Concealed Carry with Glock Guns

Glock guns are perfect concealed carry weapons. Check back often for more reviews and information about the Glock arsenal.

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Galco Ankle Glove Provides Backup Carry Option

When most people think about carrying a concealed firearm, ankle carry usually isn’t the first image that comes to mind. Ankle isn’t one of the more popular carry positions and is usually relegated to Hollywood private investigators and undercover cops.

Yet part of any good personal defense plan should include a backup weapon and this is where the ankle carry option makes a lot of sense.

In the past, ankle holsters had problems with chafing, bulk, and overall comfort. Improvements in holster materials and a general trend toward smaller, lighter firearms have made the ankle holster a more desirable option as of late.

One holster that meets all of the requirements for the modern ankle holster is the Galco Ankle Glove, a custom-fitted holster with templates for many guns.  

Although the high-quality leather holster may seem like it has a chokehold on your weapon at first, Galco indicates in its instructions that the Ankle Glove requires a breaking in period before it becomes one with your gun. A snap-strap also helps secure the gun.

The non-leather portion of the holster basically consists of a sturdy, wide neoprene strap designed to wrap around your ankle and fasten securely with a large Velcro strip. A layer of sheepskin is attached directly behind the holster for increased comfort. That light layer of additional padding makes wearing the Galco Ankle Glove a pleasure. It can be worn all day without discomfort or chafing. In addition to that, there was minimal slippage of the holster while walking.

Minimal does not mean zero slippage however, and if the Ankle Glove is worn higher than the ankle bone, it does tend to slide down through the day. Galco’s solution to this issue is a calf strap. Yet in his article “Galco Ankle Glove” at USConcealedCarry.com, author Fred W. Black states that it’s better to stick to the basics and wear the Ankle Glove where it was designed to be worn:

“First of all, if the holster is sliding down on you, you’re probably trying to wear it too high. Secondly, with the holster and calf strap on, it feels like you’re wearing a lower leg girdle. Lastly, even with the calf strap on, the holster still wants to slide down the lowest point on your ankle.”  (Read more at USConcealedCarry.com)

Another advantage of ankle carry is concealability. A firearm tucked in the Ankle Glove has virtually no print unless you’re wearing something akin to skinny jeans. Stair climbing is the only time there is a slight chance of the holster becoming visible for an instant.

One of the drawbacks to ankle holsters is accessibility. Yet like any other skill, it simply takes practice. The four steps to a successful draw from ankle carry are the pant leg pull with your weak hand, open retention strap with your weak hand, draw with your strong hand, and assuming the shooting position, all in a matter of a couple of seconds.

The Galco Ankle Glove is a top-quality holster that would provide an excellent receptacle for a backup weapon. Despite a couple of minor flaws, the superb comfort of this holster makes the investment worthwhile. The Ankle Glove can be found online for less than $100.

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5.11 COVRT 18 Backpack is Built to Blend In

In the concealed carry community, there are two schools of thought regarding carry gear.  There are those who make no bones about supporting the Second Amendment and tactical black is their color of choice for all gear and accessories. At the other end of the spectrum are the folks who carry, but prefer to remain unnoticed as they go about their daily business.

5.11 is a clothing and gear outfitting company that has made its reputation manufacturing top-of-the-line tactical style products. Yet the company is shifting its marketing focal point as author Duane A. Daiker points out in his article “5.11 COVRT 18 Backpack” at USConcealedCarry.com:

“Lately, 5.11 has been expanding its line with more covert products that support an armed lifestyle without telegraphing their tactical nature to the world. These products are designed to appeal to both undercover law enforcement and the legally armed civilian.” (Read more at USConcealedCarry.com)

The COVRT 18 backpack is 5.11’s solution to keeping a low profile while providing some tactical advantages at the same time. In addition to large main and secondary storage compartments, the COVRT 18 contains an ambidextrous side-entry pouch with Velcro straps. This area could easily be used to secure a holster for your EDC.

The compartment is accessed by slipping either arm out of the shoulder strap and swinging the pack to the front. Another tactical feature of the COVRT 18 is the Roll-Down Assault Compartment (RAC) where MOLLE strips allow for gear and accessories such as spare magazines to be stored out of sight until needed.

Yet besides its hidden tactical advantages, the COVRT 18 is also a great everyday pack. It’s made of water-resistant nylon that is breathable and sits comfortably with the weight evenly distributed using adjustable compression straps, a sternum strap, and yoke-style shoulder straps. Other features on the exterior include a reinforced grab handle, fleece-lined sunglass pocket, organizer pouch and hidden agenda identification panel.

Internally, the 5.11 COVRT 18 is full of storage surprises. There is a padded laptop sleeve, admin pocket, and a separate area for an optional hydration system hook-up.

Overall, the 5.11 COVRT 18 is an extremely versatile backpack that can serve your tactical needs while helping you maintain your face in the crowd persona at the same time. If you want an all-purpose non-tactical pack, the COVRT 18 lists for about $129 and comes in some cool colors -- black, asphalt, ice, storm, and foliage.

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Is Smith & Wesson Chief’s Special 9mm the Ultimate Carry Gun?

There aren’t many people who can saunter into a gun store, pick out a gun they fancy, and buy it outright without regard for price. Most people spend a great deal of time deciding which compromises they can make or afford regarding price, power, comfort, or concealability. Name brand goes a long way in those decisions and can often be the deciding factor when it comes time to buy.

Smith & Wesson is very aware of the power of their brand, which may explain the reasoning behind their re-introduction of the Chief’s Special.

The Chief’s Special or CS9, follows in the S&W tradition of reintroducing guns that once had a loyal market demographic or achieved classic status for one reason or another.

Although the CS9 debut was widely anticipated, it soon drew the wrath of critics who claimed it had accuracy issues.

The modern CS9 is loosely based on the Chief’s Special snub-nosed revolver that was manufactured during the 50’s through 90’s. The new CS9 is a 9mm subcompact single-stack semi-automatic handgun that weighs a mere 20 ounces unloaded.  Despite its small size, the CS9 still exhibits Smith & Wesson craftsmanship. Unlike many gun manufacturers that sacrifice solid construction for light weight, the CS9 is one-hundred percent metal. The slide is steel and the body is an alloy rather than a polymer. The grips however, are rubber.

Smith & Wesson’s updated Chief’s Special could be a role model for a concealed carry weapon. As author George Hill explains in his article “Smith & Wesson Chief’s Special 9mm” at USConcealedCarry.com, the CS9 can be there for you 24/7:

“You need a weapon that you can have on your person. A large capacity, big bore automatic is not likely to be that weapon all the time. A smaller weapon, such as the Chief’s Special 9mm might be.” (Read more at USConcealedCarry.com)

As far as the accuracy issues go, the Smith & Wesson Chief’s Special won’t win any shooting competitions, but CCW permit holders know that self-defense is the goal instead of two-inch groupings at 30 feet. However, the gun does shoot 3-4 inches low, which is easily adjustable and most likely won’t matter on the street when you’re using a torso as the target.

Smith & Wesson ships the CS9 with standard snag-free three dot sights, which can easily be upgraded. The trigger is double action and the initial pull is about 8.5 pounds with a follow-up about 4 pounds, both smooth. When using the Chief’s Special as a concealed carry weapon, the recommended ammo is something that will penetrate and expand such as Winchester SXT or Hornady XTP ammunition. Shooting the CS9 is a breeze with the thick rubber grips absorbing just about all of the recoil.

There are a few weak areas that anyone considering purchasing a CS9 should be aware of. First, for a gun so small and light, it is very thick -- about 1 ½ inches at the grips’ widest points, which creates a printing issue. They are also a little sticky. A good set of wood grips would solve the issue, but you would have to balance that choice with the resulting increase in recoil. The out-of-the-box standard sights should be replaced with night sights as soon as possible to make the CS9 street worthy.

Despite its flaws, the Chief’s Special has the legendary Smith & Wesson craftsmanship and is reliable enough to depend on for a concealed carry handgun. If you happen to come across one, be sure to take a closer look.

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SIG Sauer Academy Philosophy Helps Students Improve Accuracy

There are many elements that should be taken into consideration when putting together a successful home or personal defense plan. You should have weapons that are reliable, familiar, and are easily accessible whether in the home or on your person.  In addition to that, comfort and function are important features to look for when purchasing belts and holsters. But above all else, the most important part of any safety plan is the time spent at the range.

All the expensive guns and fancy accessories aren’t worth much if you can’t hit the target.

Spending time at the range certainly helps improve skills, but improving accuracy requires spending time on two key skills: aim and stability.

That is the goal established at the renowned SIG Sauer shooting academy where the philosophy of “Float the Dot…Shoot the Shot” is ingrained into students eager to learn the secrets of masterful shooting.

But what does it mean?

It simply means that it’s impossible to remain completely motionless while aiming and that some movement or “floating” around the sights is acceptable as long as you can focus on the center of the target and “shoot the shot.”

Author Kevin Michalowski talked to SIG academy instructor Steve Gilcreast about the phrase for his article “Float the Dot…Shoot the Shot” at USConcealedCarry.com:

“Gilcreast said this simple term continues to remind instructors and shooters of how simple shooting a pistol really is. This concept also reinforces the SIG principle of focusing on only what is necessary to be successful. It is only when training becomes overly complicated that it becomes difficult.” (Read more at USConcealedCarry.com)

SIG originally developed the system to help older students whose eyesight and steadiness were beginning to deteriorate. The simplicity of the technique made it hugely popular and it soon became the foundation of the SIG Sauer shooting methodology.

SIG believes in simplicity when it comes to shooting instruction. The primary objective is to hit the target, which is accomplished using the two-step process. The action begins by placing the front sight dot on the target center and holding it as steady as possible; the “floating the dot” process.

The second step towards accurate shooting is trigger control. At the SIG academy, students aren’t told to press or squeeze the trigger, but simply to operate it. From that point, instructors provide advice on how to adjust grip and finger tension until the shooter becomes consistently accurate at shooting the shot.  The psychological impact of repeating the phrase while practicing helps shooters improve accuracy at a faster rate and explains the tremendous popularity of the SIG Sauer “Float the Dot…Shoot the Shot” shooting philosophy.

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10mm Caliber Gets Respect with SIG P220 Elite

The 10mm caliber is an unusual round that is unfamiliar to many shooters. Despite its relative obscurity, the 10mm has continued to hold its own with a growing contingent of aficionados spreading the word about the misunderstood cartridge with a colorful history.

The 10mm Auto was originally introduced by Colonel Jeff Cooper in 1983 as a semi-automatic pistol cartridge for the Bren Ten pistol.

The 10mm went through several mutations before being adopted for a short-lived tenure with the Federal Bureau of Investigation from 1986-1989, where the cartridge was shortened and eventually transformed into the .40 Smith & Wesson.

Diehard 10mm fans now refer to that round as the “.40 Short & Weak.”

After lurking in the shadows for many years, the 10mm is coming out of hiding. Sig Sauer has debuted its new 10mm P220 Elite, a top-of-the-line defensive handgun. In his article “SIG Sauer’s New P220 Elite: The Ultimate 10mm Combat Handgun” at USConcealedCarry.com, author Scott W. Wagner explains the emerging enthusiasm for the 10mm:

“ Depending upon the particular 10mm load selected, the power level can be tailored to meet a shooter’s particular need -- anywhere from light practice loads to .40 Smith & Wesson equivalent defensive loads (or heavier) to hunting loads that are equivalent to those fired from the .41 Magnum revolver.” (Read more at USConcealedCarry.com)

The P220 Elite can only be described as a truly defensive combat handgun. It operates on the double-action/single-action with a decocker system that will be familiar to any SIG devotee. The SIG Sauer P220 is fitted out in a two-tone finish with a Nitron slide and stainless steel frame. The frame incorporates a rail for mounting various accessories. The grips are a charcoal gray with snakeskin-like checkering on the backstrap.

Range testing on the P220 Elite was performed using two types of SIG ammo: 180-grain FMJ practice/target rounds and V-Crown JHP.  The sights on the gun are 3-dot Tritium fixed combat sights. At 30 feet, the sights were pinpoint accurate and trigger pull at both the double and single-action locations was accomplished without issue through the duration of testing. Groupings were similar; 1.5 inches for the FMJ rounds and 1.25 inches for the V-Crown loads.

At 100 yards, 80 percent of the FMJ bullets hit the silhouette. Although the results with the V-Crown were similar, the velocity was not. The V-Crown ammo scorched through the specs, topping out at 142 feet per second; faster than what V-Crown estimated, producing an astounding 764 foot-pounds of stopping power.

With the P220 Elite, SIG Sauer has produced an excellent firearm to complement a versatile caliber that is finally getting some respect.  It is a powerful, reliable weapon that has demonstrated an ability to exceed the listed specifications. Although it is a little heavy for concealed carry, it is not unmanageable. And if you are looking to bring in some heavy artillery to your home defense plan, SIG P220 Elite can handle the job. MSRP is about $1200.

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Spyderco Matriarch 2 Gives Women the Edge

The number of concealed carry permit holders in the United States has seen a tremendous upward spike in the last decade and while carrying a firearm isn’t something everyone is comfortable with, the concealed carry movement has certainly emphasized the importance of having some type of personal defense plan.  

A good knife is an excellent gun alternative and Spyderco makes some of the best. Women continue to be a rapidly growing segment of the firearm/personal defense market and Spyderco has tailored one of their blades specifically for women -- the Matriarch 2 Lightweight Emerson Opener.

Spyderco was founded by Sal Glesser nearly 40 years ago in Golden, Colorado. The first Spyderco was a jewelers multi-tool. Through the years, Spyderco pioneered many features that are now standard issue on folding knives such as serrations, the pocket clip, and the open hole in the blade.

As author Mark Kakkuri explains in his article “A Personal Defense Knife for Women” at USConcealedCarry.com, the Matriarch 2 is designed to be used as an effective last resort weapon:

“The size, weight, and shape of the blade are meant to provide maximum cutting performance no matter how it is held or moved. In other words, in a life or death, last-ditch situation, this knife will cut.” (Read more at USConcealedCarry.com)

One of the most distinctive features of the Spyderco Matriarch 2 is its arched serrated blade, similar to the Spyderco Civilian knife.  Yet the Matriarch differs in that it’s much lighter and easier to carry and use as a result. The Civilian has a stainless steel liner while the Matriarch sports a lightweight, injection-molded handle. The handle is checkered and textured, allowing for a firm, sustainable grip under duress.

The Matriarch 2 also features the famed Emerson Wave opener. The Wave is basically a protruding hook on the back of the blade that catches on a pocket while removing the knife, automatically opening it. With practice, the patented design can be accomplished in one swift motion much like drawing a gun and adds an additional element of offense to self-defense.

Knives may never surpass diamonds as a girl’s best friend, but the Spyderco Matriarch 2 Lightweight Emerson Opener deserves close consideration. The shape alone is a cause for attacker trepidation and the stainless steel blade maximizes cutting effectiveness. The four-position clip and round opening hole guarantee user flexibility and high-speed ambidextrous opening. If you are looking to boost your self-confidence as well as your self-defense capability, the Matriarch 2 is the knife for you.

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Blackhawk HawkHook Rescue Tool Gives Edge to Civilians

The old adage “when seconds count, the police are minutes away” unfortunately turns out to be true in many life or death situations. In non-criminal situations such as fires, aquatic rescue, vehicular crashes, or other medical emergencies, it’s often civilian bystanders who suddenly find the first responder mantle thrust upon them; having to make split-second decisions without any training and likely lacking the equipment needed to stabilize the situation.

Blackhawk has made it much easier for civilians to assume a “first responder” role with its new HawkHook knife.

This compact tool is the first responder’s version of the multi-tool or Leatherman.  It folds into a 3.25 inch one-man rescue operation.  

When opened via the easily maneuvered thumb stud, the 2.25 inch blade locks into place by means of a frame-lock between the mated solid stainless steel handle panels.  Weighing in at a mere 3.2 ounces, the HawkHook can easily be tucked away into a pocket or purse and forgotten until needed.

The tiny HawkHook has a remarkable array of rescue tools integrated into the hook-shaped blade. The most prominent of these is the seat-belt cutter, recessed into the curve of the hook.  The lower front edge of the HawkHook is serrated and can serve as an aid in fashioning makeshift medical equipment such as bandages, splints or tourniquets.  

A wire stripper is also notched at the base of the front edge.  Opposite the wire stripper on the back edge is a bottle opener and at the top, a flathead screwdriver/prying tool.

But the most impressive implement on the Blackhawk HawkHook is the glass breaker point, used to rescue children or pets locked in dangerously hot vehicles. Located on the top curve of the hook, it is shaped like a raised pyramid, designed to be used a hammering motion that allows the user’s hands to be away from the sharp window glass.

Automobile windshields are laminated and essentially shatterproof, so the easiest points of entry for the HawkHook glass breaker are the side windows. In his article “The BLACKHAWK! HawkHook -- Ideal Rescue Tool for Civilian ‘First Responders’” at USConcealedCarry.com, author Scott W. Wagner explains the importance of proper technique when using the glass breaker tool:

“In order to break a side window with the HawkHook, hold it opened at its base between the thumb and forefinger, with the breaker tip pointed at the window. Pick either the left or right corner near the doorframe as a target, and swing the HawkHook, rolling it between thumb and forefinger and letting it tap the window.” (Read more at USConcealedCarry.com)

In addition to the blade tools, the HawkHook is equipped with a tip-down belt or pocket clip. There is also a lanyard hole in the handle to keep the HawkHook accessible. The Blackhawk blade is available in black or high visibility marine yellow.

Being prepared means having the right tool at the right time and at $40.95, Blackhawk has made the HawkHook affordable for average citizens, as well as allowing them to be more prepared to step into the first responder role. 

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North American Arms .22LR Mini Big Seller for Concealed Carry

Although Utah was once part of America’s frontier and considered part of the Wild West, today it’s mostly known for its magnificent national parks, great skiing, and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.  However, not all of Utah has been tamed.

Nestled on an inlet next to Provo Bay is the North American Arms gun factory, a niche manufacturer that’s carving out a nice share of the concealed carry market.

North American Arms sells revolvers that shoot all manner of .22 caliber cartridges, from the .22 short to the .22 Magnum.  

While .22 pistols have a reputation of being chintzy, that isn’t the case with the .22LR.

As author and trainer George Hill points out in his article “North American Arms .22LR Mini Revolver” at USConcealedCarry.com, the .22LR manufacturing process can compare to that of any heavy duty firearm on the market:

“They are milled out of solid billets of heat-treated stainless, using some of the latest computer-controlled mills out there. The parts are hand-fitted and polished by guys who know guns.  And after they are finished, they are given to a guy who inspects each one by hand and fires them.” (Read more at USConcealedCarry.com)

The North American Arms .22LR is also a breeze to operate, although the reloading sequence isn’t going to break any speed records. After pulling out the cylinder pin and removing the cylinder, you use the pin to push out the empty shells. Then you reverse the process, finishing by reinserting the pin. It’s child's play, but tedious -- one of the reasons the .22LR should only be considered a backup weapon.

The wood grips that come with the gun seem rather small, but North American Arms offers other grip options that are easier on the hands and better suited for concealed carry use.

As far as using the .22LR in the field goes, it performs about as well as you would expect for a .22 caliber gun.  In other words, it can be very effective at very short range.  Accuracy decreases rapidly when moving more than just a few yards from the target and stopping force is not something you can depend on with a five shot .22 caliber revolver.  At close range, the .22LR does give deep penetration and five shots at point-blank range will probably save your life.

Overall, the North American Arms .22LR Mini Revolver is an excellent backup or retreat cover weapon. It definitely isn’t an everyday carry piece and should not be considered a last stand gun, but it’s primarily designed to give you a little more time to seek assistance or get away.

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Handguns & More: Instructors Are Needed

With forty-nine states in the United Sates offering some kind of handgun permit, the average citizen finds themselves in need of more training opportunities.  This can be where you come in, if you’d like to. 

In regard to firearms of all kinds, meaning handguns & more…instructors are needed.  This indicates that there is also an opportunity for those willing to take it.

Firearms training does not  have to take place in a large training facility only.  With the majority of gun owners being those who  want to be able to protect their homes and loved ones, there needs to be more places where they can get competent, local instruction.

A couple of things need to come into play if you think that you would like to become a firearms instructor:

One – you need to have some basic presentation skills.  Meaning, you should know how to speak in front of a small group and provide information.  Joining a local Toastmasters group would do wonders for you in this capacity.  You can also consider going to other firearms trainings to learn the best ways to teach the information.

Two- Author Tom Givens on the site USConcealedCarry.com also highly suggests practicing with many different kinds of weapons, holsters and environments by entering shooting competitions.

Handguns & More – Instructors Are Needed

“Once you have gained a solid foundation in shooting technique, competitive shooting can go a long way toward helping you find out what works well and what doesn’t under a bit of pressure. Shooting for score in front of peers let’s you develop the ability to function under some stress and provides a great way to see how a gun, holster, or carry method works under more realistic conditions than a static range session.” (full article here)

In the end, the best way to learn how to teach is to take as many classes as you can.  Not only will you improve your knowledge of guns and shooting, you will also learn which teaching methods are most effective and which teaching methods not to use.  This information can allow you to create a wonderful learning environment for your students.

There is no doubt about it, when it comes to handguns, more instructors are needed.  Do you feel you are interested in answering this call? If so, get in touch with other instructors in your area and find out what it takes to become a firearms safety instructor in your state.

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USCCA founder and President, Tim Schmidt, rates the Glock 36. How does it stack up for concealed carry?

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Glock Guns 4th Generation Great Choice for Concealed Carry

There are many Glock guns available to choose from. That means that no matter what body type you have and what your concealed carry needs are, you can probably find one that will work for you.

Gaston Glock, an engineer from Austria is the founder of Glock, the esteemed firearms company. Although Gaston did not start manufacturing guns until he was in his 50s, Glock guns are now used by individuals and law enforcement agencies around the world.

Glock holds a number of patents for gun design, including a metal treatment that is applied to all Glock pistols, called Tenifer. The Glock 17, first produced in 1982 and still made today, was given its model number because it was actually the 17th patent held by the company.

Many Glock guns have gone through a process of evolution, with each generation of the specific pistol being slightly modified. Therefore, when you are shopping for a pistol it is important to pay attention to the generation number as well as the model number. It is also important to keep in mind whether or not parts are interchangeable between newer and older models.

The Glock 17 and Glock 22 models both debuted 4th generation designs in 2010. Additional fourth generation pistols have been released since then, including the Glock 19 and Glock 23 in the compact category, as well as the Glock 26 and Glock 27 supercompacts.

Ergonomics is an important consideration for each new generation of Glock guns. The grip on the fourth generation pistol is a bit smaller than earlier generations which should make the weapon suitable for a wider user base. Another change in the fourth generation Glock guns is that they are reversible, making it easier for left-handed gun owners to comfortably use.

One of the features of Glock guns is that their frame, the magazine body, and some additional elements are actually made from plastic! Gaston Glock’s background prior to founding the firearms company was in polymers, and he has used polymers to make firearms that are more durable than many weapons made of carbon steel and steel alloys.

In addition to the polymer components, the Tenifer process makes the weapon resistant to corrosion from perspiration. This is a concern for anyone who carries concealed, especially for those living in hot and humid parts of the county.

The variety of pistol styles, the manufacturing process, the continuing improvement of the weapons with each generation, and the ability to accessorize many Glock guns make them a good choice for many people who choose to conceal and carry guns.