DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters Review

How the DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters Changed My Routine

For over a decade, I’ve been evaluating gear across an array of demanding environments – from the sterile precision of a laboratory to the unforgiving expanse of the outdoors, and the gritty reality of workshop and field applications. It’s this hands-on experience that makes the discovery of a product that misses the mark all the more surprising. My recent encounter with the DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters was one such instance, a departure from the quality I’ve come to expect from gear manufacturers.

The need for a reliable shoulder holster arose from a specific scenario: finding comfortable and secure concealment for a particular firearm, especially when layering clothing became necessary. My usual go-to options seemed inadequate for the task, prompting a search for something more tailored. I had previously relied on other brands, but a particular firearm configuration presented a challenge that generic holsters couldn’t solve.

Upon initial inspection, the DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters presented a certain aesthetic appeal, with the promise of well-crafted leather. However, my first impression was tempered by a growing sense of unease as I began to assemble and fit it. It felt less like a precision instrument and more like something that might require extensive modification.

I had considered other popular brands known for their shoulder holsters, even looking at more tactical, Kydex-based solutions, but the allure of classic leather and DeSantis’s reputation kept me focused on this particular model. Despite the slight disappointment that began to set in, there was still a sliver of hope that its functionality would ultimately outweigh any initial drawbacks.

Real-World Testing: Putting DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing involved fitting the holster to my chosen firearm and then wearing it for an extended period to gauge comfort and accessibility. I tested it under typical everyday conditions, including sitting, standing, and light movement, simulating common scenarios where concealed carry might be employed. The leather itself felt decent, but the overall fit and adjustability were where the problems began to surface.

The holster was worn for several hours during a moderate day, with temperatures around 70°F. I noticed that the leather, while seemingly of good quality, didn’t immediately conform as snugly as I would have liked to the firearm or my body. This resulted in a slight shifting and a less secure feel than expected from a molded holster.

Ease of use was also a significant concern from the outset. The harness required significant adjustment, and even then, it didn’t sit quite right. The firearm draw felt less fluid than advertised, requiring a conscious effort to break free from the holster rather than a natural pull.

One of the most immediate and disappointing surprises was how the rear strap was designed and attached, which differed significantly from product images and my understanding of functional shoulder holster design. This fundamental issue immediately raised red flags about the overall engineering and quality control.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few weeks of intermittent use, the DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters continued to exhibit the same issues encountered during the initial fitting. The leather showed no significant wear, which was a positive, but the structural and functional shortcomings remained prominent. It never quite achieved the comfortable, secure feel that a well-designed shoulder rig should provide.

Durability of the leather itself seemed acceptable, with no signs of cracking or premature aging. However, the adjustment points and harness straps began to feel less robust with repeated adjustments. The alligator clip on the nylon strap also felt somewhat flimsy, raising concerns about its long-term reliability under stress.

Maintenance for a leather holster is typically straightforward – occasional conditioning is usually all that’s needed. This rig was no different in that regard; cleaning and conditioning were simple. However, the underlying design flaws meant that even with proper care, the holster’s performance didn’t improve.

Compared to other shoulder holsters I’ve used, including some Bianchi models, this particular DeSantis holster fell notably short. While budget options can sometimes be disappointing, I expected more from a manufacturer with a long-standing reputation. The experience highlighted a significant gap between expectation and reality.

Breaking Down the Features of DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters

Specifications

The DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters are crafted from top-grain cowhide, a material generally known for its durability and ability to mold to specific firearms. This particular model is designed to fit firearms with a barrel length between 3.6 to 4.7 inches, categorizing it as a compact holster. It features a half harness system, intended for comfortable wear and easy draw.

The holster’s design emphasizes a concealment application, aiming for a Level II retention that balances security with quick access. The harness is adjustable to fit chests up to 54 inches. A nylon strap with an alligator clip provides an additional securing point.

These specifications suggest a holster intended for everyday carry, focusing on comfort and concealability. The top-grain leather is a good foundation, and the specified barrel length range covers many popular compact handguns. The inclusion of a half harness is a common design choice for shoulder holsters aiming for less bulk.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function – securely holding and allowing a swift draw of a firearm – the DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters unfortunately underperforms. While it does retain the firearm, the draw stroke is not as fluid or intuitive as advertised. The holster’s molding, while present, didn’t offer the precise fit required for a truly seamless extraction.

The main strength, in theory, is its potential for concealment due to its leather construction and the promise of a custom fit. However, the actual performance falls short. The most significant weakness is the inconsistent retention and the awkward draw angle that the harness design sometimes creates.

This holster barely meets expectations for basic firearm retention but fails to deliver on the promised ease of draw and overall comfort for extended wear. Considering its price point, the performance is certainly disappointing, especially when compared to other DeSantis offerings or competitor products.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters is a blend of traditional leather craftsmanship and functional elements. The top-grain cowhide offers a classic look and feel. However, the ergonomics suffer due to issues with the harness system and how it distributes weight and secures to the body.

The half harness design is intended to be less obtrusive than a full harness, but in this case, it seemed to contribute to an unbalanced feel. Adjusting the straps to achieve a comfortable fit was a finicky process. The nylon strap with the alligator clip on the opposite side felt like an afterthought, lacking the tactile feel of a more integrated system.

Practical design details like the retention mechanism (which appears to be a thumb break, although not explicitly detailed in all specifications) are functional but don’t compensate for the overall fit and draw issues. The finish is plain, as expected, but the overall feel is less refined than anticipated.

Durability & Maintenance

From a durability standpoint, the leather of the DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters appears to be of decent quality and should hold up over time with proper care. However, the longevity of its functional performance is questionable. The adjustments straps and the alligator clip are potential weak points for long-term, consistent use.

Maintenance is straightforward, involving occasional leather conditioning to keep the material supple. There are no complex parts to clean or replace, which is a plus. However, the key concern is not about wear and tear on the material, but rather the potential for the harness and adjustment points to degrade in function over time.

There aren’t many specific failure points that are immediately obvious beyond the general fit and harness issues, but the alligator clip on the securing strap is a component that often wears out or loses its grip on clothing with repeated use. This is a common concern with accessories of this type.

Accessories and Customization Options

The DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters come supplied with a half harness as the primary accessory for its attachment system. The nylon strap with the alligator clip is an integrated part of the harness assembly, serving as a secondary attachment point for stability. This model does not appear to offer significant customization options beyond the available colors (black or tan) and strap adjustments.

The design is intended to fit specific firearm models, meaning the holster itself is the core component, not a platform for interchangeable parts. While this ensures a molded fit for supported firearms, it limits adaptability if one were to switch to a different pistol within the same barrel length category.

There are no additional accessories included beyond what constitutes the harness system. This lack of included items, such as spare clips or alternative strap options, means users are reliant on the provided setup for functionality.

Pros and Cons of DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters

Who Should Buy DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters?

This shoulder holster might be considered by individuals who prioritize the aesthetic of a traditional leather holster and have a specific firearm that fits the holster’s mold perfectly. It could also be an option for those who require a holster that fits a chest size up to 54 inches and are willing to make significant adjustments to achieve a usable fit. The concealment aspect is also a key selling point for potential buyers.

However, individuals seeking a highly secure, consistently comfortable, and effortlessly accessible concealed carry solution should likely look elsewhere. Those who need a holster for rigorous activity, rapid deployment, or have specific ergonomic needs might find this model frustrating. It is not recommended for users who have experienced issues with similar rigs or are particular about the precision of their draw.

For those who decide to proceed, I would strongly recommend purchasing directly from a retailer with a generous return policy. Additionally, having some leather conditioning products on hand might help slightly improve the feel and break-in period, though it won’t fundamentally alter the harness design.

Conclusion on DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters

The DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters presents a classic leather exterior with the promise of comfortable, concealed carry. However, my experience, supported by some user feedback, indicates that its performance and functionality fall short of expectations. While the top-grain cowhide and molded fit are intended features, the overall execution, particularly the half harness design and its associated adjustments, leads to a less than ideal user experience.

The value proposition here is questionable; for the price of $96.49, one expects a more refined and reliable product. While it might offer basic retention and concealment for certain individuals and firearms, the reported issues with draw stroke, security, and comfort make it a gamble. It is a holster that, in my estimation, does not consistently deliver on its core promises.

I cannot wholeheartedly recommend the DeSantis C.E.O. Shoulder Rig Leather Holsters for general concealed carry. It is a product that requires significant user compromise and may not meet the needs of many who seek a dependable shoulder rig. Potential buyers should carefully consider these drawbacks before making a purchase.