From Fringe Vests to Firearm Holsters: The Story of Galco

Published on November 27, 2025
Duration: 2:52

This video details the founding of Galco by Richard Gallagher in 1969, initially creating leather goods for the hippie movement. A pivotal moment occurred when a Chicago police officer commissioned a holster, leading to the development of the iconic horizontal shoulder holster known as the 'Jackass Rig'. The company's popularity surged in the 1980s due to its prominent feature on the TV show 'Miami Vice', prompting a name change to Galco (Great American Leather Company).

Quick Summary

Galco was founded in 1969 by Richard Gallagher, initially creating leather goods. A Chicago police officer's request for a holster led to the development of the 'Jackass Rig,' a horizontal shoulder holster. The company's popularity surged in the 1980s due to its prominent feature on 'Miami Vice,' prompting a name change to Galco (Great American Leather Company).

Chapters

  1. 00:02Galco Founding and Early Days
  2. 00:26The First Holster Commission
  3. 00:55Holster Research and Design
  4. 01:41The Jackass Rig and Miami Vice
  5. 02:12Company Name Change to Galco

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Galco founded and by whom?

Galco was founded in 1969 by Richard Gallagher. He initially started by making leather goods for the hippie movement before a police officer's request led him to design holsters.

What was the original name of the company that became Galco?

The company was originally named the 'Famous Jackass Leather Company'. The iconic first holster design was also known as the 'Jackass Rig'.

How did Galco become famous?

Galco gained significant fame in the 1980s when its 'Jackass Rig' horizontal shoulder holster was prominently featured on the popular TV show 'Miami Vice', worn by Detective Sonny Crockett.

Why did Richard Gallagher change the company name from 'Famous Jackass Leather Company' to Galco?

Richard Gallagher changed the name to Galco (Great American Leather Company) in the early 1980s. He stated he grew tired of people hanging up when he answered the phone by saying 'Jackass'.

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