Anyone use a "belly band" for their CCW?

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inSight-NEO

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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.
 
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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.
 
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.
 
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.
 
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.
 
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).
 
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)
 
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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.
 
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.
 
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.
 
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.
 
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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.
 
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
 
Sir Aardvark said:
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.
Click to expand...

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.
 
inSight-NEO said:
...
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.
Click to expand...

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
 
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.
 
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
 
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.
 
inSight-NEO said:
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.
Click to expand...
The SmartCarry is a quality product.
Good choice.
 
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.
 
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