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.


Closed Thread
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 02-24-2008, 12:23 PM
MattB MattB is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: OC
Posts: 442
Likes: 29
Liked 81 Times in 45 Posts
Default

Is it even reasonable to try to conceal a full-size M&P or Sigma, or are these guns very difficult to hide?
  #2  
Old 02-24-2008, 12:23 PM
MattB MattB is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: OC
Posts: 442
Likes: 29
Liked 81 Times in 45 Posts
Default

Is it even reasonable to try to conceal a full-size M&P or Sigma, or are these guns very difficult to hide?
  #3  
Old 02-24-2008, 02:16 PM
PLW45 PLW45 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Sep 2007
Location: NE FL
Posts: 63
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
Default

I carry a Sigma in a Crossbreed Supertuck. It's an IWB, and once adjusted right, the gun disappears. For me, concealing the grip is the issue, not the barrel length. BTW I'm 5'9", 180, medium build.
  #4  
Old 02-24-2008, 02:44 PM
GatorFarmer GatorFarmer is offline
Junior Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Sheridan, Wyoming
Posts: 5,333
Likes: 159
Liked 3,889 Times in 1,361 Posts
Default

I have a Sigma 40VE, and I don't really think of it is a "large" gun. It's been years since I owned my Glock 23, but it seems about the same size as that gun. Many people carry Glocks of that size. My Sigma is certainly smaller than a full size 1911, and I've carried those.

You can carry a Sigma IWB with just a sweater pulled over it, or other concealing garment. You can also wear one OWB and just wear a coat, sport coat, etc.
  #5  
Old 02-24-2008, 03:31 PM
95blowncoupe 95blowncoupe is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2007
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

Ok I don't get it,I bought an OWB for my Sigma .40 yesterday.I couldn't even get out of the house with it.It just pulled my pants down even if my belt was uncomfortably tight.Although I normally carry a Kel Tec .380 IWB.It is a pretty well made holster and a good belt also.How do you guys do it?Or do you just put up with it?I realize that the Kel Tec has probably spoiled me,but I was really looking forward to carrying a little more firepower occasionaly,maybe not. end rant:]
  #6  
Old 02-24-2008, 03:38 PM
Tom M's Avatar
Tom M Tom M is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: Warren, Michigan
Posts: 326
Likes: 1
Liked 12 Times in 4 Posts
Default

I occassionaly carry a full size M&P40 with no problems. With an OWB holster, you need to make sure that you have a gun belt. A normal belt won't support the gun properly, and it'll tip out, or pull your trousers down.
__________________
Tom
  #7  
Old 02-24-2008, 03:45 PM
fiasconva's Avatar
fiasconva fiasconva is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: York County, VA
Posts: 3,766
Likes: 0
Liked 4,903 Times in 1,808 Posts
Default

I just purchase an IWB online and am very pleased with it. I'm a sweatshirt and jeans guy and my MP9 disappears. Give www.theholsterstore.com a look and see what they have. Takes about a week to get an order and so far I'm pleased.
__________________
Why duck?? It's a 9mm!
  #8  
Old 02-24-2008, 03:59 PM
sbeduckman sbeduckman is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Augusta, KS
Posts: 195
Likes: 19
Liked 83 Times in 33 Posts
Default

I often carry a Springfield XD Tactical (5") IWB. Barrel size doesn't matter if you're carrying IWB, grip size does. It can be done, spend the money on a nice holster with more than one clip. I use a comp-tac minotaur, crossbreed supertucks are nice too. Get a nice holster, and a nice belt (Wilderness 5 stitch) and it is very doable.
  #9  
Old 02-24-2008, 04:09 PM
TNDixieGirl's Avatar
TNDixieGirl TNDixieGirl is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: May 2007
Location: Tennessee
Posts: 674
Likes: 26
Liked 127 Times in 64 Posts
Default

I have the Sigma, and no matter what I do, I can't carry it on me concealed.
  #10  
Old 02-24-2008, 04:17 PM
WR Moore WR Moore is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Oct 2006
Posts: 6,580
Likes: 1,787
Liked 5,342 Times in 2,685 Posts
Default

I carry the MP9 concealed without issue. I've used an IWB I made myself and a Safariland 528-74 OWB.

The belt is a critical part of the holster system. The belt is less critical in IWB, but it still matters.

The belt must be at least 1 1/2 inches wide, fit the belt slots of the holster properly and be of proper material. Brownells stocks the Ross Gunleather belts, which are very good. Dillion Precision has the Wilderness Instructor belts with the 5 stitches necessary for rigidity (Don't get the plastic insert belts some others use, they're uncomfortable.) I'm sure there's other belts that will work, but if you're getting your belts at Wallyworld or something, they won't work.

This is somewhat unfair, but generally speaking, you won't find a "good holster and belt" at most gunstores. They can't afford to stock all the possible quality items and they're a tough sell to customers who already blew a bunch of money on the gun. Most all of us have boxes of holsters/belts that didn't quite do what we hoped they'd do.
  #11  
Old 02-24-2008, 05:54 PM
boy1dr boy1dr is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jan 2008
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

I carry my 9VE in a fobus HK1 paddle holster, even without a belt sometimes! haven't had any issues yet just wear shirt capable of covering it
  #12  
Old 02-24-2008, 07:33 PM
Erich's Avatar
Erich Erich is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: High Desert of NM, USA
Posts: 6,235
Likes: 9,320
Liked 8,813 Times in 2,554 Posts
Default

I carry a full-sized Sigma IWB appendix-position, sometimes. No problem.
__________________
Now go make God proud...
  #13  
Old 02-25-2008, 11:31 AM
StingMP9 StingMP9 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Michigan
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

Well I carry concealed a full size 9mm M&P but only in a special winter coat, the SIGTAC (Sig Arms Tactical Apparel Company) that has two big velcro pockets on either side of zipper that has sewn in elastic holsters in each pocket.
I'm planning to extend my carry to warmer weather with the Minotaur MTAC IWB holster. I wouldn't shoot a Sigma due to friendly advice from more experienced shooters that said they weren't consistently reliable.
__________________
"Yes Have Some" - Harold Ramis - GhostBusters
  #14  
Old 02-25-2008, 01:35 PM
sargespd sargespd is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Springdale (Cincinnati) O
Posts: 32
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
Default

Currently carrying my issued M&P9 full size both on and off duty. Concealed carry is in a Comp-Tac Pro Undercover IWB, with their matching double magazine carrier. No issues in coat and tie, jeans and sweater/sweatshirt, or un-tucked flannel shirt. Spring/summer will bring out the polos, short sleeve button down shirts, and t-shirts with shorts. We'll see how it works out. If I can come up with the bucks, I do want a compact, just because.
  #15  
Old 02-25-2008, 04:11 PM
bugnout bugnout is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: Alabama
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

I carry my Sigma 40VE everyday I'm not on duty with a "Bare Asset" IWB on my 1 3/8" uniform belt and a sweatshirt @ about 4 o'clock. No problems this time of year but it won't work under a t-shirt for me.
  #16  
Old 02-25-2008, 05:23 PM
MattB MattB is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: OC
Posts: 442
Likes: 29
Liked 81 Times in 45 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally posted by StingMP9:
I wouldn't shoot a Sigma due to friendly advice from more experienced shooters that said they weren't consistently reliable.
What about the Sigma do they consider unreliable? From what I've heard the Enhanced Sigmas are quite reliable.
  #17  
Old 02-25-2008, 08:14 PM
GatorFarmer GatorFarmer is offline
Junior Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Sheridan, Wyoming
Posts: 5,333
Likes: 159
Liked 3,889 Times in 1,361 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally posted by 95blowncoupe:
Ok I don't get it,I bought an OWB for my Sigma .40 yesterday.I couldn't even get out of the house with it.It just pulled my pants down even if my belt was uncomfortably tight.Although I normally carry a Kel Tec .380 IWB.It is a pretty well made holster and a good belt also.How do you guys do it?Or do you just put up with it?I realize that the Kel Tec has probably spoiled me,but I was really looking forward to carrying a little more firepower occasionaly,maybe not. end rant:]
What size are your pants in relation to your actual waist size? And do you wear them above or below your hip line?

I generally wear the nylon 5.11s as of late, with a fairly tight waist fit and which have elactic on them. With these, I carry a Model 58 (a fairly heavy handgun) IWB without even wearing a belt. My pants don't fall down with that arrangement. I'm wearing looser cords now, and just tried yanking them down, and they catch on my hips. I'm tall and still reasonably thin, so perhaps other body types/dimensions will vary.

The advice to wear a relatively thick belt is probably good, though honestly, when I carried OWB, I used a thin (but expensive) Trafalgar dress belt without incident.
  #18  
Old 02-26-2008, 11:28 AM
MattB MattB is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: OC
Posts: 442
Likes: 29
Liked 81 Times in 45 Posts
Default

Does anyone carry one of these (or a similar sized gun like a 5906) in a shoulder holster?
  #19  
Old 02-26-2008, 11:47 AM
Forester's Avatar
Forester Forester is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Feb 2007
Location: Central New Hampshire
Posts: 1,376
Likes: 159
Liked 250 Times in 73 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally posted by bugnout:
I carry my Sigma 40VE everyday I'm not on duty with a "Bare Asset" IWB on my 1 3/8" uniform belt and a sweatshirt @ about 4 o'clock. No problems this time of year but it won't work under a t-shirt for me.
This is exactly how I Cary mine with the same holster and the T-shirt comment is spot on. That is what the 642 is for.
__________________
All Rights Reserved
  #20  
Old 02-26-2008, 12:32 PM
GatorFarmer GatorFarmer is offline
Junior Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Sheridan, Wyoming
Posts: 5,333
Likes: 159
Liked 3,889 Times in 1,361 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally posted by MattB:
Does anyone carry one of these (or a similar sized gun like a 5906) in a shoulder holster?
I've got a Strong brand horizontal rig that I found worked fine for the similarly sized 5903 and I rather extensively carried a Kimber CDP (Commander sized, alloy frame) 1911 using a Miami Classic. I don't usually wear anything but the thinnest of coats these days, so I no longer use shoulder rigs, but these makes were certainly workable for decent sized handguns.
  #21  
Old 02-26-2008, 12:37 PM
OKFC05 OKFC05 is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: Oklahoma
Posts: 8,158
Likes: 3,605
Liked 5,199 Times in 2,172 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally posted by StingMP9:
I wouldn't shoot a Sigma due to friendly advice from more experienced shooters that said they weren't consistently reliable.
I would want to hear the details before believing any advice that characterizes the current Sigmas as "unreliable."

Is this another "some guy somewhere said?"

Or is this after removing half the springs to "improve" it?
______________________________

As to carrying one concealed, I have no trouble with a Blade Tech paddle holster under a vest or jacket. A good gun belt is a MUST. If your pants fall down, it's the belt, not the gun.
__________________
Science plus Art
  #22  
Old 02-26-2008, 05:26 PM
Littledragon777 Littledragon777 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: Kansas City
Posts: 155
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
Default

I carry a full size M&P 40 and a full size 9mm. I use a Desantis leather speed holster aand also a Fobus paddle holster.
  #23  
Old 02-27-2008, 06:31 PM
python2 python2 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2008
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

I carry a .40VE OWB with no problems. I wear a tee shirt with a button up for cover. I wear it at 3:00 and it conceals nicely. I got my setup from "Wild Bill's" It took about a week to get. I also have a "Highnoon Holsters" Bare Asset for IWB. Both are really good holsters and good companies to deal with.
  #24  
Old 03-01-2008, 12:45 AM
Mortech's Avatar
Mortech Mortech is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Shelton WA
Posts: 185
Likes: 0
Liked 2 Times in 2 Posts
Default

I carry a full size M&P40 in a IWB Bladetech Kydex holster at 4:00 position under a loose unbutton Dickie work shirt .
__________________
39-2,59,3913,M&P40
1006,1066
  #25  
Old 03-01-2008, 06:40 AM
striker56 striker56 is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: Katy, TX
Posts: 55
Likes: 50
Liked 32 Times in 17 Posts
Default

I carry the 9mm sigma in a high noon bare skin holster http://www.highnoonholsters.com/Prod...are_skin.html, comfortable and with long tailed shirts no problem.
  #26  
Old 03-01-2008, 07:21 AM
TNDixieGirl's Avatar
TNDixieGirl TNDixieGirl is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: May 2007
Location: Tennessee
Posts: 674
Likes: 26
Liked 127 Times in 64 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally posted by StingMP9:
I wouldn't shoot a Sigma due to friendly advice from more experienced shooters that said they weren't consistently reliable.
I'm one of those Sigma shooters. More than 1,000 rounds through mine without so much as a hiccup.

Maybe you could further detail the "advice" you've heard.
  #27  
Old 03-01-2008, 07:24 AM
TNDixieGirl's Avatar
TNDixieGirl TNDixieGirl is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: May 2007
Location: Tennessee
Posts: 674
Likes: 26
Liked 127 Times in 64 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally posted by OKFC05:
Quote:
Originally posted by StingMP9:
I wouldn't shoot a Sigma due to friendly advice from more experienced shooters that said they weren't consistently reliable.
I would want to hear the details before believing any advice that characterizes the current Sigmas as "unreliable."

Is this another "some guy somewhere said?"

Or is this after removing half the springs to "improve" it?
______________________________

As to carrying one concealed, I have no trouble with a Blade Tech paddle holster under a vest or jacket. A good gun belt is a MUST. If your pants fall down, it's the belt, not the gun.
I'm betting its after one of those infamous "trigger jobs".
  #28  
Old 03-01-2008, 02:57 PM
fiasconva's Avatar
fiasconva fiasconva is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: York County, VA
Posts: 3,766
Likes: 0
Liked 4,903 Times in 1,808 Posts
Default

Carried my new M&P9 for the first time this morning. I was using the IWB I got from the Holster Store.We were doing a little grocery shopping and running a few errands. When we got back I was putting everything away and the my wife looked at me very surprised and asked, "Were you packing the whole time we were shopping??" I guess it worked.
__________________
Why duck?? It's a 9mm!
  #29  
Old 03-02-2008, 06:44 PM
cajun600 cajun600 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: TN
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

Hundreds of rounds without a problem in my SW9VE so far.

I carry OWB in a Highnoon Skin Tite (hi-ride for concealment on daily basis), or a Fobus HK-1 (range, hunting)

IWB with a Highnoon Split Decision (tuckable IWB).
  #30  
Old 03-02-2008, 07:41 PM
flop-shank flop-shank is offline
US Veteran
 
Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: The Rust Belt Buckle/Mich
Posts: 2,382
Likes: 0
Liked 41 Times in 32 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally posted by fiasconva:
Carried my new M&P9 for the first time this morning. I was using the IWB I got from the Holster Store.We were doing a little grocery shopping and running a few errands. When we got back I was putting everything away and the my wife looked at me very surprised and asked, "Were you packing the whole time we were shopping??" I guess it worked.
Big thumbs up, bro. It's that easy. People don't look, and even though I do, I don't "make" other carriers that often, although more than a few leave me wondering.
  #31  
Old 03-03-2008, 03:06 PM
fiasconva's Avatar
fiasconva fiasconva is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: York County, VA
Posts: 3,766
Likes: 0
Liked 4,903 Times in 1,808 Posts
Default

Yep, I rarely make other carriers either. With cell phones, pda's, and all that **** on their waists no one would even notice if someone was carrying. Plus, most people are oblivious to anyone but themselves when they are out in public.
__________________
Why duck?? It's a 9mm!
  #32  
Old 03-05-2008, 05:08 PM
StingMP9 StingMP9 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Michigan
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally posted by TNDixieGirl:
Quote:
Originally posted by StingMP9:
I wouldn't shoot a Sigma due to friendly advice from more experienced shooters that said they weren't consistently reliable.
I'm one of those Sigma shooters. More than 1,000 rounds through mine without so much as a hiccup.

Maybe you could further detail the "advice" you've heard.
I would have answered sooner had I not been away from a computer for so long now. The advice I heard was from an actual friend who's been experienced at CCW long before I though of buying a piece. His word was that his brother bought one and it jammed up a lot. That is all. He recommended a M&P and I thought it worked like a champ after trying it and a Sig and some others.
__________________
"Yes Have Some" - Harold Ramis - GhostBusters
  #33  
Old 03-05-2008, 07:47 PM
TNDixieGirl's Avatar
TNDixieGirl TNDixieGirl is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: May 2007
Location: Tennessee
Posts: 674
Likes: 26
Liked 127 Times in 64 Posts
Default

I do know (from other members here) that the early Sigmas did have their fair share of issues and earned a bad reputation. But from what I understand, they've (S&W) worked out those previous issues and it's a very reliable gun now.

At least mine has been.
  #34  
Old 03-06-2008, 12:15 AM
DavidC77's Avatar
DavidC77 DavidC77 is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Westhampton, MA, USA
Posts: 165
Likes: 12
Liked 17 Times in 12 Posts
Default

I carry my FS M&P 40, can't even see it, even with just a tee shirt on (when in my IWB holster).

I use a BlackHawk Serpa 2 for OWB carry, for IWB carry I use a nylon clip on style. Both carry fine. I'm also 6'3", 300 LB's, my biggest problem is my love handles , I like to carry low so it doe's cause a problem depending on some holsters.

My biggest problem is finding a left handed holster.

I just bought a LazerMax Uni for my M&P so now I have to buy all new holsters as none of them fit with the lazer on the gun. The nylon one doe's but about 50% of the time I find the "on switch" for the lazer on so that's no good.

I am looking into a few custom made holsters right now.
__________________
NRA & GOAL LIFE MEMBER
  #35  
Old 03-12-2008, 05:30 PM
bigal_2482 bigal_2482 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: Sidney Ohio
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

I also use the bare asset holster with my SW40VE but I dont have any problems concealing it with just a t-shirt but ive got a beer belly that helps hide it. As for it being reliable I havent had any problems with mine but ive only fired 5 or 6 hundred rounds through it.
  #36  
Old 03-14-2008, 07:35 PM
DavidC77's Avatar
DavidC77 DavidC77 is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Westhampton, MA, USA
Posts: 165
Likes: 12
Liked 17 Times in 12 Posts
Default

I just found a new Galco FLETCH holster this past weekend at a gun show. I love it!!!

It tucks the gun in nice and tight, it's high enough so you can't really see it, if I do lift my arms up enough the other added thing is the bottom of the holster kind of doesn't look like a holster so it won't draw attention.

My body just will not allow me to carry IWB without pain so I must carry OWB styles.
__________________
NRA & GOAL LIFE MEMBER
  #37  
Old 03-15-2008, 10:34 AM
Wyatt Earp Wyatt Earp is offline
Banned
 
Join Date: Jul 2007
Posts: 996
Likes: 0
Liked 14 Times in 10 Posts
Default

I don't carry a Sigma or M&P but I do carry a 915, which is essentially the same size. The butt of the 915, in fact, may be a tad bit longer. And the butt is the hardest part to conceal when carrying IWB.

A proper holster and belt are essential. My belts are all stiff. I have a pair of Carhartt dual layer (cordura outside, leather inside) belts, a Belt Man black dual layer bullhide belt, and a 5 stitch Wilderness Instructor belt. All of them are up to the task of carrying my heaviest pistol (4" Model 65).

All my holsters except one are leather, and the sole remaining kydex holster I have has a leather replacement on the way. Kydex has few advantages over leather, and those are overcome by leather's significant advantage in comfort and thus concealability.

I recently bought a pair of Cochise Defender IWB holsters from K&D Holsters. After adding a little more fwd cant than what you see here by adjusting the height of the clips, I found that I can completely conceal my 915 even when wearing a loose fitting T shirt. When wearing a loose fitting untucked button front or polo shirt, sport coat, or a sweatshirt/sweater, the big gun just vanishes.

Playing around with cant and position along the waist are key to hiding a full size pistol.

  #38  
Old 05-05-2008, 05:21 PM
SgtMoe SgtMoe is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Thomasville NC
Posts: 15
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

To Mr Mattb, I have a sigma 40gve,i've had it now going on three years now, and carried it everyday either in a Fobus holster or a nylon pancake holster, haven't had any problems at all......

SGTMOE
USMC RETIRED
__________________
The Jarhead
  #39  
Old 05-06-2008, 07:05 PM
BFBoy BFBoy is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: Mid-Ohio
Posts: 18
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

I'll carry a Sigma 9VE in a Galco IWB, or an Uncle Mike's Sidebet slide. Both holsters hold the gun tight to my waist and conceal very well.

I carry my Sigma because it is 100% reliable after 1500+ rounds, and very accurate.
__________________
Thanks,
Mike
  #40  
Old 05-06-2008, 08:34 PM
ArgMauser ArgMauser is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: Greenville, Texas
Posts: 50
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally posted by 95blowncoupe:
I bought an OWB for my Sigma .40 yesterday and I couldn't even get out of the house with it because it just pulled my pants down even if my belt was uncomfortably tight. How do you guys do it?
Just a few suggestions.
1) Try suspenders.
2) Try bib overalls--or maybe not.
3) Try a shoulder holster. Use a blousey shirt as a cover garment.
  #41  
Old 05-14-2008, 03:50 PM
jaegan's Avatar
jaegan jaegan is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: SE KY
Posts: 53
Likes: 56
Liked 2 Times in 1 Post
Default

Quote:
Originally posted by ArgMauser:
2) Try bib overalls--or maybe not.
This works quite well in some areas (including mine). YMMV in less rural parts of the country.

I'll put in a nod for Smart Carry. http://www.smartcarry.com/ I recently had the dubious pleasure of encountering a carry situation where I literally wore my SW40VE in a smart carry for more than a week, even when sleeping (special circumstances, and I do not recommend it, but I don't think any other carry method would have been any more comfortable).
  #42  
Old 05-15-2008, 05:55 AM
speedshooter's Avatar
speedshooter speedshooter is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Jun 2007
Location: Clymer NY
Posts: 221
Likes: 0
Liked 20 Times in 9 Posts
Default

>>40VE with a Fobus HK1 t-shirt untucked in warm weather shirt tucked in and jacket/coast/vest cold/cool weather ...i dont leave home without it! no prblems at all weapon on my strong side..cell phone on weak i dont think anyone even notices
  #43  
Old 05-15-2008, 09:39 AM
still442 still442 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2007
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

MP9 is my house gun. The only way I can carry it is a Safepacker, the grip is too big for me to conceal IWB.
  #44  
Old 06-03-2008, 06:14 AM
conan1 conan1 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Southern Ky
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

I sometimes carry a 40VE in a fobus OWB but have to have a t shirt or shirttail out to cover it. I am planning on getting the ruger LCP for CC. I have held one but not shot it. If it is as reliable as its supposed to be then I will be happy. I normally have to carry my Sigma in the console of my car which makes it generally unavailable in an emergency.
  #45  
Old 06-03-2008, 05:42 PM
SgtMoe SgtMoe is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Thomasville NC
Posts: 15
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally posted by TNDixieGirl:
I have the Sigma, and no matter what I do, I can't carry it on me concealed.
Hey Dixiegirl I have a sigma 40gve and I have iwb holster and owb and my favorite Fobus gl-4 paddle holster I go all day with it on, its a good riding holster, and I usually wear it on my left side, it rides tighter on the left for some reason.........

anyway good luck with that..

SGTMOE
USMC RETIRED
__________________
The Jarhead
  #46  
Old 06-06-2008, 03:15 AM
BFBoy BFBoy is offline
Member
Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma? Anyone carry a full-size M&P or Sigma?  
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: Mid-Ohio
Posts: 18
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally posted by MattB:
Does anyone carry one of these (or a similar sized gun like a 5906) in a shoulder holster?
I just recently picked up a Galco Vertical shoulder holster system. The gun conceals well under a light windbreaker. I never had much luck with the horizontal styles.
__________________
Thanks,
Mike
  #47  
Old 08-05-2008, 09:33 PM
KeithCarter KeithCarter is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jul 2008
Location: NE Illinois
Posts: 68
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
Default

I used to carry a SIG P226 9mm (Big, military gun) on a skeletonized belt-slide holster I made myself. It required a sports coat to conceal. The best thing about the SIG was all the rounded corners so it wouldn't wear holes in the lining of my sportscoats.

I did always use a strong belt. A big but not heavy gun, I could forget that it was there.

KeithCarter
NRA Life
  #48  
Old 08-12-2008, 08:25 AM
SCfromNY SCfromNY is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Jun 2005
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
Liked 0 Times in 0 Posts
Default

I carry any one of 3 Sigs in IWB and these are full size heavy guns. A Milt Sparks VMII for the 226 and 220 and a T&T Gunleather or Done Hume for the Pro. I am also very weight challenged and carry all the time.

For the shoulder holster question; during our short, sort of winter here in SC I use a Galco Maimi Classic because it feels cool.

A simple switch from tee shirt to lightweigh cotton square cut shirts will also make all the difference.
  #49  
Old 08-12-2008, 08:53 PM
00Buckshot62 00Buckshot62 is offline
Member
 
Join Date: Nov 2003
Location: Texas
Posts: 74
Likes: 7
Liked 6 Times in 2 Posts
Default

I carry a full size M&P iwb under a loose t shirt or a square cut shirt quite often. Not too difficult with a large build & a good holster.
  #50  
Old 08-13-2008, 03:02 PM
anchors anchors is offline
US Veteran
 
Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: Wilton,New York
Posts: 422
Likes: 0
Liked 1 Time in 1 Post
Default

I'll be carrying a 915 starting next week and don't anticipate any problems.I'll be using a Fist #17 holster with belt loops that are adjustable for degree of cant.
__________________
Anchors
Closed Thread

Tags
1911, 380, 5906, 915, bladetech, commander, concealed, extractor, fobus, galco, glock, j frame, kimber, kydex, leather, marksmanship, sig arms, sigma, springfield, sw40ve, sw9ve, tactical

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Does anyone carry a full size MP 9? Grimjaws Smith & Wesson M&P Pistols 27 02-20-2017 01:31 PM
IWB carry full size M&P? TWEAKD4 Smith & Wesson M&P Pistols 39 05-29-2015 09:51 PM
M&P Full Size Conceal Carry? Reic333 Smith & Wesson M&P Pistols 63 06-07-2013 09:33 PM
Full Size M&P 9MM Conceal Carry JazzyJ Concealed Carry & Self Defense 31 12-21-2012 10:54 AM
Ever carry full size S-W? 3rd Gen Neal Concealed Carry & Self Defense 22 03-05-2009 07:22 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 02:15 PM.


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