For years, I refused to carry a handgun anywhere but on my hip. After attending the police academy years ago, I slowly accepted the idea of a backup gun on my ankle. Next came the need to carry a concealed weapon, so I started trying different ways to use IWB holsters. By the time I was done working on the road and started doing more administrative work, I grew fond of shoulder holsters.

Without realizing it, I had come full circle and owned a holster for just about every method of carry that exists. But a chest holster wasn’t one of those holsters because I never paid any attention to them. But now I have, and you know what, they are handy sometimes.

Galco, a renowned name in the world of fine leather holsters, also offers polymer creations. Their High Ready Chest Holster is a prime example of versatility and craftsmanship. If you’re wondering what a chest holster is for or thinking about picking one up, check this one out.

Galco High Ready Chest Holster

The Galco High Ready Chest Holster is a rugged and functional piece of gear designed for those who want to carry their firearm front and center. Made from premium materials, this holster combines durability with comfort, making it an excellent choice for both everyday carry and outdoor adventures. As you would expect, the holster is adjustable, so it can accommodate just about anyone. It is designed to hold the firearm securely to your chest, ensuring quick and easy access when needed.

The holster itself is made of polymer with a heavy-duty material on the back that is padded for comfort. The nylon straps are thick and connected by leather straps, which also hold metal quick-release buckles. I will say that if you haven’t worn a chest holster before, it’s a little confusing to figure out how to wear it correctly. I had this same problem when I first started wearing a shoulder rig.

But unlike a shoulder holster that has a set of straps for each arm, there is only one strap to go over the shoulder and one strap that goes around your waist. This holster uses passive retention, so there is no external lock to keep the gun in it, but it fits perfectly. When pushed into the holster, you can hear a “click” sound as it snaps in. It’s not hard to draw, but I held the holster upside down and shook it and couldn’t get the gun to fall out. That’s a win in my book.

While the holster is made of polymer, it’s a heavy-duty holster designed to withstand any condition.

Specifications:

• Material: Polymer with premium leather accents
• Fit: Adjustable to accommodate different body sizes
• Retention: Molded, passive retention
• Weight: Approximately 1.5 pounds
• Compatibility: Available for a variety of handguns with or without optics
• Color: Black or tan

Why a Chest Holster?

You might be asking, “Why would I need a chest holster when I already have a dozen other ways to carry my gun?” Great question! A chest holster serves a unique purpose that other types can’t quite match. For one, it’s perfect for outdoor activities. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or fishing, a chest holster keeps your firearm accessible while leaving your hands free and not interfering with your waist or legs.

A chest holster is ideal for those who spend a lot of time driving, as it provides easy access to your weapon without adjusting your seating position. For those who carry larger handguns, a chest holster can be a more practical option, as it balances the weight better across your torso.

I have found that the chest holster works best for hunting. If you want to carry a larger handgun in addition to a rifle, backpack, or other gear, the chest holster is the best way to keep your gun out of the way but within easy reach.

I take too much stuff with me when I go hunting, and too much gear can quickly get in the way when you sling your rifle. Every now and then, we run into not-so-friendly animals in the woods, too, so having a handgun right there on your chest is a nice advantage.

It would be hard to conceal a gun with a chest holster, so that may not be a good option. But when it comes to accessibility, it’s awesome, especially because I’m not trying to conceal it when I’m out hiking or hunting.

What do you carry in a High Ready Chest Holster?

Galco’s High Ready Chest Holster is available in different sizes and configurations to fit handguns with or without optics and lights. Whether you have a compact or a full-sized handgun, chances are Galco has a chest holster that fits your needs.

For this review, I chose the model designed for the Glock 19. This version is particularly versatile as it fits the Glock 19 with or without a red dot optic and accommodates a TLR-1 light. It fits the holster perfectly, even with the light on it.

One of my first chest holsters was made for the 10mm Sig P320, which I like to carry when hunting. If you need a backup gun quickly, the 10mm is great. But I also wanted one that fits my Glock 19 because I carry Glock handguns so often. Even when camping, a chest holster with my Glock 19 is a perfect combo.

Galco makes chest holsters for 1911 handguns, the M&P 2.0, Springfield Echelon, and more. To see if Galco makes a chest holster for your handgun, visit their website or one of their vendors for compatible options.

Have you tried one?

We have so many holsters because there isn’t one holster that works for every occasion. I have duty holsters, IWB, OWB, and other styles because they are all needed at some point. If you want to carry a handgun that doesn’t stick out on your waist or hang on your side, try a shoulder holster.

It allows you to move about freely, especially when hauling a bunch of gear. It doesn’t get in the way, and it’s easy to draw when needed. It’s just another tool to make our day a little bit easier.