Urban Carry LockLeather Shoulder Complete Holster #209 Review

Table of Contents

First Impressions of Urban Carry LockLeather Shoulder Complete Holster #209

The Urban Carry LockLeather Shoulder Complete Holster #209 promises a blend of security and comfort, a holy grail in the world of concealed carry. Urban Carry claims to have solved the age-old problem of bulky and uncomfortable shoulder holsters with this hybrid design. I was intrigued by the LockLeather retention system and the modularity, hoping it would provide a versatile and comfortable carry solution.

My career as an outdoor and tactical gear specialist has exposed me to countless holsters, shoulder rigs included. My search for the “perfect” shoulder holster continues, driven by the need for comfortable all-day carry while maintaining accessibility in various scenarios. The Urban Carry LockLeather Shoulder Complete Holster #209 seemed like a promising contender to replace my aging Galco Miami Classic II.

Unboxing the holster revealed a well-organized package. The leather appeared to be of good quality, and the Kydex holster shell felt secure. The overall design seemed slimmer than traditional leather shoulder rigs.

Compared to my Galco, the Urban Carry system appeared more modular, offering the potential to swap out holster shells and attachments easily. I had also considered the Alien Gear Cloak Shoulder Holster, but the Urban Carry’s LockLeather retention system swayed me. My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism, as I’ve learned that shoulder holsters can be deceptively uncomfortable in real-world use.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Urban Carry LockLeather Shoulder Complete Holster #209 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Urban Carry LockLeather Shoulder Complete Holster #209 at an outdoor shooting range, followed by a long day of hiking in the local mountains. The range provided a controlled environment to practice draws and re-holstering, while the hike simulated real-world carry conditions. I carried a Glock 19 in the holster, paired with a double magazine carrier on the opposite side.

The weather during the hike was typical for the region: sunny with temperatures in the mid-70s, but with some unexpected light rain. The holster performed reasonably well in dry conditions, but the leather became slightly slick during the rain. Drawing and re-holstering initially felt awkward, requiring more force than I anticipated due to the LockLeather retention.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of daily use, including trips to the grocery store, running errands, and even wearing it during long drives, the Urban Carry LockLeather Shoulder Complete Holster #209 has shown both strengths and weaknesses. The leather has begun to mold to my body, improving comfort. However, the Kydex shell shows some minor scratches from repeated draws.

The leather components show some signs of wear, particularly around the shoulder straps where they rub against clothing. Cleaning is relatively simple; I use a leather conditioner every couple of weeks to maintain the leather’s suppleness. While it’s not as robust as some of the military-grade nylon rigs I’ve used, it is significantly more comfortable for everyday concealed carry.

Breaking Down the Features of Urban Carry LockLeather Shoulder Complete Holster #209

Specifications

Holster Type: Shoulder Holster. This design allows for concealed carry under a jacket or loose shirt, offering a comfortable option for those who spend a lot of time seated or driving.
Manufacturer: Urban Carry. Urban Carry is known for its innovative hybrid holster designs, blending leather and Kydex for comfort and security.
Material: Premium Saddle Grade Leather and Kydex. The combination aims to provide both durability and comfort.
Retention: LockLeather Retention System. The system locks the firearm securely in place until drawn briskly, enhancing safety.
Adjustability: Infinitely adjustable straps with pivoting rivets. This ensures a customized fit for various body types.
Modularity: Ambidextrous and modular attachments. This feature allows for carrying multiple firearms, magazines, or accessories.

These specifications combine to offer a versatile and secure carry system. The adjustability ensures a comfortable fit, while the LockLeather retention prioritizes safety. The modularity allows for customization to meet individual needs.

Performance & Functionality

The Urban Carry LockLeather Shoulder Complete Holster #209 performs adequately, but not flawlessly. The LockLeather retention system does indeed securely hold the firearm. However, the draw requires a deliberate and forceful pull, which might be slower than desired in a high-stress situation.

The holster’s weight distribution across the shoulders is a significant improvement over traditional belt holsters. It reduces strain on the waist and lower back. The main weakness lies in the initial draw speed and the potential for the leather to become slick in wet conditions. It meets expectations for comfort and modularity but falls slightly short on speed.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is streamlined and low-profile. The use of premium saddle-grade leather contributes to a professional appearance. The holster sits close to the body, minimizing printing under clothing.

There is a slight learning curve due to the LockLeather retention system. Proper adjustment of the straps is crucial for optimal comfort and draw speed. Once properly adjusted, it’s relatively comfortable for extended wear, but the initial setup takes time and patience.

Durability & Maintenance

The combination of leather and Kydex seems promising for long-term durability. The leather is thick and well-stitched, while the Kydex shell is resistant to cracking and deformation. Regular cleaning and conditioning of the leather are necessary to prevent drying and cracking.

The holster is relatively easy to maintain. Wiping down the leather with a damp cloth and applying leather conditioner periodically is sufficient. The Kydex shell can be cleaned with mild soap and water. With proper care, it should last for several years of regular use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Urban Carry LockLeather Shoulder Complete Holster #209 is designed to be modular. It allows for various attachments to be added or removed based on the user’s needs. The system is compatible with multiple holster shells for different firearms.

Users can also add magazine carriers, flashlight pouches, and even small accessory pouches to the rig. Because everything is ambidextrous, it gives the user the ability to customize the holster based on their preference.

Pros and Cons of Urban Carry LockLeather Shoulder Complete Holster #209

Pros

Comfortable for extended wear: The padded shoulders and adjustable straps distribute weight evenly, reducing strain.
Secure LockLeather retention: The Kydex and leather hybrid design ensures the firearm stays securely in place.
Modular and versatile: Ambidextrous attachments allow for carrying multiple firearms or accessories.
Slim profile: The holster sits close to the body, minimizing printing under clothing.
High-quality materials: Premium saddle-grade leather provides durability and a professional appearance.

Cons

Draw speed: The LockLeather retention requires a deliberate and forceful pull, potentially slowing down draw speed.
Leather slickness: The leather can become slick in wet conditions, affecting grip and retention.
Learning curve: Proper adjustment and familiarization with the LockLeather system take time and patience.

Who Should Buy Urban Carry LockLeather Shoulder Complete Holster #209?

This shoulder holster is perfect for individuals who prioritize comfort and security, especially those who spend long hours seated or driving. It’s also well-suited for those who want a modular system that can be adapted to carry different firearms or accessories. Law enforcement, security personnel, and concealed carry permit holders who prioritize deep concealment will find this holster particularly useful.

This product may not be ideal for individuals who require lightning-fast draw speeds or those who frequently operate in wet environments. Those who prefer a more traditional leather-only shoulder holster may also find the Kydex hybrid design less appealing. Competition shooters, who need speed and efficiency, would likely prefer a different system.

Must-have accessories include a quality leather conditioner to maintain the leather’s suppleness and a set of properly sized holster shells for different firearms. A belt anchor is also highly recommended to keep the holster securely in place and prevent shifting during movement.

Conclusion on Urban Carry LockLeather Shoulder Complete Holster #209

The Urban Carry LockLeather Shoulder Complete Holster #209 offers a unique blend of comfort, security, and modularity in the world of shoulder holsters. The LockLeather retention system is reliable, and the weight distribution is excellent for extended wear. However, the draw speed might be a concern for some users.

At $229.95, the price is justified given the quality of materials and the modular design. The Urban Carry is more affordable than high-end custom leather rigs but more expensive than basic nylon options.

I would recommend it to individuals who value comfort and concealment and are willing to invest time in properly adjusting and learning the system. If you’re seeking a versatile and comfortable shoulder holster, the Urban Carry LockLeather Shoulder Complete Holster #209 is worth considering. Give it a try, and experience the comfort and security for yourself.