I have only some Uncle Mike-type holsters and want to get something better.
Don’t hafta go too far, y’say?
In fact, I usually pocket-carry, but when I drive, I’m (perhaps inordinately) aware of the difficulty in reaching the weapon should I need it, even when I put it on the floor beside the seat (I drive a van and the passenger seat isn’t always an option).
For the same access reason, after 3:00 wouldn’t suit.
I am aware that sitting in the van isn’t the most common venue, it’s just the one that bugs me.
But I am right-handed, so while 3:00 may be what I end up with, with seatbelt in mind, an IWB 10:30 cross-draw seems attractive.
I’ve read of appendix carry, which I take to be similar and sharing any crash risk.
I live in Tennessee, so not required to conceal, tho’ I prefer not to advertise, and I don’t see that it would pose any greater problem than any other holster.
I’m thinking a shoulder holster would require more than a light, unbuttoned shirt in the summer to conceal, so not attractive for year-round.
More than one holster’d work, but if I can simplify…
I think it is far, far better to select a carry method that works most of the time and in most situations, then to try to pick something that is best suited for one thing (e.g. driving) and perhaps not as well suited for everything else. Crossdraw has definite limitations, and is also difficult to train with because the draw will require you to “sweep” everything on your left side as you bring the gun up.
I would look at the SmartCarry (http://www.smartcarry.com/). I had seen the product years ago and was interested, but forgot about it. Last summer I happened upon a very positive review on another forum and decided to take the plunge. The thing is a great option, and would be well suited for driving.
I’m thinking of “anywhere” use too.
Again, I’m talking about 10:30/11:00, not a full cross-draw.
Not sure it’s “natural” but running thru it in my mind, 3:00 seems most so for a righty, with more “effort” required as the holster moves in either direction from that.
So I can see it being somewhat slower in most situations, but still readily available.
What are the limitations you mentioned, beyond sweeping and less than max speed?
I looked at the SmartCarry, and must admit I don’t quite get the draw process.
They show fully concealed then magically convenient outside the pants.
If it’s carried completely below the belt as it appears in the pix, I’d have a helluva time getting my hand on it.
Do you wear larger than normal waist size pants or what?
I dont personally think that youll have a problem drawing if you have to in a vehicle. It is sounding like youre wanting a perfect hip draw like when youre at the range. Well while youre driving or even sitting in a car thats not gonna happen. Why dont you sit in your garage or some designated area and PRACTICE while inside your vehicle?
Holsters, like caliber and bbl length, are a compromise at best.
I’m just thinking of a “best” compromise to suit me.
It’d be right in my lap while driving, w/o excessive speed loss anywhere else.
The seatbelt badly interferes w/a 3:00 carry to me.
I know thousands are carried that way regularly, and I no doubt could adjust to it, but is there a significant downside to what I propose?
Well I carry in the middle of my back, I always have. I am right handed but use a LEFT handed blackhawk holster. Its just what works for me. Im a bit skeptical in leaving my pistol laying around in my car. Have you thought about mounting a holster under dash or anywhere else?
To clarify, I sometimes lay it on the floor only while driving but on my person entering or exiting.
In fact I have thought of putting a holster of some sort in the van.
But again, that’s a complication if there’s no downside to front carry.
Maybe appendix carry is better than 10:30 somehow (beyond slightly faster)?
I’ve read several posts of folks who prefer that.
I wouldnt do that…thats just me though. You should think about getting some 3M velcro and an nice canvas holster with thumb or some sort of retention strap. Stick it on some different areas and see what you can come up with. I would be careful about leaving it on the floor, what if you had to hit the brakes and it slides under the pedal? And think about a fender bender, the pistol could slide all over or even be ejected from the vehicle. Blackhawk sells some okay holsters starting around $12. The canvas ones are around $20. But use the velcro to get a good position you like, Then if you decide you can mount it with some self tapping screws. I keep one behind my headboard in my bed, and one at the tattoo shop I work on the side of my station. Holsters arent JUST to carry on you.A little creativity goes a long way:cool:
i have a smart carry, and drawing while seated in a car is not easy. the draw is generally pretty slow especially if usin only one hand. it’s an excellent option for deep concealment where you CANNOT be “caught” carrying.
