Alternating OC and CC: different holsters?

Most OC holsters have some sort of retention device , but most CC holsters don't seem to. I'm talking about IWB holsters like from Alien Gear, and OWB holsters like from Fobus; ones that just use tension or pressure.

I know most here OC most - if not all - of the time. But what about those times where you decide to CC? Do you use the same holster you always use for OC, or switch to something more concealable? Would you ever consider using a retention holster for CC? CC is already slower than OC (well, except for one guy), so would you want to add in another step that could further slow your draw?

In thinking about this, I can see why some who carry say they have a drawer full of holsters. Seems like you can't really find a single one that fits the bill for every situation.

I carry concealed (never IWB) with the same holster(s) that I use for OC.

The box of holsters is only indicative of the selection of guns available for defensive purposes. I normally utilize a Serpa CQC, although I don't consider preventing a snatch that big of a problem and 90% of the time my primary is a 1911. Consistancy of equipment is important to me.

The desire to have fashion options i.e. color and texture plays a part too.

I carry open most always. I carry a Glock 27 in a level 2 retention Blackhawk paddle holster. On the rare occasion that I conceal, I simply untuck my shirt and easily cover my sidearm. It prints very slightly, Which is no big deal to me. Either way it is very comfortable.

DaveT319 said:

Most OC holsters have some sort of retention device , but most CC holsters don't seem to. I'm talking about IWB holsters like from Alien Gear, and OWB holsters like from Fobus; ones that just use tension or pressure.

I know most here OC most - if not all - of the time. But what about those times where you decide to CC? Do you use the same holster you always use for OC, or switch to something more concealable? Would you ever consider using a retention holster for CC? CC is already slower than OC (well, except for one guy), so would you want to add in another step that could further slow your draw?

In thinking about this, I can see why some who carry say they have a drawer full of holsters. Seems like you can't really find a single one that fits the bill for every situation.

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Bladetech nano IWB holster. Its thin and ideal for concealed carry. It offers a bit of tension retention.

Try this, appendix style if your really comfortable with the gun. If not then the 4/5 o clock might work. Personally I prefer appendix carry. Can be a little uncomfortable with a full size gun, but I find my G23 is plenty comfortable that way.

Keep in mind..... while throwing a jacket over your gun may be "concealed" according to the letter of the law, that's a legal definition more then a literal or practical application. No offense meant to anyone who does that.

With the IWB like I said, you can wear a t shirt and jeans and be able to completely conceal firearm. Also the firearm is right in front for easy draw.

In regards to retention, there is NO way the gun can fall from position if in proper holster. Also, damn near impossible for someone to "snatch" the gun. If properly done, they have NO idea the gun is there (not hey I see a jacket over a bulge that happens to be on his right hip....). Also, with it being just in front of your hip, it literally fits in the notch of your hip. So they CANT grab it unless they reach all the way around you in a hug motion. From the front, they still can't grab it because its in your pants....

Finally, whichever method you decide upon... PRACTICE your draws and handling of the firearm. Preferably in a controlled environment with an empty gun. Any questions let me know I'll try to help.

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Practice NOT shooting the family jewels...

WalkingWolf said:

Practice NOT shooting the family jewels...

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.............with an empty gun!

Grapeshot said:

.............with an empty gun!

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Exactly... glad someone caught that.....

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Grapeshot said:

.............with an empty gun!

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How many times have we heard "But the gun was empty"? One of the rules of firearm handling is treat every gun as if it is loaded.

Train with a blue gun or a airsoft replica, the 50 to 100 bucks is worth it to save the family jewels. And if using a airsoft, paint the darn thing a different color from the real thing.

DaveT319 said:

SNIP...I know most here OC most - if not all - of the time. But what about those times where you decide to CC? Do you use the same holster you always use for OC, or switch to something more concealable? Would you ever consider using a retention holster for CC? CC is already slower than OC (well, except for one guy), so would you want to add in another step that could further slow your draw?

In thinking about this, I can see why some who carry say they have a drawer full of holsters. Seems like you can't really find a single one that fits the bill for every situation.

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In the rare occasion I CC to avoid a hassle, I just move it to the 2 o'clock or the 4 o'clock position and cover up with a loose-fitting shirt. Not the best CC, but then again, I'm an OCer.

As to the drawer full of holsters, the only thing I am looking for right now is the possibility of a cross-draw for when I have to sit down inside a car or some other restricted mobility situation.

A fellow with lots experience I know just takes his Fobus paddle holster and places it in a cross draw position when he is in his vehicle. Seems to work well for him.

I don't worry about it myself.

Firearms Iinstuctor said:

A fellow with lots experience I know just takes his Fobus paddle holster and places it in a cross draw position when he is in his vehicle. Seems to work well for him.

I don't worry about it myself.

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I'll have to look into that. The reason I made mention was because of my experience every time I sit down in a car. Regardless of where I sit, it gets a bit harder to draw should I have to.

I have a different weapon altogether if I know I'm going to have to conceal. Whether it's for work, or I'm playing Tour Guide here in vegas and know I will have to be in a casino (they all escort you out immediately if they see one, stating trespass laws since they can't prohibit carrying) - if I'm CCing I have a SHIELD 40 that comes along. It sucks having the lower magazine capacity and slightly shorter barrel, but at least I'm still armed.

If I'm in a situation where I'm OCing and have to CC on the fly, I would have no qualms just covering and continuing onward. I will admit, however, that the Serpa with a full sized pistol is a MUCH larger bulge to conceal than a weapon IWB meant for concealed carry!

So, yes, different holsters (and weapons) for each mode of carry for me.

I am certain many more holsters are to come and try out. The Serpa CQC is nice but does feel a bit clunky at times if I were to conceal.

Open Carry: Leather Retention strap Glaco Holster
Concealed Carry: ^ Same holster or a Galco open top Holster that is exactly the same, minus the retention strap. On rare occasions (Suit and Tie), Shoulder Holster.

CC is already slower than OC (well, except for one guy)

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LOL!

For OC I use a firearm-specific, Lvl II, Galco Fletch holster.

For CC I use a firearm-specific Comp-Tac Minotaur holster.

Some of choices were made due to the fact that not every manufacturer makes a holster for the Sig Sauer P239.

Blackhawk CQC level II paddle holster is the one I use OC, or CC.

I switch between a lvl 2 serpa and a canvas IWB for my main EDC. When carrying my favorite pocket rocket, I have a fitted leather OWB tagua and a homemade pocket holster. The tagua works well for both as I can just tuck my shirt under the bottom of the muzzle and between the holster and belt.

Rusty Young Man said:

I'll have to look into that. The reason I made mention was because of my experience every time I sit down in a car. Regardless of where I sit, it gets a bit harder to draw should I have to.

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Same here, call it CCC .....casual conceal carry....