JR24
Member
Congrats, seems like you have a good start here. Finding what you like and what works it's a life long journey for most and a safe full of guns and a bucket/tote/basement full of holsters is pretty common.
For sure get a good belt and don't skimp on holsters, both are key for comfort and support.
Try as much as you can and understand that gun shop feel doesn't always translate to best performance on the range, but it's often pretty close. Confidence is king. Caliber is largely irrelevant if you stick with any of the major service calibers.
For new CCW I'd recommend an autoloader in the roughly compact size, Glock 19, HK VP9, M&P Compact or equivalent. Probably 9mm as it's effective, easier to learn and generally cheaper.
For holsters it's a crap shoot since each body type is different and style and location vary wildly, but be patient. I never find a change in location or holster or gun to be anything other than uncomfortable for a week or two. Folks, I think, give up on a holster/gun combo because it's annoying too early, give your body some time to adjust to new rub/pressure points.
Yes, patterns absolutely help break up the outline, as do dark colors over light. A t-shirt with an open button down over it can conceal just about anything, if your climate can handle a double layer.
Also, I prefer an a-shirt between my holster and my skin, always. A little hotter but far more comfortable with rub spots.
For sure get a good belt and don't skimp on holsters, both are key for comfort and support.
Try as much as you can and understand that gun shop feel doesn't always translate to best performance on the range, but it's often pretty close. Confidence is king. Caliber is largely irrelevant if you stick with any of the major service calibers.
For new CCW I'd recommend an autoloader in the roughly compact size, Glock 19, HK VP9, M&P Compact or equivalent. Probably 9mm as it's effective, easier to learn and generally cheaper.
For holsters it's a crap shoot since each body type is different and style and location vary wildly, but be patient. I never find a change in location or holster or gun to be anything other than uncomfortable for a week or two. Folks, I think, give up on a holster/gun combo because it's annoying too early, give your body some time to adjust to new rub/pressure points.
Is there a reason for wearing a pattern shirt? Does break up the imprint of the pistol or something?
Yes, patterns absolutely help break up the outline, as do dark colors over light. A t-shirt with an open button down over it can conceal just about anything, if your climate can handle a double layer.
Also, I prefer an a-shirt between my holster and my skin, always. A little hotter but far more comfortable with rub spots.