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LandonJ
Basher Of Trolls
USA
5683 Posts |
 Posted - 11/02/2009 : 21:08:09
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With so many new concealed carry licenses being granted lately, this is a post that is dedicated to the new concealed carrier. With a bunch of asshats put in charge, our current administration is digging us a hole that we may never get out of. That's for the political section, but here we go back to the topic at hand.
This thread will cover only a handful of options, but I think it will be very informative for the relatively new CCW holder. Sure, there are A LOT more options out there than what I'm covering, but this is just for starters. We, the members of this great forum, are here to not only educate, but to learn as well. Here is my opportunity to educate the newbies so that they may learn a few tricks. I am not claiming to know everything, but I know enough to know that I don't know a whole lot.
I had an epiphany today, which is the reason I am posting this. I am hoping that this will be a major contribution to the forum, and also give the newbies a new light as to what they can pull off when it comes to concealed carry.
First, I'l like to show an array of MY EDC (every day carry) options. Basically, this is what I can carry day in and day out. The art of concealed carry is a very tricky thing to master. I for one have not yet mastered it, but I am pretty good at it. I'd consider myself intermediate.
Here is just a few of my options.
For the normal beginner to concealed carry, they might have been encouraged to get a snubby. This is my snubby. It is a Taurus 85-6 (the 6 shot version of the 85) I carry 158 grain +P Speer Gold Dots in it and nothing else. It is carried in a Lou Alessi ankle holster and is very comfortable. The sheepskin on the holster really makes it a very nice piece to carry.
Next is the Glock, models 19 (9mm compact) and 22 (full-size .40 S&W)
Glocks are my favorite gun to carry, because they are just like a revolver. I know that they are going to go bang.
First is the Glock 19 pictured with the Milt Sparks VM2. The VM2 is THE MOST COMFORTABLE HOLSTER I have ever experienced. It is more comfortable than some OWB (outside the waistband) holsters that I've owned. It really does the job when carrying and concealing a firearm. The wide loops make the gun much more stable than the traditional one loop. It helps drastically to balance the weight of the firearm across the belt.
The next holster pictured is the Comp-Tac Minotaur Spartan. This holster saw over a year of use, day in and day out. I finally got a Milt Sparks, so it is now collecting dust. It was a great holster and the ability to take off the kydex shell and replace it with a different shell for a completely different firearm is unheard of with other holsters. I bought a 1911 shell in addition to what I already had on it, so essentially I have two holsters for under $105. Not bad. Another great feature is that you can adjust the height of where your weapon sits on your body. Some may like it high, some may like it low, and some may like it in between.
Here it is pictured with the G19.
This holster is from Galco. It's a 3 slot pancake holster. One of the slots has a vertical carry position, while the other one gives it the FBI cant. It's a nice option as users differ in their preference. This is a holster that would normally be worn with a vest or jacket, and doubles as my RSO holster.
 The next gun featured is the Smith and Wesson Military and Police model .45 ACP Compact. The holsters I have for it are a Blackhawk Serpa and the Crossbreed. Crossbreed is similar to Comp-tac, the only difference being is that you can't buy additional shells for it.
Here is the gun and the two holsters.
As an added bonus, here is a comparison of the G19 and M&P 45C:
Next is the Colt Delta Elite. It is a 10mm 1911, and should be in everyone's arsenal as a HD gun in my opinion.
As they say, "10mm, because you shouldn't have to shoot 'em twice."
After a trip to Wilson Combat, it will most likely be my EDC. Nathan is also sending his to Wilson, so we'll have twins kinda, other than his is stainless and mine is blued.
It doesn't really matter which gun you choose, as long as it's proven to be reliable. Reliable to me means that you have put 1,000 rounds of FMJ and 300 rounds of your carry ammo through it without a hitch. That's my definition, but some will say much less and some will say more than that.
"So what do I get? I can't decide between .38, 9mm, .40 or .45? HELP!!!"
I'd like to say the answer is simple, but it really isn't. If you're only looking to get a piece that is strictly for defensive carry and you don't plan on buying another pistol ever again, get yourself a revolver. They are very easy to maintain, easy to carry and very reliable. If you are just getting into the game, get yourself a top rated semi-auto and go from there. I recommend the Glock, but the M&P is another great choice as a beginner gun. If you are on a tight budget, go with 9mm. If not, go with what you want the most. If .45 ACP appeals to you, then by all means, get it. Whatever you get, be sure that you can become efficient with it and that you will have a means of always carrying it on your person. Don't buy something you won't be able to manipulate in a defensive shooting situation.
Don't forget that a quality knife can go along way when carrying a gun. For one, it is a back up to your gun. Gun grabs aren't typical in the private citizen community, but they can happen. If the BG is attempting to disarm you, having a knife will be your next best option, unless you carry more than one gun like I do. Some states will not allow citizens to carry more than one, so be sure of your local laws. If legal in your state, I recommend Ka-Bar TDI. This knife is carried on the opposite side of my firearm, which ends up being about 8:00 because of my mags and flashlight being on the opposite side as well. If you know where to go on the arm to disable an attempted gun grab, you are way ahead of the curve. Remember, you don't want to jam that knife into their jugular unless it is absolutely necessary. Like a defensive firearm, a knife is a tool that should be used as such. Use that "tool" to get the offender off of you to where you can regain control of the situation. Personally, I carry an assisted opening pocket knife on my firearm side, and then I carry the fixed blade at the 8:00 position as previously stated. Remember, it is user preference in this lifestyle.
Don't get frustrated if you go buy a .45 and it's heavy and you want to put the mouse gun in your pocket and leave the .45 in the safe. Instead, get the proper equipment, i.e. reinforced belt to hold the weight of the gun, quality holster and some good training. With the proper equipment it can become one with your body and you will forget it's there, as it will be comfortable, as well as comforting. I think it was Jeff Cooper that used to say "carrying a gun is comforting, not comfortable." Well, Colonel Cooper, it doesn't have to be that way any longer.
Another department of concealed carry is in the accessories category. I carry at least one spare mag with any of my weapons, as well as 2 flashlights and 2 knives. Clint Smith says it best: "Two is one and one is none." That should explain everything right there.
Once again, these are my options for EDC, but your mileage will vary. We are all shaped differently and have different preferences. Some may be Glock, 1911 or Sig guys, but when you combine any reliable firearm as well as good equipment and proper training, you can be the first defense in your community. When seconds count, the police are only minutes away. That's why I carry everywhere. I'm not going to leave the house with just my cell phone as a defensive tool. Most bad guys don't let you get out your phone and dial 911 and take a while to mug or rob you. Instead, you have only a fraction of a second to react, and it's your life or his. You decide.
So, with these options, I'm sure others will chime in and show you what works for them. I expect this to be a multiple page by next week, because there are just so many different methods of concealed carry out there.
Be safe, carry always, and be alert.
Other members feel free to drop in your two pennies to this post.
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"You are only out-gunned if you miss." -Jeff Cooper |
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medic68
Master of Mojo
3274 Posts |
Posted - 11/02/2009 : 21:26:22
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Great post Landon To add a little to the fire so to speak, "Pocket Carry" is another viable option for the beginning CCW holder or veteran when clothing or circumstance negate OWB or IWB. Some will espouse the virtue of carrying small anemic non-service caliber weapons in the pocket for comfort or other non-relevant reasons. The reason we carry is not to "be armed" but to be able to stop an aggressor as humanely and quickly as possible. Non-service calibers under .38/9MM should be avoided period. This includes .22, .25, .32, and the often touted .380 It makes no sense to carry any of these calibers when you can comfortably carry a J-Frame Smith and Wesson in .38/.357 or any number of 9MM small automatics in your pocket. More than one forum member carries his BUG in this manner.
DeSantis, Alessi, Galco, just about every custom holster maker for that matter, has a pocket holster in their catalog. My personal favorite, is made by a retired Los Angeles Police officer Robert Mika. His product is second to none and is the best on the market. My 638 S&W is carried daily in one of his rigs. Experiment with pocket carry, see if it's an option for you. Remember, you are betting your life on your weapon and your equipment. Buy the best you can, train with it and carry everyday in every place that you legally can.
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"Coimhead fearg fhear na foighde"
   
'It doesn't matter how big a ranch ya' own, or how many cows ya' brand,the size of your funeral is still gonna depend on the weather.' -- Harry Truman.
Sometimes there's justice, sometimes there's just us--- Anonymous
"In the beginning of a change, the patriot is a scarce man, and brave, and hated and scorned. When his cause succeeds, the timid join him, for then it costs nothing to be a patriot." -- Mark Twain
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LandonJ
Basher Of Trolls
USA
5683 Posts |
Posted - 11/02/2009 : 23:21:27
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Thanks for covering the pocket holster Charlie. You are right, it is very viable for the beginner or veteran CCW holder. Sometimes you do have to dress around your firearm, other times you have no choice but to "gear up" according to your dress.
I'd like to hear from someone with a smart carry type holster and the options that they have.
Remember guys, this is an open thread where we will share what works best for you, the individual to give the new (and old) members additional options to consider.
Thanks again Charlie. |
"You are only out-gunned if you miss." -Jeff Cooper |
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mattinglyt
Watchdog
USA
9894 Posts |
Posted - 11/02/2009 : 23:24:39
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| LJ, good job, I'll have to get a few things together and add to your ordeal here, since things have changed w/ my EDC lately. Hopefully I don't forget, I have a tendancy to do that, LOL |
Ted Mattingly
US ARMY BORN AND BRED
NRA LIFE MEMBER
45ACP - THE LORDS ROUND OF CHOICE
"My Soldier can pick your honor student off at a Klik and a Half" (Bumper Sticker)
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LandonJ
Basher Of Trolls
USA
5683 Posts |
Posted - 11/02/2009 : 23:28:41
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quote:
Originally posted by mattinglyt
LJ, good job, I'll have to get a few things together and add to your ordeal here, since things have changed w/ my EDC lately. Hopefully I don't forget, I have a tendancy to do that, LOL
I'll remind you if it goes past a couple days.  |
"You are only out-gunned if you miss." -Jeff Cooper |
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DIAMOND
Senior Member
USA
1797 Posts |
Posted - 11/03/2009 : 05:03:36
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Smart Carry
I carry almost daily in a smart carry variation that I constructed myself. I carry a Glock 27 at all times with an extra magazine.
In my line of work, I need to conceal very well. I am in area sales and have approximately 300 different businesses that I stop in at on a monthly basis.
I don't want my carrying a gun to be an issue, good or bad, on my job.
The smart carry holster style has worked well in this situation. I wear dress pants, a dress shirt and tie almost every day. And no coat except in the late fall and winter months.
Smart carry keeps my gun available and yet very hidden. People just simply don't look down there. IF they are looking for a gun, they typically won't look in that location to find it. This makes for added concealment.
I'm wearing it right now as I type. I just woke up in the morning with my Tshirt and athletic shorts on. I immediately strapped on my "smart carry" under my shorts and I'm ready to go.
Very comfortable, walking, running, sitting or laying down. I've even slept in it to see if it would work or not. No problems whatsoever.
I will say that it is perhaps not the quickest holster for weapon deployment. But for serious concealment and for an option that allows me to have my G27 with me at ALL times, I love it.
This is one holster that I seriously forget I have on. I also use a self-made crossbreed supertuck, a Don Hume JIT #36 OWB and a fanny pack, but my "smart carry" is by all means my favorite. |
Loving God.
Loving People.
Carrying a gun.
Palin for President 2012
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PKL
Advanced Member
USA
2866 Posts |
Posted - 11/03/2009 : 08:27:20
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Nice post. You're missing the Walther PPS though, which is concealed carry sex, in my opinion.
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Springfield TRP Stainless Steel
And lots of other guns
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mooola
Starting Member
33 Posts |
Posted - 11/03/2009 : 10:17:09
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Thanks for the post.
Any chance on seeing pics of how you are carrying some of these on your person. Obviously, I don't need to see the pocket gun. lol
And how about carrying in a car? I'm not the smallest guy (read fat) and think I'll be holstering whatever I get in a car holster so I can have easy access to it. I've been checking out Kingston Car Seat Holster. I understand that your weapon should be on your body at all times, but I just don't feel like I could get mine if the need arises. |
Gene
Springfield 1911A1
Walther PPS
Glock 22
Mossberg 500
If the enemy is in range, so are you!
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bwatkins1223
Advanced Member
USA
2545 Posts |
Posted - 11/03/2009 : 13:52:41
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Hmmm. that Blackhawk holster looks familar, lol.
Great post Landon! I would like to continue this thread with my personal EDC, even though I have been going in between different guns lately...
This was a great area to post this because even if it doesn't become a sticky it will be easy to find.
Thanks for taking the time to write all that.
My edc varies a little depending on where i am going.
During the week at work I carry:
Glock 23 and because I pretty much just got it during the cooler weather the only holster I have for it is a Fobus OWB holster which feels great. I can open or conceal carry here. About 80% of the time I conceal carry, but sometimes I do open carry the Glock when the jacket has to come off, I don't mind it...actually enjoy using my freedom and I never get any crap for it...
Anyway, back to my EDC's
Glock 23 in a Fobus holster, extra mag in weakside pocket, Smith&Wesson knife weakside(way to heavy for a folder looking for replacement), a Kobalt razor utility knife for quick cutting so I don't have to use my nice folders and blades are sharp and pennies to replace, Leatherman Blast on my weakside on my belt, personal cell phone, work cell phone, wallet, keys and sometimes my Taurus 85ul on my ankle and a speed srip or two...it has given me problems but I will still trust it as a back up(only as a back up) for now...till it gets replaced!
On the weekends, I carry pretty much everything above but I switch out the Glock and replace it with my Springfield 1911 in a Fobus paddle or iwb Don Hume holster. When carrying the 1911, I usually will keep two extra mags on me, one strongside and one weakside plus most everything listed above, maybe minus the razor knife and folder.
I have to agree, that if you are dedicated to carrying everyday, spend some time and find what is comfortable for you Don't get discouraged if something doesn't work right or if people give you crap for carrying. I carry every single day, because dammit, I want make it home at night! |
Eagle Scout November, 16th 2006
Carry guns:
Springfield MilSpec .45ACP
Glock 19
KelTec PF9
When seconds count, the police are only minutes away |
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scrike83
Puts the cool in Coolhand
USA
2421 Posts |
Posted - 11/03/2009 : 15:06:49
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Looks like we going to make this thread into another EDC gun porn thread!!! Well here is my EDC, the only thing I ever do different is I leave the ankle rig with my inadequate caliber BUG at home from time to time...
My EDC is a Glock 19 loaded with Speer GD 124gr+P JHP, in a DeSantis #85 Mini-Slide OWB holster with a spare magazine of course. Ruger LCP (BUG Only) loaded with 95gr WWB FMJ, in a Renegade ankle rig (one of the best ankle holsters made in my opinion) with a spare mag as well. CRKT M-16 folding knife, Streamlight Microstream LED flashlight, Hiatts handcuffs, and my keys which have a ASP Palm Defender OC spray FOB.
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Molôn Labe!!!
“All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”
~Edmund Burke~
Support Our Troops, Until They All Come Home... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-L2vpiwvPYI
01/20/2013 "The end of an Error"
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mattinglyt
Watchdog
USA
9894 Posts |
Posted - 11/03/2009 : 15:27:22
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My normal EDC package consisting of Para Carry 3" 1911 (yes it's a 45) in a Milt Sparks VM2, Galco gun belt and mag holster. Back up is the Taurus 85 in a Desantis ankle holster. The pelican light has been replaced w/ the Surefire G2 w/ 280 lumen bulb upgrade.CRKT Crawford Tactical folding knife on strong side.
Wearing the Para and VM2
My newest change to the EDC. Les Baer 1911 in TTGunleather package
I'm currently carrying the LB and TTG setup and will be looking for an ankle holster for the Para to ride back up that way I only have to carry full size 1911 mags that will work w/ the Para too.
Another carry option for the Para is my Galco Ultimat Second Amemdment (USA) tuckable holster and single Galco mag holster. Both can be worn w/ or w/o a belt and are my options when out at the beach.
Here you can see the Galco FLETCH for the XD45. The FLETCH was a decent holster for the first few weeks, but I found it would start to lean outwards and become more difficult to conceal.
And here are a couple things I leave at home to take care of the bad guys
My Bear Trap
My version of Mossy 500 HD gun w/ the K.I.S.S method of accessories
SKS for the zombies
And for those needing a little more precision
(been a couple of changes since this pic though)
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Ted Mattingly
US ARMY BORN AND BRED
NRA LIFE MEMBER
45ACP - THE LORDS ROUND OF CHOICE
"My Soldier can pick your honor student off at a Klik and a Half" (Bumper Sticker)
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scrike83
Puts the cool in Coolhand
USA
2421 Posts |
Posted - 11/03/2009 : 15:31:52
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| Check with Renegade Ted, man they make some sweet ankle rigs... |
Molôn Labe!!!
“All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”
~Edmund Burke~
Support Our Troops, Until They All Come Home... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-L2vpiwvPYI
01/20/2013 "The end of an Error"
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LandonJ
Basher Of Trolls
USA
5683 Posts |
Posted - 11/03/2009 : 18:37:59
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Thank you for your contributions fellas. Basically the whole idea for this thread is not to show off personal EDC, but to explain what, how and why you carry something. Concealed carry is a science that is made of numbers and letters that would leave Einstein scratching his noggin.
Ted,
every single stinkin time I look at your TTG set up I get a little surprise in my pants. Man, is that thing sexy or what?!?! |
"You are only out-gunned if you miss." -Jeff Cooper |
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scrike83
Puts the cool in Coolhand
USA
2421 Posts |
Posted - 11/03/2009 : 20:17:16
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quote:
Originally posted by LandonJ
Thank you for your contributions fellas. Basically the whole idea for this thread is not to show off personal EDC, but to explain what, how and why you carry something. Concealed carry is a science that is made of numbers and letters that would leave Einstein scratching his noggin.
Ted,
every single stinkin time I look at your TTG set up I get a little surprise in my pants. Man, is that thing sexy or what?!?!
Showing off stuff is more fun LJ... |
Molôn Labe!!!
“All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”
~Edmund Burke~
Support Our Troops, Until They All Come Home... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-L2vpiwvPYI
01/20/2013 "The end of an Error"
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Elm Creek Smith
Junior Member
108 Posts |
Posted - 11/09/2009 : 00:12:40
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I almost always carry two revolvers, a 3 inch S&W Model 13 with Bianchi Lightning grips, usually in a strongside Don Hume JIT holster, sometimes a Don Hume IWB crossdraw, and a 2 inch Taurus 85SSUL, weakside in a Bianchi 105 Minimalist or strongside in a Don Hume JIT or an antique Brauer Bros. E12 IWB clip holster. I carry two speedloaders for each of them and two Bianchi speedstrips with .38's that can reload either one of them. Occasionally, either revolver rides in a Federal nylon shoulder holster, usually when I'm riding my scoot.
Rarely, these days, I carry a KelTec P32 in a pocket holster, too, and, almost never, all by its lonesome with a spare magazine. I thought it was a good idea for when I didn't want to carry a gun, and, after chronoing some "self-defense" ammo, it turns out it isn't.
Like the old white hunter said, "Use enough gun."
ECS
PS. Didn't want to contribute to the EDC porn. |
3" S&W Model 13, 2" Taurus 85SSUL, 20" Remington 870 12 gauge, Mosin Nagant M38 7.62x54R, Ruger Mini 14 .223 Rem/5.56x45mm NATO.
Hope is not a plan; not all change is good. WE are the civilian national security force! |
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kann
Senior Member
USA
1298 Posts |
Posted - 11/09/2009 : 11:55:44
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Before I obtained the DeSantis Nemesis for my J-frame I used to carry it around in a Galco Stow-n-Go IWB either appendix or at about 3:00. In the cooler months with a hooded sweatshirt on it disappears (unless you are wearing nut-huggers... then it's just icky to begin with!) at around 12:30/1:00. It's in the holster drawer now, but it's definitely a viable alternative for someone with a small revolver.
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"I've had all that I've wanted of a lot of things I've had, and a lot more than I needed of some things that turned out bad..." |
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Joshua
Advanced Member
2871 Posts |
Posted - 11/09/2009 : 13:04:45
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Great Article, Thanks for posting it.
quote:
Originally posted by LandonJ
Remember, you don't want to jam that knife into their jugular unless it is absolutely necessary. Like a defensive firearm, a knife is a tool that should be used as such. Use that "tool" to get the offender off of you to where you can regain control of the situation.
Could you explain? If your life is in danger wouldn't that be an efficient use of the tool you have available?
quote:
Most bad guys don't let you get out your phone and dial 911 and take a while to mug or rob you. Instead, you have only a fraction of a second to react, and it's your life or his. You decide.
Its' interesting that you mention this because cell phones are definitely a target item for thieves. If they are robbing you they are probably going to get your phone as well. |
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fj44dash1
New Member
USA
85 Posts |
Posted - 11/09/2009 : 17:06:24
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| Excellent post Landon!! lots of really good info. |
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PrepareParabellum
Average Member
721 Posts |
Posted - 11/18/2009 : 18:57:25
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I wanted to comment on the combination of the Walther PPS and the SmartCarry. In times that I can't dress around my .45, the PPS/SmartCarry option is perfect. Going to the gym, pool (not swimming of course), walking around the house at night in my underwear... this combination is the 'catch all' where you can literally walk around naked and be armed and comfortable doing so.
Personally, I think this is important, because when few clothes and light clothes are what you are going to wear, there is STILL no excuse to go around un-armed -- inside your home our out. |
Bob
 SA SS 1911 TRP: Cocked, Locked, and ready to Rock.
Let your gun therefore be the constant companion of your walks. -- Thomas Jefferson
Molôn Labe
Fio Para Bellator
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The endless possibilties of finding an EDC
