Galco Holsters and Leather Gun Accessories
About Galco
Galco International has been crafting premium leather holsters and gun accessories since 1969, when founder Richard N. Gallagher established The Famous Jackass Leather Company in Chicago, Illinois.
Originally operating as a custom leather shop making everything from sheepskin jackets to holsters, Gallagher's passion for firearms and commitment to quality led him to focus on gun leather after a Chicago police officer told him how a custom shoulder holster had saved his life.
The company rebranded to Galco International in 1980 and relocated to Phoenix, Arizona in 1983, where all products are still designed and hand-crafted today in their 80,000+ square foot facility.
Galco gained worldwide fame in 1984 when their Miami Classic shoulder holster appeared on TV's "Miami Vice" starring Don Johnson, cementing their reputation as Hollywood's holster of choice.
Today, Galco stands as the largest leather holster manufacturer in the United States, using 868,000 square feet of leather annually and employing over 220 skilled craftspeople dedicated to producing America's finest gun leather.
Popular Galco Features
Premium Center Cut Steerhide Construction
- Hand-polished saddle leather provides exceptional durability and a professional appearance that improves with age.
Hand-Molded Precision Fit
- Each holster is carefully molded to specific firearm models, ensuring perfect retention and smooth draw characteristics.
Harness-Stitched Durability
- Six-cord waxed linen thread and double-stitched seams provide long-lasting construction that withstands daily professional use.
Flexalon Swivel Back Plate System
- Innovative swivel technology allows natural movement while maintaining secure holster positioning for maximum comfort.
Made in USA Quality
- All products are designed and hand-crafted in Phoenix, Arizona, ensuring consistent quality control and supporting American manufacturing.
MRDO Compatibility
- Newer designs accommodate micro red dot optics with protective shrouds and enhanced clearance for modern tactical accessories.
Best-Selling Galco Products
Miami Classic Shoulder System
- The evolution of the original Jackass Rig features premium steerhide construction, vertical double magazine carrier, and worldwide recognition from "Miami Vice."
Combat Master Belt Holster
- This top-selling belt holster for autos and revolvers offers proven performance with over 641 customer reviews and law enforcement approval.
Jackass Rig Shoulder System
- The original shoulder holster design that started it all features diagonal butt-down carry and the innovative Flexalon swivel back plate.
Summer Comfort IWB Holster
- This popular inside-the-waistband option provides comfortable concealed carry with slim profile design for minimal printing.
Concealable Belt Holster
- Designed specifically for discrete concealed carry, this holster follows the natural curve of the hip for safe draw and effective concealment.
Fletch High Ride Belt Holster
- This premium belt holster offers high-ride positioning for improved concealment while maintaining quick access for self-defense situations.
Hawkeye IWB Holster
- The newest design accommodates micro red dot optics with protective features while maintaining Galco's signature leather craftsmanship.
Popular Uses for Galco
Law Enforcement Applications
- Local departments to federal agencies worldwide rely on Galco holsters for duty carry, undercover work, and off-duty protection.
Military Operations
- From pilots to infantrymen, military personnel use Galco products in global operations where reliability and durability are mission-critical.
Civilian Concealed Carry
- Concealed carry permit holders choose Galco for comfortable all-day wear, effective concealment, and reliable personal protection.
Competition Shooting
- Professional and amateur competitors rely on Galco holsters for fast draw capability, secure retention, and consistent positioning in IDPA and USPSA events.
Entertainment Industry
- More Hollywood films and TV shows feature Galco holsters than any other manufacturer, making them the industry standard for authentic firearm presentation.
Galco FAQs
QUESTION: What makes Galco holsters different from other leather holster brands?
ANSWER: Galco uses premium center cut steerhide with hand-molded construction and harness-stitched durability, all made in their Phoenix, Arizona facility since 1969.
QUESTION: Are Galco holsters compatible with firearms that have red dot sights?
ANSWER: Newer Galco models like the Hawkeye IWB feature MRDO compatibility with protective shrouds for micro red dot optics.
QUESTION: Which Galco shoulder holster was featured on Miami Vice?
ANSWER: The Miami Classic shoulder system, evolution of the original Jackass Rig, gained worldwide fame when it appeared on "Miami Vice" starring Don Johnson.
QUESTION: Do Galco holsters work with modified or customized firearms?
ANSWER: Galco holsters are designed for factory-equipped handguns only, as modifications like trigger shoes or grip adapters may affect proper fit.
QUESTION: What is Galco's return policy for holsters that don't fit properly?
ANSWER: Galco offers a satisfaction guarantee with 10 business days to contact customer service, requiring a Return Authorization number for full refunds on new, unused items.
QUESTION: Are Galco leather holsters suitable for daily concealed carry use?
ANSWER: Yes, Galco designs like the Summer Comfort IWB and Concealable Belt Holster are specifically engineered for comfortable all-day concealed carry.
QUESTION: How do I determine the correct Galco holster size for my firearm?
ANSWER: Galco maintains a detailed gun fit database on their website and offers technical assistance from knowledgeable customer service staff.
QUESTION: What law enforcement agencies use Galco holsters and gun leather?
ANSWER: Galco serves local departments to the largest federal agencies worldwide, with their "Holsters for Heroes" program supporting deploying armed service members.
QUESTION: How should I care for my Galco leather holster to ensure longevity?
ANSWER: Galco offers leather maintenance products and recommends regular inspection and proper care to extend the life of their premium leather holsters.
QUESTION: Can I order custom Galco holsters for special applications or exotic materials?
ANSWER: Yes, Galco's custom shop offers bespoke orders including exotic materials like alligator leather for special applications and personalized requirements.