Mastering the Crossdraw of Your Pistol

[Dvan34]

It isn't often that we see much information onCross-draw carrying. I've carried IWB CD for many years, particularly when off duty or was in plainclothes. I can imagine that many will disagree but everyone must do what appeals most to them and their circumstances. This is an article that I believe does provide valid information about the benefits or non-benefits.


Mastering the Crossdraw | USCCA Training & Techniques

 

[ContinentalOp]

Crossdraw definitely has some merits, and I have experimented with it. However, with my body type it didn't work too well. I don't have a lot of flexibility in my shoulders, and I had to place the gun too far forward to conceal well. At that point I would've been better off using appendix carry.

The biggest issue with drawing is making sure you don't point the muzzle in an unsafe direction, which wasn't addressed in the article. When I did it, I kept the muzzle pointed down and slightly out so I didn't point it at anyone or anything around me, or at my feet, until I got it to my centerline. At that point it was bringing it up on target like a conventional strong side draw.

 

[rwsmith]

I have shoulder holster...

So both are essentially cross draw. It's not as far of a way to reach across my chest as it is to get across my stomach.


Seriously, my body build did make my decision to go shoulder. I may come up with other ways, but right now that's it.

 

[barbara_em]

When I was much younger, I found a .32 PPK with an aluminum frame. If I didn't tuck in my blouse the Walther snuggled very nicely a couple inches from my belt buckle. I practiced often with a left hand grab and got pretty good with it. When I sold the gun, I quit carrying crossdraw for the most part. OK, almost. Me with a Beretta .32 in a Berns X-15 from some years ago.

 

[Mainsail]

I like cross draw OWB - not sure why IWB would even be a consideration given how much more comfortable it is outside your pants.

 

[Ivan the Butcher]

My experience with cross draw is limited to SASS cowboy action shooting. I believe their rule about not "Sweeping" the people behind you is valid in the real world. So a twist of the hips, brings the butt and your strong hand together faster, and then back helps the barrel clear leather faster! I also used a very similar motion (but higher) for a shoulder rig (cowboy action and CCW 39-2!)

I made 2 of my own cross draw holsters, and found that the angle of the butt as your hand engages for drawing is crucial! I wanted the entire blackstrap tight in my palm as I clasp and drew! Not having to adjust the hand's angle, increased speed, correct grip and not dropping the gun (It will get you disqualified for the day in completion and dead in real life!) So plan on trying several holsters for each gun/set of grips.

Ivan

 

[AST236]

Crossdraw definitely has some merits, and I have experimented with it. However, with my body type it didn't work too well. I don't have a lot of flexibility in my shoulders, and I had to place the gun too far forward to conceal well. At that point I would've been better off using appendix carry.

The biggest issue with drawing is making sure you don't point the muzzle in an unsafe direction, which wasn't addressed in the article. When I did it, I kept the muzzle pointed down and slightly out so I didn't point it at anyone or anything around me, or at my feet, until I got it to my centerline. At that point it was bringing it up on target like a conventional strong side draw.

Just think about where the muzzle is pointing during an 'inside waistband appendix' carry........

I have a couple of crossdraw holsters I use when I'm on the riding mower or working in the yard. They work very well for my 4" K frame or my Glock 26....... A light shirt covers them ok if I need to run to town.

 

[BAM-BAM]

Bianchi 111 Cyclone is a favorite wood carry with a 3-6 inch revolver.

 

[SuperMan]

I've been carrying crossdraw since the 1970s when I first started carrying.

For the most part I carried a 1911 IWB no holster butt forward just behind the left hip (being right handed). I am slim enough and my arms long enough that drawing with the strong hand isn't a problem. I also often draw with the left hand and pass the gun to the right in the middle of the way to the target. It is about .5 seconds slower for the first shot than out of a strong side holster.

Yes, there are disadvantages but to me the advantage of the butt being forward and not printing is a major thing. Also when seated and buckled into a car seat I can get my gun out much faster than in a strong side holster.

These day when carrying a Commander like that I use a REMORA IWB holster. I've also carried a Glock 19 and S&W 57 that way also.

Bob

 

[jrclen]

Because I'm left handed, I often carry cross draw while driving.

 

[vytoland]

ive carried cross draw for awhile now and find it comfortable and effective.....

 

[richardw]

Dvan34,
Thanks for posting the article. It motivates me to try a few practice runs with cross drawso no realistic danger of an accidental discharge in appendix carry.

I carry in a DeSantis IWB leather holster on the rifht at 4 o'clock. It is a nuisance in cold weather since her in PA a winter coat is often called for for about 3 months.

I was thinking th other day that I could use the holster as a cross draw as it has no cant and is comfortable to wear in appendix carry. I am going to try it around the house for a day or two. Who knows I might actually adopt it.

 

[Dvan34]

I do not carry open carry, as LEOSA authorization mandates Concealed Carry only. Therefore I don't have any alternative, although I would not open carry anyway. Additionally, the People's Republic of Kalifornia doesn't allow open carry.

 

[Dvan34]

richardw

Gunny,
When I draw my Shield I make certain I do not disengage the safety until the pistol is pointing forward and lining up with the target. With practice it isn't a problem.