Southpaw CCW in an automobile

[ZeSpectre]

I'm having a little trouble finding an automobile CCW method that suits me and since I seem to be up against a mental block I though I'd throw the question out for THR to chew over.

The situation. LEFT handed CCW carry while in an automobile.

I'm really frustrated as I can't seem to find a CCW method that would allow for a reasonable draw once I'm seatbelted in. I don't really want to have a "car holster" because I don't want to keep holstering and re-holstering.

I also considered a "door" or "seatside" holster but worry that a goof with an open door would mean the firearm falling out of the car.

Right now getting a good crossdraw seems to be one of the best ideas.

Any other suggestions (by the way I already shoot right handed just fine before anyone suggests that, I just prefer lefty).

 

[sacp81170a]

I've got exactly the same problem. My solution: a S&W Model 19 in .357 in the console. Handy, I can lock it up, and if 6 shots don't allow me to drive out of the situation, then I shoulda been more aware. I hate having to adjust, change, move stuff around so I can access my primary carry gun. This allows me to have an effective response handy without messing with my gun in public. I shoot about as well right handed as I do left handed, too.

 

[mlandman]

Perhaps the FIST cross-draw/driving holster? They can probably make a lefty model.

 

[Hardtarget]

Yes...port side carry is a big problem. Even if you can access your weapon you can't bring it to bear on the BG if he is even slightly to the rear of your door.

I don't like to leave a gun in the car/truck...so...I thought another of my carry guns would do just right.

Reason...
#1, same caliber.
#2, same mags
#3, I can remove the mag and it disables the gun because it has a disconnect feature. (until the thief gets new mags)

Down side is these things are expensive. You know...guns in general are not cheap. Good luck in this quest!

Mark.

 

[Titan6]

There are always motorcycles.

 

[Sistema1927]

Yes, cross draw, while not perfect, is the best solution for us southpaws. Even though my daily CCW is a pocket holstered Kahr PM9, I resort to a cross draw S&W 19 (2.5") or Glock 26 on road trips and wear a loose cover garment if I want to maintain concealability. The short barrel maintains comfort. I have done this with 4" revolvers and Government Model .45s, but find that they are just a bit too long to work well in this application, YMMV.

At least we are in our right minds.

 

[ZeSpectre]

So any suggestions for a good cross draw for a SIG 229? I have a strong side Don Hume that I love but not sure about what model for the cross draw.

 

[lanternlad1]

I keep mine in the map pocket behind the passenger side seat. As the driver, I can reach it easily if necessary, and it stays out of sight.

 

[Alphazulu6]

I keep mine in the map pocket behind the passenger side seat. As the driver, I can reach it easily if necessary, and it stays out of sight.

Good idea!!!

 

[YammyMonkey]

I carry right on my hip (9:00) instead of slightly behind. I've found this provides the best concealment for the gun (I use a Milt Sparks Watch-6 IWB with a forward cant) & easy access if I pull my shirt out from between the lap belt & my body & drape it over the seatbelt. I do NOT tuck the shirt between the gun & me- tried it a few times & I forget to un-tuck before I get out, could be kinda not so good. I'm about 6'1" & 185lbs & use this with both a Kimber Compact size & Gov't size 1911's so body shape & weapon selection may come into play.

For shooting out the driver's side my draw is as follows:

1- Clear shirt & get firing grip while leaning forward & right & looking left to track target.

2- Start to twist your right shoulder forward- you're trying to sqare with the target once the gun is clear of leather.

3- Progress through the draw. You'll need to take some liberty with your left arm to clear the seatback & will probably point the gun at your left leg at some point if you're not paying attention. There will not be room for a "perfect" draw, improvise & overcome.

4- Lean back (toward the passenger side) to create a stable firing platform while giving yourself space between you & the attacker.

5- If necessary you can use legs to kick out of the window or "assist" the attacker with opening your door &/or into oncoming traffic.

6- To unbuckle the seatbelt lean forward (toward driver's door) & bring gun back toward "count 2" of the drawstroke (gives you more room & helps clear the belt). Use your right hand to release the belt & push it toward the driver's door if necessary (watch your muzzle control & the phalanges).

Sorry I don't have pictures, no place to discreetly do a photo shoot with a car.

This is what I've found works for me, you obviously need to adapt to the situation & your vehicle. It may be better for you to stay more upright & keep the gun at more of a center chest position.

If anyone has a critique or criticism or substitution have at it.

 

[Navy joe]

It is my preference to maintain one on person strongside such as a G17 and one in the center console such as a S&W 325Pd. I also will stick a 642 between the seat and center console. I intend to access the second gun with the right hand.

 

[geekWithA.45]

Southpaw drivers simply have to accept the fact that they're going to have to shoot right handed against an assailant at the driver's window.

The "car friendly" carriage systems are cross draw and shoulder carry.

The problem w/ crossdraw is that it's not optimal OUT of the car, and drawing from the same shoulder than hand is on isn't indicated except in the emergency of not having the opposite hand.

My procedure is based on my 7:30 carry position, and assumes you're stopped in traffic. A variation can be used while driving.

1) Lean forward, clear the shirt/coat/whatever with the left hand
2) Obtain the Grip with the right hand, and clear the holster.
3) Draw a backwards "L": "_|" with the muzzle on the seat. The top of the L is right of your right knee, and the motion is finished with a "rock & lock" as you lean back to the seated position. This keeps the muzzle not pointed at you. At the end of this count, your muzzle is pointed forward, at your dash.
4) Rotate the firing hand towards the driver side window. KEEP YOUR LEFT HAND IN YOUR LAP. If you MUST grip the wheel, grip it at 12:00, after touching your left hand to your navel, and then right elbow. (This keeps your left arm from being swept)