[inSight-NEO]

Ive been looking for a decent way to CC when wearing items such as scrubs (almost daily) and other than ankle carry, I have not found much in terms of "practicality." I mean, the "usual" form of carry (holster concealed at waistline...in the traditional sense) is not very effective when wearing scrubs. However, I have seen several references to a "belly band" which seems as if it might allow for a decent amount of versatility/concealability given my particular needs.

The current weapon I use for CC is fairly large (4" .45 ACP) and even with ankle carry it tends to "print." Plus, Im not too fond of the idea of carrying a semi-auto at the ankle if I can help it (I feel a 3" barreled, or less, revolver is much more suited for this type of carry).

Anyway, does anyone currently use such an item for CC? Any thoughts? Thanks.

[Oyeboten]

No idea what a 'Belly Band' is...

But...a waist Belt, and, an otherise 'IWB' Holster, under the gown/scrubs/whatever, would probably work...

As may a Shoulder Holster, 'under' the garment.

[rockstar.esq]

I haven't tried a belly band but I bought a 5.11 holster shirt http://www.copsplus.com/prodnum6061.php

The sales man told me he'd let me try it on but warned me that he hadn't had a person try it on who didn't buy one. If that's true, he's still got his record as far as I'm concerned. The elastic is snug which keeps the gun VERY steady. I packed a Sig P220 on one side and a 5 shot .44 special in the other for a test run. My wife claims it's the only holster I have that makes it impossible for her to tell (she knows where to look). Thus far it's been the best option for my .44 special snubbie. The P220's grip is right against the velcro closures which caused it to slide out when I was washing my car. I like the shirt a lot but for $50 each I couldn't afford more than one which means I don't use it every day. It's stiflingly hot and I have to wear an undershirt to absorb the sweat so I'm looking forward to using it this winter to keep warm.

[CapnMac]

I've got one, but I've never used it, as ther ewas always some other carry option.

Never have liked the accessory pocket for a spare mag, as the mag can wander around in it. It also is not an item that meets any sort of reasonable definition of "re-holstering." (Best answer seems to be, rotate ban around to get the "gun spot" at 12 o'clock; mash weapon in; then rotate back to the carry position. Just not a handy phone booth for that sort of activity these days, either.) Having to get the cover garment up about your armpit with the weak hand is not ideal, either.

But, that's my take on it; others' differ.

[msb45]

I still own a belly band but haven't used it in years. With a normal shirt it was way slow. Scrubs would probably be OK.

I carried a S&W j frame. The velcro "thumb break" was tough to undo one handed and I often opened it and then drew. Once again with loose scrubs probably not a big deal. Also the design has probably changed a little.

[inSight-NEO]

I appreciate the replies. I guess my next question is....any ideas on how to effectively carry a weapon + a few spare mags while wearing scrubs? Again, Ive tried the ankle holster route...the gun at one ankle, the ammo located at the other. But, this gets "heavy" and still tends to "print" and/or reveal (when sitting down).

I am intrigued by the CC undergarment (shirt). But, as one responder noted, it seems as if this item would become uncomfortable during the summer heat (the average heat index is roughly 95-100+ during the summer months of my home state...not to mention the high humidity).

[Avenger29]

Have you looked at the SmartCarry?

http://www.smartcarry.com/

General advice is not to buy a knockoff, as the knockoffs material seems to be thinner (an issue with guns like Glocks and the like)

[Phydeaux642]

+1 on the Smartcarry. I use one almost every day.

[dkk73]

I have used the SmartCarry extensively with scrubs. It works extremely well.

It also works well with a decent suit, jogging shorts, trendy jeans (though a bit tight), etc. Much better concealability in day to day life, people close to you, seen from different angles, etc.

Highly recommended. Most versatile holster I own by far. Great value for money.

Have looked at some of the clothing integrated 5.11 stuff and haven't been terribly impressed. I have not yet tried the holster undershirt. Cannot imagine that would be acceptable fast with scrubs, though.

[zignal_zero]

i think belly bands suck :(

i tried one for a couple hours, then it got shelved.

remember - just because your pants don't have belt loops does NOT mean you can't wear a belt. sometimes, i'll be wearing sweats or basketball shorts. i'll just wrap a belt aournd the top of them and carry like that. nvr had a prob.

[Sir Aardvark]

I use a belly-band holster when I go jogging, but that is about it.
Other times I will just pocket carry or IWB.

You might look into something like thunderwear holsters when wearing scrubs:

http://www.thunderwear.com/holsters.asp

You might also look into something a little more concealable, such as a J-frame snubbie or one of the subcompact Glocks if you're really serious about CCW while wearing scrubs; a 4-inch .45 will conceal well while IWB or shoulder-carry, but strapped across your belly it's gonna show, unless you're wearing a lab coat.

[inSight-NEO]

Thanks again for the replies. Ill look into the "SmartCarry." I do have one question about this item. How does it fare in terms of maintaining a barrier between the weapon/mags/speed loaders and body sweat/dirt? Of course, quick "acquisition," small "printing," comfort and durability are of utmost importance. But, when $600-$1,000 of weaponry is used, maintaining weapon/accessory "integrity/condition" is also of a concern.

[sig87]

I use a belly band every day. I carry a Sig p6. I have a fobus holster and leave it at home to use my belly band. I really like mine.

[lloveless]

I have a belly band and use it for deep concealment. It is used around the waist holding the gun in front below the belt line. Not entirely comfortalble,but beats no gun.
What job puts you in scrubs that will allow(legally)ccw?
lloveless

[OurSafeHome.net]

What job puts you in scrubs that will allow(legally)ccw?

Don't ask, don't tell.

Thunderwear are great, but you need to get at least 2 rigs, especially in the summer time.

[dkk73]

You might also look into something a little more concealable, such as a J-frame snubbie or one of the subcompact Glocks if you're really serious about CCW while wearing scrubs; a 4-inch .45 will conceal well while IWB or shoulder-carry, but strapped across your belly it's gonna show, unless you're wearing a lab coat.

Actually, I have found that I can use the Smart Carry with scrubs with the HK P7 or the USPc45 (a bit bigger). Haven't tried the 1911, which is thinner but longer. I suspect it would work. The J-frame absolutely disappears.

This carry location ("marsupial") really goes a long way towards concealment. The back/grip edge lines up with the natural drawstring, etc., and any angularity down lower either looks like a crease or isn't noticed because people subconsciously do not scrutinize your crotch.

All this works while running in shorts, too.

[dkk73]

...
How does it fare in terms of maintaining a barrier between the weapon/mags/speed loaders and body sweat/dirt?
...
Of course, quick "acquisition," small "printing," comfort and durability are of utmost importance.
...
But, when $600-$1,000 of weaponry is used, maintaining weapon/accessory "integrity/condition" is also of a concern.

In order:

1. The new version has a sweat liner. Mine is many years old and doesn't. Haven't tested the new version but planning to "someday".

2. Depending on the climate in which you carry, stealth can be very important. This works well for that.

3. I hear you about caring for equipment. My thoughts are:
-Best thing is a corrosion-proof gun, e.g. HK HE finish, Glock tenifer, etc. You can have this done aftermarket.
-Maintenance. In my experience, it goes up with carry of any sort... Haven't escaped lint or sweat yet. ;) It's especially bad with exercise in the summer.
-One product that works well for me is Eezox. Non-oily, so easy to use with deep concealment. The solvent base is wicked, so it works well, but don't breath it excessively. Once it evaporates, the stuff is very benign.

Hope this helps,
Dave

[inSight-NEO]

I went ahead and ordered the "Smart Carry" Security model and had it made to fit a 5" (barrel) weapon. From what I understand, going with a 4" should also be no problem with this setup. Right now, Im looking at either carrying my Sig P220 or the XD45.

Once I get it and try things out, Ill let you know.

Thanks again for the replies.

[LightningMan]

Hello, I don't know what you are going to be carrying but if you have a LCP or a Kel-Tec the wallet holster from www.concealcity.com is great for deep concealment, as it prints like an ordinary wallet in your back pocket. LM

[dkk73]

With a shorter barrel, if it doesn't feel quite right you can put a small piece of cloth in the bottom of the holster pocket or use a safety pin.
The inventor/seller is really responsive to questions and provides lots of advice on fit, etc.

[Friendly, Don't Fire!]

I went ahead and ordered the "Smart Carry" Security model and had it made to fit a 5" (barrel) weapon. From what I understand, going with a 4" should also be no problem with this setup. Right now, Im looking at either carrying my Sig P220 or the XD45.

Once I get it and try things out, Ill let you know.

Thanks again for the replies.
The SmartCarry is a quality product.
Good choice.

[Bob M.]

http://www.activeprogear.com/defender.html


This is what I use. My Model 37 Smith (2' snub) hides very well with this. The advantage of the belly band holster is the it hugs in tight to you, thus making the firearm more concealable.

Bob M.

[nelson133]

I use a fanny pack when I am in scrubs, they are common enough to avoid questions.

[NMGonzo]

I do.

Most discreet.

[BP Hunter]

I also wears srubs but with jeans so I can easily conceal a full sized auto. I rotate in between the Springfiled XD9 4", Sig P220 carry, and CZ75B 4". I can undertsand the problem in carrying a pistol weighing more than 1 pound if you are wearing thos pants scrubs with just a tie. At times when I in my office clothes with my tie, I wear this http://www.lapolicegear.com/5tahoshv.html It hold my Ket Tec PF9 snuggly but gets quite warm in room temperature.

Sorry to ask but how mcuh fire power, gun and extra ammo, would you need in a place of work where you wear scrubs?

Peace.

[inSight-NEO]

Sorry to ask but how mcuh fire power, gun and extra ammo, would you need in a place of work where you wear scrubs?

Well...one gun and a few spare mags I suppose. ;)

Its not that I carry each and every day. But, I like to keep my options open. After all, health care facilities are certainly not immune to violence.

[lloveless]

Nope, but they are a bastion of politically correct thinkers, and freak at the thought of a co-worker carrying. At least at most places.
ll

[balin]

I use one on occassion. Wish I could find a left handed one. I know you just turn them inside out and they are left handed. But I find they don't retain as well that way. As the leather is on the outside and can stretch more.

[Sonnyone]

That depends on how much belly you're trying to band! If you're in good shape and don't hang oner your pants they work fine.

[Mikefln]

I use a belly band a lot, I find it conveint and comtable. I use it for my 642 when I am in work out gear at the gym, and I use it for my Beretta 92 when I am in anything from jeans, Khakis, or a suit. I have no trouble with it at all. Like everything else, you need to practice with it because it is not as smooth to use as a regular holster.

[HexHead]

I've had a Thunderwear holster for years, since I had my Beretta 9000s which was almost impossible to find a decent holster for. I haven't worn it in a while, but as I recall it was all they said it was. Very comfortable and totally concealed. I need to start wearing it again. Especially since I've lost some weight and all my pants have some extra room. ;)

Damn, and I just bought a shoulder holster too. HAHAHAHA

[DrShooter]

Any preference between Galco's underwarp and the Original Belly Band and Active Pro Gear's unit? Thanks

[content]

Hello friends and neighbors // I have em, tried em, didn't like the retention of them for a handgun but for a knife or money belt they are great.

Been a while though, mine are all elastic, 2 handgun slots and bill pocket. No hook and loop to secure the handgun, the new ones might retain the weapon better.

[Zundfolge]

When I started carrying eons ago I started out with a belly band (the Active Pro Gear Defender ... back then they called themselves "Action Direct").

Anyway, I carried a Steyr M40 and it carried very discretely and somewhat comfortably.

But I'm convinced there was an unacceptable side effect ... after several months of regular carry with the belly band, I developed a pretty bad case of IBS (https://health.google.com/health/ref/Irritable+bowel+syndrome). I'm convinced the belly band was to blame because I ordered a good leather holster and started carrying IWB and the problem went away.

I suspect the constant, constricting pressure caused the problem.

Also you tend to sweat under them a lot.

[LightningMan]

I wear a belly-band during cooler weather months, when I can wear a t-shirt under my regular button down long sleved shirt. That means the temps don't get much above 60-70 degrees for the day, for me anyway. One of the reasons I wear a BB is I don't like wearing my shirt loose, I tuck it in, IMO it just looks sloppy to wear a button down shirt, untucked. I wear my BB so while seated the muzzle of my Kahr PM9 is a my belt line, and leave one button undone so if I ever need my gun, it makes it easy to reach in to get it out quickly. Of course this works best if you are right handed. Unfortunatly in warmer months I take a step down and use a pocket holster for my LCP or P238. LM

[Skillet]

I love how those manicans that they mold for the forming of those shirt pictures (press the link above to get my idea) have a perfect body shape that you only see on TV

[jcs271]

Can you draw while seated (say at a desk) with a smart carry, or is it kind of folded into your lap below your waistband?

[Lakeshore]

I occasionally wear a belly band that I bought at a gun show for 20 bucks.

For me the best feature is the versatility of the elastic gun pocket; it accommodates all but the largest pistols. Weak features are discomfort in warm weather, as others have observed, and the lack of durability of a fabric/elastic band versus a regular holster.

[XavierBreath]

I too, am in scrubs on a daily basis. I know several other people who wear scrubs and pack. We shoot together as well, and occasionally attend schools together. We recruit new people into the effective self defense mindset. The solution to scrub carry among us was unanimous. SmartCarry (http://www.smartcarry.com/) was the solution. Get Charlie's product. It whoops the others handily. Order your scrub pants a size larger with a drawstring so they will bunch a bit in front. Be careful bellying up to stretchers and surgical tables lest you give an audible "thunk" and have your patient look at you quizzically.

Ankle carry is generally ineffective and resigned for BUG duty IMHO. I do use a Belly Band, worn high while biking. I don't wear biking jerseys though.

What job puts you in scrubs that will allow(legally)ccw?
Laws are different from state to state regarding carrying in hospitals, clinics and private residences. There are no laws that prohibit doctors, nurses and other medical professionals from carrying firearms. Even if the OP lives in a hospital carry prohibitive state, or if his hospital has legal "no guns" signs, he just might stop by the Handy Mart on the way home, wearing scrubs. It would be nice to carry at that time.