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Post by MLB on Aug 13, 2003 15:01:48 GMT -5
I've been looking into the various options for carrying a small handgun concealed (the only way in NY) lately.
Being tall, but not all that wide, on the hip seems to me out of the picture as concealment would be rather difficult. I'm thinking an IWB setup would probably work best, probably behind the hip strong side, or maybe even SOB.
I don't think speed of draw is a concern of mine. Concealability is on the top of my list though. Any experiences you'd like to relate would be a great help.
Thanks,
MLBajorek
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Post by DoubleAction on Aug 13, 2003 16:28:47 GMT -5
The only thing I dislike about the S.O.B. holsters is their location while driving,sitting.or someone pushing your back against a wall or to the floor during a struggle.Their okay,as long as your standing.I have a new one that I'll be testing out around the house for awhile,it's made by Galco for the 1911.I'll be using a Compact 1911 in it to see how it works, and give an opinion on it later.I see alot of positive advantages in the IWB holsters,especially the ones from Kramer.We have some on the Gun Leather pages at the 1911 Boys Club that Roger posted. groups.msn.com/THE1911BOYSCLUB |
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Post by Callahan on Aug 13, 2003 18:03:11 GMT -5
ML:
This is one of my favorite subjects. I have come to the same conclusion for myself as you did for yourself. I like the IWB holsters, especially in the summer when wearing my shirt untucked. I have gone to a whole line of non-clingy patterned shirts for carry while casual. They work really well with an IWB rig.
What make, model and caliber pistol are you trying to conceal? It may sound obvious, but thinner is definitely better. My mousegun and .380 conceal well, my compact and full size .40s, well, that's another matter. The easiest rig I have, by far, is a .32 that I carry in a Uncle Mike's pocket holster (do a search on them). You may get in trouble because you forget it's there! It depends a lot one what you are totin'.
Galco has an IWB rig that is a shirt tucker, you can access the firearm fairly quickly but still be fully concealed. Check out their hoster wizard at galcousa.com.
I agree with DA about the problem with small of the back rigs. Too uncomfortable in the car, at a desk, whatever. You want something that you don't have to be messing with all day. An ankle rig would be easy to live with all day, but the are a pain to draw, esp for a tall guy like you!
I read an article recently that mentioned a career police detective who carried a full-size weapon under a jacket in his waistband for his whole career? You just have to experiment.
When I bought my first holster, a friend told me I would buy lots more. He was right.
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Post by MLB on Aug 13, 2003 21:19:53 GMT -5
Thanks for the leads. I'll take a look at the Galco and Kramer offerings.
Although I'm looking at either a SIG or Walther .40 cal for my primary range shooting and hunting, I'll probably pick up a PPK/S made by S&W for concealed carry.
It should be relatively easy to pack away. I've read a few good reviews as compared to the original design, although I haven't heard much about it here on handgunreview. Most of the discussion here seems to be 9mm and up ;D
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Post by Callahan on Aug 13, 2003 22:32:22 GMT -5
You will find the PPK/S easy to conceal and comfortable to carry. The .380 is adequate in self-defense loads at self-defense distances. I have a PPK clone that conceals real well in an IWB holster. I also have a cross-draw fabric rig that positions it under my left arm that is strong enough to carry a gun of that weight. You can save yourself a heck of a lot of money and buy a Bersa rather than the S&W.
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Post by DoubleAction on Aug 13, 2003 23:42:35 GMT -5
ML,Give a real serious look at the Sig 239 in .40 S&W,it has been my primary carry piece since "99,replacing my Colt Officer's .45 acp.Callahan has one, and can testify to it's speed,accuracy,and lightnin fast deployment from the holster to the Point of Aim, ready to fire condition of the double action safety lockwork,and no manuel safeties to disengage prior to use.The single action self cocking trigger breaks at around 4 1/2 lbs.,and it features a snag free hammer design,as well as a solid forged stainless slide.Very good carry pistol;I recommend the factory Tritium Trijicon Sights.The 239's 3 1/2" barrel in the .40 S&W, can also be converted to the .357 Sig by purchasing the optional .357 sig "Drop In" barrel,and the .357 Magazines.
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Post by DoubleAction on Aug 14, 2003 14:29:58 GMT -5
If your serious on the .380;Don't overlook the Sig 232.
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Post by MLB on Aug 14, 2003 14:51:00 GMT -5
I'll take a look at the SIGs & the Bersa. That .40 cal in such a small package is something else.
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Post by Callahan on Aug 14, 2003 15:59:43 GMT -5
239 is really not all that small. Thicker than the .380s and about 8 oz. heavier. Mine is comfortable to shoot, though the full size SIG is more comfortable. It's all a compromise...
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