belly band carry for full-sized 9mm?

[migkillertwo]

Hello. I was wondering what you guys think of carrying a full-size 9mm pistol in a belly band holster? I'm talking a Glock 17, Sig P226, Beretta 92, etc. Do you think that such an option is concealable? is it comfortable? What specific type of belly band holster should I look for? I ask because I want some way to carry a gun but in very light clothing (the summers get a bit hot where I live so I might wear just shorts and a T-shirt), and I dont think an IWB holster will work.

 

[J_McLeod]

I've never tried a belly band. My wife has one for her single stack 9mm Taurus PT 709, but she doesn't like it much. Bought an LCP for IWB and never carries the 9mm anymore. I'd get a single stack 9mm, and if you're worried about ammo carry an extra mag. I don't think it would be comfortable or concealable. If you don't want to get another 9mm, you could get bigger shirts.

 

[BADUNAME13]

Don't like Belly bands.

Don;t feel secure, don't like the way they feel.

 

[NWCP]

I don't carry my full size pistols in the summer for that very reason. Belly bands are not very comfortable and not easy to get to in a pinch. I bought a sub compact 9 for summer carry. The Kahr PM9 is easily concealed in light clothing with a decent IWB, or, depending upon your pants, you can carry it in your front pocket providing you have the proper holster.

 

[LightningMan]

I do use a belly band, when the weather is cooler so I can wear a T-shirt under my regular button down long sleeved shirts, this makes it more confortable to wear. I carry a PM9 which is pretty light & small compared to a full size pistol, like a Sig 226. I for one would not want to carry a full size pistol in a belly band, as I don't think it would be confortable and wouldn't hide very well, but this is my opinion. LM

 

[thunder173]

I could use a belly band,..but I don't think I'd want to carry a gun in it with my gut in it as well.......

 

[red rick]

I hate a belly band holster. Very uncomfortable and if you put it against your skin you will sweat underneath it.

 

[mfcmb]

I haven't found a belly band that conceals for me. The butt of the gun always prints badly, and sometimes the band itself prints. I typically wear cotton polo shirts or T-shirts.

 

[The Lone Haranguer]

Contrary to the name, they really should (IMO) be worn around the upper chest rather than actually around your stomach area. Since a tight friction fit is all that holds most of them up (some have an over-the-shoulder strap), I've got to think the weight of a full size pistol would want to drag them down all the time. Having to fidget to adjust the thing is just as much a giveaway that you're carrying as any "printing."

 

[LightningMan]

I have to say, that every(body) is different in shape & size. I believe the reason a belly band works for me is that my chest & shoulders are wider in contrast to my waist, so my shirt hangs out a little ways from my sides & tummy to help prevent printing. You have to find what works for you. LM

 

[Old Fuff]

The trick with a heavy gun in a belly band is to attach a pair of suspenders to it. Pick a light color that won't show through the covering garment. If possible wear a lightweigh shirt between the band and your skin. I don't remember who, but someone makes white bands that are more ideal under the same color shirt, and they do keep the gun close to the body and help prevent printing.

Also a pistol with a single column magazine would be a better choice.

 

[HuntAndFish]

It's also very important to wear the band on your hips where it was meant to be worn. I see lots of folks trying to wear it around their belly. That's just not going to work. Keep the gun down around your waist.
Personally, I think a belly band is very good for up to a medium sized gun. A Beretta 92 might be pushing the envelope though.