Wilderness Safepacker

[wls]

Guys and Gals,
Thinking of getting a Safepacker for a 4" md 65 and 4" md 25-13. They don't seem to scream "GUN" like gunnysacks do.
Any thoughts?
WLS

 

[Erich]

I've got a couple of brown belt pouches from Bagmaster (less expensive and available in less "tactical" colors than from Wilderness - http://www.bagmaster.com/ ) and I find that I don't use them much. Anything that's going to carry your 4" revolvers (particularly the N-frame) is going to be on the large side on your belt. I don't know about you, but I'm pretty fit, and a giant pack looks odd grafted onto my belt. (They would be less obtrusive on a really heavyset fella, but they look pretty glaring on my waist.)

The other thing is that it's not really "cover": everyone who knows me just assumes (correctly) that there's a gun in that pack. And anyone "in the biz" will know what it is.

So I find that I don't use the two packs (one larger, one medium-sized) that I own much (even on hikes) - I find that IWB with a cover garment is a lot less hassle. And faster to draw from.

Anyway, I'm glad to have them and do use them about once a year or so, but they're not something that has proved anywhere near as useful as I'd hoped. Not saying that you shouldn't get one, just reporting my experience with this type of beast.

 

[D7dun]

I think Erich is right! You are always a lot better off carrying on the body one way or the other.

However, I have one for my Glock 27 and find it quite useful in a number of situations. I have successfully worn it on my belt, carried it by the handle and used it attached to my seatbelt while driving. It seems to be just different enough that it goes unnoticed. It also looks good enough not to have too high a geek/nerd factor. Yes, put your keys on the key ring as a further diversion from its true purpose.

I also agree that for your application of a 4" K and a N Frame you are really pushing the practical limits of the bag. It is going to be awfully long and bulky and will tend to stand out more.

I suggest another mode of carry or more concealable firearms if you want to use a Safepacker to your best concealment advantage.

I just reviewed the web site and it seems to me it might be a good choice with the firearms you mentioned in a backpacking/hunting situation where your guns are a back up to your hunting arm?

It is an outstanding piece of equipment and you can't go wrong by getting one. All I am saying, is it will probably not work as well for concealing your N Frame on the patio of Starbucks?

Hope this helps?

 

[mississippi revolverman]

Eric is right about the bagmaster. I have one I carry a 4' 19 in. Usally have my camera so most think it is a camera lens bag. Her in south Florida no MAN would be caught with a fanny pack

 

[jkc]

I've got several Safepackers in various sizes and like them for some applications, but not EDC. They're great to protect your gun in harsh environments where it might otherwise get beat up, they can be fastened to a padded pack waistbelt, canoe thwart, bike frame, etc., and used to inconspicuously move a handgun from vehicle to motel room, etc. But, they scream "gun" to savvy observers, and like Erich said, look "goofy" on modest waists with large guns. I'd say they're more appropriate for field and recreational use than regular carry.

 

[ocjimmy]

I too like jkc and others have several safepakers. I NEVER wear it on my belt.

I will carry it by it's handle. like at a car wash or other venue where I may need to move or remove my gun. In combination with any other bag such as a laptop bag, no one is even remotely aware of it's contents. (One hand carrying both).

For even further distraction, have a coil of white iPod earbuds around the snap with the headphone jack tucked in the side. Everyone will 'know' you simply have an iPod and accessories.

Unless you are open carrying, or are covered by a winter jacket or other effective means, never carry anything on your belt, exposed. Even sheep will easily recognize it as a firearm.

Get the safepacker! It's very cool and handy.

You'll be glad you did, just use it differently, such as in your car.

I recommend re-thinking your carry method.

May I suggest a 'Smart Carry' holster. Especially if your pants ride a bit high with a 4". If you're a thinner build, it should be no problem. If you have 'a few pounds to lose' either a shorter revolver or pistol in the G19 size or smaller will probably better suit you.

It's fast, simple and completely invisible. My (Very beautiful) girlfriend doesn't even see it. She just gives me a big grin when she realizes I'm using it.

Jimmy.