View Full Version : Ankle Holsters
Team Sergeant
06-11-2006, 21:38
Who makes the best ankle holsters?
What makes a great ankle holster?
(Good questions for LEO's;) )
Advice requested.
TS
Goggles Pizano
06-11-2006, 22:01
Never been fond of them TS. Too difficult to draw regardless of weapon choice (in emergency situation either strong/weak side leg draw). Is this your primary or backup weapon system? If primary I say find a better choice (shoulder or waist). If it's secondary then stuff a reliable Smith J frame 5 shot in a padded nylon job (uncle mike's is not too bad). Just my opinion there. Best would depend upon comfort and ease of draw (possible only in a suit or bell bottoms! LOL!). Bianchi and Galco have some nice rigs.
Team Sergeant
06-12-2006, 10:50
Never been fond of them TS. Too difficult to draw regardless of weapon choice (in emergency situation either strong/weak side leg draw). Is this your primary or backup weapon system? If primary I say find a better choice (shoulder or waist). If it's secondary then stuff a reliable Smith J frame 5 shot in a padded nylon job (uncle mike's is not too bad). Just my opinion there. Best would depend upon comfort and ease of draw (possible only in a suit or bell bottoms! LOL!). Bianchi and Galco have some nice rigs.
Here's the problem, its 111 degrees I'm either wearing jeans and a tee shirt or polo shirt and slacks. CCW is problematic at best. Winter is the only time one can get away with a "light" jacket here.
Let's play hide the weapon.....
I do not care about "speed" (and I hate little tiny weapons...) I usually carry a USP compact .45 or fullsize USP .45. I already have a "fagbag" and still use it.
I purchased an ankle holster, it works, but its not very comfortable. I was looking to try a few others.
x SF med
06-12-2006, 11:10
TS-
a full sized weapon in an ankle rig is not ever going to be comfortable - think about the old "Bowie in a Boot" that guys in the Q used to try (I think just to look cool) I went down in size for knives in/on the boot to a Fairbairn style. Have you thought about a .380/9mm with hand loaded rounds or Glassers? slightly smaller than the .45 possibly a little more comfortable....
TS...I have tried two different ankle holsters...DeSantes and Uncle Mikes both had pro and cons. Biggest con is comfort....you are always aware of the weapon and it bounces around a bit and as such not a huge fan. I have a buddy who wears an ankle holster on duty and he says its comfortable and he likes it...BUT the weapon he carries is a .25 so its not apples to apples. I have also seen boots that come with an integrated ankle rig...but can't remeber the manufacturer, but never new anyone to use it. In shorts and T shirt weather I use an (Uncle Mikes) inside the pants holster with my off duty Glock 27 or P7. I can wear a pair of gym shorts and a loose Tshirt and it is impossible to detect the weapon. I will be surprised if you find a way to comfortably carry a .45 on your ankle...just too much mass IMHO. The idea of an ankle weapon is to press the muzzle against the bad guys ribs, groin, upper lip, etc.. and squeeze 'til lock- back.. so the caliber is less important in that situation. Just my .02
rubberneck
06-12-2006, 11:17
Lou Alessi makes a great ankle holster. He doesn't have a website but lightning arms retails his rigs.
http://lightningarms.com/products.htm
Josh Bulman also makes a nice rig. Josh is a protgee of Lou's. I have only had the chance to eyeball a couple of Bulman's rigs but owned an Alessi a couple of years back. It was a top notch piece of gear. Sold it to a friend and have regretted it since then. Lou speaks very highly of Josh.
http://www.bulmangunleather.com/ankle.html
I have an ankle holster, but experience and horror stories have gotten me away from ever using it on duty. Also agree that it will never be comfortable with a large frame automatic. Mine is a Blackhawk, I chose it because it's a bottom draw--I figured the chances of me being able to pull my pants leg up high enough to draw my weapon weren't very good in an "oh shit" situation on the ground, when I wasn't going to be able to get an effective shot off. Yes, it was weird knowing that there was nothing more than a strap causing it to defy gravity, but that was the trade off. I've gone to a vest holster now, and second the off-duty recommendation of a pants or pocket holster.
Or you could just stick it in your purse like me ;). It has its own little compartment with dual access and everything.
Blackhawk holster
(http://www.blackhawk.com/product_detail.asp?product_id=1002&d=)
Other choices beside holsters, are boot/shoes that you wear. Open top boots, like cowboy or engineer, allows a holster to be clipped to the boot top. Choice of pistol helps to, a such as the chief special (Smith model 36(?)).. The scandium frames are small and very very light. In the 357 Magnum, it is very recoil unfriendly. I would probably go with a old 38 Sp load in those 357 M. Scandiums wheel guns. Such as 148 Gr HBWC, loaded inverted and on the +p side. Edited to add" a longer trouser helps, especially when setting down.
Other Summer possibles is the fanny pack. I re-rig the zipper pulls to look more normal. Having the quick pull zipper set up in the corner or a heavy pistol is a sure give away it is a conceal carry fanny pack. Also, if speed is not so important, a standard not for carry fanny pack can be used.
Also small autos, that just fit inside of your trousers pocket.
Only comment about having a firearm in your pocket, is one that May West once said, "Is that a pistol in your pocket, or are you just glad to see me?" Again size is important.
Trip_Wire (RIP)
06-12-2006, 12:20
Here's the problem, its 111 degrees I'm either wearing jeans and a tee shirt or polo shirt and slacks. CCW is problematic at best. Winter is the only time one can get away with a "light" jacket here.
Let's play hide the weapon.....
I do not care about "speed" (and I hate little tiny weapons...) I usually carry a USP compact .45 or fullsize USP .45. I already have a "fagbag" and still use it.
I purchased an ankle holster, it works, but its not very comfortable. I was looking to try a few others.
I carried a Detonics Mark IV SS .45 in a locally made ankle holster, while in LE uniform for a long time. I got used to it; however, after awhile it did cause problems with my ankle. The fact that I was carrying it with the "bobed" hammer down on a round in the chamber and/or cocked and locked did give me some concerns as well. I could never decide which was best
I never thought it would be easy to draw the weapon from the ankle and of course, so many "Cop" movies & TV programs were showing Cops carrying backups on their ankles, most bad guys would expect you to have one on your ankle.
I share your feelings about carrying anything less then .40 caliber; however, now I find myself carrying a S&W Model 442 .38 Caliber (5 shot) revolver in a Kramer pocket holster, especially when I need to dresss in a suit, etc.
Otherwise, I use a regular black nylon fanny pack with a Glock Model 27 .40 caliber pistol with the extention on that mag for the magazine and the regular mag as the backup. I do have a De Santis pocket holster for the Glock; however, I haven't found any trousers with pockets big enough for it to work for me.
In the winter, most LE's in this area, carried a backup in the pocket of their jacket, which worked just fine as you could have your hand on the weapon in your pocket and not alarm people, etc. I often carried an H&K P7S (9MM) in my right jacket pocket.
Of course they do have those inside the crotch type holsters and Kramer has an undershirt type for small weapons. I just couldn't get myself to get interested in carrying a pistol in the crotch area. I guess that you can carry a full sized pistol there though! :D
http://www.smartcarry.com/
Mud Puppy
06-12-2006, 12:41
TS,
I used to carry a Colt Detectives Special .38 in a ankle rig. My agency changed uniforms a few years ago and we lost the flaired pants legs (yes, they were polyester). There is a slight gait issue when walking. Not a problem if you are going for the pimp look.
Off duty I carry my CDR .45 in a Blade-tech IWB w/ J hooks. Strong side, behind hip. In jeans and a t-shirt it isn't noticable.
Just my .02
Cincinnatus
06-12-2006, 16:47
Two folks I knew who wore ankle rigs and were pretty demanding of their gear arrived independently at the Renegade "Cozy Partner" design. I've never tried it, but if I were to go with an ankle rig, it's one I'd look at.
I wasn't certain it was still made, but google shows several dealers.
STR8SHTR
06-12-2006, 17:54
What makes a great ankle holster?
A holster that is comfortable enough so that you will wear the holster on your ankle and after you get used to wearing it doesn't reimnd you that it's on your ankle. A holster that will stay in place while running and walking. One that doesn't chaf the ankle through the sock.
Who makes the best ankle holsters?
I was assigned to a interstate criminal interdiction unit for 6 years. Which is a uniformed position. I carried a Beretta 96 as a primary. Prior to being assigned to the interdiction unit I had never considered wearing a BUG. My mindset changed after joining the unit. I purchased and wore the holster linked below which is a Galco Ankle Glove. I wore it and carried a fully loaded Glock 27 in it everyday to work regardless of my assignment for the day. I wore it on the inside of the weak side ankle. It took about a week to get used to it then after that I never gave it a second thought. I only carried it on the ankle while in uniform as a BUG so I have no experience wearing it out of uniform.
http://www.usgalco.com/HolsterT3.asp?ProductID=2529&CatalogID=6
HTH's
Endorphin Rush
06-12-2006, 19:29
Gotta agree with Rubberneck on this one. I've owned a Lou Alessi ankle holster for years and absolutely love it, even though I'm not an ankle holster fan. It's got some kind of padding on the ankle side surface, too. It's just comfortable. And Lou Alessi's leather work is just precise. Right up there with Kramer.
The Eagle Industries ankle holster isn't bad either. Of course, the weapon is carried muzzle up, but it hides larger weapons better. I think, anyway.
Team Sergeant
06-13-2006, 07:26
Thanks for all the replies. I'll have to make a purchase or two..... I'll post what I decide on when it arrives.
Again thanks.
TS
(ankle holster challenged)
My disclaimer is that I have not yet used an ankle holster. But... I have been doing much research as the only back-up sized weapon I am permitted is a baby Glock (26/27 only). The one I keep coming back to is expensive, but losing a $400 gun is expensive, dangerous and could be most embarrassing.
It's the Kramer (http://www.kramerleather.com/productDetail.cfm?productID=1&categoryID=29).
K.
Team Sergeant
06-14-2006, 07:13
My disclaimer is that I have not yet used an ankle holster. But... I have been doing much research as the only back-up sized weapon I am permitted is a baby Glock (26/27 only). The one I keep coming back to is expensive, but losing a $400 gun is expensive, dangerous and could be most embarrassing.
It's the Kramer (http://www.kramerleather.com/productDetail.cfm?productID=1&categoryID=29).
K.
I own four Kramer holsters, nice holsters. The only problem is that his ankle holster does not come in the HK Compact (from what I've read on his site).
I'll send him an email and ask.
Agree with what Rubberneck says about Bulman Gun Leather. Josh is a friend of mine, and let me put it this way, he won't hire anyone else to work in his shop because he doesn't trust anyone else to make stuff that's going to have his name on it. I've seen any number of holsters in his garbage can that he wasn't happy with so he wouldn't ship them to a customer.
I own a bunch of his stuff, and all of it is as good or better than any of the other custom leather available from more well known shops. Unfortunately, I have never seen an example of his ankle holster, as he doesn't get very many orders for them. Since he's a one man shop, he generally has a six-plus week back order, so there are no "inventory" items sitting in the shop waiting to be ordered. When you order something, he is making that item specifically for you.
The down side is the 6+ week wait, but I think that will be a factor with any of the small custom shops.
DPB
Team Sergeant
06-20-2006, 15:56
Just had a chat with William Kramer. One HK Compact .40 ankle holster now in the works......;)
swatsurgeon
06-20-2006, 16:20
TS,
Tripwire has it right...the smart carry is a great carry option. I have 2 of them and carry any size pistol...no shirt needed, shorts okay and no one knows you're concealing it. I have it on almost everyday, under scrubs, jeans, dress pants, etc. Ankle has it's place, I guess if you find yourself on the ground, but the gun is FAR away when standing.
just my 2 cents.
Team Sergeant
06-20-2006, 17:46
TS,
Tripwire has it right...the smart carry is a great carry option. I have 2 of them and carry any size pistol...no shirt needed, shorts okay and no one knows you're concealing it. I have it on almost everyday, under scrubs, jeans, dress pants, etc. Ankle has it's place, I guess if you find yourself on the ground, but the gun is FAR away when standing.
just my 2 cents.
I'd agree with you if I thought speed was necessary. Speed is not the issue when I wear an ankle holster.
I will look into this smart carry, it just doesn't look comfortable...... and while I don't mind having guns pointed at me, I do not like the idea of one pointed at the family jewels, especially cocked and locked......
TS,
I searched but I could not find your review of your kramer ankle holster with the USPC. I'm curious what you thought?
Team Sergeant
01-11-2010, 20:38
TS,
I searched but I could not find your review of your kramer ankle holster with the USPC. I'm curious what you thought?
Very nice as long as you have some "big" pants to hide the holster. (As of now I only have one (maybe two) pair of pants that can do just that and that's the one I bought it for... I'm not going to kiss and tell the world which they are......;))
TS
Thank you Sir. Appreciate it
monsterhunter
01-12-2010, 00:56
TS,
I've gone through thee different ankle holsters and would recommend none of them. I've only know one other LEO to use one while on duty. He was very happy with it, but that is the exception. I now go with a front pocket holster for a S&W 640, obviously nothing in the .45 size category.
I've seen the smart carry hide some full size weapons rather well. I also have one for my 640, but have not tried it with a full size handgun as of yet. The general consensus of LEO's in my department is that ankle holsters are terrible, except in very limited circumstances and only with a compact weapon.
If you do find one you like, I would be interested in hearing about it.
Team Sergeant
01-12-2010, 08:03
TS,
I've gone through thee different ankle holsters and would recommend none of them. I've only know one other LEO to use one while on duty. He was very happy with it, but that is the exception. I now go with a front pocket holster for a S&W 640, obviously nothing in the .45 size category.
I've seen the smart carry hide some full size weapons rather well. I also have one for my 640, but have not tried it with a full size handgun as of yet. The general consensus of LEO's in my department is that ankle holsters are terrible, except in very limited circumstances and only with a compact weapon.
If you do find one you like, I would be interested in hearing about it.
I might tend to agree with you as I'm not an LEO.
I carry there for reasons of my own and unlike LEO's I do not intend to get into a "physical fight" while wearing it. I only wear it when all other carry options are off the list.
monsterhunter
01-12-2010, 18:19
Understood sir. In that case, let me explain a bit more.
The most secure ankle holster I owned was the Gould & Goodrich Concealment: 716 BootLock Ankle Holster. The good point and the bad point is it laces directly into a boot. The positive side was that it was very stable and I never had a concern with it falling out/off, sliding, etc... It's negative points were it wearing out within a year with the non leather portion. My pants would also hang up on it a bit when I stood back up and I had to make several adjustments. The other down side it that it will only work with a boot.
The other holsters I wore we for off duty. They were velcro attached and padded on the interior. They were not as inclined to catch on the pants and were okay in calm everyday type situations. There was no bulge to speak of and it was nice not having anything in a pocket or waistband. The negative was that no matter how snug they were attached, I would periodically have to slide it a bit back up my leg. Sometimes they may twist a bit. I never had a problem with them coming loose or falling off. These were only tested with a 640. There is no way I could have pulled of a concealed carry with a full size handgun (at least for me anyway).
I've seen the ankle holders that wrap around your ankle and also have a strap for over the calf. This may help with a full size weapon, but I've never tried it.
I know a lot of this info may not be exactly what you are looking for, but hopefully it will help in considering certain features.
TexasAg2004
02-02-2010, 23:40
As a backup when I'm on duty I use a galco ankle glove with a Kahr P380 in it. I understand the pros and cons of ankle carry, but this is the most realistic way of me continuing to have a 2nd gun with me. Around Oakley and Bates boots the holster does not move and it has ample velcro to remain taught. It stays put even during running or bumping your ankle into something. I trained such that I can easily deploy it and get off lethal shots from standing or kneeling (faster) position.
As an added perk I have found that when in Texas heat no other concealment option will work, I can at least carry there and have a gun with me if need be.
If you like to see a photo of this setup please advise.
Utah Bob
02-03-2010, 08:07
I used ankle holsters for back up weapons and off duty for 30 years. You get used to them. The hot climate where I lived made waistband holsters impractical. Never liked having my shirttails out and jackets were only worn for about a week in January.The one I used most was Galco. I like the neoprene. It distributes weight well.
I've also had boots modified to carry a compact gun. I have skinny calves so it worked for me.
Ankle holsters are not speedy but with practice you can draw a weapon fairly smoothly.
They are better than only being armed with a rapier-like wit.
HowardCohodas
02-03-2010, 08:31
They are better than only being armed with a rapier-like wit.
Oh s...! I'm screwed.
I use these in the class I teach. I hope it brings a smile.
Freedom isn't Free (http://www.chaimcartoons.com/images/albums/NewAlbum_84257/1-Freedom-isnt-free.jpg)
Ankle holsters are not always optimal. (http://uscca-newsletter.s3.amazonaws.com/2010/1/29/toon.jpg)
If you like these, visit the artist's site. (http://www.chaimcartoons.com/The_Concealed_Cartoonist.php?aa=0&si0=20)
Utah Bob
02-03-2010, 09:12
My oddest concealed weapon story.
The wife and I were in Detroit flying back to Florida 3 days after 9/11. Our flight out of denver had been delayed so ew missed the connector in Detroit and had to stay overnight. As we get to the gate the next morning and showed out boarding passes, from yesterday the ticket agent freaks out. ((her first day back to work and you could tell she was right on the edge of a breakdown).
I patiently explained that they knew we would miss the connector before we ever left Denver so they had booked us on this morning's flight. She found us in the computer but continued to flip out. "Very irregular!! They shouldn't have done that!!! Yada yada yada!"
I finally told her that I understood her nervousness given the recent events but that she could check with her supervisor or whatever. I then showed her my police ID (which rarely do unless something gets serious) and said "I'm one of the good guys. Get it?" She took my ID and dashed off behind closed doors. "Oh great", I thought. This can't be good.
She came back in a minute, somewhat calmed, and gave us first class seat assignments!
A few minutes later, we're sitting there waiting for the boarding call and a guy sits down next to me.
It's the pilot. "Are you the police officer?", he asks quietly. I told him I was and I wasn't trying to make a stink.
"No problem", he says. Then quietly, and a litlte hopefully he asks. "Are you armed?".
"I have a sharp tongue", I told him. "Glad to have you aboard anyway", he said, somewhat disappointedly I thought.
The shrimp in First Class was excellent.
HowardCohodas
02-03-2010, 09:19
A few minutes later, we're sitting there waiting for the boarding call and a guy sits down next to me.
It's the pilot. "Are you the police officer?", he asks quietly. I told him I was and I wasn't trying to make a stink.
"No problem", he says. Then quietly, and a litlte hopefully he asks. "Are you armed?".
"I have a sharp tongue", I told him. "Glad to have you aboard anyway", he said, somewhat disappointedly I thought.
The shrimp in First Class was excellent.
Most commercial pilots I know get it. It's the companies they work for, the FAA and their lawyers that don't.
I use a galco ankle job with the Ruger LPC .380 and it works very well. However, the LPC is very lightweight/small so have no idea how that would work with a heavier/larger frame.
I can run with this on no problems and I sometimes forget it's there (the sign of a great/comfortable holster).
I usually wear wrangler jeans regular cut and it's not noticeable.
TexasAg2004
02-03-2010, 16:10
I use a galco ankle job with the Ruger LPC .380 and it works very well. However, the LPC is very lightweight/small so have no idea how that would work with a heavier/larger frame.
I can run with this on no problems and I sometimes forget it's there (the sign of a great/comfortable holster).
I usually wear wrangler jeans regular cut and it's not noticeable.
Does it have the brown suede like backing behind the pistol? I find this to make a huge difference over other ankle holsters.
I'd agree with you if I thought speed was necessary. Speed is not the issue when I wear an ankle holster.
I will look into this smart carry, it just doesn't look comfortable...... and while I don't mind having guns pointed at me, I do not like the idea of one pointed at the family jewels, especially cocked and locked......
I know this is an ankle holster thread but...
TS-
FWIW I recently bought a smart carry for my 3.25" bbl Taurus .45. Took a little fooling with it to figure out exactly how to position it but then it was GTG. To me it's surprisingly comfortable (yes you know you have a .45 in your pants, but it's not bad) and I can carry a pistol with 20rds of .45acp while wearing gym shorts. No shirt/shoes required. Wore it all day (8-10hrs) standing and sitting the day I got it to test it out and once adjusted right it works fine. Seems like it might get warm if sitting for long periods in the summer, but I don't know that for a fact.
I have a ruger LCP .380 with a pocket holster, that I bought for concealment unde light clothes or when I was too lazy to wear something with a belt. Now that I have that Smart Carry I have been taking the .45 every time.
The pistol rides in front of the family like a jock barrel pointed down, and works as long as you don't wear nut-hugging pants. The weight is distributed evenly on both hips which is a plus in my book also.
Naturally if your belt/pants are too tight in the waist one might have issues with the draw, and with a seatbelt on, it wouldn't exactly be the fastest draw when sitting in a car...but I'm sure like with anything, with practice it could be done.
$5.00 mil/retired mil discount on my order.
YMMV.
HowardCohodas
02-04-2010, 09:39
FWIW I recently bought a smart carry for my 3.25" bbl Taurus .45. Took a little fooling with it to figure out exactly how to position it but then it was GTG. To me it's surprisingly comfortable (yes you know you have a .45 in your pants, but it's not bad) and I can carry a pistol with 20rds of .45acp while wearing gym shorts. No shirt/shoes required. Wore it all day (8-10hrs) standing and sitting the day I got it to test it out and once adjusted right it works fine. Seems like it might get warm if sitting for long periods in the summer, but I don't know that for a fact.
I have a ruger LCP .380 with a pocket holster, that I bought for concealment unde light clothes or when I was too lazy to wear something with a belt. Now that I have that Smart Carry I have been taking the .45 every time.
The pistol rides in front of the family like a jock barrel pointed down, and works as long as you don't wear nut-hugging pants. The weight is distributed evenly on both hips which is a plus in my book also.
Naturally if your belt/pants are too tight in the waist one might have issues with the draw, and with a seatbelt on, it wouldn't exactly be the fastest draw when sitting in a car...but I'm sure like with anything, with practice it could be done.
$5.00 mil/retired mil discount on my order.
YMMV.
I've been using the SmartCarry for over a year nearly every day. Here are some things I've learned that may be helpful to you.
My EDC is an M&P 45fs with a Crimson Trace LaserGrip. Using the SmartCarry permits me to easily have the XTI Procyon weapon light always installed.
Where the muzzle rests becomes a wear point on the outside of the SmartCarry. Mine was completely worn through the blue denim in around 6 months. I ironed on a denim patch and it gives me another 6 months of wear before I remove it and add another.
Since the size of the grip is the key driver for concealment in this (and most other) configurations, I carry the 45 with 11 rounds (10 round magazine and one in the chamber). The neat thing about the SmartCarry is that it easily accommodates the 14-round extended magazine as a spare. 25 rounds of 45 is a good thing.
I carry an LCP for a BUG in my front pants pocket with a 6-round magazine and one in the chamber. Although I bought the SmartCarry with the optional "security" pouch for other reasons, I now use it to carry a spare LCP magazine that accommodates 15 rounds. Again, grip size is not a critical factor for the second magazine. Now I've got 25 rounds of 45 and 22 rounds of 380. Works for me. :D
"While driving" ideas.
I added a ClipDraw so that I could holster at 10 o'clock while driving. This cross-draw configuration has some additional good attributes. It keeps it out of the way of your passenger whether family member or stranger, adult or child. It eliminates the necessity to "sweep" the steering wheel to engage a BG at the most likely point of engagement, i.e. the driver's side window. As I've described elsewhere, I am now experimenting with using a messenger bat as a go-bag for both first responder supplies and survival supplies. I carry it on my left side, so I am now experimenting with "holstering" the M&P 45fs in one of the messenger bag outside pockets. Fits nicely and is easier to draw than with the ClipDraw. If I commit to the "Jack Bag," I'll likely remove the ClipDraw.
I'll add pictures of any of this if that would help clarify what I've described above.
I've tried the abdomen style of holsters and find them very uncomfortable for everyday wear, especially driving.
Tried it gave it away.
The other issue is size...I'm 5'9" 165lbs. with a 31 in waist...anything in my pants looks like I'm way to happy to see you. Major consideration for any hide out rig not often discussed...easier on big guys with bulk.
If you wear loose cotton pants they may be ok but with jeans (my everyday wear) just too binding.
In a vehicle with seat belt on they are buried.
An ankle holster for driving is actually easily available.
I use an ankle job, pocket job or in the pants belt job depending upon clothing as one holster doesn't fir every dress code.
I have a ruger LCP .380 with a pocket holster, that I bought for concealment unde light clothes or when I was too lazy to wear something with a belt. Now that I have that Smart Carry I have been taking the .45 every time.
So, you looking to sell that .380 paperweight? :cool:
So, you looking to sell that .380 paperweight? :cool:
Nice try. ;)
HowardCohodas
02-04-2010, 20:18
So, you looking to sell that .380 paperweight? :cool:
Even though I carry my 45 in a SmartCarry, I still carry the LCP as a BUG.
However, my eye has begun to wonder. I saw the S&W Bodyguard 380 on the S&W web site (didn't make 2010 Shot Show), and it's got my attention. Ask me again after I've played with the Bodyguard. ;)
Can we go back to when an armed man was more recognizable?
The other issue is size...I'm 5'9" 165lbs. with a 31 in waist...anything in my pants looks like I'm way to happy to see you.
Thanks for pointing that out. I'm 6'4" and 180lbs soaking wet, so I kinda doubt that I'd have better results. :p Guess that'd be a try before I buy kind of purchase; I was hoping that'd work for an EDC solution when I need very good concealment.
HowardCohodas
02-05-2010, 02:20
Thanks for pointing that out. I'm 6'4" and 180lbs soaking wet, so I kinda doubt that I'd have better results. :p Guess that'd be a try before I buy kind of purchase; I was hoping that'd work for an EDC solution when I need very good concealment.
I took me nearly 3 weeks before I figured out how to be comfortable with all modes (sitting, standing, stooping, wrestling with the grandchildren, etc.) and transitioning between modes.
I was highly motivated because my family circle and social circle are big on using hugging as a greeting behavior and nearly all of them would freak if they knew I was armed. Deep carry is my only practical option. I've never regretted my investment in time or money in making the SmartCarry work for me.
Here are some frequently asked questions about SmartCarry® concealed carry holsters (http://www.smartcarry.com/faq.html)
Concealed Protection 3, Inc. holster return policy (http://www.smartcarry.com/trial.html)
Military Discount (http://www.smartcarry.com/index.html#military2)
BrainStorm
07-16-2010, 08:08
Even though I carry my 45 in a SmartCarry, I still carry the LCP as a BUG.
However, my eye has begun to wonder. I saw the S&W Bodyguard 380 on the S&W web site (didn't make 2010 Shot Show), and it's got my attention. Ask me again after I've played with the Bodyguard. ;)
The Bodyguard 38 and the Bodyguard 380 have begun arriving at retailers. The Bodyguard 380 was on sale at Buds for less than a day before it was listed as out of stock. As of this note http://www.topnotchtactical.com/content-categories/cat-148_202/smith_wesson.html']Top Notch Tactical ('http://www.topnotchtactical.com/content-categories/cat-148_202/smith_wesson.html) has them in stock for $439.
Praetorian
08-28-2010, 08:06
I purchased and wore the holster linked below which is a Galco Ankle Glove. I wore it and carried a fully loaded Glock 27 in it everyday to work regardless of my assignment for the day. I wore it on the inside of the weak side ankle. It took about a week to get used to it then after that I never gave it a second thought. I only carried it on the ankle while in uniform as a BUG so I have no experience wearing it out of uniform.
http://www.usgalco.com/HolsterT3.asp?ProductID=2529&CatalogID=6
HTH's
I can second this.... Ive carried a glock 27 in the Galco Ankle Glove for years with no problems.... Like anything else, it takes a little while to get used to/ get confident with and once you do, its second nature. A little practice and the presentation becomes smooth and quick as well.
My Brother In Law is a police detective and carries the same as his primary.
One reservation. Ive never had to RUN with it... It would definitely take a step or two off a regular pace, so if chasing people down with it on was a concern, I would go another route...
Galco with a calf support strap. Ken Null or Rusty Sherrick custom, hand made. I carry a baby glock in the galco on duty in uniform and a j frame in my back pocket.
I think we're back to the original posted question, or maybe second post. TS is working in 111 degree weather.
Go with the fagbag, man-purse, carry what you like, speed is not an option, carry what you know.
I have used an Uncle Mike's with a J frame and a G27 in a Galco extensively. Galco is a little sturdier. I have chased folks on foot with both, Uncle Mike's gave me a little concern with security, Galco less so. Have a few friends that have the Alessi and love it. Uncle Mike's has less padding. If worn on the inside of the leg, this can be a problem for comfort. FWIW.