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Systems approach to CCW

wjh2657

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Sep 14, 2008
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Being a retired Marine, I am used to the “system” approach to any equipment I or others may have to operate. Simply stated, the training equipment should be as close to the real equipment as possible. Also, if multiple platforms are needed for delivery, they should be designed to be as close to the same as possible for ease and familiarity of operation.

When I decided to carry concealed I found that I did indeed need two platforms to match my attire. I needed in the pocket carry with a lightweight weapon for hot weather and belt carry OWB for colder weather, utilizing a somewhat more powerful delivery system to overcome the possibility of the target wearing multiple layers of clothing also.

I decided on the S&WCentennial J-Frame as the basis of my system.

For carry, I deploy a 640 (.357 Magnum in SS) for colder weather and a 642 (.38 Spcl +P) in the warmer weather. I actually carry .38 Spcl +P in the 640 and .38 Spcl SP in the 642. In case of extreme circumstances the .357 Magnum in the 640 would be a viable option for upgrade of response.

My training system includes a S&W 317 in .22 CB for frequent shooting in my indoor garage range (bullet Trap and backdrop) and in .22LR outside in woods. I utilize a Blackhawk demonstrator (plastic copy) S&W Centennialas a trainer in practicing weapon retention with my #2 son who is a martial artist. I also use the trainer to practice draws from different attire and positions.

Every two weeks I fire the seasonal carry weapon at indoor range with practice ammo that has characteristics matched to my carry ammo.

Thus my delivery system and training systems are in synch and allow for a full spectrum of training.

Just off the top of my head, I believe that the 1911 and Glock systems would lend well to this approach. Others probably would too, but I know for sure that those two have .22LR adapters and plastic trainer guns made for them.



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Marco

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Jul 29, 2007
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Sounds like you've put alot of time/thoughtinto your choices.
To simplify things even further.
You could have choosen a LW revolver that matchs the power level of your belt carried firearm while not increasing the weight of your pocket gun.
http://www.smith-wesson.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10001&storeId=10001&productId=14765&langId=-1&isFirearm=Y
With this system you have now simplified things down to one gun for both pocket and belt carry and increased the power of your pocket gun.

.22 conversion kits are available forSig, Beretta, Glock, 1911 variants andEAA (Witness) just to name a few.

However, your system does have one advantage.
You have two guns you could carry a CC'd pocket gun and OC'ed belt gun.

Welcome to OCDO.

ETA:
Might I suggest changing the grips on your pocket gun from rubber(they appear to be)to a hard plastic or wood.
IMHO, rubber grips are bad for pocket or CC under light garments they are too clingy.
 

wjh2657

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I tried the Scandium/Titaniummodels at store/range.They kicked even worse than the 642, .357 Mags were downright painful! Advantage of the 640 was its weight helped absorb the recoil when using hotter ammo. I have RA in both wrists and I am a little more recoil sensitive than some shooters. Biggest reason, after cost, that I am such a .22 LR fan. The extra weight is no issue in winter/fall as I wear sweaters with Perry suspenders under them.
 
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