carrying a J-frame concealed

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Chris17404

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Hi all,

I just applied for my CCW permit and am now researching firearms and carry methods. I am leaning heavily towards a S&W J-frame (640, 642. 649, etc).

Now for the carry method. Looking at the size and shape of my body, I am 6'3" tall, and relatively thin, but I do have a slight gutt. To me, it looks like the perfect place to conceal a J-frame on my body would be to have it IWB on my front right side (I'm right-handed), with the barrel pointing pretty-much at a 45 degree angle downward. LOL, it would be pointing right at the family jewels! I'd like just the butt of the gun to be above my pant line, and I could easily pull a long shirt over it.

What are your thoughts on this method of carry. To me, it seems pretty stealth and having it be in front of me, more controllable?

I also had another idea. Has anyone ever considered wearing an inner belt where the gun/holster was on that? That way, you can even tuck in your shirt and have nothing showing at all? Perhaps some sort or relatively comfortable, stretchy material for the belt? Anyone ever considered this or know of a specific product?

Thanks for your time. I'm new to CCW so don't haze me too hard! :)

Chris
 
I just have a moment, right now, but I use the appendix carry a lot. I carry an all-steel J-frame, using a Barami Hip Grip. I also carry a Kel-Tec P-11 in a Galco Horsehide tuckable holster in the same location (not at the same time! :D ).

I usually wear a v-neck t-shirt underneath for comfort, and an untucked polo or t-shirt to cover the gun. I find this carry fairly comfortable and very secure. Best of all, the Barami Hip Grip is inexpensive. You could also try a simple IWB holster like the Alessi Talon in that position with the J-frame.

If it's supported by a belt, an all-steel J-frame carries very easily. If you get an Airweight (not Scandium or Titanium), you can also carry in a front pocket in a suitable holster. I don't like the Scandium/Titanium J's because the aluminum-framed Airweights are light enough and much easier to shoot.

All for now,
Dirty Bob
 
Chris17404,

I carry my Ruger SP101, IWB (Inside The Waistband) using a Tucker Heritage made for a J Frame Smith & Wesson. I really like the holster and mode of carry.

Tucker2.jpg
 
Took the large laser grips off my 642 and put on some thin wood grips - I just drop it right into my right front pocket, without a holster - fastest concealed draw I can think of...
 
"To me, it looks like the perfect place to conceal a J-frame on my body would be to have it IWB on my front right side (I'm right-handed), with the barrel pointing pretty-much at a 45 degree angle downward. LOL..."
I've tried it there, and while it was very comfortable while standing, I found it to dig into my thigh very unfomfortably while seated. I now carry in the same IWB tuckable behind the hip at around 4:30 or so.

I also have a pocket holster (this is a 342). The light weight versions pocket carry very well.
 
CHRIS,
I use the appendix carry 90% of the time, sometimes with an IWB holster,but MOST of the time I use a simple belly band. The belly band is pretty much what you described in your post and is my favorite method of REAL concealed carry.
The only thing I don't like about it is, it pretty much eliminates most reasons to buy the "latest & greatest" holsters.

Good Luck,
SKIP
 
Pocket carry works well for me with my airweight S&W (642). For my all-steel SP101, I prefer IWB...though 9 times out of 10 I grab the Smith. You might check this recent thread for more ideas on pocket carry -- if that interests you.
 
For my j-frame, I use either pocket carry or strongside OWB. I've tried IWB, but it just doesn't work for me.

Chris
 
To try your proposed method, get the cheapest Uncle Mikes IWB holster to fit your gun.. about $10.00 Put the plastic clip on the waistband of your pants and behind your belt.

That will allow the holster and gun to rotate to the position you mention.. Muzzle toward the jewels. The muzzle wil rotate with your body and legs as you sit and stand..

I'm 6'2" 260# (read that as having Dunlop's disease, ie, belly done lopped over my belt):( and carry a S&W 640 stainless in that position quite often..

It fits right over your appendix and is sheltered and concealed by the overhang :eek:

If you find you like that mode of carry, you can do some looking at more expensive holsters to fit your needs.
 
i carry a light weight J frame in a pocket most times.....but if i go to a gun that is to be put on my belt, it will be more substantial that a 5 shot snubby.
 
I just bought a 642-2 and a Galco horsehide pocket holster.
Its the best carry gun combination ever on hot summer days.
 
I've got a S&W model 60 2" in .357 mag, five shot. I simply put it in my pocket! :) Simple, powerful, lightweight, reliable, and accurate.
 
For my 642 I always pocket carry it in a cheap uncle mike's pocket holster. I have crimson trace grips on mine and they do not add any additional length to the grip. I'm 6-1, 230 lbs and I usually wear Levi 550 relax fit jeans. There is a slight bulge in my front pants pocket, but not enough to attract attention. I tried IWB, but that seems to create a bulge that just screamed "GUN". At least to me that is.

Edited to add: Um, maybe bulge isn't the right word to use. lol
 
I would like to recommend pocket carry, but I use a pocket holster. They are pretty cheap and also break up the outline of the revolver.

They also protect the trigger and keep something from getting in there and working the trigger.

If you want a tuckable, take a look at Matt DelFatti's work! Top notch stuff! I carry a model 60 like this and it is very comfortable and secure!

Tom
 
I carry my 642-2 in a front pocket,no holster
but i stiched the outline of the pistol in the
pocket.That holds it in place quite well.My
other J frame is a 640-1,i use a fobus paddle
holster at 4 o'clock when it gets carried.
 
I just recently got my Kramer front pocket holster, and it works great. I've tried, K&D, Hedley, and the Nemesis. All of them seemed to just have more material than was necessary, and added too much bulk. The Kramer works great.
 
Will someone explain appendix carry to me? Is it the same as cross-draw?
Click to expand...

Only if you're left handed:) Appendix carry is IWB at about the 1:00 position if you are right handed. It's a fast drawing position with the right gun/holster combination. Personally I have not been able to carry any semi-autos like that comfortably but my SP101 with Clipdraw has so far been a perfect match. Using a Barami Grip or Universal Clipdraw on a revolver allows the gun to move when you sit down making it comfortable for sitting/driving. A holster won't do that so it will usually dig into your thigh/body/whatever.
 
Dress around the gun, use a good belt and holster.

This is the basic rule of thumb for any platform for CCW.

Go here : http://www.corneredcat.com/ and read up a bit on CCW and other questions you may have.

Yes, it is a ladies site - One of our Ladies here on THR.

She will point out, as others have and I will again - one must take note of THEIR needs. Meaning - yes dress around the gun - for YOU is this jeans, casual, suits, slacks with sport coats...?

Political temperature , attitudes of your jurisdictions also come into play.

Me? I'm 6' 170# and Prefer IWB at 4:30 -ish . I find this works for ME with full size 1911, K frame 3" RB, and J frames up to 3".

Galco Belly Band is another method I prefer.
 
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