Systems approach to CCW

[wjh2657]

Being a retired Marine, I am used to the "system" approach to any equipment I or others may have to operate. Simply stated, the training equipment should be as close to the real equipment as possible. Also, if multiple platforms are needed for delivery, they should be designed to be as close to the same as possible for ease and familiarity of operation.
When I decided to carry concealed I found that I did indeed need two platforms to match my attire. I needed in the pocket carry with a lightweight weapon for hot weather and belt carry OWB for colder weather, utilizing a somewhat more powerful delivery system to overcome the possibility of the target wearing multiple layers of clothing also.
I decided on the S&W Centennial J-Frame as the basis of my system.
For carry, I deploy a 640 (.357 Magnum in SS) for colder weather and a 642 (.38 Spcl +P) in the warmer weather. I actually carry .38 Spcl +P in the 640 and .38 Spcl SP in the 642. In case of extreme circumstances the .357 Magnum in the 640 would be a viable option for upgrade of response.
My training system includes a S&W 317 in .22 CB for frequent shooting in my indoor garage range (bullet Trap and backdrop) and in .22LR outside in woods. I utilize a Blackhawk demonstrator (plastic copy) S&W Centennial as a trainer in practicing weapon retention with my #2 son who is a martial artist. I also use the trainer to practice draws from different attire and positions.
Every two weeks I fire the seasonal carry weapon at indoor range with practice ammo that has characteristics matched to my carry ammo.
Thus my delivery system and training systems are in synch and allow for a full spectrum of training.
Just off the top of my head, I believe that the 1911 and Glock systems would lend well to this approach. Others probably would too, but I know for sure that those two have .22LR adapters and plastic trainer guns made for them.

 

[wjh2657]

 

[Massad Ayoob]

A wise approach.

 

[cshoff]

Thanks for sharing that info, wjh2657. That does, indeed, sound like a logical system to use. I am blessed with having my own range here on my property which makes it much easier and more covenient to keep from getting "rusty". It's unfortunate, but I'd bet most of our CCW students actually practice with their firearms less than a couple times each year, and some of them likely never do. It's just not a priority for a lot of folks.

If/when the SHTF, I want to make sure I've done everything in my power to prepare me for the situation.

 

[wjh2657]

I fired the 1911 platfom for 30 years in Marine Corps in competition and in training, including Gunsite. I find however that the "in the hole",down and dirty, up close SD shooting out in the real world is a whole different ball park and takes lots of practice to establish near automatic muscle and eye reflexes. Thus the need for different training cycles: drawing from different clothing, shooting from less than perfect positions and strings of fire to COM instead of neatly aimed fire. The sheer volume of practice required along with age onset of RA in wrists, precludes massive practice with live carry ammo. The "Dummy" and the .22 LR(with same trigger pull and grips as EDC) let me practice daily for the reflexive operations. The twice a month range fire with carry weapons keeps my marksmanship viable. I won't win marksmanship medals but I do feel I can put a BG down before he hurts me too bad.

 

[wjh2657]

Originally posted by Massad Ayoob:
A wise approach.

A validation coming from you. I have and read your books!