Smith & Wesson Forum

Go Back   Smith & Wesson Forum > General Topics > Concealed Carry & Self Defense
o

Notices

Concealed Carry & Self Defense All aspects of Concealed and Open Carry, Home and Self Defense.


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 10-04-2014, 10:01 PM
marathonrunner marathonrunner is offline
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: May 2014
Posts: 884
Likes: 627
Liked 221 Times in 151 Posts
Default Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE

Guys, I just bought the Maxpedition Fatboy CCW bag and while it is vey low key, I am not sure if off the body CCW is smart. I do know getting my gun out would take much longer unless I was walking around with the zipper compartment open. I am a newbe. I wanted to carry off body so I could also have my tactical light on my rail at night so I can see better. Do I have time to flip the switch on my tact light? How come most people are not using Fatboy bags? It seems the Fatboy allows you to carry larger pistols for protection.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #2  
Old 10-04-2014, 10:30 PM
Mister X Mister X is offline
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Apr 2010
Posts: 1,908
Likes: 414
Liked 2,249 Times in 1,032 Posts
Default

Many manufacturers make holsters for pistols with tactical lights. If you feel the tac-light equipped gun you have is just too big to carry on your body, I would either ditch the gun mounted light(still carry a handheld) or switch to a smaller gun before I would carry off body in a bag. And while not ideal and not commonly recommended by most trainers, off body carry is still a popular carry method and better than nothing. NRA Sharp
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #3  
Old 10-04-2014, 10:38 PM
Kanewpadle's Avatar
Kanewpadle Kanewpadle is offline
US Veteran
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Nov 2009
Location: Wrong side of Washington
Posts: 10,174
Likes: 13,010
Liked 17,098 Times in 5,128 Posts
Default

1. Off body carry will always be slower.

2. Why do you need a tactical light?

SIMPLIFY!!

Carry a hand held light instead. Carry the gun on your person.

DON'T over think things.
__________________
Life Is A Gift. Defend it!
Reply With Quote
The Following 10 Users Like Post:
  #4  
Old 10-04-2014, 11:10 PM
Rpg Rpg is offline
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: May 2013
Location: Denver area
Posts: 6,221
Likes: 20,240
Liked 13,057 Times in 4,157 Posts
Default

Fatboy and it's ilk seem to be doing a full press sales campaign.

Carry your pistol on your belt.

Carry your flashlight in your weak hand pocket if you absolutely have to have a flashlight.

tactical lights attached to your pistol are clumsy, bulky and increadibly slow.

By the time you got your pistol out of the bag and figured out how to turn on the light, you would be beaten to death and the bad guy would be home counting your cash and playing with your pistol.

If you can deploy your pistol from the bag, activate the light and hit the target center mass with one shot (even in full light) at 7 yards in 2.5 seconds, then use the bag and light.

If not, carry your pistol in a holster on your belt.

If you carry a flashlight, put it in your pocket.
Reply With Quote
The Following 8 Users Like Post:
  #5  
Old 10-04-2014, 11:12 PM
Rastoff's Avatar
Rastoff Rastoff is offline
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Dec 2011
Location: So Cal (Near Edwards AFB)
Posts: 14,710
Likes: 2,926
Liked 17,102 Times in 6,271 Posts
Default

I have a Maxpedition Sitka. It's plenty big enough to carry the largest pistol. I use it occasionally depending on the situation. Yes, slower presentation, but easier to conceal.

As to the light...
I'm not a fan of rail mounted lights. If you have to use the light, it means you're muzzling everything you shine the light at. So, I think a hand held light is a better solution. Just my opinion.
__________________
Freedom isn't free.
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #6  
Old 10-04-2014, 11:14 PM
Jiman Jiman is offline
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Aug 2014
Location: MD
Posts: 269
Likes: 52
Liked 185 Times in 93 Posts
Default

I normally carry a murse with me with EDC **** in it, similar to the Max Jumbo (Hazard 4 Kato).

Normally the gun is on me, but there are times coming out of gym in sweats or playing on the jungle gym with my kid where it just makes more sense to throw it in the bag.

As for a light on your gun in your bag, I'd suggest you use a holster that would fit that combo. Without something to protect the switch the light could get turned on in your bag.

We learned the hard way when our MP5 lights would turn on burning holes...pretty big ones...in the bags we'd store them in after shift.

Another suggestion is to put a CT grip laser on your gun and keep a flashlight on your support side pocket. I use a flashlight often for all kinds of mundane tasks, but a rail light only serves one purpose. A hand light/laser combo will allow you to illuminate your threat without practicing the FBI, Rogers, etc...techniques.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #7  
Old 10-04-2014, 11:18 PM
Kanewpadle's Avatar
Kanewpadle Kanewpadle is offline
US Veteran
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Nov 2009
Location: Wrong side of Washington
Posts: 10,174
Likes: 13,010
Liked 17,098 Times in 5,128 Posts
Default

You must remember that the use of a firearm is one thing. A firearm with a light attached is another.

Light management becomes an issue. Especially if not done properly.

Carrying a gun is a hassle. Don't complicate it further.

Gun mounted lights for home are one thing. For everyday carry is another. And IMO unnecessary.
__________________
Life Is A Gift. Defend it!
Reply With Quote
The Following 5 Users Like Post:
  #8  
Old 10-05-2014, 12:16 AM
shouldazagged shouldazagged is offline
Absent Comrade
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: Louisville, KY, USA
Posts: 19,336
Likes: 53,737
Liked 38,386 Times in 11,801 Posts
Default

I simply wouldn't feel safe with any form of off-body carry. Period. I want the gun on my person at all times.
__________________
Oh well, what the hell.
Reply With Quote
The Following 6 Users Like Post:
  #9  
Old 10-05-2014, 12:29 AM
ibewbull's Avatar
ibewbull ibewbull is offline
US Veteran
Absent Comrade
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Sep 2011
Location: Wisconsin Central State
Posts: 971
Likes: 3,197
Liked 800 Times in 351 Posts
Default

If you are coon hunting this tac light may be of use.
I would like to see a photo of this set up.
Defense at 7 yards in any light conditions will be fast and dirty.
Practice in low light w/o a light instinctive.
Unless you are LE leave the light off.
If you have all that time you should be leaving for a safer place ASAP.
Just my opinion and I never snapped a cap on anyone.
#1 priority avoid bad situations.
#2 have access to your weapon.
I would rather have a J frame in my IWB or pocket than a 10mm in a bag or fanny pack.
__________________
Have a blessed day ,
Bull

Last edited by ibewbull; 10-05-2014 at 12:31 AM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 4 Users Like Post:
  #10  
Old 10-11-2014, 07:42 PM
PastureOfMuppets PastureOfMuppets is offline
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Jul 2013
Location: California
Posts: 435
Likes: 79
Liked 186 Times in 118 Posts
Default

Off body... just too much to go wrong. On your belt, gun is in the same place every time with the same motion to access it every time.

You're not going to forget to pick it up, you're not going to leave it anywhere and no one is going to steal it.

Weapon mounted light?

Never been convinced.


KISS. Rule to live by right there.

Last edited by PastureOfMuppets; 10-11-2014 at 07:43 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #11  
Old 10-11-2014, 08:18 PM
Watchdog Watchdog is offline
Banned
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Apr 2013
Posts: 12,572
Likes: 21,054
Liked 32,463 Times in 7,773 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by marathonrunner View Post
Guys, I just bought the Maxpedition Fatboy CCW bag and while it is vey low key, I am not sure if off the body CCW is smart.
I have the Fatboy Versipack and love it. If you're worried about the time it takes to get the weapon out, just leave the pocked unzipped, or just zipped halfway. Most people can't see the gun in there anyway. Do you have the little in-pouch elastic holster for your gun? And you don't mention what kind of gun you're carrying in it. But if you don't have the interior holster, or even if you do, just drop the pistol in the pouch. When I'm walking, I often just rest my right hand on the top of the bag anyway. That's lots less conspicuous than walking around with your hand on a gun butt in a holster.

Quote:
Originally Posted by marathonrunner View Post
How come most people are not using Fatboy bags? It seems the Fatboy allows you to carry larger pistols for protection.
Because, frankly, a lot of people probably have never even heard of the things. I'd never heard of them, myself, until I sort of stumbled across them somewhere on the Internet, can't even remember where now.

Plus, a lot of guys have this sort of masculine mindset that make them think an over-the-shoulder carry thing looks sort of like a purse or something...has a bit of a feminine air to it. And of course, it's anything but a purse. It's a pack, and one of the handiest things I've ever bought. In my old 4Runner, I'll loop the strap over the passenger seat headrest and let the pouch hang down the front of the seat back. Sometimes I'll secure it with the detachable waist belt, sometimes not.

The thing is a great way to carry a whole bunch of miscellaneous stuff...guns, extra mags, water, lights, dog biscuits, etc., etc.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #12  
Old 10-11-2014, 08:35 PM
Watchdog Watchdog is offline
Banned
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Apr 2013
Posts: 12,572
Likes: 21,054
Liked 32,463 Times in 7,773 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Kanewpadle View Post
1. Off body carry will always be slower.
I think the OP's use of the term "off the body", and the term "off-body" are misleading, but I don't know what other term to use.

My point here is that the weapon is no more "off-body" in a Versipack than a gun carried in an OWB holster, or even an IWB holster is. The Versipack is no different than a shoulder holster, really.

It's actually just a big "holster" that you can also use to carry a bunch of other stuff in. Your gun is in a top-opening compartment and it's at waist level or slightly below. You can adjust the carry length to whatever you wish. You have the option of leaving the pouch open, or you can close it. I carry mine with the pouch open at the top most of the time. The gun isn't going to fall out.

The gun is concealed, but you don't have to hide it under a jacket or inside your pants. You'd be surprised how fast you can get a gun out of that little pocket.

And if you're on a day-hike or something and decide you want to lean back against a rock or a tree, just slip the pack off your shoulder and lean back without a pistol digging into you. Hold it in your lap if you want to. I mean seriously...you're out in the woods, you take a break, and you're gonna walk off and leave your pack? Nah. If you're that absent minded, you have no business out in the woods to start with.
Reply With Quote
The Following 2 Users Like Post:
  #13  
Old 10-11-2014, 08:47 PM
snubbyfan's Avatar
snubbyfan snubbyfan is offline
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: WVa East Panhandle
Posts: 28,590
Likes: 70,879
Liked 81,379 Times in 18,440 Posts
Default

This goes on my strong side;

This goes on my weak side;

And off I go.
I know they don't match, I have plans to make a matching holster and flashlight holder to match my belt.
__________________
Keep on Chooglin'
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #14  
Old 10-12-2014, 08:55 PM
Rpg Rpg is offline
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: May 2013
Location: Denver area
Posts: 6,221
Likes: 20,240
Liked 13,057 Times in 4,157 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by snubbyfan View Post
This goes on my strong side;

This goes on my weak side;

And off I go.
I know they don't match, I have plans to make a matching holster and flashlight holder to match my belt.
Beautiful work!!
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #15  
Old 10-12-2014, 08:58 PM
Rpg Rpg is offline
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: May 2013
Location: Denver area
Posts: 6,221
Likes: 20,240
Liked 13,057 Times in 4,157 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by snubbyfan View Post
This goes on my strong side;

This goes on my weak side;

And off I go.
I know they don't match, I have plans to make a matching holster and flashlight holder to match my belt.
Beautiful work!!

The site wants a longer response.

OK

BeAytiful work !!
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #16  
Old 10-12-2014, 11:19 PM
pawncop pawncop is offline
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: TEXAS
Posts: 18,248
Likes: 7,989
Liked 5,675 Times in 2,190 Posts
Default

Some things to think about.

Once you decide the way you are going to carry your sidearm, you must practice (with gun unloaded) from as many positions you are normally in during your daily routine.

It wise to seek input and learn of the advantages and disadvantages with each mode of carry.

Oh and when you practice drawing you sidearm from inside your car, be sure to practice inside your garage. Just trust me on this one.

I hope you find this helpful.
__________________
I am a sheep dog!
1601 (ret)
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #17  
Old 10-12-2014, 11:42 PM
Jaysq Jaysq is offline
US Veteran
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: North Carolina
Posts: 1,028
Likes: 691
Liked 906 Times in 351 Posts
Default

I think you are making CCW a lot harder than it has to be. Your carry weapon should be a size that you can easily conceal and something you will carry everyday. Attaching a light that you will have to turn on, is something you will never have time to use. If you think you need a light, carry it on your weak side or pocket. I carry my Shield in an OWB holster with no problem at all. I do not have to worry about leaving it somewhere, it will always be on my belt. Unless you are in Walt Disney World, where everyone carries a backpack, you will bring attention to yourself carrying a bag.
Reply With Quote
  #18  
Old 10-13-2014, 04:19 AM
DaGOOSExyz's Avatar
DaGOOSExyz DaGOOSExyz is offline
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Mar 2013
Posts: 310
Likes: 141
Liked 172 Times in 94 Posts
Default

I don't carry all the time. When I go out late or know I will be in a area
that is not the best part of town. I have a older J frame, solid steel. When fully loaded it is to heavy to be comfortable in my pocket or on my belt. I bought a waist pack in the sports dept. and it works well for me.
I leave it half unzipped when walking in the street or parking lot, sometimes with my hand on the grip. It's sitting right on my person in
front of me and easy to pull out. When I pick up my waist pack and put it around my waist I feel like John Wayne strappin on his gun belt. It works just fine for me.
__________________
Goose
I'm still standing.

Last edited by DaGOOSExyz; 10-13-2014 at 04:25 AM.
Reply With Quote
  #19  
Old 10-13-2014, 06:25 AM
Biggfoot44 Biggfoot44 is offline
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Apr 2013
Posts: 2,060
Likes: 2
Liked 1,595 Times in 888 Posts
Default

As much as there are any absolute rules in life , one of the top ones is that a gun carried directly attached to your body is better than carrying one that is not.

Yes , a fanny pack actually around your waist , or a shoulder bag thingies actually on sour shoulder all the time is "sort of" attached to your body. Sometimes in unusual situation is best/ only option , but we're talking nude beach .

And while faster than the gun being at home, they're a tossup between being really slow holsters , or fast acces carrying case.

Yes a few LE Agencies use routine carry of white light mounted guns. And yes several mfg nake duty , and sorta concealment holsters for such.

But there are two other far more prevelent stratagies :

1. Have the gunlight carried dismounted on belt, gun in "normal" holster. The idea that a fast reactive situation will "usually" be very close and very fast. If your going to do a building search , or search outdoors at night , you'll probably have 5 seconds to snap the light in place.

2. Do practice of using handheld light in conjuction with hand gun.

Or both. And don't forget even with a gun mounted light , you will still need a hand flashlight also.

( Jump)

A steel J Frame too heavy for Belt Carry ?!? It's a semi-free country , if your paln with the fanny pack works for you , more power to you. I would suspect there are other factors in play in your decision process than were omitted from this thread as not being directly relevent. But a J Frame in a vaguely suitable holster , on a vaguely gun quality belt , will feel almost like having nothing on.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #20  
Old 10-13-2014, 06:35 AM
Hamster65's Avatar
Hamster65 Hamster65 is offline
US Veteran
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Apr 2014
Location: Rome, GA
Posts: 555
Likes: 13
Liked 459 Times in 196 Posts
Default

Personally, I don't see the purpose of a tac light on an EDC. In the summer, I have used a "fanny pack" style holster before. It takes a couple of seconds longer to draw but, it's quite effective. As for winter, I just use a belt holster and a loose enough jacket to hide it.

Just my 2 cents.
Reply With Quote
  #21  
Old 10-13-2014, 06:57 AM
kbm6893 kbm6893 is online now
SWCA Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Apr 2007
Location: Pennsylvania
Posts: 6,625
Likes: 636
Liked 6,861 Times in 2,541 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Biggfoot44 View Post
As much as there are any absolute rules in life , one of the top ones is that a gun carried directly attached to your body is better than carrying one that is not.

Yes , a fanny pack actually around your waist , or a shoulder bag thingies actually on sour shoulder all the time is "sort of" attached to your body. Sometimes in unusual situation is best/ only option , but we're talking nude beach .

And while faster than the gun being at home, they're a tossup between being really slow holsters , or fast acces carrying case.

Yes a few LE Agencies use routine carry of white light mounted guns. And yes several mfg nake duty , and sorta concealment holsters for such.

But there are two other far more prevelent stratagies :

1. Have the gunlight carried dismounted on belt, gun in "normal" holster. The idea that a fast reactive situation will "usually" be very close and very fast. If your going to do a building search , or search outdoors at night , you'll probably have 5 seconds to snap the light in place.

2. Do practice of using handheld light in conjuction with hand gun.

Or both. And don't forget even with a gun mounted light , you will still need a hand flashlight also.

( Jump)

A steel J Frame too heavy for Belt Carry ?!? It's a semi-free country , if your paln with the fanny pack works for you , more power to you. I would suspect there are other factors in play in your decision process than were omitted from this thread as not being directly relevent. But a J Frame in a vaguely suitable holster , on a vaguely gun quality belt , will feel almost like having nothing on.
I agree. I used to carry my Ruger SPNY (38 sp101 made for nypd) in a Desantis pancake holster and I never even noticed the weight. I now carry a Ruger LC9-S in the waistband and hate it. Just can't get used to iwb carry. I'm gonna get a belt holster for it
Reply With Quote
  #22  
Old 10-14-2014, 03:33 AM
DaGOOSExyz's Avatar
DaGOOSExyz DaGOOSExyz is offline
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Mar 2013
Posts: 310
Likes: 141
Liked 172 Times in 94 Posts
Default

<<< ( Jump)

A steel J Frame too heavy for Belt Carry ?!? It's a semi-free country , if your paln with the fanny pack works for you , more power to you. I would suspect there are other factors in play in your decision process than were omitted from this thread as not being directly relevent.>>>>
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yes you are correct. When I said to heavy I should have explained
that since I retired I mostly wear shorts or sweat pants. I am a bit on
the portley side around the waist and like the comfort of the elastic waist for everday wear. So I often don't have a belt on and even the
weight of the revolver in pants pocket will cause my pants to sag down. As I
stated I don't carry that often but when I feel the need the waist pack works just fine for me.
__________________
Goose
I'm still standing.

Last edited by DaGOOSExyz; 10-14-2014 at 03:47 AM.
Reply With Quote
  #23  
Old 10-15-2014, 11:57 PM
AZretired's Avatar
AZretired AZretired is offline
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: New Mexico & Arizona
Posts: 1,630
Likes: 735
Liked 1,460 Times in 644 Posts
Default

I prefer on-body either in the pocket or belt. However, I retired a few years ago and now work part time at a non-LE job and cannot carry at work. So my 642 rides in a backpack on work days and is never far away.
__________________
Support your Police, & NRA
Reply With Quote
  #24  
Old 10-16-2014, 04:18 PM
MOONDAWG's Avatar
MOONDAWG MOONDAWG is offline
US Veteran
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: REPUBLIC OF WEST FLORIDA
Posts: 15,230
Likes: 3,020
Liked 3,451 Times in 1,625 Posts
Default

"When the ship hits the sand" weapon retention can be hard enough with "on body" carry.

To me off body carry is as good as tossing you gun to the bad guy.
__________________
NULLI SECUNDUS
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #25  
Old 10-16-2014, 04:35 PM
ISCS Yoda's Avatar
ISCS Yoda ISCS Yoda is offline
US Veteran
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: Dallas, Texas
Posts: 8,386
Likes: 2,475
Liked 13,045 Times in 4,532 Posts
Default

Off body for me ONLY happens if I go to the gym. Otherwise, the gun is on my person somewhere. I know there are a lot of folks out there carrying full sized service pistols every day but I cannot accomplish that comfortably. That's why I carry a J-frame in my pocket and a compact handgun of some kind when I belt carry, be it a CS-45, 2" revolver [J or K], 6906, or similar. Off body does NOT happen as a regular thing, not ever.

Attaching a light to a handgun doesn't happen, either. In the house I can grab a tactical light with my off hand if I think I need a light. Having things hanging off my handgun seems to me to cause a diminishing of the pointability of the handgun. Looks great on TV. I don't see any police officers on the street doing it.

If I carry a gun in a "murse", love that term, it's my OTHER gun. If I obtained a Maxpedition anything to carry a gun in I'd still be carrying a gun on my person. I have carried guns in "murses" but they are back ups to the one on my person somewhere.

***GRJ***
Reply With Quote
  #26  
Old 10-16-2014, 05:15 PM
VictorLouis's Avatar
VictorLouis VictorLouis is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2000
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Posts: 2,051
Likes: 107
Liked 2,119 Times in 963 Posts
Default

Somewhere, I've got a pic of my young, svelte self carrying a full-size Galco waistpack. I don't know if they even still make them. However, the thing is so big, it just screams 'gun-bag', to anyone remotely in-the-know.

Now, their SMALL sized one, for J-frames...that one is darn near discreet. It's devoid of the side-pockets on either end of the maint pocket. I have, and would again, carry one of those without concern while jogging, just so as to not be without some kind of gun.
Reply With Quote
  #27  
Old 10-22-2014, 04:09 AM
chief38's Avatar
chief38 chief38 is online now
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Apr 2006
Posts: 17,759
Likes: 7,836
Liked 25,615 Times in 8,661 Posts
Default

I do not believe that off body carry is a good idea - even for Women. A case, bag, purse, briefcase, etc. is too easily stolen, grabbed, lost, forgotten, cumbersome to retrieve a weapon from and IMHO an accident waiting to happen. IMHO if you carry...... carry on your person. Just my .02 cents of course.
Reply With Quote
  #28  
Old 11-10-2014, 03:59 AM
Cherokeegirl87's Avatar
Cherokeegirl87 Cherokeegirl87 is offline
Member
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Nov 2014
Location: Central Florida!
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
Liked 8 Times in 3 Posts
Default

The first thing most bad guys will go for is a purse. I carry on body.
Reply With Quote
  #29  
Old 11-10-2014, 09:57 AM
vito vito is offline
Banned
Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE Off Body Carry vs Inside Waistband. I NEED ADVICE  
Join Date: Apr 2003
Location: Ilinois, USA
Posts: 1,018
Likes: 4
Liked 1,537 Times in 510 Posts
Default

At the height of summer, and if I am traveling, I carry a Coronado Leather cross carry bag, which some might call a men's purse. It looks more like a purse or a camera bag than it does a gun container. I use it for my cell phone, sunglasses, and other items if I am wearing light weight shorts, especially if there is no belt on the shorts. Its a compromise with risks compared to on-body carry. The Fatboy looks like what it is, a tactical carry bag. I would imagine that even non-gun people will assume you are carrying when they see such a bag.

And any bag or container like the day-planner look-alikes for handgun carry, have the chance of being left somewhere or being easily snatched by a thief.

To each his own, but a simple OWB, IWB or pocket holster with my handgun is all I carry (possibly adding a reload in my left front pocket). The gun is always with me, concealed, and not a problem when I sit down, even in the restroom. I don't carry a BUG, a light or a knife. But again, do whatever it is that makes you feel comfortable.

Last edited by vito; 11-10-2014 at 09:59 AM.
Reply With Quote
Reply

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Inside the waistband ??????? lawandorder Gun Leather & Carry Gear 16 11-18-2016 04:59 AM
FS: M&P9c inside the waistband hybrid holster BMoore971 Accessories/Misc - For Sale or Trade 0 05-27-2013 12:40 AM
Holster suggestions for 442 waistband carry? guitarzNgunz Concealed Carry & Self Defense 15 11-08-2012 11:24 PM
Need body armor advice slowburninsteve The Lounge 10 03-03-2010 03:47 PM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
smith-wessonforum.com tested by Norton Internet Security smith-wessonforum.com tested by McAfee Internet Security

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 10:55 AM.


Smith-WessonForum.com is not affiliated with Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC)