Unique Situation

[scooter123]

Thank you for the thoughtful post, Scooter, I appreciate it. You are right that my upper body and wrist is stronger than most people's, but recoil is still somewhat of an issue. I only say that because when i went to the range the first time a little over a month ago and fired with one hand (towards the end) it was the only time where my rounds did not land in the black.

It's quite common for a FIRST TIME SHOOTER to miss "the Black" on their first time shooting, whether shooting with one hand or two. It's also quite common for new shooters to overcome this by PRACTICING. You need to remember that in addition to having some physical limitations you are also a NEW SHOOTER. So, don't rule out a technique just because it's a bit more difficult, just spend more time practicing until you master it.

 

[Adk.IBO]

I really, really like what I see in these Kangaroo Carry Holsters and am definitely getting one! Most likely Air Marshall 3. Thanks for showing me this!

Austin, the owner at KC is really good about answering e-mails quickly. He can tell you what holster will work with what gun and is just a pleasure to do business with. I am glad to have helped!

Stay safe, John

 

[Biggfoot44]

Everyone should be prepared for the possability of fighting from the ground , with a firearm or otherwise. But it's not a great Plan A .

As you relate that you are good for standing with one hand free , shooting one hand only would be a better plan A . Yes , (fill in blank) two handed stance is "better" , but one handed can be plenty good enough , and even has some positive points in its own right.

You're a NEW Shooter, there is an inherent learning curve. Since you will be striving for one handed skills on purpose, do 2/3 to 3/4 of your practice with one hand vs two hand. And don't neglect the right hand only either.

No specifc advise on holsters, just whatever is comfortable and works for you.

The holster related question for you , can you use a high ride belt holster ( or whatever holster ) from the wheelchair ? As a general principle on your person is always better than off body carry. Since you relate you are frequently in & out of chair , you would have to deal with issues of having your gun attached to chair while you are bopping around on foot. You would be without the gun yourself , while worrying about the security of the unattended pistol.

 

[Ralffers]

Hey everyone,

It has been forever and a day since I've been on these forums; my apologies!

I see that I have some people to reply to in this thread, and will do that later today. I really appreciate all of the input?

I talked to Austin over at K.C., and he unfortunately advised me that his holsters would not work for me (I really like [and wanted] the Air Marshall 3). Reason being, my right shoulder dips when I walk, and being that I'm left-handed, the weight of a firearm on the right side of my body would only make the holster's shoulder strap more likely to fall constantly.

Austin was nice enough to call me, and in talking with him he suggested that I get a belly band holster, more specifically, from Crossbreed. I couldn't find it though (maybe it was discontinued?) and all other ones I found do not fit full-sized firearms.

So, all that being said, since i'm either in a seated position most of the day (in my wheelchair), or walking with crutches, I ordered two appendix carry holsters: one for my Sig Sauer P320 full-size – from Crossbreed (it might prove difficult to carry, I admit, but I like full-size pistols) and the other for H&K VP9 from Bravo Concealment (the D.O.S. holster). I'll still use the current setup on my wheelchair with the Blackhawk CQC holster for my M&P40.

The question is, is it safe to carry a striker-fired pistol in the appendix position? Foolishly, I didn't give it much thought before placing my orders. Just figured "Well, these holsters exist for striker-fired guns, so people must [safely] use them..."

Cheers!

 

[wheelgunguy]

When it comes to holsters we all have to figure out what is best for us individually. This is regardless of physical stature. Quite often it's a matter of trial and error and we may end up with a box full of holsters that just didn't work out. Try the ones on the way and see how they work for you.

One thing I did want to comment on was tactics. Tactics are all about getting or increasing an advantage or decreasing a disadvantage. You had mentioned there may be a time when you are using your crutches and would have to fall to the ground to draw. If you found yourself in that position I would consider pleading with the BG on the way down. Maybe something like "Please don't hurt me!" in a desperate and panicked way. He may feel that he has such an upper hand in the situation that thinking you might come out firing may just be the last thing on his mind. The element of surprise is wonderful thing when defending one's self. Keep in mind the reach of his kick when your drawing and preparing to fire also.

Good luck in finding the set up that works best for you.

 

[Double-O-Dave]

Hi Ralffers:

A few thoughts regarding your situation:

1. Are you familiar with a Seecamp semiautomatic? I believe they are the smallest semiauto pistol currently in production. They are designed to be a close range, self defense piece - there are no sights on this pistol. I have one in .32ACP, and they also make one in .380ACP, but I doubt I'd want to shoot that one. You could carry one of these in a Ken Null shoulder holster and forget it was there - until you need it. As small as it is, I don't think weapon retention will be much of an issue if you are under attack. The Seecamp is a quality piece. Except for the polymer grips, the entire piece is made from stainless steel. They are pricey, and they are a niche gun. But, they are so small and handy you really don't have any excuse to walk around unarmed.

2. Have you thought about a chest holster? When I was in the Army I really liked using a tanker's holster. This was actually more of a chest, than a shoulder holster, and could give your arms more room for using your crutches, or your wheelchair. I know of holster makers who also make them for hunters - I have one for my scoped 6.0" barreled Model 686, and it works well. You would have to use some type of cover garment unless you are in an area that allows open carry.

3. I would recommend you consider carrying a revolver over a semiauto as a revolver doesn't care about weak or odd grips, or angles, etc. If you want to use a semiauto, have you considered a H&K P7? They are no longer in production, but can be found fairly easily on the used market. They are very reliable, very accurate, and not a whole lot of people know how to make them ready for firing (they have a front squeeze cocker - think of the grip safety on a 1911 - only on the frontstrap of the piece.

Best of luck,

Dave

 

[AGoyette]

For a belly band type of holster, try 3 speed brand. The husband finds them comfortable. As to appendix carrying a striker fired gun.. I do, and I am not alone.