9mme said:
We usually don't let students train from a belly band for the same reason we don't allow the IWB holster...by the end of the 2nd day and certainly by the third, students get tired and muzzle awareness gets sloppy. There are dangers in drawing from a bellyband that are not obvious at first
Better to learn on a OWB holster and then apply the lessons you've learned in less crowded conditions.
...
I use a Blackhawk CQC Serpa paddle when I teach and usually have an Uncle Mikes paddle holster in the bag as a loaner
A big ol' "plus one" to all this ^^^.
I prefer strong-side IWB, but I have (over time) obtained IWB, OWB, and shoulder holsters for all my non-pocket CCWs(1). OWB is the default for classes, but I'll run the IWB if the instructors are OK with it.
Look into your future, if you stick with CCWs for very long:
80/20 rule applies: 20% of my holsters cover 80% of my carry.
I turned my Uncle Mikes plastic fantastic for 1911s from a belt into a paddle for a buddy one day and it has stayed that way ever since. I can't count the number of folks who have put it to use. It is just about perfect for a loaner, since it doesn't require a serious gun belt and has a positive "snick" feedback when it is holstered.
As for the OP, have you considered a quality shoulder holster over a t-shirt, but under a button-down or polo? Another
highly discreet option to go with the belly band. It works well for my Galco Miami Classic II and VHS shoulder rigs. Unless the overshirt is unbuttoned, it will (like the belly band) require a two-hand draw, but has some advantages over the belly band.
Also, this particular undershirt holster gets good reviews:
http://www.undercovercomfort.com/UCCHolsters.html
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V1_ARtIzG8M
http://policelink.monster.com/products/products/3544-undercover-comfort-compression-holster-t-shirt
http://www.defensivecarry.com/vbull...-Comfort-in-Action-(Video-FINALLY)&highlight=
http://www.defensivecarry.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?21388-undershirt-holster&highlight=undershirt
It is a serious compression shirt-type holster. I need to order one and try it out.
I would suggest shooting some IDPA or IPSC to improve gun handling skills. Doesn't really matter which, IMO.
(1) As well as some non-standard holsters like belly bands, Thunderwear or one of its imitators. These are truly niche holsters for me, though, and only come out in the particular circumstances that require such gear.
