Hello fella's.

I am the proud owner of a Blackhawk 357 Maximum complete with 10.5 inch barrel. The revolver is in great shape and wasn't abused. Top strap is good and I'm really looking forward to hunting with this fine firearm.

I've been reading up on rigs and have considered a shoulder set-up and sling configurations. I don't have experience with the slings out there and have only used an Uncle Mike's shoulder set-up which I didn't like.

Currently I'm leaning toward leather but would really like to get some feedback from people who have already been there and done that. I don't want to repeat mistakes if I can help it.

I'm sure that body build is an influence on what you choose. I am just under 5'8" and weight about 193lb if that helps in making suggestions.

Thanks and I'm looking forward to learning what works for you guys.

lc

My four inch 357 and 44 belt guns ride in Sparks AW holsters on the strong side - secure and fast. I've used an Uncle Mike shoulder rig with my 7-1/2 inch Ruger Bisley Blackhawk in the past but didn't care for it as it tends to migrate backwards away from my strong hand. These days when I hunt with my larger pistols - 10 inch Contender or the Bisley - they ride inside a gunrug inside my daypack until I commence hunting, then they reside in my hand. If you want your long pistol holstered and ready I'll guess the Uncle Mike bandolier holster - or a custom approximation thereof - is about as convenient and effective as you'll find.

Thanks,

That's the rubber-to-the-road info I'm looking for.

Any other experiences/suggestions?

Is there a certain style of shoulder harness that you've found to be comfortable or more functional?

quote:

Originally posted by littlecanoe:
Is there a certain style of shoulder harness that you've found to be comfortable or more functional?

On further reflection I recall also using a leather chest harness once made by Thompson/Center for the scoped ten inch Contender. It was very comfortable but the leather squeaked so badly I quit using it. I've had slightly better luck with leather concealment shoulder holsters from Bianchi (Colt 1911A1) and Safariland (S&W J-frame) but even they can let the butt of a pistol migrate away from where a fella's strong hand can get at it quickly. Here's a picture of the Uncle Mike's holster I mentioned earlier (mine is longer and with a camo finish) http://www.midwayusa.com/midwa...s/highres/563224.jpg

Great point on the leather. I like the feel and look of leather but hadn't thought about noise.

I also like bandoleer holsters. Mine are leather, and most have been custom made. Properly made leather holsters won't squeak...honest!

quote:

Originally posted by nordrseta:

quote:

Originally posted by littlecanoe:
Is there a certain style of shoulder harness that you've found to be comfortable or more functional?

On further reflection I recall also using a leather chest harness once made by Thompson/Center for the scoped ten inch Contender. It was very comfortable but the leather squeaked so badly I quit using it. I've had slightly better luck with leather concealment shoulder holsters from Bianchi (Colt 1911A1) and Safariland (S&W J-frame) but even they can let the butt of a pistol migrate away from where a fella's strong hand can get at it quickly. Here's a picture of the Uncle Mike's holster I mentioned earlier (mine is longer and with a camo finish) http://www.midwayusa.com/midwa...s/highres/563224.jpg

Oil it.. Use LexOil or simular

Check out Freedom Arms. They offer some variations on shoulder holsters that should provide accessibility and comfortable carry for long barreled revolvers.