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I understand Exp's concern for muzzle direction, however I would not go so far as to say that it would legally justify warranting alarm. A properly designed holster prevents the weapon from firing by holding it securely and protecting the trigger. If a gun fires while in the holster, it is all sorts of YOUR fault, either from something you did or from poor gear choice. I personally find that the muzzle direction issue with a horizontal shoulder rig is quickly out weighed by theincrease in draw speed and comfort. I don't like vertical shoulder carry, as it is muchslower and more difficultto draw from. Besides, if a shoulder holsteredgun pointing behind you is grounds for concern, wouldn't a belt holstered gun pointing at your leg or foot be as well?
As far as thetype and brandof holster, Blackhawk and Safariland make very nice shoulder rigs using their locking mechanisms (Serpa and ALS, respectfully). Keep in mind, though, that these holsters are made of plastics and therefore stiff and bulky. For open carry this isn't as much of an issue, but they are harder to conceal under clothing. These holsters are also adjustable for cant, so you don't have to choose between vertical or horizontal when you purchase. Beyond that, most, if not all of the popular leather holster manufacturers make shoulder rigs.
Hereis a pretty good review on a lot of popular shoulder holster brands.
One last brand for you to check out would be Uncle Mike's. They're nylon, so not as pretty as leather, but they do their job. I am probably going to buya shoulder holster from them shortly. Uncle Mike's products have always looked like cheap, not-so-universal fit nylon holsters at first, however I keep going back to them in the long run. Their holsters DO fit, if you get the right size, and the quality is exceptional. Their thumb break isn't that bad, either, and this is coming from a guy that doesn't like thumb breaks.
There has been some discussion from time to time as to whether or not a shoulder holster could be considered "concealed". The general consensus is that no, you can obviously the see thing, so it's not. However, the fact that your arm rests over a good portion of the firearm might be enough for someone with authority to
try to claim it is concealed. Would it hold up in court, or even make it that far? Probably not, but it might bea hassle. Just keep that in mind.