Reviews

In The Beginning

Front Sight Training Institute has become the Premier Firearms Training facility in the entire nation. Over the past twenty years, it has developed from a ten student class in Bakersfield, Ca. to a 550-acre facility that trains more people in one week than all other training schools in the US teach in a whole year, combined.

I have seen this for myself. I spent five days there last November for the Four-Day Defensive Handgun Course. I have been carrying a handgun and shooting for most of my adult life, starting with Jr. ROTC in high school (something I don’t see anymore in Calif.). This was my first visit to a training facility since being in the US Army back in 1967. I can say with complete conviction that this was the experience of a lifetime. I look forward to going back as often as I can. And with a lifetime membership, the only thing keeping me away is time.

My first visit to Front Sight Firearms Training Institute was just to ask questions and get a tour of the place. I was so impressed that I purchased a lifetime membership one week later. Then I scheduled my training for that November.

There were a few things I had to get before the course, like hearing protection and eye protection, and a new holster. The holster I was using didn’t fit the requirements of Front Sight; they were not satisfied with the safety of what I had. Like all training schools and larger reputable organizations, there are certain suggestions and then there are requirements. This is all pretty normal.

I arrived the night before my course started so I could set up my camp for the week. I brought my 5th wheel and parked in a piece of BLM property just outside the gate to Front Sight. I wanted to be ready since the training began at 7:00 the next morning. Check-in was at 6:30. I had to get my gun, holster, ammo, and other gear inspected before the class.

A typical classroom and range at the start of training. There are six of these classes and they are all full every day.

These pictures were taken on a random visit to Front Sight in October of 2015.

The first two pictures are day 3 and 4 of the 4-day defensive handgun course done at the larger range.

These 2 days are mostly shooting.The next picture is where the check-in begins at 6:30 am on the first day.

Classes started in the big auditorium where all new students were gathered together for the safety part of training and some rules of the ranges. Anywhere you go you have rules to be followed and here it is most important to follow all of them. During lunch breaks, there were always optional lectures in the auditorium covering the legal aspects of carrying a gun for defense. They also covered a lot of the moral and psychological effects of a defensive shooting. When you have to shoot someone for whatever reason, it will change your life.

 

The title of this article, 10 Best Concealed Carry Handguns, is very questionable by almost everyone who owns a handgun. I fully realize this and offer the article solely as my personal opinion. I have been carrying handguns for most of my adult life and still own many. I have also done enormous amounts of research on handguns. However, one person can hardly cover all the guns that are available out there in the world marketplace. The most popular guns are easy to find and more affordable to the biggest part of the carrying population. There are not a lot of gun owners who can afford to spend over $2,000 for a gun they may not shoot very often, and will spend most of its time in a safe or some kind of case. So my focus will be on the most common handguns found in the holsters of the most people who carry regularly. Let’s get to it.

Glocks

Glock handguns [made in Austria and distributed in the US by Glock, Inc. in Smyrna, Georgia] are by far one of the most popular handguns in the US market. They are used by a very large part of the Law Enforcement agencies throughout the country. They’re also carried by lots of private citizens and Security Companies everywhere. Here is a list of the Glocks available today.

To see the specs of each individual model, go to the Glock website. Go here to see my review of the G17 Gen 4. My personal EDC is the G43. It’s pretty much the same basic frame size as the Baby Glocks, but it’s thinner and lighter. I also own a G26 and a G17 Gen4 that I carry occasionally.

Rugers

Go to the Ruger website to see the specs for all their handguns. Visit these pages to see my reviews on the SR9C and LC9.

Smith & Wesson

The Smith & Wesson line of handguns is almost too big to imagine. They have 96 variations just of the M&P line. The M&P Shield is the most popular model available in 9mm, .40S&W and .45auto. There are 20 variations of the M&P Shield produced for concealed carry. The chart below is only a portion of what is available and shows some specs on each model shown.

Springfield Armory

Springfield Armory was started back in 1777 when George Washington commissioned them to make weapons for the war effort. Later the company was dissolved by the Gov’t. and in 1974 was opened again as a private concern.

The Springfield XD-S model is quite popular now for concealed carry, as is the XD.

The XD-S is available in two sizes, 3.3″ and 4″ and in the 3 most common calibers; 9mm, .40, and .45.

Springfield also has a line of 1911’s that are pretty popular with the 1911 enthusiasts. I have heard it said , once you fire a 1911, you won’t want to shoot anything else. I haven’t fired a 1911 since I left the US Army, so I don’t remember the experience. (You know the story, once you get to my age the CRS sets in.)

Kahr Arms

Another very popular carry gun is from Kahr Arms. This one, I think, my  be one of the popular guns because of both the quality and the price. The Kahr handguns are made to very close precision tolerances, and it shows when you pick one up and try to rack the slide. The first time I racked the slide on a Kahr, I thought ” Boy, this is tight and a little hard to work”. I recognized it was a new gun and needed to be broke in a bit. I also realized the close tolerance of manufacturing. This makes it a pretty accurate gun. Watch the video.

Kimber

“Kimber builds the world’s finest 1911 pistols right here in America—something that makes sense, as few things are as American as a 1911 .45 ACP. Virtually every critical component of every pistol is manufactured inside the Kimber factory. The finest raw materials come through the front gate and Kimber does the rest, the only way to ensure that every part meets unequaled standards.”[http://www.kimberamerica.com/]

Kimber makes a good line of handguns based almost exclusively on the 1911 design. They make only a couple revolvers. They are very sought-after, but not so many ‘regular folks’ can afford them They are some of the most expensive handguns for concealed carry.

Sig Sauer

“In the U. S., the SIG success story began in 1985, when the newly formed SIG SAUER began to distribute the P220 semi-automatic. Anyone familiar with firearms knew instantly that this was the pistol to reckon with. This SIG SAUER pistol led the semi-auto revolution, and the qualities that made that happen are still here – and then some – in the current SIG Classic line of pistols.”[http://www.sigsauer.com/]

I have a Sig Sauer that I truly enjoy shooting. It feels great in my hand, is as accurate as I could ask for, and I just love it. However, I don’t carry it because it’s a Mosquito(.22LR). This gun is not for carry, at least for me. I got it for target shooting and training. It’s also a good shooter for inexperienced people when they go to the range with me.

Beretta

Passed down through 15 generations of the Beretta family, the company was already active in Gardone Valtrompia in the 1400s and its work has been documented since 1526. Under the guidance of Pietro’s sons Giuseppe (1906-1993) and Carlo (1908-1984), the firm became a multinational company and achieved great success in the military and sporting sectors. Beretta has always produced weapons.

The modern Beretta firearms have a reputation for being reliable and accurate. They are not the least expensive, but not the most either. Most of the Beretta line is priced where the average gun enthusiast can afford to own them, maybe even more than one.

In Conclusion

I know the title of this article is 10 Best Concealed Carry handguns, but it morphed into something a little different. I’m sure you can understand how easy it is to talk on about guns. As you also know, there are many more handguns in the marketplace, and most of them are of a quality you can count on to save your life if it’s needed. There are a few that have a reputation for being not so reliable, and those aren’t talked about here.

Of course, my favorites are the Glocks and Rugers, but it doesn’t mean they are the absolute best there is. They are all good. We’ve all heard the saying; “The best gun is the one you have”.

Drop me a line and tell me what you carry and what you think is the best. I’ll be interested in your views.

Train well and be safe,

The best self-defense gun for a woman is, wait for it;  Whatever She is Comfortable With!

Was that answer too simple? Well, let me elaborate a little. There is no best gun for anybody to carry, man or woman. It all depends on what an individual is comfortable carrying and using, if necessary. The real questions are; What fits your hand? How will you carry it? Where will you carry it? When will you carry? Do you get the idea yet?

There are so many questions to be considered here, it’s anybody’s guess what would be the best gun for carrying, concealed or otherwise. I don’t believe anyone has ever written an article explaining exactly which gun is the absolute best. If it has been written I certainly wouldn’t take it seriously. In this article, I will give you some ideas and suggestions based on my opinion and the opinions of others in this lifestyle. I’ll surely not tell you which gun to buy or why you should buy it. What I will tell you is you should do your own due diligence. Shop around. Look at many guns and fire as many as you can before you buy. Lots of gun shops have indoor ranges right on their premises to test-fire whatever they have available.

Some of the most popular self-defense handguns for women are what are referred to as ‘pocket pistols’. They are the sub-compacts. I don’t personally recommend these because;

1. They’re too small to handle safely under stress.
2. They can be concealed in ways to make them harder to access.
3. The recoil can be too much for some women to handle (depending on the woman, of course, and caliber).
4. The caliber may be too small to be effective for stopping power.

There may be more reasons someone else can think of, but these four are enough for me to consider. The so-called ‘pocket pistols’ are usually, but not always, small calibers like .22LR, .25, and .32. Some of them are in .380 and 9mm, but we are getting into a bit larger frame than a pocket pistol. My first two carry guns were a .22 revolver and a .25 semi-auto pistol. They were both so small I had a hard time fitting them into my hand. They also sprayed GSR (gun shot residue) all over me. I eagerly replaced them with something more appropriate.

The ‘best’ sub-compact handguns I like are no smaller than the Ruger LC9 (9mm). The LCP (.380) is a bit smaller and still a decent size, but in some states, they are only allowed to be purchased by law enforcement officers. The Ruger LCR revolver is another one of the same size. Most people prefer to carry semi-autos, though.

The ‘Baby Glock’ pistols are a good size, weight, and caliber for concealed carry. They hold 10 rounds in the magazine and one in the chamber because they are what is called ‘double stacks’. This means the rounds are staggered in the magazine to hold more ammo. However, this also makes the gun a bit wider that a ‘single stack’. Glock recently came out with an answer to this in the G42(.380) and the G43 (9mm). They’re both single stack, so they are thinner than the Baby Glocks (G26 & G27). I like to carry my G43 in an IWB holster.

There are many gun manufacturers making compact and sub-compact handguns for concealed carry. They are all suitable for both men and women. I think it’s appropriate to mention here that I find very little difference in what a woman carries and what a man carries. This is worth repeating; “There is no difference in what a woman carries and what a man carries”. The method of carry and comfort are the only differences.

I will list a few of them here for you to look at when you’re in the market. They are not in order of recommendation. They’re just listed.

Kahr Arms –

Ruger –

Glock –

Springfield –

 Sig-Sauer –

Smith & Wesson –

Beretta –

Taurus –

Conclusion –

There are many, many more handguns made for concealed carry for both men and women. Some are made in colors designed to appeal to women more than men; like pink, purple, orange, red, etc. There are also gobs of holsters made just for women. This is the biggest difference between carry for men vs. women. There are more options for women to carry concealed. However, as I said before, some of the carry methods don’t provide very good emergency access. This will all be a matter of personal preference and the circumstances you are in at the time.

Please leave a comment below and tell me what you like, or dislike, about this article. It helps me do a better job on the next one. if you have questions, please ask. I’ll get back to you as soon as humanly possible (at least, for this human). Thanks for stopping by…..

Trying to find the right holster for your EDC or any handgun you choose to carry can be a daunting experience. I have purchased from brick and mortar stores and ordered them online.

Probably one of the best I have found is from N82 (Nate Squared). I ordered the N82 Tactical Professional for a Glock 26 and was quite impressed with the comfort and fit. Instantly it was very comfortable. It held the firearm securely, and the draw was fast and easy.

In addition, I found my Ruger SR9C also fit this holster very well. Then I acquired a Glock 17. Both Glocks having the same basic frame, I realized the 17 also fit this holster. It just stuck out the bottom a little more and the grip was a bit larger so it printed a little more. However, the fit and use was excellent.

Then after purchasing a G43, I tried the new pistol in this holster, and lo and behold, it fit just as well. The G43 is the same length and height as the G26, it is just a bit thinner. But when worn, the belt and fit against my body causes the G43 to be snug enough to hold very well and has the same retention as both the other Glocks.

I have found that I can wear this holster with all 4 of these handguns and be just as comfortable with any of them all day long. This has now become my first choice for carrying all my Glocks. I put it on when I dress in the morning and take it off just before retiring for the night.

The N82 Tactical Professional is made of polycarbonate, which is a very durable and strong thermoplastic material. It is used for bullet resistant glass and many other purposes where strength is a major requirement. When the holster is worn, your body puts pressure on the the backing, and presses the weapon against the polycarbonate shell.

This adds to the security in the retention of the firearm. When you grip the firearm, just give it a little twist and it will release for a smooth draw.

The backing is made as a sandwich of suede, neoprene, and leather. This makes it very comfortable, and can be worn for many hours at a time. The suede backing allows your skin to breathe and feel cool all day. The neoprene is used to provide the padding for all day comfort when sitting or being active.

it also creates a moisture barrier to keep any sweat from reaching the handgun. The leather is oil-tanned to provide safe contact with your firearm.

I have holsters from other makers for the rest of my handguns, and I’m sure the N82 units for the other guns will perform just as well as mine has.

Alien Gear Holsters is somewhat of a newcomer to the holster market, being established in March of 2013. In just two short years, they have become a major player in the business of concealed carry holsters. This is an All-American company employing over 100 people in Idaho and Arkansas.

They stand behind their products with what they refer to as a “triple guarantee”; 30-day risk-free trial, fully “swappable holster shells, and a “forever warranty”. Just watch this video.

IWB Holsters

IWB Alien Gear holsters are available in three models. The original Cloak Tuck, the Cloak Tuck 2.0, and the new Cloak Tuck 3.0. They are all fully customizable for ride height and cant to fit anyone’s personal choice of comfort and usability. Comfort and versatility are the main concerns for all day use every day.  And they are waterproof.

The Cloak Tuck 2.0 IWB Concealed Carry holster has adjustable height and orientation clips, which means you decide how the pistol is situated on your body. The base plate is constructed of three layers – neoprene, ABS polymer core, and vinyl – so the weight distribution will work for anyone with any gun you choose to carry.

Four Different Handgun Holster Sizes.

The Alien Gear Cloak Tuck Holsters come in four different sizes because, in this instance, one size certainly does not fit all.

• Micro
• Sub-compact
• Compact
• Full size

Any gun you decide to carry will fit an Alien Gear Holster, and they are molded to fit whatever weapon you wish to carry.

Alien Gear Hybrid Holster

Hybrid Holsters are generally classified as a holster with two differing materials. Most are made with a Kydex shell attached to a backing of either leather or some form of sandwiched material, usually leather with a PVC insert for strength.

The Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 2.0 is made with a Boltaron shell (much stronger and more long-lasting than Kydex) and a sandwiched backing that includes closed cell neoprene for comfort, an ABS polymer core for strength and a vinyl layer outside for a smooth finish. The new Cloak Tuck 3.0 includes a stainless spring steel insert for added rigidity and retention. See the video of the Cloak Tuck 3.0 on youtube at https://youtu.be/SYezwQLC8iE.

OWB Alien Gear Cloak Slide Holster

The Cloak Slide holster is made for Outside The Waistband and is made with the same care and precision as the IWB’s. They are an excellent holster for both open carry and concealment and are also considered a Hybrid. They have the Boltaron shell that is interchangeable with any of the Cloak Tuck shells for your choice of guns.

Special Two Holster Combo-Not A Two-For-One Deal

The “2 Holster Combo” is a product offering big savings for those buying two complete holsters at once. Now you can purchase any two holster styles for any guns you choose. The Combo includes inside or outside the waistband holster types, plus a choice of holster base material and clips. For even more savings, throw in an additional 3rd shell for a discounted cost. Continue reading at: http://aliengearholsters.com/alien-gear-2-holster-combo.html/.

Included Hardware

Included per holster: Mod Pack (2 – 1/2″ screws, 4 – 3/8″ screws, 4 – 5/8″ screws, 2 – 1/2″ rubber spacers, 4 – 3/8″ rubber spacers, 4 – 5/8″ rubber spacers, 1 – T-Nut, 1 – Finish Washer, 1 – 3/32 Hex Key).

Replaceable And Interchangeable Shells

As described in one of the videos, all Alien Gear Holster backings are made to the same design specs, so the shells can be replaced or swapped out for a different gun. If you want to carry a new weapon you can send the shell back and exchange it for another mold, or you can purchase additional shells to rotate the guns you wish to carry.

In Conclusion

Please note, however, that many of the most experienced instructors will tell you to always carry “the same gun, in the same place” for consistent muscle memory. I personally have three Glocks that are all the same in operation. They just differ in size. I carry a G17, a G26, and a G43. They all operate exactly the same and fit the same holster carried in the same place. I will be ordering one of the Cloak Tuck 3.0 holsters soon and I expect it will also accommodate all three of my Glocks.

I do personally recommend Alien Gear Holsters for whatever gun you choose to carry, either IWB or OWB. They are made to exacting specifications and the Triple Guarantee is “out of this world” (pardon the pun).

Customer Reviews

“VERY SATISFIED by steven on 11/18/2015 THESE HOLSTERS ARE BY FAR THE BEST I HAVE EVER USED. I RECENTLY BOUGHT A NEW SIG 320 AND A SIG 938 I SENT MY SHELLS IN FOR THE ONE FOR MY NEW GUNS. WELL, THEY ARRIVED AND I WENT TO INSTALL THEM ONTO MY BASES. THE ONE FIT PERFECTLY AND THE OTHER WOULDN’T. I QUICKLY FIGURED IT WAS FOR RIGHT HANDED INSTEAD OF LEFT HANDED. SO I CALLED CUSTOMER SERVICE AND HE QUICKLY APOLOGIZED AND HE UNDERSTOOD BECAUSE HE WAS LEFT HANDED TO AND HOW FRUSTRATING IT IS TRYING TO FIND LEFT HANDED HOLSTERS. HE PUT IN ORDER TO HAVE THE CORRECT ONE SENT OUT AND TOLD ME TO KEEP THE ONE THAT WAS RIGHT-HANDED. I CAN USE IT TO DO A SHELL TRADE FOR ANOTHER GUN. THIS IS EXCELLENT SERVICE AND THAT IS SO HARD TO FIND TODAY. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK. THANKS.”

“Great product for a HUGE variety of guns! by Nick on 11/20/2013 Like the previous review, this is also my second purchase from Alien Gear. I purchased a new Sig 1911, only to find that no one makes a holster to fit their squared off slide… Except for Alien Gear, that is! You guys rock!”.

Awesome holster by Fish on 11/18/2015 I have owned both the cloak tuck 2.0 and the 3.0. I originally saw these holsters advertised in an issue of concealed carry magazine. They looked very interesting so I wanted to check them out. After wearing it on a regular basis, I am confident in saying that these are insanely comfortable holsters. In fact, it is possible to even forget that you are wearing it. You can’t beat these holsters. Alien gear had produced a winner. Maybe they will produce an AIWB holster soon.” Continue reading at: http://aliengearholsters.com/reviews.

Please leave your comments below and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can. Thank you for your support.

Is concealed carry a lifestyle? Have you or are you considering changing your lifestyle?  Concealed carry is a lifestyle because it is not something that should be taken lightly. It is something people should learn about, embrace, participate in, and grow with. Carrying a gun is not something you just “do,” like driving a car or cooking lunch. It is something that requires thought, training, obligation, and commitment.

Choosing to carry a gun means you are accepting the responsibility of protecting yourself and your loved ones. This lifestyle is complete with its own peer groups, activities, and even language.

How will you dress?

“Is concealed carry a lifestyle?”

In order to effectively conceal a firearm, you have to select appropriate attire. You must dress to your chosen firearms. This means wearing looser fitting pants if you choose to carry in an IWB holster. If you are wearing a suit, there are options for carrying OWB or in a shoulder holster. This makes it necessary to keep your jacket on at all times.

There has to be a blend of your present wardrobe choices and the new ways of dress to accommodate the firearm you decide to carry and method of carrying it. Consider how you will carry your gun and how easily ( or not) it will be to draw that gun if necessary. Always remembering that it must be hidden from the normal view of anyone you come into contact with.

T-shirts will be worn much looser than normal, and a cover shirt will more than likely be left untucked ( unless you choose a tuckable holster). I have been known, at times, to wear a t-shirt with a cover shirt left untucked and unbuttoned. Ankle holsters can be worn effectively under pants with a “baggy” leg, but usually only as a backup weapon. You can see from this that you may have to change the way you look or, at least, modify your look.

You’ll change some of your behavior patterns

“Should I be carrying here?”

Are you frequently in an environment with large crowds of people? Do you get right in the middle of the crowd? This may change as well. You’ll be more aware of your surroundings, referred to as “situational awareness”.  When you go into a restaurant, you may ask the hostess for a particular table or booth based on the proximity to the entrance or another exit. You should be constantly aware of the fact you are armed and, therefore, trying to position yourself to either avoid troubles or prepare to defend yourself.

My lifestyle changing experience

When I began my interest in carrying a gun for defense, I found myself reading all I could get my hands on about handguns, how to use & carry them, and how to get training. Then I gathered the information needed to acquire a concealed carry permit in my home town. After I got my CCW, the first thing I did was join the US Concealed Carry Association. I knew that if I was to ever use my gun I was going to be in for the fight of my life in the legal system, and I wanted the protection of someone bigger that myself.

I first began carrying concealed when I was a distributor with Mac Tools in Southern California. I was called to some rural areas that were known to be high-crime sections of the desert. Having a valuable cargo and large amounts of cash with me, it was somewhat necessary to have the ability to protect myself.

It’s worth noting, too, that this decision to carry a firearm didn’t affect me alone. My family was also aware of the hazards I faced, and my wife was concerned with me being armed all the time. It’s something she got used to very quickly,  however.

I carry my firearm everywhere I go now. I’m always looking for the “gun free zones” where I might get into trouble just having a gun on me. Like when I go to the post office or the doctor’s office, etc. Ther are lots of places that don’t allow weapons to be carried on their premises. Post offices won’t even allow guns in the parking lots.

You will need some training

Is this what you want?

The training you get for acquiring the CCW is extremely minimal compared to what you really need to perform to the capacity needed for self-defense. In Calif. and most jurisdictions around the country, CCW training is limited to basic gun safety, handling of the gun, and just a little marksmanship.

All they really want to see is that you know how to handle the gun in a safe manner and shoot it without hurting yourself or the folks around you. They expect you to further the training later on as your time and finances dictate. I joined a local gun club where I could use the range for practice and buy the accessories I had to have.

The real training can be quite expensive. I purchased training at the Front Sight Firearms Training Institute just outside of Las Vegas, Nevada. There are many gun training academies and schools all around the country, and most of them are fine schools with excellent instructors. I have heard of a few not so good training facilities, but most are pretty good. Just look around in your area.

If you can get the time for travel or vacation time, I do recommend Front Sight. I got world class training and had a blast doing it.

Just look around in your area. If you can get the time for travel or vacation time, I do recommend Front Sight. I got world class training and had a blast doing it.

After your initial instruction you’ll want, or need, to get ongoing training since this is mostly what is called “muscle memory” training and it is “perishable”. Muscle memory fades with the lack of use, so it’s imperative you continue training as long as you are planning to carry a gun.

The following is an excerpt from an article written by Mark Walters of  “Armed American Radio“. In this piece, I believe he is right on point.

“There are a few things we must come to grips with in our own minds. First and foremost we must realize that evil is real, that it exists among us and that we can’t legislate it away or stop it with a sign any more than we can wish it away. The fact of the matter is that there are bad people who live among us who do bad things to people like us.

They don’t care that you may have just found out that you are pregnant, that you are finally graduating college tomorrow, or that your family depends on you for their livelihood. They will rape you, kidnap you, rape you again, and then burn your body and toss you over a bridge…sometimes for no more than the change in your pocket.

Once you have accepted that reality and understand that bad people do bad things regardless of what area of town you live, work, or play in, then you are ready to take the next step in actually living an armed lifestyle: Refuse to be a victim.

Refusing to be a victim isn’t actually as easy as it may sound. Simply saying that you refuse to be a victim won’t quite cut the mustard. It requires action on your part. It requires that you spend money, get your gun and a permit to carry it.

Depending on where you live, getting your permit may require you to search for a qualified instructor and actually disrupt your normal day to day routine to take the necessary classes as required by your state. In other words, it actually requires action on your part and includes hours spent training and the funds to do so. It requires sacrifice.

      Mark Walters

Now you have realized that evil exists, you have taken the necessary steps to obtain your permit and a weapon. You have made the decision not to become a victim and that requires you to make a commitment—not a partial commitment, but a total commitment. Think about it. You have accepted that evil exists and decided that you do not want to become a victim, but unfortunately for you, evil chooses the time and place.

It is incumbent upon you to be prepared, and being prepared to meet evil and defeat it requires a total commitment to be ready if and when evil strikes wherever you may be. This can only be accomplished by being armed wherever you are, every day; all day without ever taking a break and that requires you to live an armed lifestyle”.

[ Mark Walters is a NRA certified instructor, co-author of the book “Lessons from Armed America,” and a vocal Second Amendment activist. He is the nationally syndicated host of Armed American Radio, which airs Sunday evenings at 8-11 pm EST (5-8 pm PST) from coast to coast. Mark encourages fans to write him at [email protected]. Visit him at www.armedamericanradio.org ]

So the question remains; Is concealed carry a lifestyle? Is this what you want?

If you are considering becoming a Responsibly Armed American, please do your research. This is not something you should take with a “grain of salt”. It is serious business.

Please leave your comments and suggestions below. I would appreciate hearing from you. And thank you for being a part of my life.

Kydex holsters have become very popular for many reasons. The Galco Triton IWB Kydex Holster is one of the good ones.

The Triton IWB covers the firearm barrel and slide completely. This means there is no exposed metal inside the pants to snag or discolor the garments (some people don’t clean their weapons regularly). It also has a sweat guard above the belt line to keep body moisture and acid from reaching the slide.

One of the things I have discovered about the minimal sweat guard, however, is that the grip of the gun does rub against your body. This is fine if you wear a t-shirt under your cover garment, but in warmer climates this can be a drawback.

Some guns have pretty rough grips (for good reasons I might add) and can “scratch the hide right off”. They don’t really scratch that much, but they can get a little irritating.

Galco has two types of belt clips for their IWB holsters. One goes over the  belt with a bend on the bottom to catch the lower edge of the belt. This keeps the holster in place during a draw.

The other clip goes between the belt and pants. This hides the clip behind the belt for added concealment. This one also has the retention bend on the bottom, and that is the only thing seen by anyone else.

As with almost all of the Kydex holsters, the gun retention is molded into the trigger guard section. They have a very distinctive snap when the gun is inserted, and it takes just a little tug to draw the weapon.

Being made of Kydex makes this holster very durable and virtually maintenance-free. A little dusting now and then is all they need. The Galco Triton Kydex IWB Holster can be purchased at Amazon.com.

If you would like more info,  please leave a note in the comments box below.

The SIRT Training pistol from Next Level Training is something I have been using for a couple years. I enjoy using it because it has two laser beams that really help control your trigger action. This training tool is modeled after the Glock 17 and has the same weight and feel of the real thing. Even the training magazine is weighted to feel just like the real Glock.

There are two lasers built into the barrel. One is for the slack take-up and the other is for the trigger actually firing. When you take up the slack the 1st laser tells you the gun is ready to fire. The second laser is activated when the trigger is pressed to the point of firing. Then the red dot lands right where you aimed.

You can see any movement in the weapon as you press the trigger, and in this way you know if you are squeezing the trigger or pulling it. As you pull the trigger the laser dot moves with the motion of the hands. When there is no motion you will hit the target right where you aim. It teaches excellent trigger control.

The other advantage with this training aid is the fact that you don’t have to rack the slide to prepare for the next shot. The slide doesn’t move and the trigger resets itself when it is released. You can train and fire all day without stopping to reset anything. The slack release laser is set away from the target so it can be seen easily. Then the firing dot is adjusted to hit the target.

I have found this tool to be invaluable in the dry fire training that most of us do at home without spending anything for practice ammo. I haven’t been able to find any drawbacks with this tool because it just works. After using this gun for awhile,  your range time is greatly improved, and this means that your accuracy in an emergency situation will be better as well.

The Next Level Training Pistol comes in a hard blow-molded case, with safety glasses to protect from the red laser lights, one all plastic weighted magazine and an instruction manual. It is complete and ready to begin training as soon as it arrives.

NextLevel Training SIRT 110 Training Pistol, Zombie Green Polymer Slide, Red Laser,

As usual, if you have questions or comments for please leave them at the bottom of this post or email me at [email protected]

The De Santis Invader IWB Holster is one of those that could be called a Hybrid. It’s pistol shell is made of Kydex and the backing is of neoprene and ballistic nylon. The backing will be quite comfortable as it will conform to the body pretty much.

IWB Or OWB

The De Santis Invader IWB has glass-reinforced belt clips made to be mounted on either the outside for inside carry or on the inside for outside carry. They also have two holes for height adjustment and some cant angle adjustment.

As an OWB holster, the clips would be on the inside to clip the holster to the outside of the belt for a quicker/smoother draw. To conceal the weapon, just wear a cover garment.

As an IWB unit, the clips would be attached to the outside and the holster will be stuffed inside the pants and clipped over the belt and pants. In this manner of carry, the holster is also referred to as a “tuckable” since the cover garment can be tucked in between the pants and holster clips.

Many people wear this way in business attire and dress clothes to keep the weapon invisible to other folks and still have it on their person, and accessible. It has a sweat shield, too, so body moisture will never reach the weapon.

The Company

The De Santis Holster Company is one of those organizations that grew from the kitchen table of a man named Gene De Santis over 40 years ago. Like so many others, his first holster was handmade in his home out of a particular need. From there, the company grew to a global presence, but still family owned and made in the USA. They are also still hand finished.

Pros And Cons

As with all products, there are pros and cons.

The pros have already been shown as a versatile holster that’s very comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

A couple cons are that they are made as right -handed only, and they are not produced for use with all guns in today’s market.

When ordering one of these holsters from De Santis, you would have to specify the gun and see if they will make it for you. Overall I would say this is a holster I would be proud to own and use regularly.

If you have experience with this holster, I would like to hear about it. Please leave a comment below or send me an email to; [email protected]. 

In terms of carrying a handgun for self-defense, a concealed carry holster is a pocket or pouch for storing a gun on your person without having it visible to anyone else.

Wikipedia says:

“A handgun holster is a device used to hold or restrict the undesired movement of a handgun, most commonly in a location where it can be easily withdrawn for immediate use. Holsters are often attached to a belt or waistband, but they may be attached to other locations of the body (e.g., the ankle holster). Holsters vary in the degree to which they secure or protect the firearm. Some holsters for law enforcement officers have a strap over the top of the holster to make the handgun less likely to fall out of the holster or harder for another person to grab the gun. Some holsters have a flap over the top to protect the gun from the elements.”

Therefore, a concealed holster is one which allows you to carry the gun somewhat discretely.

Concealment holsters are designed to be easily concealed, as well as lightweight and unobtrusive. They are generally, but not always, designed for subcompact and compact handguns since they are easier to conceal. Concealment holsters are designed to be worn under clothing, such as on the belt under a coat, under the pants in an ankle holster, or in a trouser pocket. Since the holster is held close to the body, comfort is important, and concealment holsters often have broad surfaces in contact with the user’s body, to distribute the pressure across a wider area and prevent abrasion of the skin. Protecting the handgun from the user’s perspiration is often an important consideration in such carry locations. Often the outside of the holster is broader, to help break up the outline of the handgun and prevent printing, where the outline of the gun can be seen through clothing. For pocket holsters, the external flat side is often the side with a nap, or rougher surface, to hold the holster in place when drawing the pistol.

Common types and styles

Holster designs for firearms cover a wide range of shapes, materials, and retention/release mechanisms, from simple leather pouches hanging from a belt to highly protective holsters with flaps that cover the entire handgun, to highly adjustable competition holsters that hold the handgun at a precise position and release instantly when activated. The wide range of types indicates the highly varied circumstances in which holsters are used and the varying preferences of the users.

Popular holster types are:

• Outside the waistband (OWB) or belt holsters, are most commonly used by police and military, and by citizens who choose to open carry. Belt holsters can be worn high and close to the body, slightly behind the hip bone (“4:00 position”), and can be concealed under a long, untucked shirt or jacket.
• 
• Inside the waistband (IWB) holsters, which clip or mount to a belt and allow one to securely holster the weapon inside the pants. Some IWB holsters give the wearer the option of tucking a shirt over the firearm and holster.
• Shoulder holsters consist of two straps connected in a manner similar to a backpack, with the actual holster mounted to a strap on the right or the left side. Shoulder holsters are designed to position the handgun in one of three ways: a vertical position with the barrel pointed generally toward the ground, a vertical position with the barrel pointed generally upward, or a horizontal position with the barrel pointed generally behind the wearer. Shoulder holsters are typically comfortable for the wearer, as they distribute the weight across the shoulders instead of directly on the belt.
• Sling holsters are similar to shoulder holsters, but instead, consist of a band worn over one shoulder and another around the chest. This style of holster (designated M3 for the early 1-strap model and M7 for the two-strap model in the U.S. military) was used for pilots, tank operators, and other vehicle drivers in World War II as they were easier to use in the seated position. They became popular with other soldiers who disliked the heavy leather flap on the standard issue M1911-A1 hip holster. They are still produced by the U.S. military for the M9 pistol.
• The “belly band” holster is a wide elastic belt with a built-in holster, usually worn under an untucked shirt, to facilitate access. There are various types, worn at the belt line or higher, with the gun placement anywhere from in front to under the armpit. In order to remain in place, a belly band must be extremely tight; this is generally uncomfortable – it is comparable to wearing a girdle.
• Pocket holsters are used for very small weapons, such as a backup gun or a mouse gun.
• Small of back holsters place the weapon directly at the center of the back, allowing for even large handguns to be carried with little printing. While both comfortable and stylish, should the wearer fall onto the weapon (such as in a close quarters fight) serious spinal injury may occur. For this reason, in recent times many police departments in the United States have disallowed any equipment from being worn in this position.
• Groin holsters place the handgun mostly below the waistline around the 12:00 position. There are few body movement or clothing restrictions with this holster type.
• Thigh holsters (also called tactical or drop leg holsters) are a popular military and police item that holds the sidearm on the leg where the hand naturally hangs, making for a fast draw. Early U.S. cavalry units used these in the early 1900s with a leather thong strapping it to the leg. Modern ones often use a drop leg PALS grid with a modular holster attached, often with buckles for quick release. Police and military personnel wear these when a bulky vest or a full belt (as in the case of K9 officers) makes belt carry impractical. Western style holsters of this type, known as buscadero holsters, buscadero holsterswere worn by many actors in Western films and TV shows set in the 1800s, even though they weren’t invented until the 1920s.
• Ankle (aka “boot”) holsters offer excellent concealment and are used by law enforcement officials who wish to carry a secondary weapon to back up their primary firearm. However, many officers find that even a small handgun bounces around too much while running or other physical activity.
• Chest holsters can be attached to MOLLE compatible vests and chest carriers. Like shoulder holsters, chest holsters are often easier to draw from than belt holsters when the operator is seated inside a vehicle.
• Strut holsters are used exclusively for concealed carry. They are worn above the trouser belt line as a cross draw holster located directly under one’s arm (9 o’clock position) or toward the front of the body (10 to 11 o’clock position). The design contains a strut which is shaped to nest behind one’s trouser belt and attach to the holster at the other end. The strut transfers the weight of the firearm to the belt and retains the weapon in place for secure removal. A flexible band is also attached to the holster and worn above the waist to keep the weapon snug against the body. Concealment is achieved by wearing the unit inside of a shirt which may be tucked in or worn outside.
• PancakePancake holsters are typically made of two pieces of the material with the handgun sandwiched between them, containing at least two belt slots. They should be carried slightly off the hip to the rear part of the back. The pancake style of carry allows pulling the gun tight against the body for a better concealment
• OWB Cross-DrawCross-draw belt holsters are designed to be worn outside the waistline on the weak side of the body (opposite to the dominant hand). Although the cross-draw carry is often considered to be slower due to the necessary movement across the body; drawing the gun from a seated position can be more comfortable and even quicker carry method compared to the others. Cross-draw belt holsters may be an ideal option for wearing a backup gun on the waistline and also appropriate choice for women due to the comfort of carry and its natural adaptability to the female body.

Other, specialized types of holsters are designed to be mounted inside briefcases, day planners, and purses, or even articles of clothing, including the bra.

Some purses designed for concealed carry

Compression shorts for men and women

Bra holster

Compression shirts as well

Function and Design

Handgun holsters are generally designed to offer protection to the gun, secure its retention, and provide ready access to it. The need for ready access is often at odds with the need for security and protection, so the user must consider the individual needs. Choosing the right balance can be very important, especially in the case of a defensive weapon holster, where failure to access the weapon quickly could result in serious injury or death to the user.

Holsters are usually designed to be used with one hand, allowing the handgun to be removed and/or replaced with the same hand. To be able to return the handgun to its holster one-handed, the holster must be made from a stiff material that holds its shape. This way the holster doesn’t collapse when the gun is no longer inside to give it support.

IWB covered by a shirt

Most holsters are attached to a person’s belt or waistband or clipped to another article of clothing. Some holsters, such as ankle holsters, have additional  support. Other holsters may fit inside a pocket, to add stability and protection to the handgun. This  keeps it more reliably secure and accessible than if it were in the pocket alone. Any holster used should also guard the trigger so it can’t be depressed unintentionally.

Belly band at the back

Common locations are: at the waist (outside (OWB) or inside (IWB) the waistband), behind the back (small of back (SOB)), at the ankle, at the chest (in an elastic belly band or shoulder holster), or on the upper thigh. Holsters are sometimes contained in an external bag, such as a purse or fanny pack.

Materials

Since holsters are typically made from fairly stiff yet tough materials, there are a limited number of common choices. The traditional material,particularly for handgun holsters, is leather. It has an attractive appearance and can be dyed in many colors and/or embossed with elaborate designs for cosmetic reasons.

Ballistic nylon is another common fabric for holsters, as it is stiff, wear resistant, and thick enough to provide protection.

Molded plastics, such as Kydex, are also popular, due to their low cost and robustness.

Leather

Kydex- molded with heat

Ballistic Nylon

Hybrid-Kydex and Leather

The safest way for carrying a handgun is carrying it in a holster that keeps the gun stable in its place and yet gives comfort and easy access when needed. As there are many different types of holsters and ways for concealed carrying, one is able to choose the one that suits one’s expectations and needs. For all these preferences such as – concealed carrying, safety, stability and easy accessibility, the most popular among customers are belt holsters. However, even in this group one can choose the different type of attaching the holster. Some of the most common belt holster attachment options are:

• Belt loops –The holster has belt loops attached to the back. They are made of either plastic or metal(for the Kydex holsters and hybrids), or leather (usually only for the leather holsters). They can have a single loop, used mainly for IWB holsters, or either two or three loops, depending on the design and degree of stability one is looking for.
• Belt tunnel – one wider loop that the belt is easily threaded through . One disadvantage is worse stability.
• Belt snaps – much easier to put on and take off the belt and yet keep the holstered gun stable. These are made of either leather or ballistic nylon, depending on the holster design.
• Belt clip – the holster is securely clipped on the waistband without taking the belt off which helps to attach the holster quickly and easily. The belt clip can be either made of steel or polymer.
• Paddle – a comfortable way to wear a gun holstered, very easily attached to the belt of trousers – even without wearing a belt. A disadvantage is looser fixation and safety risks that come with it. The “paddle” fits down inside the pants or belt with a hook to push against the bottom of the belt from the inside. It also has (usually) two hooks in front of the paddle to hook to the bottom of the belt on the outside. This makes them somewhat difficult to remove.
• Adjustable belt loops – the best type for professionals for its easy and fast accessibility. Enables one to adjust the height and angle of the holstered handgun by changing the location of the loops. These holsters are made with multiple holes for the loop attachments (usually what is called “Chicago Screws”).

Factors to consider when choosing a holster

When choosing a holster for a firearm, factors of interest include:

• Safety – a well-designed holster will provide protection to the handgun  while being carried that will prevent three things: trigger movement,  disengagement of the safety mechanism, and forward or rearward movement of the hammer (if it has one). The most important function of the holster is to prevent the trigger from being pressed while in the holster and prevent the gun from being removed by someone other than the carrier.
• Retention – a holster designed with retention in mind will help prevent a gun from being removed from the holster by anyone other than the person wearing it. Modern duty holsters have multiple hidden retention devices to this end.
• Concealment – it is often desirable not to let other people know you are armed. A carefully designed and worn holster can make a gun virtually invisible. Almost all concealment holsters are designed to be worn with a covering garment that is part of the everyday attire.
• Comfort – ability to wear a gun for an extended period of time.
• Finish – a well-designed holster should not snag a pistol or cause excessive wear to its finish.
• Draw ease – practical holsters allow a gun to be presented quickly, but this is often compromised in concealed carry
• Durability – ability to withstand abuse and long-term usage without mechanical failure or impaired performance
• Ease of reholstering – a rigid holster will allow a gun to be returned to it with one hand, while a flexible one may collapse after the gun is drawn, requiring the use of both hands to reholster. However, if you are in a situation of using your gun to defend yourself, you may not be in a hurry to reholster, if the “gunfight” may not be quite resolved yet.
• Adjustability – a holster that provides for the adjustment of gun cant and position can aid in both comfort and concealment.
• Price – modern holsters for a typical standard handgun can cost $20 to $200. Some users will desire multiple holster types per gun, while others prefer a generic holster for carrying multiple gun types. Most commonly, a handgun owner will have a drawer or box full of holsters for different guns and styles of carry. Most holsters are made for a specific gun as well as a specific use.

Conclusion

If you are going to carry a concealed, or not, handgun, you must be aware of one very critical fact; The holster your gun is in is as important as the gun you are carrying. If you can’t carry safely, you shouldn’t carry at all. This article gives you a lot to think about when considering the style and function of your holster. I hope you now have enough knowledge to choose wisely.

Please leave your comments and/or suggestions below. They are very important to me. Thanks for coming, and please come back again.