Ankle Holster

[BobWright]

Most people aren't wearing vest all day if at all, and it's not a "requirement" to use the weak side hand to clear a cover garment but rather it's simply easier and faster. It can be done with one hand if the other is injured for whatever reason.................

I can't see how a man can pull up his britches leg and draw his gun with one hand.

And most illustrations of drawing when covered by a T-shirt show the left hand reaching to pull up the covering shirt while the gun hand is drawing.

It is these situations to which I refer.

As to wearing a vest or sport coat/suit coat, I wear them when armed, which is most of the time. Open carry is legal here, though I prefer to be a mite discrete.

Bob Wright



















t-

 

[luzyfuerza]

Everything below is my opinion. And is based on my training and experience. YMMV.

Ankle holsters are best used with light guns. Say, 12-15 ounces.

The best location for an ankle gun for a right-handed shooter is on the inside of the left ankle.

I do not have to lift my pant-leg with my non-dominant-side hand to access my gun from the seated position.

Ankle carry, for me, is ONLY for a BUG, not a primary weapon. I use mine mostly when I am going to be seated in a car for a large part of a day. In that position, I simply cannot stand and it is difficult to access a gun in a pocket or IWB strong-side.

Mine was made by Ritchie Leather:

Ankle - Product Details

It is all-day comfortable, molded to my particular gun, doesn't require any straps or loops, and is readily available.

Cheap ankle rigs do not hold guns securely and are not all-day comfortable.

Go cheap, and you'll end up with useless junk. The good stuff works. Take it from someone who has tried both.

 

[DetBrowning]

As a former LEO and I had a J frame Model 36 S&W for over 20 years, never carried it in an ankle holster.
It can never be drawn with any speed, even with practice and I'd only carry it as a backup.
In addition I've seen on more than one occasion cops carry it in an ankle holster as a backup and while chasing a perp it became dislodged from the holster and
ended up on the ground.

 

[Styx]

I can't see how a man can pull up his britches leg and draw his gun with one hand.

I'm busy, not at home, but I took the liberty to demonstrate to you that it is simple and can be done. I have straight leg chinos on in the video. I can do more demonstrations wearing jeans or or dress pants if required at a later date. I can draw even faster while sitting or even dropping down to a knee or simplely bending over slightly where I am tugging my pants leg up with my left hand and I'm instantaneously reaching for my gun with my right. Either way, I can clear my pants from the ankle holster using only one hand.

And most illustrations of drawing when covered by a T-shirt show the left hand reaching to pull up the covering shirt while the gun hand is drawing.

It is these situations to which I refer.

That is how how it's typically done, but I can very easily and quickly pull my shirt up just over the gun with my right hand, and then instantly come down on the grip of the gun with the same hand before drawing. It's a micro second slower than using two hands, but it's still quick and simple. I can post another video of that to tomorrow when I get time if you do believe what I'm telling you. Either way, I don't foresee any logical reason not to simple use both hands.

As another aside, I'm not a police officer or will ever have to do a full on sprint to chase a suspect, but have had to do a full on run and jog on a couple of occasions. I didn't have any issues and the holster stayed very secure. All ankle holster aren't monolithic, so just because the one someone may have tried was uncomfortable or came undone doesn't mean they'll have the same experience with other holster designs.

 

[BobWright]

I'm busy, not at home, but I took the liberty to demonstrate to you that it is simple and can be done. I have straight leg chinos on in the video. I can do more demonstrations wearing jeans or or dress pants if required at a later date. I can draw even faster while sitting or even dropping down to a knee or simplely bending over slightly where I am tugging my pants leg up with my left hand and I'm instantaneously reaching for my gun with my right. Either way, I can clear my pants from the ankle holster using only one hand.


That is how how it's typically done, but I can very easily and quickly pull my shirt up just over the gun with my right hand, and then instantly come down on the grip of the gun with the same hand before drawing. It's a micro second slower than using two hands, but it's still quick and simple. I can post another video of that to tomorrow when I get time if you do believe what I'm telling you. Either way, I don't foresee any logical reason not to simple use both hands.

As another aside, I'm not a police officer or will ever have to do a full on sprint to chase a suspect, but have had to do a full on run and jog on a couple of occasions. I didn't have any issues and the holster stayed very secure. All ankle holster aren't monolithic, so just because the one someone may have tried was uncomfortable or came undone doesn't mean they'll have the same experience with other holster designs.

Styx,

Ankle holsters are not for me. But I appreciate your time and efforts, to demonsrate your method of carry/draw.

The height you pull up your britches leg would not even clear my boot!

Thanks again.

Bob Wright

 

[Eutycus]

The whole purpose was an option when I don't or can't wear cargo shorts.But 3/4s (or more)
of a year shorts do just fine here in South Texas. And church just happens to be one of those certain places where shorts are frowned upon. We are not that casual. Thanks y'all are giving me some thoughts and ideas.

 

[Pat Riot]

@Eutycus
The ankle holster I use, the DeSantis Apache is a comfortable holster that needs no extra padding except for when I wear it with low cut shoes. I prefer ankle boots or high top sneakers. The holster has faux fleece padding on the inside against your sock. I wear Cabela’s boot socks. They’re like athletic socks only a bit thicker.

A holster I am considering is the DeSantis “Die Hard”. It’s got a form fitted leather holster and more padding against the skin. It also has a thumb break snap, not Velcro.

DIE HARD ANKLE RIG

Desantis Holster is an online store for inside the waistband holsters, pistol holsters, Taurus, pistol, pancake holsters, holsters for springfield XD, walther, handgun, GLOCK IWB, GLOCK 22 and leather holsters for 1911.

www.desantisholster.com

An ankle holster that some of my cop friends liked for their BUGs was the Galco Ankle Glove. I am not nor was I a law enforcement officer. I had a few friends that were.

https://www.galcogunleather.com/ankle-glove-ankle-holster-_8_6_1019.html

Something I heard from an instructor at a tactical training class I took referred to these vests that many guys like for carrying guns as “Shoot me first” vests. To me it was humorous. To a couple of guys wearing them in the class it was not.
I personally do not like wearing vests or other garments as cover, especially when the garment doesn’t match the weather or environment.

 

[Tallball]

Yeah one has easy access if he carries in the big lower cargo pocket. I may have to start doing that. I have been using the regular pocket.

The revolver, holster, pocket, and pants all have to fit just right. When they do, it's an excellent carry method. The main thing is that the pants and pocket can't be loose.

 

[Risky buisness]

Ankle holster for a primary carry....
Oh my. I can't support the idea at all. Back up perhaps.
But It does check one box, yep, you have a gun, it goes down hill from there.
Several thoughts here, and are my opinions, your mileage will vary. Having, years ago thought that an ankle carry was very doable and real concealment I was going to give it a go.
Needed to change wardrobe, shoes and draw. The clothes well ok, shoes well ok, the draw....thats where it really started me thinking, so to actually perfect that ankle carry draw, how many again, deep knee bends were involved? And if I didn't practice to perfection what's the outcome? Anchored in a static position, unable to move to cover, or escape, because of lack of practice, may inadvertently take my eyes off the threat allowing the threat to close distance. Then having to either fire from a crouch, not ideal, or struggle to my feet, again not ideal. So. Ankle carry isn't working for me.
A good TUCKABLE IWB appendix would be superior from the seated position. Or a good belly band with velcro substituting buttons.
Just me, but ankle carry no way.

 

[Eutycus]

At least one has a lot of places to duck for cover in a church with those rows of pews. But would a wooden pew stop a bullet?

 

[tazbigdog]

When I was working uniform or undercover, I had tried 1/2 dozen different ankle holsters until one day I was in Lou Alessi’s shop in NY. I bought his ankle holster, and I tested it, as I did with all the others I had. One of the tests involved running, scuffling on ground, etc. and Lou’s holster was the best and most comfortable. I got rid of the others, and had my bobbed hammer Colt Detective revolver in it. Carried on my ankle for years, and the sold the gun to a friend (and gave him the holster as well). Bought a G27 and another Lou holster. Still have it, twenty years later. Love it.

 

[BobWright]

At least one has a lot of places to duck for cover in a church with those rows of pews. But would a wooden pew stop a bullet?

The pratice of getting low is not so much fr protection from the pew, but rather being down to avoid the possibility of being hit by "friendly fire." In other words keep ypur head down and let the security men do the shooting.

Bob Wright

 

[luzyfuerza]

...until one day I was in Lou Alessi’s shop in NY. I bought his ankle holster, and I tested it, as I did with all the others I had. One of the tests involved running, scuffling on ground, etc. and Lou’s holster was the best and most comfortable. I got rid of the others...

Ritchie Leather Co., Inc: Amherst, NY

Lou died in 2015, and his shop closed.

But Ritchie worked with Lou and co-designed the ankle holster Lou sold. The same product lives on, made by Ritchie and his three-man team.

 

[tazbigdog]

Ritchie Leather Co., Inc: Amherst, NY

Lou died in 2015, and his shop closed.

But Ritchie worked with Lou and co-designed the ankle holster Lou sold. The same product lives on, made by Ritchie and his three-man team.

Yeah, I know. Lou died in 2009, and his wife, sold it to Tom Kulwicki I met Tom at the NRA show in Houston. Tom passed away in 2018. You can find the ankle holsters on the web and ebay.

Obituary information for Louis F. Alessi

View Louis F. Alessi's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

www.grecofuneral.com

Thomas KULWICKI Obituary (2018) - Amherst, NY - Buffalo News

View Thomas KULWICKI's obituary, send flowers and sign the guestbook.

www.legacy.com

 

[defjon]

Here's an Uncle Mike's brand which I really like:

Buy Ankle Holster And More | Uncle Mikes

Shopping for the Ankle Holster? Learn more about the latest Alternative Carry and more at Uncle Mikes.

www.unclemikes.com

Although the price is low, this is my "GO-TO" holster due to fit and comfort.
I'm not specifically recommending ankle-carry for any particular person or the original poster, but the "OP" asked.
I've only carried handguns on the inside left ankle for right-hand draw; or inside right ankle for left-hand draw.
For less than ~$40, this might be at least the holster to first buy and try.

Do consider which J-Frame you have as this holster recommends a revolver with an exposed hammer as its thumbstrap wraps over the hammer. Even so, I was able to make the holster work with my shrouded hammer Model 642.

Ankle Glove (Ankle Holster)

Serious gun carriers who need deep concealment and prefer an ankle holster rave about Galco’s Ankle Glove™.

www.galcogunleather.com

Here's a more costly holster which, although very comfortable, is a larger package and I didn't use this holster too much.
There are models with and without a thumb-break/strap.

Order a Concealed Carry Ankle Gun Holster - Fobus Holster

Find the perfect concealed ankle holsters at our online store, Fobus Holster. We offer a full line to fit almost every make and model of concealable handgun

www.fobusholster.com

Fobus ankle holster did NOT work for me as its velcro-type wrap-around strap was just too thin. Perhaps Fobus changed its strap material or perhaps the holster would work for other users. My experience with that holster is likely 20+ years ago.

DeSantis is another brand with designs similar to Galco. DeSantis can be good also:

Search-result - DeSantis Holsters

www.desantisholster.com

There are other brands; all-leather types (probably costly); these may be great but I've never tried or owned them.
Here's a webpage for a Kramer ankle holster, which will run ~$400, if anyone's interested in all-leather.

Ankle Gun Holster

An exquisitely molded horsehide holster, mated to an ankle band made of plush sheep's wool and supple, shell cordovan horsehide. The Rolls Royce of ankle holsters. From the double rows of stitching to the shell cordovan covered hook and loop closure, no attention to detail has been spared...

www.kramerleather.com

Here's a Youtube video with more info. (I'll be watching the video later, myself.)

Best Ankle Holsters 2024 | Top 7 Ankle Holsters on Amazon

Are you looking for the Best Ankle Holsters on Amazon? These are some of the top 7 ankle holsters we found so far:▶️ 7. ComfortTac Ankle HolsterOpticsPlanet:...

www.youtube.com

Excellent response and I learned a bunch. Thanks!

 

[Eutycus]

The pratice of getting low is not so much fr protection from the pew, but rather being down to avoid the possibility of being hit by "friendly fire." In other words keep ypur head down and let the security men do the shooting.

Bob Wright

Very small church, I am the security man.

 

[Eutycus]

My plans kind of were to wear it on the left ankle, but this arthritis or gout hasn't gone away in over a week. I might just try a different method. So don't be surprised if you see another thread on holsters pop up.

 

[Arkansas Paul]

When I was stuck at the same desk for nearly 8 hours a day, ankle carry was my preferred method.
I was seated nearly all the time, so it made sense to me. It was extremely comfortable.
In fact, I've been places where I shouldn't have had a gun, and realized it was still strapped to my ankle. And that's all I'll say about that.

I carried a Taurus 709 Slim inside my left ankle.
I could get to it with one hand, but I wore dress slacks that were properly hemmed. With jeans and boots, it's a no go.

 

[Mauser lover]

At least one has a lot of places to duck for cover in a church with those rows of pews. But would a wooden pew stop a bullet?

Three or four might. Especially if there are hymnals in pockets on the back of the pew. Even if it’s not cover, it’s concealment.

I have a bugbite holster. It isn't an ankle holster, and because of this it may not work for you. I use it, and I like it, but you must resign yourself to not being able to access your firearm as quickly. There is no retention strap, but I've had no issues with retention, and do not expect any. My KelTec P32 fits quite nicely, and a P3AT or an LCP would do as well, but cannot comment on how a j-frame would fit.

It conceals very well, and this is why I like it. I think the concealment is superior to an ankle holster, just in case my pant leg gets hiked up. For me, the benefit of an ankle (or calf) holster is concealment above all else. Yes, it takes time to get to it. But it takes less time than running to my truck.

Oh, and it's washable!

The BUGBite Holster

Protected by US Patents: 9,846,008 & D788,452 SSize & Fit Chart: Find the correct size holster for yourself by clicking here.Compatible Guns: Confirm si...

bugbiteholsters.com

 

[luzyfuerza]

Lou died in 2009, and his wife, sold it to Tom Kulwicki I met Tom at the NRA show in Houston. Tom passed away in 2018. You can find the ankle holsters on the web and ebay.

Sorry about that. I knew that Lou had died and that his excellent products were no longer being made under his name.

But I wasn't sure of the date, and a quick search led me to a web page that gave me data that wasn't right. It was on the internet, so it had to be right...my bad!

 

[Eutycus]

How does BUGBite rate as far as comfort? Like on hot humidity days (South Texas)

 

[Mauser lover]

I think it must be more comfortable than a normal ankle holster. I can’t imagine how a normal one would be more comfortable. That being said (or typed), it’s definitely not something I’d wear just because, but not uncomfortable enough that I would be incapable of falling asleep. Regarding heat and humidity, it’s warm, but I can’t think a normal one would be any less warm. Also, it can be washed! I live in Southeast KY, so we have plenty of humidity, and the capability of washing it is not something that anyone could convince me to minimize.

 

[Eutycus]

I am considering ordering one of those BUGBite holsters. But the link that you provided asks for Holster "size". I find that term confusing. What is holster size? Are they asking for calf size (lenght) or the actual holster (depth) itself? I don't want to wind up with one having a holster or pocket big enough for a big gun like a 1911. It is intended for a J frame. I do want the long or longest calf . I am 6'2" and long legged.

 

[Eutycus]

I am considering ordering one of those BUGBite holsters. But the link that you provided asks for Holster "size". I find that term confusing. What is holster size? Are they asking for calf size (lenght) or the actual holster (depth) itself? I don't want to wind up with one having a holster or pocket big enough for a big gun like a 1911. It is intended for a J frame. I do want the long or longest calf . I am 6'2" and long legged.

Never mind , I reread the link and they appear to be asking for lenght.

 

[Mauser lover]

I am considering ordering one of those BUGBite holsters. But the link that you provided asks for Holster "size". I find that term confusing. What is holster size? Are they asking for calf size (lenght) or the actual holster (depth) itself? I don't want to wind up with one having a holster or pocket big enough for a big gun like a 1911. It is intended for a J frame. I do want the long or longest calf . I am 6'2" and long legged.

It’s actually the diameter of the fattest part of your calf. How you are supposed to measure is in one of the pictures.