16 The Firearms Instructor Issue 50 W hat type of firearm to carry while off-duty has always been the sub- ject of much debate. Some officers will go so far as to say “I don’t carry off-duty because it is just too much trouble or it is an inconvenience.” I have also heard the phrase “carrying a concealed gun should be com- forting, not comfortable.” I must say I dis- agree with that statement. Although in many ways our mode of dress dictates what type of weapon can be carried discreetly. I tend to call it my “concealed carry ensemble.” Do we have to look like commando’s? I think the photographers or safari vest is usu- ally a dead giveaway and literally screams “Gun!” to many onlookers especially in warm weather. Perhaps something a little more dis- creet is needed here. Possibly an open sport shirt looks a little better. You can usually conceal a small to medium size gun without it “printing” through. It is certainly more comfortable, comforting and discreet. As firearms instructors we all are aware of the fact that small guns are more difficult to shoot accurately than larger ones. In addi- tion, the calibers they come in leave much to be desired. I for one find the .380 or 9mm vastly more effective than a large rock and yet carried so easily. Gun manufacturers have come a long way in the last few years in making very small yet accurate hanguns for concealed carry. Combat accuracy in my view is a fist size group at 15 or so yards. Many of these small guns will do just that and even more. With todays’ ever increasing ammunition choices, small and light guns become a tactical reality for those who know and experiment with these different options. For the last couple of years, I have been try- ing different carry methods to find the per- fect combination for comfortable concealed carry. I believe I have attained a near perfect compromise of power, comfort, and size in my concealment selection. I feel “pocket carry” is the answer! It is comfortable, pro- viding you stay under 16 oz. or so. That will limit ones choice to either a lightweight .38 snubbie, small 9mm, or a .380 - these are not bad choices in my opinion. I know what you are probably thinking as you read this. What happens if you are seated and you need your gun? Well, that is very simple, you go for your second gun which is secreted in your ankle hoster. Please do not call me paranoid. I subscribe to the “ two is These tiny guns make great back-up weapons, as well as off-duty weapons. They can be carried in inexpensive, yet effective, pocket holsters. Combat accuracy is quite acceptable at 7 and 15 yards, as these rapid fire targets show. by Paul D’Angelo Being comfortable and discreet is the way to go