NAA Guardian .32 acp. In front right pocket in a Galco PRO 436 pocket holster. I am fairly new to packing and have been doing so every day for about 3 weeks. For my attire and lifestyle this setup is a perfect fit. My .32 acp in my pocket is better than any other larger firearm that I would leave at home more often than not.
anybody pocket carry CCW? (legally)
- Thread starter MIgunguy
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Five of Clubs
Member
I used to carry a snubbie via pocket holster but I switched to a Ruger LCP. My S&W 442 revolver (which I liked very much) was just a little too bulky in the front pocket, and too long for carrying in the back pocket of most of my pants. I liked carrying it IWB, but if I am going to carry that way I usually go for a pistol that carries 15 rounds instead of 5. I tried 3 holsters and the Desantis Nemesis was the best (also is for the LCP). For me personally, I just realized I needed more than one carry gun. I use the little one for the summer and the bigger one when I can wear a coat. I'm not telling you not to get a snubbie, it just didn't work out for me.
I carry a Beretta 21A .22 in a pocket holster nearly every day.
I know most will argue the validity of a .22, but when I'm walking around in public with my wife at my side, it gives me a little satisfaction that I can have my hand in my pocket with my hand on my WEAPON. (Not my GUN!
)
I will admit, that it's -3 here right now, and a .22 against heavy winter coats is not so good.
On the other hand, everyone here is more concerned with staying warm than anything else. When it gets this cold here, crimes in public drop to nearly zero.......and I live close to Iowa State University. Even the liquored up students stay in!
I know most will argue the validity of a .22, but when I'm walking around in public with my wife at my side, it gives me a little satisfaction that I can have my hand in my pocket with my hand on my WEAPON. (Not my GUN!
)I will admit, that it's -3 here right now, and a .22 against heavy winter coats is not so good.
On the other hand, everyone here is more concerned with staying warm than anything else. When it gets this cold here, crimes in public drop to nearly zero.......and I live close to Iowa State University. Even the liquored up students stay in!
XavierBreath
Member
When I can't conceal on my belt, my solution is a S&W Model 38 in a Uncle Mike's #3 pocket holster.
No. Reason being is I can stand there and talk to you with my hand on my gun in a firing grip and you are none the wiser.
Eightball
Member
In response to the OP:
Those things, at the top of pants? Those evenly-spaced, vertical strips of fabric? They're there for a reason. Buy a freakin' belt, and use the thing.
Even if you hate them, firearms are heavy. Unless you go around with full Pepsi bottles in all of your pockets, all of the time, it's unlikely you've worn your pants beltless with a similar amount of weight riding around in the pocket. And wearing a belt comes in more handy when you have to draw then you'd otherwise realize, even if it's from a pocket, IMO.
Belt loops--use 'em.
ETA: Sorry, X, didn't mean for this to sound like it was directed your way
Those things, at the top of pants? Those evenly-spaced, vertical strips of fabric? They're there for a reason. Buy a freakin' belt, and use the thing.
Even if you hate them, firearms are heavy. Unless you go around with full Pepsi bottles in all of your pockets, all of the time, it's unlikely you've worn your pants beltless with a similar amount of weight riding around in the pocket. And wearing a belt comes in more handy when you have to draw then you'd otherwise realize, even if it's from a pocket, IMO.
Belt loops--use 'em.
ETA: Sorry, X, didn't mean for this to sound like it was directed your way
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XavierBreath
Member
I wear a belt when I pocket carry. Why do you think I would not?
There are more reasons to carry in a pocket than going without a belt.
There are more reasons to carry in a pocket than going without a belt.
Scott Free
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XavierBreath-- He was referring to the original poster--not you. And it's not even clear that the op doesn't use a belt. He just says he hates belts--not that he doesn't use one.
Anyway-- the op will discover he at least needs a belt for pocket carry if using a even a lightweight revolver. As for me--nothing beats a 642 in the pocket.
Anyway-- the op will discover he at least needs a belt for pocket carry if using a even a lightweight revolver. As for me--nothing beats a 642 in the pocket.
I carry CCW EVERY DAY this way!
It is the easiest, and most consistent way to carry concealed legally!
The firearm? A 15 oz. S&W Airweight .38 spl. snubbie. In my case, a 1971 Model 37 in an Uncle Mike's #3 size pocket holster (cost, about $12). IMHO, there's no more perfect handgun for CCW use than an aluminum-framed S&W Airweight!
I wore it today while traveling, while stopping enroute to use the bathroom at a convenience store . . . while stopping to talk to a cop and wish him Merry Christmas as I walked out of that store . . . at my son's 30th birthday party (complete with in-laws present and getting to hold my 1 year old grandson . . . during the family photos . . . and later at Outbacks where I took everyone out to eat.
BTW, I just uploaded a photo made today during family photo time, just to prove the point. My trusty J frame is in my front pants pocket, as usual!
No one noticed, and I've gotten to where I know I don't have to be paranoid about my legal right to carry either!
I just toss the M37 in the clean holster and slide it in the pocket of my slacks (or dress pants) and I'm good to go ANYWHERE I can tote legally!
Hmmm . . . last night . . . it was wearing it as my combo set up in a country club for a gig, etc.
The night before? Out Christmas shopping.
With an Airweight J-frame in a pocket holster, you can act natural and never worry and, as others said, you can slide your hand in your pocket (which is so normal anyway) and you are ready if you perceive a threat!
T.
It is the easiest, and most consistent way to carry concealed legally!
The firearm? A 15 oz. S&W Airweight .38 spl. snubbie. In my case, a 1971 Model 37 in an Uncle Mike's #3 size pocket holster (cost, about $12). IMHO, there's no more perfect handgun for CCW use than an aluminum-framed S&W Airweight!
I wore it today while traveling, while stopping enroute to use the bathroom at a convenience store . . . while stopping to talk to a cop and wish him Merry Christmas as I walked out of that store . . . at my son's 30th birthday party (complete with in-laws present and getting to hold my 1 year old grandson . . . during the family photos . . . and later at Outbacks where I took everyone out to eat.
BTW, I just uploaded a photo made today during family photo time, just to prove the point. My trusty J frame is in my front pants pocket, as usual!
No one noticed, and I've gotten to where I know I don't have to be paranoid about my legal right to carry either!
I just toss the M37 in the clean holster and slide it in the pocket of my slacks (or dress pants) and I'm good to go ANYWHERE I can tote legally!
Hmmm . . . last night . . . it was wearing it as my combo set up in a country club for a gig, etc.
The night before? Out Christmas shopping.
With an Airweight J-frame in a pocket holster, you can act natural and never worry and, as others said, you can slide your hand in your pocket (which is so normal anyway) and you are ready if you perceive a threat!
T.
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I would check your local carry laws. I don't know 100%, but a buddy of mine who carries told me that in Ohio, if you carry in a vehicle, the weapon must be holster (covered trigger). I was telling him that I when I get my permit, I was going to get a clipdraw form my sigma. That's when he said that was a no-no to carry like that in a vehicle. I haven't looked into it myself yet, but I'd hate to get busted on a small technicality like that.
JM.02
JM.02
moooose102
Member
yes, i pocket carry, most of the time. even when my 45 is on my hip. you NEED a GOOD pocket holster to sucessfully pocket carry. wether it is a revolver, or an automatic. for three reasons, 1, to keep the gun in an upright position, 2, to keep lint from collecting, and 3, to keep the print of the gun down. just inspect the firearm daily, pockets are great "catch-alls". lint, dirt, little peices of all kinds of stuff collect in them, especially if you have kids. one day shortly after haloween, i found three peice of candy in the pocket with my LCP!
jjohnson
Member
All the time.
Yep, I carry my Makarov in a DeSantis Nemesis holster. Tacky on the outside, smooth on the inside.... stays in your pocket when you draw, doesn't contribute much 'print' to give it away.
Inexpensive... won't wear out, won't suck up sweat... works good, lasts a long time. There's others out there, too - but I'm happy enough with the Nemesis I have no desire to look further.
Yep, I carry my Makarov in a DeSantis Nemesis holster. Tacky on the outside, smooth on the inside.... stays in your pocket when you draw, doesn't contribute much 'print' to give it away.
Inexpensive... won't wear out, won't suck up sweat... works good, lasts a long time. There's others out there, too - but I'm happy enough with the Nemesis I have no desire to look further.
MedWheeler
Member
I've dropped my J-22 (chamber empty) in my pocket from time to time, usually inside an IWB holster that fits in with it.
That's my only really easily "pocket-able" piece.. my main carry guns (Bersa Thinder and Charter Arms Undercover) get carried in an IWB holster that is worn outside the pants, but inside the belt.
That's my only really easily "pocket-able" piece.. my main carry guns (Bersa Thinder and Charter Arms Undercover) get carried in an IWB holster that is worn outside the pants, but inside the belt.
sniper7369
Member
I carry mu BUG in my right front pocket all the time. So light I usually forget it's there.
P90shooter
Member
I just picked this up a few weeks ago http://estore.websitepros.com/1565531/Categories.bok?category=PWC+Pocket/Wallet+Combo+Holster
Works pretty good for wallet style back up or even front pocket
Works pretty good for wallet style back up or even front pocket
MostlyHarmless
Member
- Joined
- Dec 13, 2008
- Messages
- 86
[[in response to the OP]]
642 is on the large size for pocket carry, IMO. Some people make it work. It depends on your body shape and the kind of pants you wear.
Try the Ruger LCP or Kel Tec P3AT or something else of similar size. Thickness and grip length seem to matter more than barrel and slide length. Use a pocket holster, Galco, Mika, Stellar. Don't put anything except the gun in that pocket due to the risk of AD from keys, etc.
642 is on the large size for pocket carry, IMO. Some people make it work. It depends on your body shape and the kind of pants you wear.
Try the Ruger LCP or Kel Tec P3AT or something else of similar size. Thickness and grip length seem to matter more than barrel and slide length. Use a pocket holster, Galco, Mika, Stellar. Don't put anything except the gun in that pocket due to the risk of AD from keys, etc.
Wolfeye
Member
MIgunguy,
I'd say the practicality of daily pocket carry depends a lot on the gun. DAO revolvers are fine if they're 20 oz. or under, but I find that anything heavier becomes a drag after a few days. I also can't carry with all of my pants; some have pockets that are too small, some are too loose and allow the gun to flop around uncomfortably. If you're going to try without a belt, you'll want a really light gun like a S&W 340PD. I highly recommend a pocket holster that at least covers as high as the trigger, for safety.
Printing. Not much of an issue unless I'm carrying my SP101, then it looks like I'm carrying "something" big & heavy in my pocket, but nobody seems to know what.
From what I know, it's legal to pocket carry so long as the pocket holster isn't disguised like a wallet. I could be wrong though. Cops are trained to look for where a guy might be hiding a gun, and I'm sure pockets are a common place. One way to tell is by watching what part of their body a guy holds while running. However, the pocket is the least suspicious yet most convenient place I've carried. You can even hug your relatives without them finding out.
The only issue I've had with pocket carry is using a public bathroom while carrying a heavy steel gun. That, and once my gun stuck halfway out while I was taking off rainpants in front of somebody. It would also be difficult to draw while in a car.
I'd say the practicality of daily pocket carry depends a lot on the gun. DAO revolvers are fine if they're 20 oz. or under, but I find that anything heavier becomes a drag after a few days. I also can't carry with all of my pants; some have pockets that are too small, some are too loose and allow the gun to flop around uncomfortably. If you're going to try without a belt, you'll want a really light gun like a S&W 340PD. I highly recommend a pocket holster that at least covers as high as the trigger, for safety.
Printing. Not much of an issue unless I'm carrying my SP101, then it looks like I'm carrying "something" big & heavy in my pocket, but nobody seems to know what.
From what I know, it's legal to pocket carry so long as the pocket holster isn't disguised like a wallet. I could be wrong though. Cops are trained to look for where a guy might be hiding a gun, and I'm sure pockets are a common place. One way to tell is by watching what part of their body a guy holds while running. However, the pocket is the least suspicious yet most convenient place I've carried. You can even hug your relatives without them finding out.
The only issue I've had with pocket carry is using a public bathroom while carrying a heavy steel gun. That, and once my gun stuck halfway out while I was taking off rainpants in front of somebody. It would also be difficult to draw while in a car.
mgkdrgn
Member
Well, even pocket carry is going to add enough weight to your pants you may well need to wear a belt.
Personally, I carry an NAA Black Widow in 22 Mag in my front pocket all the time.
Personally, I carry an NAA Black Widow in 22 Mag in my front pocket all the time.
Sig 226 .40
Member
P3AT in an Uncle Mike's pocket holster. When ON duty, I tuck it into a Fobus Kydex paddle holster that is then slid into my boot top and the laces are double wrapped over it. Very secure carry. Also easily reached if I ever(hope never) need it. Also a NAA Mini in .22 Mag tucked into the trauma plate pocket on my armor. My "Really for real, oh ****!" last ditch piece.
cmanhome
Member
pocket carry
I too use the DeSantis soft pocket holster, the shape of it keeps the gun upright and I wear hardly anything other than blue jeans. I have no problem
getting the gun out of my pocket as the holster stays in the pocket after with drawing it.
cmanhome
I too use the DeSantis soft pocket holster, the shape of it keeps the gun upright and I wear hardly anything other than blue jeans. I have no problem
getting the gun out of my pocket as the holster stays in the pocket after with drawing it.
cmanhome
B. Adams
Member
I carry an LCP in a leather wallet holster. It works really well, and so far no one has asked me why I have two wallets.
Deanimator
Member
+1 on the Desantis Nemesis.
If I know I'm going to have to disarm frequently like at the Post Office or at a restaurant with a liquor license, I carry my Chief's Special in the Nemesis. I just take holster and all out of my pocket and lock them in the glove box.
And yes, in Ohio, when driving, if you are CARRYING the gun, it must be in a holster. A pocket holster meets this requirement.
If I know I'm going to have to disarm frequently like at the Post Office or at a restaurant with a liquor license, I carry my Chief's Special in the Nemesis. I just take holster and all out of my pocket and lock them in the glove box.
And yes, in Ohio, when driving, if you are CARRYING the gun, it must be in a holster. A pocket holster meets this requirement.
brett30030
Member
I carry my p3at in my back pocket in a guru dave. It fits so nice an easy i keep expecting to find it curved like my boney behind.
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