TexasCHLforum.com

That thread gave some really good info, TAM. Thanks!

So far, I've decide to use the shoulder holster kit from Tandy as my starting point. At only $19 (with my Gold Membership) I can't cut my own straps much cheaper, and these are already cut, ends rounded, pre-punched, etc... The shape of the straps is similar to the Miami Classic. I don't like the leather spider that came with the kit (it doesn't allow the straps to swivel freely), so I'm going to make a new one from .06 Kydex. I'll probably leave the leather its natural color, as I think that will stand out less than a darker color. I'm debating on whether to use the hardware from the kit or change it out. The screws are chrome, and I'd prefer black, but it's not really that important. The ring connectors are squared, which I like more than the round ones used on some rigs. The round ones tend to cause the leather straps to bunch up. I'm leaning toward the holster and double mag carrier being all Kydex. I think I'm going to integrate a hook around the back of the slide that will be disengaged by a push from my thumb. This will both secure the gun and aid in drawing without the holster trying to grab the gun. I'm still considering the back strap to help steady everything without the use of tie-downs.

Cosmo 9 wrote:I have one of these http://www.andrewsleather.com/monarch.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; you're welcome to take a look at. It's a very nice rig but for the same reasons as TAM I don't get to use it much. I think you may need to use a retention strap though without the holster being held firmly in place a tight fit may be tough to draw.

I hadn't thought about draw problems without a tie down. Maybe a thumb break isn't that bad after all. The link you posted also shows an option back strap. I might try that method as well.

I'm thinking that I'll use leather for the harness and either Kydex or a leather/Kydex combo for the holster and mag carrier. I'd like for both the holster and mag carrier to not have snaps for retention, but use fitting and maybe tensions screws instead. So far, I like the design of the Galco Mami Classic II and the Alessi Bodyguard best.

I'm also interested in what shoulder holsters have worked best for folks here and what features in particular they liked or didn't like. I'm thinking about making a shoulder rig, so I'm hunting for ideas on the details. In particular, what are folks' feelings on rigs with tie-downs versus those without?