Advice for carrying a 45 revolver

[josp]

I finally found a S&W 45acp revolver I could afford and am planning on making it my primary carry. The gun is a slightly used 325, 2.5" barrel, HIviz sights. The grips will be the first to change as I have smaller hands and like the compact ones. The holster so far is a Kramer IWB. The part I'm having trouble with is a carry system for the moon clips.
For those who carry one, do you carry full moon, 1/2 moon or 1/3 moon clips? Or do you load the rimmed ones in a standard speedloader?
I have a 340 that I'll use as backup, and on some occasions, primary, but I want a reload for the main blaster.
Thanks in advance

 

[CW3PA]

I carry my 325sc in a Threepersons from El Paso Saddlery.

Full moon clips are carried in a double-speed loader.

And .45 Auto-Rims are in an HKS 25-M.

Hope this is helpful.

 

[Frizzman]

I have the same type of revolver. I usually carry the moon clips using the spring steel clip holders that Dillon sells as the "Shoot-a-Moon Clip Holder". They clip on and off the belt and are secure but fast. I also have auto rim cartridges in HKS speedloaders. I prefer the moon clipped ammo. The ease and speed of reloading with moon clips is a major advantage of the .45 acp revolver. Also, auto rim cartridge cases can get the case rim stuck under the extractor. The ammo in clips won't do that. I like my revolver but it is a hard kicker.

 

[Dusty Miller]

Originally posted by Frizzman:I like my revolver but it is a hard kicker.

Just keep think'n about the "kick" it'll deliver to anybody who gets in the way of one of them big ole' 230 gr. slugs.

 

[CW3PA]

Here are a couple of the ShootAMoon clips.

Another option available.

 

[ENH]

I care mine mostly in my front pocket and when conditions allow I now use the Rafter holster and belt. My moon clips are carried loose in a pocket most of the time. This has not posed a problem after several years. None have been bent, etc. They are readily accessible. BTW I Love the gun.

 

[josp]

Thanks for all the help so far fellas.
ERH, who ported that for you, and how big are your pockets?

 

[ENH]

As I type this the 325PD is in a Concealed Carriers pocket pouch in the right front pocket of my LL Bean traditional fit jeans. There is also 6 moon clipped 230 gr. Golden Saber's in there. It is easier to conceal than most would believe. Dockers are a breeze. The key though is bobbing the hammer and the smaller Spegel stocks.

Mag-Na-port did the ports and it truly helps. I still use a Past recoil glove or Hogue stocks for extended range sessions.

Here it is again with it's big brother fresh from the range.

 

[ENH]

CW3PA - I've got to tell you I love that 1920 Tom Threeperson floral carved rig. I hope you have a matching belt.

How is the retention or is there a thong I can't see?

For the life of me I don't understand why CTC stopped making those grips.

 

[CW3PA]

Originally posted by ENH:
CW3PA - I've got to tell you I love that 1920 Tom Threeperson floral carved rig. I hope you have a matching belt.

How is the retention or is there a thong I can't see?

For the life of me I don't understand why CTC stopped making those grips.

I've got a "New Ranger Belt" carved to match. I save it for BBQs or special occasions, like church or jury duty.
The holster is a snug fit, & since I'm not into armed gymnastics I keep the hammer thong tucked out of the way.

I too am dismayed that CTC no longer makes these grips. They sure help with control & the laser is nice too.

 

[LoboGunLeather]

Trying to think of the old Texas Ranger's name, can't remember it. Anyway, when asked why he carried a .45 he answered, "Because they don't make a .46." Good answer.

 

[Frank from jersey]

I use a Mernickle rig to carry my LH 25-14 3 inch barrel. I have two belt loops carrying 6 rounds each for a total of 12. Bob also makes the ammo belt loops for .45 ACP rounds by putting a stop on the bottom of the loops to keep the rounds from dropping through. Also use .45 AutoRim with the loops. When carrying full moon clips I use a nylon cell phone pouch which holds three clips.

 

[SuperMan]

A friend who carries a 325 4" uses one of the DeSantis HKS Speed Loader holders and it works perfectly for a full moon clip... Three rounds fit on each side of the belt... Much more compact than anything else and very secure.

http://www.desantisholster.com/storefrontB2CWEB/itemdet...m_id=259&itm_index=1

Bob

 

[robertrwalsh]

You might be able to fit two moonclips into a slightly deep speedloader pouch. I had one custom made for this purpose that works great, but a regular one with a slightly long "toungue" might do the job and let you carry a few extra rounds without a lot of hassle.

 

[Cocked & Locked]

I carry this 2.5" 1917 Colt in a holster made by Tom Dyer, Saguaro Gunleather.

http://www.saguarogunleather.com/

 

[ENH]

Very nice Colt and Holster. Gotta love that 45 acp.
What does that Colt weigh?

 

[Cocked & Locked]

What does that Colt weigh?

Didn't know so I weighed it. Its a lightweight...only 2 lbs. & 6 oz.

Now I wish I hadn't weighed it.

 

[josp]

Lots of great information here. Thanks fellas.

 

[Wyatt Earp]

Originally posted by Cocked & Locked:
I carry this 2.5" 1917 Colt in a holster made by Tom Dyer, Saguaro Gunleather.

http://www.saguarogunleather.com/

That is bad ass.

 

[Catshooter]

cocked & locked,

That is totally stunning. While I can hardly imagine such an event, should you ever deceide it really is too heavy for you, contact me please. Right away. Soon please.


Cat