XR7 Shoulder Holster

The Aker Leather 107 FlatSider XR7 Shoulder Holster is a meticulously crafted piece of equipment designed for comfortable and concealed carry. Aker Leather, a company renowned for its quality leather goods, has seemingly poured decades of experience into this shoulder holster. Its key features include a “flatsiding” design for enhanced concealment, a comfort-flex harness, and adjustable tension screws.

Years of carrying different sidearms in various environments has taught me the critical importance of a comfortable and concealable holster. I was specifically seeking a shoulder holster that minimized printing and distributed weight effectively for all-day wear. The Aker Leather 107 FlatSider XR7 appeared to address these concerns.

Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of quality. The full-grain leather felt substantial and well-stitched, exhibiting that classic leather aroma. The harness felt supple, not stiff, suggesting it would conform well to my body over time.

Compared to cheaper nylon shoulder holsters I’ve used in the past, the Aker Leather 107 FlatSider XR7 feels like a serious upgrade. I also considered the Galco Miami Classic II and the Bianchi X15, but the “flatsiding” design and dual magazine pouch of the Aker seemed like a better fit for my needs. I was genuinely excited to put this holster through its paces and see if it lived up to its promise of comfort and concealability.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Aker Leather 107 FlatSider XR7 Shoulder Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Aker Leather 107 FlatSider XR7 Shoulder Holster at the shooting range and during several days of hiking in varying terrain. I wanted to gauge its comfort and concealment under different layers of clothing and during periods of physical activity. The weather conditions ranged from warm and sunny to cool and drizzly.

Initially, the holster felt slightly stiff, as expected with new leather. However, after a few hours, it began to conform to my body, becoming significantly more comfortable. The weight distribution was excellent, and the gun grip remained close to my body, minimizing printing.

One initial issue was adjusting the harness for a perfect fit. It took some tweaking to find the optimal position that prevented the center piece from riding up. After proper adjustment, the holster proved very stable.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Aker Leather 107 FlatSider XR7 Shoulder Holster has proven to be a reliable and comfortable carry option. The leather has softened and molded to my body, enhancing comfort. There are only slight signs of wear on the holster and magazine pouch, primarily at the edges, which adds to the character of the leather.

Cleaning the holster involves simply wiping it down with a slightly damp cloth and occasionally applying leather conditioner to maintain its suppleness. The holster has outperformed every other shoulder holster I have owned, especially in terms of comfort and concealment. It is a significant upgrade in quality and design from previous holsters I’ve used, offering a superior carry experience.

Breaking Down the Features of Aker Leather 107 FlatSider XR7 Shoulder Holster

Specifications

The Aker Leather 107 FlatSider XR7 Shoulder Holster is constructed from premium full-grain North American cowhide leather. It is designed to accommodate both standard and long barrel lengths due to its dual-plane open muzzle. It also features a Comfort-Flex double shoulder harness and dual magazine pouch.

The holster is designed for right-hand draw and is available in black. The holster material is cowhide leather. The holster is not compatible with red dot optics.

These specifications are important because they directly influence the holster’s comfort, durability, and concealment. Full-grain leather ensures longevity and a custom fit over time, while the open muzzle offers versatility with different barrel lengths. The harness design contributes to weight distribution and prevents discomfort during extended wear.

Performance & Functionality

The Aker Leather 107 FlatSider XR7 Shoulder Holster performs exceptionally well in its primary function: providing a secure and concealed carry for a handgun and two magazines. The “flatsiding” design truly minimizes printing, making it easier to conceal under light clothing. The adjustable tension screws on both the holster and magazine pouch allow for a customized draw and retention.

The holster’s greatest strength is its comfort. The harness distributes the weight effectively, preventing strain on the neck and shoulders. One area for potential improvement is the break-in period for the leather. The holster fully meets and exceeds my expectations for a quality shoulder holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Aker Leather 107 FlatSider XR7 Shoulder Holster is outstanding. The stitching is precise and durable, and the solid brass hardware adds to the overall sense of quality. The weight of the holster is well-balanced, thanks to the design of the harness and the positioning of the magazine pouch.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, although adjusting the harness for the first time can be a bit time-consuming. After the initial adjustment, the holster is easy to put on and take off.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the quality of materials and construction, the Aker Leather 107 FlatSider XR7 Shoulder Holster should last for many years with proper care. The full-grain leather is resistant to wear and tear. Regular maintenance involves cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional conditioning with leather care products.

The holster’s simple design minimizes the risk of parts breaking or needing repair. This holster is built to withstand the rigors of daily use and hold up for years.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Aker Leather 107 FlatSider XR7 Shoulder Holster comes standard with a Comfort-Flex double shoulder harness and a dual magazine pouch with adjustable tension screws. Aker Leather also offers separate tie-down straps (104 Magazine Side Tie-Down and 105 Holster Side Tie Down) that attach to the belt for added stability.

The holster itself is not designed for extensive customization, but the magazine pouch can be adjusted to accommodate different magazine sizes. Also, the solid brass Chicago screws allow for easy harness adjustments. The main limitation is the lack of compatibility with red dot optics.

Pros and Cons of Aker Leather 107 FlatSider XR7 Shoulder Holster