If you are new to concealed carry, I'd like to share my perspective and how I came to be a true believer in pocket carry. Like many people, I started out years ago with a .45 Auto. I had read for years that the .45 was the ultimate in defensive weapons. After firing one many, many times, I have no doubts about the rounds' effectiveness. I did my homework and ordered a custom belt and two holsters, one IWB and one OWB.
I carried this way for several months before the weight began to get to me. I also had to invest in larger pants to accommodate the IWB holster. I always felt that anyone could tell I was carrying a gun since I either had on a jacket or my shirt was untucked. Soon, a lighter, smaller weapon seemed like a great idea. I moved from .45 to .38, then to 9MM, then to a Makarov (still a favorite!). I bought and sold dozens of holsters in search of the perfect blend of comfort and concealability. But the hassle of putting a holster on and off got the best of me and soon, I was finding reasons to go without.
It was then I discovered pocket carry. Inexpensive offerings made from nylon served for a while, but then I had a leather one made and it was exactly the solution I was searching for. While a larger weapon would be great if needed, the fact that you have a weapon at all can sometimes mean all the difference. After all, if you could predict when you would need to defend yourself, most people would have a 12 gauge!
I can summarize the positive aspects of pocket carry :
-There is little reason to go without a weapon...everyone has a pocket.
-The weapon can actually be in your hand without telegraphing your intention to draw a weapon.
-With modern loadings, even small caliber weapons have become as viable as larger ones of just a few years ago.
-No alterations to your wardrobe are required. This can be a very expensive exercise.
-Smaller calibers are typically easier to master than the larger rounds. Shot placement is the key and that is easier with the smaller calibers.
After starting out with the .45, what do I typically carry now? I've experimented with them all, but I remain a huge fan of both the 22 Long Rifle and 22 Magnum. I believe the offerings from North American Arms are the ultimate solution for this carry mode. They are small, reliable and very well made. Other makers like Ruger, Keltec and Beretta offer firearms that serve well, too. One of my personal favorites, the Walther TPH, is now sadly out of production and the few examples available are drastically overpriced.
Well, I hope that sheds some light on why I make these holsters and why I truly believe pocket carry solves many problems for those who choose to carry.
John