Maximizing Comfort & Accessibility with A Chest Holster
Are you having a hard time finding that sweet spot with firearm carry solutions? Believe me, I can relate. I’ve been in those very boots, sifting through information and learning about the seemingly endless ways and methods on how to carry a firearm. While I have found appendix carry to be ideal for me, I ran into an issue, and a chest holster seemed like the perfect solution to my problem.
If I’m out going for a walk, jog, run, hike, or anything where I’m in motion for long periods of time, carrying appendix isn’t ideal (at least not for me). The appendix position causes the gun to rub against me and dig into my lower abdomen. That’s when I started looking at potentially picking up a chest holster.
The nice thing about this carry method is that chest holsters evenly distribute the weight of your handgun for maximum comfort — it truly is an art.
That’s why this article has one singular focus: optimum comfort and accessibility using a chest holster, an often underrated but highly effective option. I get it. Some of you may be ready to click out of this article and move on with your day as you’d “never carry a pistol in a chest holster,” but stick with me, and you may find how they can be a perfect way to carry in certain situations.
Key Takeaways
- Chest holsters offer maximum security and accessibility, allowing for quick and easy access to your firearm in emergencies.
- The unique harness construction of chest holsters provides a comfortable and convenient design that evenly distributes the weight of your firearm.
- Chest holsters are perfect for outdoor activities, as they securely hold your firearm without hindering movement during activities like fishing, running, or hiking.
Table of contents
Benefits of a Chest Holster
A chest holster maximizes security and accessibility for quick and easy access to your firearm. It also provides a comfortable and convenient design, making it suitable for outdoor activities.
1. Maximize security and accessibility
Security and accessibility are the two key pillars that make chest holsters really stand out. These robust carriers allow you to have your firearm right at your fingertips, always ready for any unexpected risk.
RELATED: Do You REALLY Need an OWB Duty Retention Holster?
With chest holsters, you gain the advantage of faster draw times in emergencies since there’s no need to lift or shift clothing (assuming you’re somewhere that open carry is acceptable and it’s a convenient location to use a chest holster). Moreover, they remain secure even under rigorous movement, which is vital during outdoor excursions like running or hiking in the woods. You can wear a backpack and still have your chest holster on without creating issues with one or the other.
The unique harness construction ensures maximum freedom of movement without compromising security. Furthermore, fishermen also find these holsters beneficial because waders do not inhibit gun access when using them.
2. Comfortable and convenient design
Chest holsters ease the burden of carrying firearms and allow you to keep your handgun close. The beauty is in their unique harness construction, which allows for weight distribution across the chest rather than a single point.
Therefore, even when you’re carrying large weapons such as 44 magnum revolvers, comfort isn’t compromised because the force exerted is evenly spread out. With this design feature, obstructions to movement become things of the past.
My love for outdoor activities like hiking finds fulfillment in using a chest rig holster. While walking or running through the woods, I can easily reach my gun thanks to its convenient placement on my chest. A belt holster, in this instance, would not be comfortable.
You hardly realize it’s there until you need it! The best chest holsters stay put during strenuous movements, and they truly bring a blend of comfort with convenience that other types of holsters might not offer.
3. Suitable for outdoor activities
As briefly touched on above, chest holsters shine in their suitability for ultimate outdoor activities. The outdoors can demand a lot from you and your gear, and these holsters are up to the challenge. Whether it’s fishing, running, or hiking in the woods, having your firearm secured in a chest holster provides quick access without hindering movement. If you’re a hunter, this would also be a great option for you.
Imagine trudging through streams with waders on. A hip holster wouldn’t do much good then! This is where my trusty chest rig comes into play. It stays secure even during strenuous activity thanks to its unique harness construction that evenly distributes weight across the chest.
So, whether I’m hitting the backwoods or backcountry with my hiker and backpacking buddies or just enjoying nature, a chest holster ensures freedom of movement while keeping my firearm comfortably accessible at all times.
Features to Look for in a Chest Holster
When choosing a chest holster, looking for features such as adjustable straps and harnesses for a customized fit, high-quality materials for durability and comfort, and quick and easy access to the gun is important.
1. Adjustable straps and harness for a customized fit
The adjustable straps and harnesses on a chest holster allow for a customized fit, ensuring maximum comfort and security. This feature allows you to find the perfect placement of the holster on your chest, accommodating your body shape and size.
By adjusting the straps, you can distribute the weight of your pistol evenly, preventing any discomfort or strain. With a customized fit, you can confidently carry your weapon without worrying about it shifting or becoming loose during physical activities like running or hiking.
2. High-quality materials for durability and comfort
Chest holsters are designed with high-quality materials to ensure durability and comfort. The use of premium materials not only increases the lifespan of the holster but also enhances the overall user experience.
With durable construction, you can rely on your chest holster to withstand rigorous activities without compromising its functionality. The use of comfortable materials ensures that wearing a chest holster for extended periods does not cause any discomfort or irritation against your skin.
This allows you to focus on your daily activities or outdoor adventures without any distractions from an uncomfortable holster.
3. Quick and easy access to the firearm
Having quick and easy access to your firearm is crucial when it comes to self-defense and everyday carry. With a chest holster, you can ensure that your weapon is always within reach.
Whether you’re hiking in the woods or engaging in outdoor activities, a chest holster allows for effortless retrieval of your pistol. There is no need to fumble around with concealed pockets or waistbands — simply reach across your chest and grab your gun instantly.
Its convenient design guarantees that you’ll be prepared for any situation that may arise without sacrificing comfort or security.
How to Maximize a Perfect Fit & Comfort with a Chest Holster
Adjusting the straps and harness will ensure a customized fit for maximum comfort, allowing you to wear your chest holster all day without discomfort. Read on to learn more about maximizing comfort with a chest holster.
4. Proper positioning and adjustment of the holster
To ensure maximum comfort and accessibility with your chest holster, it is crucial to properly position and adjust the holster. Start by placing the holster in a location that allows for quick access to your firearm while also ensuring it doesn’t obstruct your movements.
Once positioned correctly, tighten the straps or harness to achieve a snug fit that distributes the weight of the gun evenly across your chest. This will help prevent any discomfort or shifting during wear.
By finding the right positioning and making the necessary adjustments, you can optimize comfort and accessibility with your chest holster.
5. Choosing the right size and style for your body type
To choose the right chest holster for your body type, it’s important to consider both size and style. When it comes to size, you want a holster that fits snugly against your chest without being too tight or too loose.
This ensures maximum comfort and prevents any unwanted movement while carrying your firearm. Additionally, consider the style of the holster that works best for you. Some people prefer a minimalist design with minimal straps and attachments, while others may opt for a more robust rig with additional pockets or attachments for extra gear.
Ultimately, finding the right size and style will depend on personal preference and what works best for your specific needs and activities.
When selecting a chest holster, keep in mind that different holsters are designed to accommodate various body types. Look for adjustable straps and harnesses that allow for customization to ensure a secure fit regardless of your build.
It’s also essential to choose high-quality materials that offer durability and comfort throughout long periods of wear.
6. Using padding or cushioning for added comfort
Padding or cushioning is an excellent way to enhance the comfort of your chest holster. It provides a soft layer between your body and the holster, reducing any potential discomfort caused by friction or pressure points.
This additional padding can make a significant difference, particularly if you plan on wearing the holster for extended periods or engaging in activities that involve more movement.
By adding some extra cushioning, you’ll enjoy increased comfort without compromising accessibility or security.
The CrossBreed Chest Rig
I’ve been a fan of CrossBreed Holsters for almost two decades now. Back when I was carrying my little LCP, I had it in a CrossBreed holster (or belly band) at the appendix position. They are the industry pioneers when it comes to combining Kydex and leather holsters to carry a firearm all in one versatile system and configuration. You can use their holsters as a niche need or for your EDC sidearm. If you want to carry a 1911, they have something for you. If you want to carry a Glock or Sig, they have something for you.
Dad Life
Fast forward to 2023, I took to the Dad Life and started carrying a fanny pack. Okay, not exactly a fanny pack that goes around my waist, but one that I use more as a crossbody bag. I started out with the Vertx SOCP Sling and then transitioned into the bigger brother being the Vertx SOCP Tactical Fanny Pack (and no, I’m not sponsored by CrossBreed or Vertx — but if they want to, hit me up!). You can read more about my experience with this tactical fanny pack in my article on off-body carry.
Tying those Vertx options into Crossbreed, I would carry my LCP in a CrossBreed Holster in my Vertx Sling and then my P365XL in the larger Vertx SOCP in a CrossBreed holster. I did this because I used their modular holster that utilized hook and loop to adhere to the Vertx bags.
The Need for a Chest Rig Holster
Moving things along, when I would do outdoor activities, I hated carrying appendix, and the chest bags I used weren’t bad, but I wanted a gun holster that was quicker to deploy than having to unzip a bag in the middle of the woods or in the dark when running or going for a walk.
That’s where the CrossBreed Chest Holster shines. You could technically call it a leather chest holster, but that’s not 100% accurate, as the holster is made of Kydex. If I want to go light in the woods and not carry a backpack, I can still strap my firearm into the CrossBreed Chest Holster, and I’m good to go. The firearm does not move, shift, wobble, or rattle in the chest holster while I’m out hiking or running (it may take some adjustment the first few times to get it perfect, but it’s easy to adjust with several different straps). You can also cinch the straps down to truly ensure your firearm stays close to your body and doesn’t flop all over the place as you run.
What made me choose the CrossBreed Chest Holster was the simple fact that I used their products in the past, use them to this day, and have not run into any issues with their products or the quality. In fact, I’d say the quality of their chest holster is the best in the business. But in full transparency, I did reach out to CrossBreed mentioning I wanted to run a chest holster while running and hiking and do an article on my thoughts on it as a viable option over a chest bag. They were kind enough to send the holster out to me for this review. They did not pay me for this review, nor did they have any input on what I’m saying in this review. Everything you read is my experience, thought, and opinion based on my experience with the CrossBreed Chest Holster.
My CrossBreed Chest Holster is for my P365XL, I got the upgraded “Founder’s” holster leather, which looks incredible, if I must say. The color of the Kydex is black, along with the black anodized hardware. It features multiple points of retention adjustment to fine-tune your preferences. The leather backer of the chest holster is a soft but rigid leather that supports the weight of the firearm. It also has a breathable perforated suede backer for enhanced comfort.
As mentioned, I’m a huge fan of the CrossBreed Chest Holster for outdoor activities. Would I wear it in broad daylight out on the town? No, I’d appendix carry at that point. Could you wear it under a shirt or coat for concealment? Sure. However, if I’m going into the woods, I’ll 100% open carry my chest holster and not think twice about it. The chest rig is super comfortable, and the weight distribution is perfect.
Another way I use the CrossBreed Chest Holster is at night. My pajama pants won’t hold up a holster, and therefore, I just toss on the chest rig, and I can lounge around the house late at night and still have a firearm on me. This is especially nice since we have a bunch of red foxes that love to walk around and sit on our property late at night when I’m taking the dog out to do his business before bed.
How’s the Chest Holster Holding Up?
The CrossBreed Chest Holster has been holding up like a champ. Over time, the Founder’s leather is going to patina and create its own unique and custom look that can’t be replicated without wearing the chest holster. All the buckles and straps are still in perfect condition, and I have zero complaints about this chest holster.
What’s the Price of the CrossBreed Chest Holster?
One thing you’re probably wondering is the price. It’s not inexpensive, and that’s due to the materials used. The CrossBreed Chest Holster I got with the upgraded leather was $164.90. The good news is that you can change the options you want to lower the price, or if you want to go all out, you could grab the upgraded leather along with a custom hardware color and totally customize your chest holster — it’s entirely up to you.
But all in all, it’s my opinion that this chest holster is well worth the cost. CrossBreed also allows you to buy and use the chest holster with their two-week guarantee, and if you don’t like it, contact them for a refund. In terms of longevity, they have a lifetime warranty as well.
Should You Get a Chest Rig Holster for Your Firearm?
Experience ultimate comfort and accessibility with a chest holster. Enjoy the freedom of movement without compromising on security or convenience. Whether you’re hiking in the woods or engaging in outdoor activities, a chest holster is the perfect choice for maximizing your comfort and ensuring quick access to your firearm.
Related Article: Beyond Concealed with Deep Concealment Holsters For EDC
Trust in its adjustable straps, high-quality materials, and easy-to-use design for an unbeatable experience. And if you want one of the best chest holsters on the market, the CrossBreed Chest Holster gets my vote (I’m not paid to say that and have no relationship with the brand) as one of the best holsters available to fill this specific need.
If the chest holster isn’t your thing, but you’re interested in CrossBreed products, below are some of their top-sellers:
- CrossBreed Holsters SuperTuck IWB
- CrossBreed Holsters SuperTuck Deluxe IWB
- CrossBreed Holsters The Reckoning IWB
- CrossBreed Holsters MiniTuck IWB
- CrossBreed Holsters Liberty Band
As a side note to close out this article, if you want to support our website and are in need of any tactical gear (or any product for that matter), anything you purchase using our links below will provide us with a small commission. We don’t charge for our free content and our goal is to keep it that way. We don’t have a Patreon account to put things behind a paywall, nor do we sell pics of our feet on OnlyFans.
If you choose to use the links below and make a purchase (at no additional cost to you), we greatly appreciate your support as it helps us continue to publish free content (like this article) on our website:
- Optics Planet (use code SAS5 at checkout for 5% off)
- Amazon
We have also partnered with CCW Safe. It’s the concealed carry coverage that I personally have for myself and my family in the event we need to defend our lives. Feel free to use our CCW Safe link to sign up and get some coverage to protect yourself and your family.
Also if you have a product you would like us to check out and potentially review, please contact us and let’s discuss.
Chest Holster FAQs
A chest rig holster, like the CrossBreed chest rig, is a type of gear that allows you to carry and access your gun comfortably on your chest.
The CrossBreed chest rig offers maximum comfort and accessibility, making it an excellent choice for those requiring quick and easy access to their pistol.
The design of the CrossBreed Chest Holster positions your pistol right at your front side, which contributes significantly to comfort during long wear times, and enhances immediate accessibility when required.
Yes, The CrossBreed Chest Rig shines in situations such as outdoor adventures or security work where upper body mobility is crucial while ensuring secure and rapid access to firearms.
*Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links or ads, which means we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through these links. These commissions help support the operation and maintenance of our website, allowing us to continue producing free valuable content. Your support is genuinely appreciated, whether you choose to use our links or not. Thank you for being a part of our community and enjoying our content.
PLEASE CONSIDER SHARING THIS ON YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA TO HELP OTHERS LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS TOPIC. SIMPLY CLICK BELOW!
