I've been carrying "duty" sized handguns for at least 12 years. Never been spotted, to my knowledge. Typical off duty dress for me is an untucked button up and jeans with an IWB holster. It really is a "clothing lifestyle". Pants and shirt are one size bigger than necessary. Bottom line is a good belt and holster. That oversized, untucked shirt can hide a lot on your waist.
I've never cared for IWB. Since I retired, I sometimes still duty carry strong side but mostly carry with cross draw. I carry a canted H&K VP9 and it works very well. It's a much easier draw while standing or driving in my truck. But like you said, what works for some may not work for all. Thanks for the video.
Love your humor! :)) Thank you for this video, the effort put into making it and sharing what worked for you over the years -- especially the part for warmer climate places! Added to Favorites!
Excellent Video as always. Been largely using a Shoulder Rig for quite some time, but this gave me some other alternate ideas for when I wear different clothes. GREAT Hawaiian shirt!!! Another concept you might explore is a Belly Band Holster.
Very well said! I wear a suit to work w/an issued/duty sized firearm & holster. No way getting around those requirements, but with the right belt & a skilled tailor it's very doable.
Good miring, HR, and thank you for this excellent video. I most often carry full size sidearms (four inch barrel, at a minimum) and I have been doing so for MNAY years. Therefore, I’d like to offer two comments to your viewers: 1. The BELT is a critical element of the “carry system,” especially for all steel, full sized sidearms. It frequently may support (for example) a five-inch 1911-A1, three fully loaded eight round .45 ACP magazines (one in the firearm), the holster and a double mag pouch, . That’s a good deal of weight and, therefore, the belt become critical for comfort, concealment and assured, fast presentation. One DEFINITELY requires a top quality, very strong and stiff belt (imho). My usual choice is an Akers, with a solid Kevlar inset between the two substantial leather sides; this is a little bit lighter, more comfortable, and less expensive than the extra thick, frequently custom-made, leather-only belts, but it is every bit as effective, solid and strong. 2. You didn’t mention large revolver concealed carry. During the colder months, I often carry a five-inch barrel, S&W N Frame, Model 27 or 627, chambered in .357 magnum. It certainly is a “full size” sidearm, but it is also superbly accurate, durable, and reliable . . . and I’m entirely comfortable with six rounds for almost all my defensive scenarios. Additionally, I favor somewhat heavy (158 grain, usually) .357 magnum loads for penetration, when felons may be wearing several layers of heavy clothing. I strongly recommend the Bianchi model 111 Cyclone series leather holsters. They’re very well made and they carry the weapon quite a bit higher than normal (due to the placement of the belt loop). This allows me to cross-draw carry a big revolver semi-tucked under my left arm, where it’s essentially invisible and very easy to draw rapidly. Okay, fwiw those are my observations.
Thanks Roy! Just FYI, that's a 111 Cyclone that I was using in my opening when I drew my Model 29. I like the fact that it can be worn as either a strong side or cross-draw holster.
Excellent video, thank you. 15 years retired LEO with the local sheriff's department after 30 years of service and still carrying a full size hand gun. Cross draw with a Hawaiian shirt is the preferred method of carry here in SoCal.
@@hrfunk Mousing in his neighborhood is hunting dangerous game! Geoff Who notes in his neighborhood, if the birds don't get the mice, the snakes will, the local cats graze on lizards.
Minus a scope, me daily carry actually is an 8 inch (well, 7.5 really) 1875 Remington clone in .45 colt, chewing 255 gr chunks of meteorite in full house loads of 40 gr. Holy Black. A stout boom to be certain, but one I trust should handle most needs of mine out in the country. ^.-.^
Another great video HR. I would love to see a video on leather holsters that you have had good service from. I am currently in the market for a leather holster, so this would be very helpful. All the best and keep up the good work!
Talk to Tom at 2A Holsters about a Pro-S concealment High ride OWB holster for fully concealing duty sized pistols. I’ve used it for USP40 full size and 5” M&P CORE etc and it hides real well. Great for vest or suit coat as well as it doesn’t poke down below belt very much. Recommend blue loctite on screws after you select your ride height however.
Great points throughout the entire video and Amen at 5:56 ! I picked up a Ruger BlackHawk in 357 mag and carry it cross draw as you suggest at 6:30 . I was surprised how comfortable it was in that position for everyday work chores ! Keep up the great work !
I am very confident carrying my K-frame 357mag with 4” barrel. I wear OWB at 5:00, and wear an open “over-shirt” that covers it just fine. I really don’t care if someone sees it, but except when the wind blows it open, it works just fine.
Another point that I have from personal experience is: light sport coat. A light sport coat will allow you to carry OWB or even shoulder holster in warmer climates or in spring/summer. There are sportcoats or suits you can buy (and certain sportcoats can be worn casually w/o tie or even dress pants) that are not so thick and suited for warmer environments. To many modern people, this sounds ridiculous, but stop and think: our grandfathers or even fathers ( the former often before they even had a/c) wore suits to work and church every single solitary day all year whether they lived in the North, South, East or West. Your body will acclimate to it and it won’t be uncomfortable in the least. And it looks very adult and professional which presents yourself well. I have been carrying service size revolvers and semi autos for 16 years like this...and I live in hot and humid Texas and Louisiana
In Florida a jacket means you are either carrying, a politician or a funeral director. Geoff Who notes winter has been declared so women can change styles.
I noted in another comment below that a nice thing about choosing a cover garment is that you can usually find one that matches the style of clothing you prefer.
I often carried a full size 1911 Colt 45 off duty. These models may qualify as “big,” but since they are single stack, they conformed more thoroughly to my contour when carried in a pancake holster at the 4 o’clock position. This worked especially well when on a motorcycle. Cold weather opens up just about every other carry option. BTW, I never understood the horizontal shoulder rig. Seems like only someone with rather substantial “girth” could conceal a full size gun in that mode of dress.
I carried a Beretta 92 for years back in my younger days daily. I always preferred shoulder rigs, as I spent a lot of time in vehicles, and the fact I was well over 6', and only wore a 29" waist jean(lean, not skinny for the rubes!) I just always found them more comfortable than hip carry because they spread the weight over the whole upper body, instead of all the weight on a single point on the belt. But that was also when Safariland came out with the paddle holsters. Which was a very comfortable option for hip carry, as it spread the weight points also. But I digress, my point of the comment was in reference to the "Hawaiian" shirts(mine were pastel, so not "gaudy", hence plain short sleeve button up summer shirts), which cover a shoulder rig perfectly for skinny(I mean lean)folks. Always just wore them open, like your vest, and never had a problem.
Very nicely done Mr. hrfunk. Covered about all the bases I can think of including the why questions. I carry my full size 1911 in a Galco IWB even in the summer with shorts and untucked shirt. If the firearm is a bit heavy and for some of us with a few extra pounds you can even wear suspenders under your shirt in the summer. Be safe and healthy out there sir.
Great video. Back in my Dark Ages I learned to carry my full-size hardware under silk Hawaiian shirts Shin-Bet style. Right-dominant shooter. No holster, just shoved the hardware up front and to the left side. Spare mags on the left ankle. Cable imbedded Zip-ties inside the pant back left pocket. A second larger one to go over the head and around the neck if needed was also carried under the ones used for the wrists. Knife in a left front divided pants pocket. A piece of treated cloth flap was tack-sewn on the inside of the shirt to separate the skin contact with the pistol preventing rust on the hardware. Most of the time women and kids carried the bad-guy's hardware. The Wild, Wild Middle-East!
Love my Galco shoulder holster and I do have other types of different materials , my other choice is the Galco side snap scabbard type I enjoy the mid week updates keep them coming
I'm 46 years old, and daily carry a 5" 1911 in either .45ACP or 10mm (depending on what season it is, higher penetration in winter) along with two additional magazines. I use a belly band holster, low at my 2 o'clock position just ahead of my right hip and it works beautifully. Overall comfortable all day, easily accessible, and can be covered by something as simple as a loose T-shirt. I'd do an outside the waistband but I feel wearing a vest screams 'I have a gun!" I also agree with the "why do you carry a large handgun" part of your video where it's about what you shoot best. I've tried smaller guns, including small 1911's, M&P Shields, XD-S, etc. I, being a bigger guy, don't get a comfortable grip on a gun I can only wrap two fingers around (such as the XD-S) and thus the recoil makes the gun move around quite a bit. Add to it I've been shooting 1911's since my grandfather taught me when I was 8, it's just the gun I know I can always hit the target with.
Been carrying my Walther pdp 4.5" full size for about 6 months now. Most comfortable seems to be a high 2:30 when driving and slide to 3 while upright.
Love your editing and your speech. I learned how to shoot with the berrata 92 in the marines, don't care for guns much more because of my environment now but always keep some around.
Awesome video thank you! Personally my reasons for wanting to carry a larger gun are a lot of the reasons you listed off. I can't afford 2 guns right now and yes I have big hands and a large frame even if I'm skinny so I appreciate a larger grip and of course the larger sight picture. Not that I haven't shot small pistols that I also liked either but there's a lot of reasons of why I bought what I bought and we don't need to get into all that right now lol
I carry a 1911 commander size .45 ACP in a high ride, strong side OTWB leather belt holster. My main concealment garments are blue jeans with a tucked polo shirt underneath a tweed, or similar pattern, sport coat. This outfit conceals well and is suitable for casual dress on the job, play or street. Sometimes I switch out for my 9mm P229.
Two of my EDCs are a GI sized 1911 and a Colt Python. Open or concealed, I carry OWB 3 o'clock or shoulder. Though lately I have been considering adding waist crossdraw.
The thing I like about your comment is that you prefer full size firearms and you’ve come up with ways to carry them. I hope you never have to use them in defense. Take care.
My career started in ‘68 and my off-duty was a Colt snub, then a slightly slimmer/lighter J Frame, then alloy frame guns. Over time as I’ve gotten older & lumpier the EDC got smaller & lighter. Today @ 74 years old it’s either a 340PD or LCP in a pocket holster.
I carry a Springfield Xdm 4.5 inch in 10mm in a strong side(right hand draw), IWB holster with a Nex belt. It’s not the most comfortable, but easily concealable with the right clothing. Even with jeans/T-shirt. Also, the majority of people I know personally, who prefer micro compact firearms, cannot not shoot them to a standard I would feel comfortable with in a self defense situation. Of course practice can remedy this, and I do train with my small frame pistols with the expectation that consistently hitting the target under stress is inversely related to barrel length and overall weight/ size of your firearm. I opt for a full size pistol in an inside waist band configuration on most days. The comfort of knowing I can perform under stress with greater accuracy and firepower is more than enough to counter the slight discomfort on my hip.
i like to carry mine butt forward with the slide between my belt and jean with the business end in the watch pocket. it nice for sitting comfort and hides well and i can get it easy. recently I've been carrying a more compact 45 but it's still a big gun 3 finger grip, maybe an inch shorter than a 1911. holster make everything bulge out too much. when i was younger and thinner holsters weren't a problem lol.
I used to carry a full size 45 in my business. I purchased my pants 2 inches larger than my normal size. I owre a heavy wide thick leather belt and used a solid holster like a galco royal guardsman or milt sparks. The king tuck holsters were not out yet. I left my business in 2007.
Im 6' 185. I iwb a fullsize 1811 every day in an alien gear cloak tuck. I tried shoulder holsters and everything else because i thought there was no possible way for my skinny but to conceal it. I put on my alien gear for my makarov and the 1911 fit pretty good. Gave it atryfor a day, ordered thenew holster before the day was up.
I'm working on carrying blackhawk colt 45 with 7.5 in bbl. I wear it owb holster on my belt wearing overalls over top of shorts. All I need next is my straw hat and corn Cobb pipe...lol
Great video! I'm an IWB guy. I've advised that the pants should be about two sizes larger in the waste to allow comfort when sitting as well to allow for the midsection spread. I prefer the 3 o'clock position with a Crossbreed style of IWB holster with a comfort pad to distribute the gun's weight.
Here in Florida (winter what's that) I use a concealment vest all the time even in our HOT AND HUMID summers and allows me to pack anything from .380 pistols to 10mm autos as an example or revolvers .38 Special to .44 Magnum as an example. I favor the IWB carry, in pistols and revolvers. The oversized shirt works well too, but I've not had issues myself with the vest, shirt must be kept fully buttoned too, else it will blow open in the wind. Outstanding submission as usual excellent advice. The cross draw and shoulder rig are great for car use, I've used these both on ROBBERY stakes outs as they are easier to access seated. Dont laugh but recently found some old floppy leather IWB holster I had putting my 4 in .500 X frame in it, carried this monster under my vest in an IWB holster mentioned and it concealed. Not practical but not that uncomfortable, good concealment belt is a must no matter the gun.
Yes, sir. People who say that you don't need a size or two bigger for appendix carry. Yes you do. I found that going up two sizes bigger with a kore tac 1.5 inch belt and ether a tier 1 or bravo concealment holster and NeoMag Alias receiver and holter clip with a wedge. 👌. Very comfortable with this setup. Most people just don't put enough time into that position setuping up their gear.
I've just started watching. I've seen that vest you're wearing referred to as "shoot me first" vests. I personally like an untucked t-shirt or fishing shirt and the like. A tucked shirt does look better I agree but for me anyway, the untucked shirt does a good job of concealing my IWB carry piece and I blend in with most of the population. For a big gun, I find the 1911 conceals the best. I carry a compact 9mm (G3C) strong side in an IWB holster. As always, I enjoy your vids and have been subscribed for a long time now. Thanks! ETA: Ha - I live in a warm climate as you say towards the end... but you obviously favor the vest... so I'm leaving my earlier comment up.
I love to carry my Walther PPQ (.45acp) but sometimes I just don't feel like going through the motions so I just purchased a nickel plated S&W .38 Chief Special w/3" barrel, it's something I can toss in my back pocket and out the door I go.
Spot on H.R. My carry pistols are typically either a Glock 30S or a Glock 21, and depending on what I'm doing, I carry either O.W.B. with a True Spec vest or a High Noon Under Taker horse hide shoulder holster. And of course 2 spare magazines, a Leatherman Surge multitool, 2 tourniquets, and a flashlight if none are on the handgun as my EDC. That may seem a bit much to some, but I protect people for a living!
My experience has been in carrying my 2-1911 model pistols. Always best to carry in all leather holsters especially stainless steel pistols. Kyodex holsters will scratch stainless steel barrels on a 1911. I only carry my full size 1911 pistols in the winter time. My current two choices for EDC are the S&W M&P Shield.45 3” barrel or my Taurus 605 .357 magnum 2” barrel snub nose with an extra speed loader. Great video. I will subscribe!!! Keep making these good videos!!🇱🇷🇱🇷
Who’s the guy in the 2016 video???? You’re looking great, Chief! I’m 6’2”, and can carry my N frame Smith and Wesson Model 627 in a high ride pancake holster, even in my Miata(!!). I have a dresser drawer full of all different types of holsters, and have found they’re not all creat equal. Thanks for Sharing, Chief! 👍👍👍👍🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
@@hrfunk Slowly! :D I used to have an MG Midget, and that was a tight fit. My Miata is a 2010, and they have much more leg/headroom than the previous generations, but you do have to slide in. The biggest problem with large pistol waistband carry, is the seat bolsters. I have 3 Galco Miami Classic rigs, but would like to find a vertical pistol component.
@@frankbutta9344 Oddly, I seem to run across those rather frequently in the dusty boxes on the side of the tables at gun shows. Some of them are in pretty good shape too.
When I viewed the 2016 video, it was followed by the "How I lost 65 lbs." video. Geoff Whose Doctor would be happy if I lost 50 lbs, working on it, counting carbs but the Beer Virus keeps me out of the gym and a groin pull keeps me off the stationary bike. Curse you 2020!!!
I've started using an elastic belly band. They're relatively inexpensive andyou don't need a belt so it works with sweat pants or shorts. If it's really hot, they can be a little uncomfortable, but still tolerable.
Like a lot of people that carry I've ended up with a large box of holsters that just didn't work out for me. Knowing I'm not the only one with this issue I'm trying to start the holster exchange club were we can sell, swap, or just give away our unused holsters to folks that might be able to use them.
I am considering going with a S&W mod. 10 that has a 2" barrel. The full sized grip means that I can shoot it better then the Mod. 638 I currently carry. I guess that with the shorter barrel it's not quite full sized. Kind of a mid-sized compromise. One upside is a 20% increase in capacity! lol I need to get another holster though.
Thanks for the insight. From the video I think my best bet is a shoulder holster for a 4" revolver. I wear suspenders most days so the transition would be simple. I moved across WV a month ago and worked in ohio today, Marietta , beautiful country out this way
@@paulhaines4818 I've been through that area many times going up and down I-77. Some day I'm going to get around to stopping by that gun shop way up on the hill!
@@hrfunk One of these days HR, when you are not busy and driving through. “ Think” about giving me a shout and meet at the Williamtown Welcome Center I would love to just meet you would be a Honor. But I’m sure you are very busy .......
For me an OWB paddle holster works best. Comfortable and easy to put on and off. 4 to 4.5 inch barrels are the best compromise for medium to full size pistols especially when seated in a vehicle.
Love the videos, nobody does it like you. Have you done one on drawing your gun out of the holster (shoulder especially) and not shooting yourself in the bicep or foot. You're the guy to show us.
I AIWB an M9A1 in a JM custom kydex. Super comfortable. I’ve no use for small pistols. The right holster allows one to carry a full size pistol which is far superior than something small.
I carry either a beretta nano 9mm with a Galloway precision +1 mag extension, or a M&p40 4.25”. I carry both of them in crossbreed hybrid iwb holsters. I find this method comfortable and effective. I’m 6’2” 185lbs. This method may be uncomfortable for overweight people, but if you are lean it works great! I would have no problem concealing a Beretta 92 this way.
Some states require handgun registration and the process is usually quite onerous. Making multiple handguns for carry not a practical option. Thanks for another good vid HR.
Funk I carry IWB and never consider cross draw because I thought I needed another type holster. Now mine arm Milt Sparks which I love and one for each firearm is OK,Two is another thing. When I watched your video I felt maybe I my permit should be revoke as I did not have the ability to realise I could move it over. Anyway thanks and it feels odd at the moment but I wear it and see. Just glad I don't have to buy another holster which takes 6months to get.
Here's a link to my previous video that covers CCW methods for more concealable handguns: ruclips.net/video/6v3oYIo0jNs/видео.html
I have always preferred the full size for many reasons but I was earlier used to a revolver so this video was very helpful for many reasons
I've been carrying "duty" sized handguns for at least 12 years. Never been spotted, to my knowledge. Typical off duty dress for me is an untucked button up and jeans with an IWB holster. It really is a "clothing lifestyle". Pants and shirt are one size bigger than necessary. Bottom line is a good belt and holster. That oversized, untucked shirt can hide a lot on your waist.
Another great job!! In my 35 year LEO career when I needed a gun I always wanted a big one.
Ha, ha! Go big or go home! Thanks for watching Ron.
I have never seen a person who was more of a version of a high school text book in my entire life
I've never cared for IWB. Since I retired, I sometimes still duty carry strong side but mostly carry with cross draw. I carry a canted H&K VP9 and it works very well. It's a much easier draw while standing or driving in my truck. But like you said, what works for some may not work for all. Thanks for the video.
Standing by for this one should be, as always, highly interesting.
Love your humor! :)) Thank you for this video, the effort put into making it and sharing what worked for you over the years -- especially the part for warmer climate places! Added to Favorites!
You’re welcome. I’m glad you liked it!
Good to still see the Folger's can in the background! I look for it in every video!
Ha! It’s my bench-top trash can.
Excellent Video as always. Been largely using a Shoulder Rig for quite some time, but this gave me some other alternate ideas for when I wear different clothes.
GREAT Hawaiian shirt!!! Another concept you might explore is a Belly Band Holster.
Great vid, dude. Lots of info, thanx.
Very well said! I wear a suit to work w/an issued/duty sized firearm & holster. No way getting around those requirements, but with the right belt & a skilled tailor it's very doable.
Yep. It is definitely doable!
Good miring, HR, and thank you for this excellent video. I most often carry full size sidearms (four inch barrel, at a minimum) and I have been doing so for MNAY years. Therefore, I’d like to offer two comments to your viewers:
1. The BELT is a critical element of the “carry system,” especially for all steel, full sized sidearms. It frequently may support (for example) a five-inch 1911-A1, three fully loaded eight round .45 ACP magazines (one in the firearm), the holster and a double mag pouch, . That’s a good deal of weight and, therefore, the belt become critical for comfort, concealment and assured, fast presentation. One DEFINITELY requires a top quality, very strong and stiff belt (imho). My usual choice is an Akers, with a solid Kevlar inset between the two substantial leather sides; this is a little bit lighter, more comfortable, and less expensive than the extra thick, frequently custom-made, leather-only belts, but it is every bit as effective, solid and strong.
2. You didn’t mention large revolver concealed carry. During the colder months, I often carry a five-inch barrel, S&W N Frame, Model 27 or 627, chambered in .357 magnum. It certainly is a “full size” sidearm, but it is also superbly accurate, durable, and reliable . . . and I’m entirely comfortable with six rounds for almost all my defensive scenarios. Additionally, I favor somewhat heavy (158 grain, usually) .357 magnum loads for penetration, when felons may be wearing several layers of heavy clothing. I strongly recommend the Bianchi model 111 Cyclone series leather holsters. They’re very well made and they carry the weapon quite a bit higher than normal (due to the placement of the belt loop). This allows me to cross-draw carry a big revolver semi-tucked under my left arm, where it’s essentially invisible and very easy to draw rapidly.
Okay, fwiw those are my observations.
Thanks Roy! Just FYI, that's a 111 Cyclone that I was using in my opening when I drew my Model 29. I like the fact that it can be worn as either a strong side or cross-draw holster.
@@hrfunk
HR, thanks for letting me know and - somehow - I am not too terribly surprised.
"Thank you for the great video keep making them, I have learned a lot!!!
God bless you sir!!
Thanks for watching!
Excellent video, thank you. 15 years retired LEO with the local sheriff's department after 30 years of service and still carrying a full size hand gun. Cross draw with a Hawaiian shirt is the preferred method of carry here in SoCal.
So I'm not the only person who uses the Hawaiian shirt! Thanks for the comment Steve!
You look like the main antagonist in Small Soldiers
Ha, ha! I get that pretty frequently.
Hahaha...I like that thumbnail HR! I have an 8" Ruger Super Redhawk (scoped) that I'm having a hard time concealing. 😁
Ha! ‘tis but a pocket gun.
@@hrfunk Awesome Monte Python reference.
Obviously needs a rail, light and laser. Geoff Who has a Ruger Superblackhawk SA.
@@hrfunk Mousing in his neighborhood is hunting dangerous game! Geoff Who notes in his neighborhood, if the birds don't get the mice, the snakes will, the local cats graze on lizards.
Minus a scope, me daily carry actually is an 8 inch (well, 7.5 really) 1875 Remington clone in .45 colt, chewing 255 gr chunks of meteorite in full house loads of 40 gr. Holy Black. A stout boom to be certain, but one I trust should handle most needs of mine out in the country. ^.-.^
Another great video HR. I would love to see a video on leather holsters that you have had good service from. I am currently in the market for a leather holster, so this would be very helpful. All the best and keep up the good work!
Thanks Gerry. You might just see something like that in a future midweek update. Stay tuned!
I prefer large duty guns for all purposes, including CCW.
Talk to Tom at 2A Holsters about a Pro-S concealment High ride OWB holster for fully concealing duty sized pistols. I’ve used it for USP40 full size and 5” M&P CORE etc and it hides real well. Great for vest or suit coat as well as it doesn’t poke down below belt very much. Recommend blue loctite on screws after you select your ride height however.
Hr Funk =Legend , love these vids , well presented, well thought out , no bravado ,no false swagger , great video
Thank you Shane!
Great points throughout the entire video and Amen at 5:56 ! I picked up a Ruger BlackHawk in 357 mag and carry it cross draw as you suggest at 6:30 . I was surprised how comfortable it was in that position for everyday work chores !
Keep up the great work !
Thanks.will do!
I am very confident carrying my K-frame 357mag with 4” barrel. I wear OWB at 5:00, and wear an open “over-shirt” that covers it just fine. I really don’t care if someone sees it, but except when the wind blows it open, it works just fine.
That's another nice thing about a cover garment. You can normally find something that matches your usually style of dress.
Another point that I have from personal experience is: light sport coat. A light sport coat will allow you to carry OWB or even shoulder holster in warmer climates or in spring/summer. There are sportcoats or suits you can buy (and certain sportcoats can be worn casually w/o tie or even dress pants) that are not so thick and suited for warmer environments.
To many modern people, this sounds ridiculous, but stop and think: our grandfathers or even fathers ( the former often before they even had a/c) wore suits to work and church every single solitary day all year whether they lived in the North, South, East or West.
Your body will acclimate to it and it won’t be uncomfortable in the least. And it looks very adult and professional which presents yourself well.
I have been carrying service size revolvers and semi autos for 16 years like this...and I live in hot and humid Texas and Louisiana
In Florida a jacket means you are either carrying, a politician or a funeral director. Geoff Who notes winter has been declared so women can change styles.
I noted in another comment below that a nice thing about choosing a cover garment is that you can usually find one that matches the style of clothing you prefer.
Duluth Trading Co. makes a contractors sport jacket that goes with pretty much anything and boasts something like 15 pockets.
I often carried a full size 1911 Colt 45 off duty. These models may qualify as “big,” but since they are single stack, they conformed more thoroughly to my contour when carried in a pancake holster at the 4 o’clock position. This worked especially well when on a motorcycle.
Cold weather opens up just about every other carry option. BTW, I never understood the horizontal shoulder rig. Seems like only someone with rather substantial “girth” could conceal a full size gun in that mode of dress.
0:46: Pulls out a Full-Size Revolver like Houdini! 😂
I carried a Beretta 92 for years back in my younger days daily. I always preferred shoulder rigs, as I spent a lot of time in vehicles, and the fact I was well over 6', and only wore a 29" waist jean(lean, not skinny for the rubes!) I just always found them more comfortable than hip carry because they spread the weight over the whole upper body, instead of all the weight on a single point on the belt. But that was also when Safariland came out with the paddle holsters. Which was a very comfortable option for hip carry, as it spread the weight points also. But I digress, my point of the comment was in reference to the "Hawaiian" shirts(mine were pastel, so not "gaudy", hence plain short sleeve button up summer shirts), which cover a shoulder rig perfectly for skinny(I mean lean)folks. Always just wore them open, like your vest, and never had a problem.
Sounds like it worked very well for you. Semper Fi!
Good information. I do like a cross-draw carry for the very reasons you mentioned.
Very nicely done Mr. hrfunk. Covered about all the bases I can think of including the why questions. I carry my full size 1911 in a Galco IWB even in the summer with shorts and untucked shirt. If the firearm is a bit heavy and for some of us with a few extra pounds you can even wear suspenders under your shirt in the summer. Be safe and healthy out there sir.
Thank you!
This is a wonderful video. Such solid info and no BSing around.
Thanks Mark!
Great video. Back in my Dark Ages I learned to carry my full-size hardware under silk Hawaiian shirts Shin-Bet style. Right-dominant shooter. No holster, just shoved the hardware up front and to the left side. Spare mags on the left ankle. Cable imbedded Zip-ties inside the pant back left pocket. A second larger one to go over the head and around the neck if needed was also carried under the ones used for the wrists. Knife in a left front divided pants pocket. A piece of treated cloth flap was tack-sewn on the inside of the shirt to separate the skin contact with the pistol preventing rust on the hardware. Most of the time women and kids carried the bad-guy's hardware. The Wild, Wild Middle-East!
Sounds like you had a good carry plan. Thanks for the comment!
This should be a required viewing. I don't know where this video was when I was carrying my full-sized M&P!
Great Video! Really enjoyed this! This has given me more insight thank you!!
You’re welcome!
Love my Galco shoulder holster and I do have other types of different materials , my other choice is the Galco side snap scabbard type I enjoy the mid week updates keep them coming
I think Galco makes some great holsters. The MWU's are now pretty well established, I think they're here to stay!
Always great advice and well done videos! 🙌🙌🙌
Thanks Scott!
This was super informative. Thank you.
First vid, enjoyed it!
I appendix carry, a Roland special- in a tank top. 🤷🏼♂️
Ha, ha! Good job!
I'm 46 years old, and daily carry a 5" 1911 in either .45ACP or 10mm (depending on what season it is, higher penetration in winter) along with two additional magazines. I use a belly band holster, low at my 2 o'clock position just ahead of my right hip and it works beautifully. Overall comfortable all day, easily accessible, and can be covered by something as simple as a loose T-shirt. I'd do an outside the waistband but I feel wearing a vest screams 'I have a gun!" I also agree with the "why do you carry a large handgun" part of your video where it's about what you shoot best. I've tried smaller guns, including small 1911's, M&P Shields, XD-S, etc. I, being a bigger guy, don't get a comfortable grip on a gun I can only wrap two fingers around (such as the XD-S) and thus the recoil makes the gun move around quite a bit. Add to it I've been shooting 1911's since my grandfather taught me when I was 8, it's just the gun I know I can always hit the target with.
I'm glad you found a good way to carry it. Thanks for watching!
read you mindMy
Real men use 1911s not 9mm sissy foreign guns.
@@1945tigers You use one of those sissy autopistols? What, are you some kind of peter-puffer? REAL men carry revolvers 😁
@@ajm2872 REAL men carry caplock pistols
As someone who carries a Glock 41, this definitely came in handy. Thank you!
Been carrying my Walther pdp 4.5" full size for about 6 months now. Most comfortable seems to be a high 2:30 when driving and slide to 3 while upright.
Love your editing and your speech. I learned how to shoot with the berrata 92 in the marines, don't care for guns much more because of my environment now but always keep some around.
Thank you and Semper Fi!
I like all of your rigs! Also Love the badass Hawaiian/Marine shirt.
Thanks! I like it too!
Awesome video thank you! Personally my reasons for wanting to carry a larger gun are a lot of the reasons you listed off. I can't afford 2 guns right now and yes I have big hands and a large frame even if I'm skinny so I appreciate a larger grip and of course the larger sight picture. Not that I haven't shot small pistols that I also liked either but there's a lot of reasons of why I bought what I bought and we don't need to get into all that right now lol
Ha, ha! I hope the video was helpful.
I carry a 1911 commander size .45 ACP in a high ride, strong side OTWB leather belt holster. My main concealment garments are blue jeans with a tucked polo shirt underneath a tweed, or similar pattern, sport coat. This outfit conceals well and is suitable for casual dress on the job, play or street. Sometimes I switch out for my 9mm P229.
Actually, best vid I've seen on holsters. Good job!
Thank you!
Thank you for another great video 👍 May try out some of those options on my Clunky P90 Ruger
Let me know what works best.
I remember those. Good weapon. Overbuilt 👍🏻
Wow I'm 2 years late for this video but it's still very helpful, as I just got my CPL last week. Thanks for sharing, good stuff!
You’re welcome. Thanks for watching!
Great video, I’ve been following you for a while and you have excellent videos, I just can’t understand why you don’t have more subscribers
Thank you! I’m grateful for the ones I DO have. Merry Christmas!
Two of my EDCs are a GI sized 1911 and a Colt Python. Open or concealed, I carry OWB 3 o'clock or shoulder. Though lately I have been considering adding waist crossdraw.
The thing I like about your comment is that you prefer full size firearms and you’ve come up with ways to carry them. I hope you never have to use them in defense. Take care.
Even though I carry a Ruger lcr in my pocket, I watched your entire video. Excellent presentation. I learned a lot today. Thank you.
You’re welcome, thanks for watching
My career started in ‘68 and my off-duty was a Colt snub, then a slightly slimmer/lighter J Frame, then alloy frame guns. Over time as I’ve gotten older & lumpier the EDC got smaller & lighter. Today @ 74 years old it’s either a 340PD or LCP in a pocket holster.
Those are two good options!
Nice editing. Glad I made it to the live version for a change.
I'm glad you made it too. I wish I had been there!
@@hrfunk
:D
I carry a Springfield Xdm 4.5 inch in 10mm in a strong side(right hand draw), IWB holster with a Nex belt. It’s not the most comfortable, but easily concealable with the right clothing. Even with jeans/T-shirt.
Also, the majority of people I know personally, who prefer micro compact firearms, cannot not shoot them to a standard I would feel comfortable with in a self defense situation. Of course practice can remedy this, and I do train with my small frame pistols with the expectation that consistently hitting the target under stress is inversely related to barrel length and overall weight/ size of your firearm.
I opt for a full size pistol in an inside waist band configuration on most days. The comfort of knowing I can perform under stress with greater accuracy and firepower is more than enough to counter the slight discomfort on my hip.
Very well spoken video, nice to see a clean, clearly spoken, informative presentation.
Thank you!
i like to carry mine butt forward with the slide between my belt and jean with the business end in the watch pocket. it nice for sitting comfort and hides well and i can get it easy. recently I've been carrying a more compact 45 but it's still a big gun 3 finger grip, maybe an inch shorter than a 1911. holster make everything bulge out too much. when i was younger and thinner holsters weren't a problem lol.
Just wanted to say, with that shirt, anyway you want to!
I used to carry a full size 45 in my business. I purchased my pants 2 inches larger than my normal size. I owre a heavy wide thick leather belt and used a solid holster like a galco royal guardsman or milt sparks. The king tuck holsters were not out yet. I left my business in 2007.
Im 6' 185. I iwb a fullsize 1811 every day in an alien gear cloak tuck. I tried shoulder holsters and everything else because i thought there was no possible way for my skinny but to conceal it. I put on my alien gear for my makarov and the 1911 fit pretty good. Gave it atryfor a day, ordered thenew holster before the day was up.
OUTSTANDING Presentation in all aspects.Much appreciated..
Thank you!
Outstanding Howard good job brother .
Thanks!
I'm working on carrying blackhawk colt 45 with 7.5 in bbl. I wear it owb holster on my belt wearing overalls over top of shorts. All I need next is my straw hat and corn Cobb pipe...lol
Tnx HR
Great video! I'm an IWB guy. I've advised that the pants should be about two sizes larger in the waste to allow comfort when sitting as well to allow for the midsection spread. I prefer the 3 o'clock position with a Crossbreed style of IWB holster with a comfort pad to distribute the gun's weight.
I’m glad that works for you.I’ve just gotten to the point where I really don’t care for IWB.
Another good one, very informative and helpful. Thanks again HR. Stay safe God Bless.
You're welcome. Thanks for watching!
Im in love with a Ruger super blackhawk 44 not the 8 inch barrel but still big iron! I gotta get a decent shoulder holster
There are some shoulder holsters out there for single-action revolvers. So you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding one!
Here in Florida (winter what's that) I use a concealment vest all the time even in our HOT AND HUMID summers and allows me to pack anything from .380 pistols to 10mm autos as an example or revolvers .38 Special to .44 Magnum as an example. I favor the IWB carry, in pistols and revolvers. The oversized shirt works well too, but I've not had issues myself with the vest, shirt must be kept fully buttoned too, else it will blow open in the wind. Outstanding submission as usual excellent advice. The cross draw and shoulder rig are great for car use, I've used these both on ROBBERY stakes outs as they are easier to access seated. Dont laugh but recently found some old floppy leather IWB holster I had putting my 4 in .500 X frame in it, carried this monster under my vest in an IWB holster mentioned and it concealed. Not practical but not that uncomfortable, good concealment belt is a must no matter the gun.
It sounds like you've got it figured out Sergeant Major. Like I said, where there's a will there's a way. Thanks for the comment!
The Mexican Wedding shirt is considered a dressy option in the South West.
Nice job sir! I need to check out a cross draw holster for my EDC.
You might be surprised by how much you like it. Thanks for watching Joe!
Well done Sir. Clearly answered all my questions and inspired some good ideas. Thx
You’re welcome. Thanks for watching!
Great video and information. Thanks for your time sir. I was looking for methods to conceal a Beretta 92A1 and you gave several =]
Good! I hope they work well for you.
Very quality video! Very professional. Thank you
You’re welcome. Thanks for watching!
Absolutely great content HR I can find no fault in anything you said. Quality thinking
Thank you!
I used to use a belly band holster with a Colt Defender. I tucked my shirt over the gun, very concealable and comfortable.
Kudos HR for another outstanding, informative presentation.
Thank you!
You are the man ,Sir. Thought I found a flaw til you explained the shirt. Carry on.
Thanks Paul!
Great video and review. What is the brand of the cross draw holster? I like that set up.
It’s a Bianchi Cyclone
Yes, sir. People who say that you don't need a size or two bigger for appendix carry. Yes you do. I found that going up two sizes bigger with a kore tac 1.5 inch belt and ether a tier 1 or bravo concealment holster and NeoMag Alias receiver and holter clip with a wedge. 👌. Very comfortable with this setup. Most people just don't put enough time into that position setuping up their gear.
I've just started watching. I've seen that vest you're wearing referred to as "shoot me first" vests. I personally like an untucked t-shirt or fishing shirt and the like. A tucked shirt does look better I agree but for me anyway, the untucked shirt does a good job of concealing my IWB carry piece and I blend in with most of the population. For a big gun, I find the 1911 conceals the best. I carry a compact 9mm (G3C) strong side in an IWB holster. As always, I enjoy your vids and have been subscribed for a long time now. Thanks! ETA: Ha - I live in a warm climate as you say towards the end... but you obviously favor the vest... so I'm leaving my earlier comment up.
Thanks for watching. Here are my thoughts on the vest: ruclips.net/video/vM-W99g8ANY/видео.html
I love to carry my Walther PPQ (.45acp) but sometimes I just don't feel like going through the motions so I just purchased a nickel plated S&W
.38 Chief Special w/3" barrel, it's something I can toss in my back pocket and out the door I go.
Yep. Welcome to the J-frame club.
Very thorough and well presented video!
Thank you!
Spot on H.R.
My carry pistols are typically either a Glock 30S or a Glock 21, and depending on what I'm doing, I carry either O.W.B. with a True Spec vest or a High Noon Under Taker horse hide shoulder holster.
And of course 2 spare magazines, a Leatherman Surge multitool, 2 tourniquets, and a flashlight if none are on the handgun as my EDC.
That may seem a bit much to some, but I protect people for a living!
It sounds like you are well prepared! Thanks for watching James!
My experience has been in carrying my 2-1911 model pistols. Always best to carry in all leather holsters especially stainless steel pistols. Kyodex holsters will scratch stainless steel barrels on a 1911. I only carry my full size 1911 pistols in the winter time. My current two choices for EDC are the S&W M&P Shield.45 3” barrel or my Taurus 605 .357 magnum 2” barrel snub nose with an extra speed loader. Great video. I will subscribe!!! Keep making these good videos!!🇱🇷🇱🇷
Thanks for watching, and thanks for the sub!
Who’s the guy in the 2016 video???? You’re looking great, Chief! I’m 6’2”, and can carry my N frame Smith and Wesson Model 627 in a high ride pancake holster, even in my Miata(!!). I have a dresser drawer full of all different types of holsters, and have found they’re not all creat equal. Thanks for Sharing, Chief! 👍👍👍👍🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
OK, I gotta ask. How do you fit yourself in a Miata?
@@hrfunk Slowly! :D I used to have an MG Midget, and that was a tight fit. My Miata is a 2010, and they have much more leg/headroom than the previous generations, but you do have to slide in. The biggest problem with large pistol waistband carry, is the seat bolsters. I have 3 Galco Miami Classic rigs, but would like to find a vertical pistol component.
@@frankbutta9344 Oddly, I seem to run across those rather frequently in the dusty boxes on the side of the tables at gun shows. Some of them are in pretty good shape too.
When I viewed the 2016 video, it was followed by the "How I lost 65 lbs." video. Geoff Whose Doctor would be happy if I lost 50 lbs, working on it, counting carbs but the Beer Virus keeps me out of the gym and a groin pull keeps me off the stationary bike. Curse you 2020!!!
Thanks HRFUNK. This video explained information about holsters that I have not seen in other videos.
Good. I’m glad it was helpful!
I've started using an elastic belly band. They're relatively inexpensive andyou don't need a belt so it works with sweat pants or shorts. If it's really hot, they can be a little uncomfortable, but still tolerable.
Really enjoyed the information on the concealed and carry full size thanks
You're welcome. Thanks for watching.
This is a great video. Very professional. Best wishe!
Thank you!
Cross Draw is effective and concealable it also has the additional benefit of being easy to get to when seated in a auto.
I think I mentioned those attributes.
Like a lot of people that carry I've ended up with a large box of holsters that just didn't work out for me. Knowing I'm not the only one with this issue I'm trying to start the holster exchange club were we can sell, swap, or just give away our unused holsters to folks that might be able to use them.
That's not a bad idea. I see some folks at gun shows who have entire tables full of used holsters.
I am considering going with a S&W mod. 10 that has a 2" barrel. The full sized grip means that I can shoot it better then the Mod. 638 I currently carry. I guess that with the shorter barrel it's not quite full sized. Kind of a mid-sized compromise. One upside is a 20% increase in capacity! lol I need to get another holster though.
You shouldn't have too much trouble finding a holster you like for a K-frame smith.
Thanks for the insight. From the video I think my best bet is a shoulder holster for a 4" revolver. I wear suspenders most days so the transition would be simple.
I moved across WV a month ago and worked in ohio today, Marietta , beautiful country out this way
The country around Marietta is nice. I get down that way every once in a while.
I’m located in the Williamstown WV area. Across the River from Marietta
@@paulhaines4818 I've been through that area many times going up and down I-77. Some day I'm going to get around to stopping by that gun shop way up on the hill!
@@hrfunk One of these days HR, when you are not busy and driving through. “ Think” about giving me a shout and meet at the Williamtown Welcome Center I would love to just meet you would be a Honor. But I’m sure you are very busy .......
Really informative video, thanks. Excellent presentation.
My pleasure. Thanks for watching!
Thank you so much for the videos.
My pleasure Scotty! Thanks for watching!
For me an OWB paddle holster works best. Comfortable and easy to put on and off. 4 to 4.5 inch barrels are the best compromise for medium to full size pistols especially when seated in a vehicle.
I have a couple of paddle holsters, but I usually tend to gravitate to the belt slide versions.
Dealing with this right now. I want to carry outside the waist band, full size. Lots of ideas to try, thanks.
You’re welcome. Thanks for watching!
Love the videos, nobody does it like you. Have you done one on drawing your gun out of the holster (shoulder especially) and not shooting yourself in the bicep or foot. You're the guy to show us.
No I have not, but that’s a pretty good idea for a video. Let me give it some thought.
It 2023 and I'm going back to watch this again. Thanks.
You’re welcome!
I AIWB an M9A1 in a JM custom kydex. Super comfortable. I’ve no use for small pistols. The right holster allows one to carry a full size pistol which is far superior than something small.
Good for you! It sounds like you’ve got a solid carry method that works!
I always enjoy and learn from your content. J.Q.
Thanks James. I'm glad you do!
I carry either a beretta nano 9mm with a Galloway precision +1 mag extension, or a M&p40 4.25”. I carry both of them in crossbreed hybrid iwb holsters. I find this method comfortable and effective. I’m 6’2” 185lbs. This method may be uncomfortable for overweight people, but if you are lean it works great! I would have no problem concealing a Beretta 92 this way.
I agree. One’s physique has a great influence on what method works well.
Some states require handgun registration and the process is usually quite onerous. Making multiple handguns for carry not a practical option. Thanks for another good vid HR.
You're welcome Wayne. Thanks for watching!
move to a free state
Funk I carry IWB and never consider cross draw because I thought I needed another type holster. Now mine arm Milt Sparks which I love and one for each firearm is OK,Two is another thing. When I watched your video I felt maybe I my permit should be revoke as I did not have the ability to realise I could move it over. Anyway thanks and it feels odd at the moment but I wear it and see. Just glad I don't have to buy another holster which takes 6months to get.
Let me know how you like it after you’ve worn it like that for a while.
Great video!
Thank you!