Since I obtained my CHP I've carried my Glock 26 IWB whenever possible and I've found it to be very comfortable; I don't specifically plan on replacing the G26 for everyday IWB carry. The other day, however, I went hiking and I OC'd my Glock in a Bianchi UM92 holster on my backpack's waste straps (in 1 o'clock position). Although comfortable at first, my heavy austrian brick quickly found its way to my backpack where it remained for the rest of the [strenuous all-day] hike.
Long story short, I need an LCR for alternate forms of carry when my G26 can't be carried IWB (especially while hiking). That includes 1 o'clock OC, OWB hip (if possible with whatever pack I'm using), and probably pocket carry as well.
In your opinion, are there any issues with going with the 3" .38 spl LCR over the 1.87" (considering things like overall carry comfort, mobility, and overall practicality)? Which would you choose given my situation?
Thanks!
I own and carry both the G26 and a Ruger 3" LCRx and here is my take...
First off, the G26 is an excellent self defense handgun and is a great companion for hiking. Small, light, accurate, and with 10+1 of standard or +P ammo it is a great carry gun with a lot of firepower in a small package. Although it is light, it will carry much better on your body than on the waist straps of your pack.
For open carry of the G26, I would suggest a pancake style belt holster. Having the gun on your person will make it feel lighter and less of a brick. To try an inexpensive option of the pancake design get a GLOCK Sport and Combat holster. This GLOCK holster is inexpensive, yet does the job well. Below is a link to one at MidwayUSA:
GLOCK Sport and Combat Holster at MidwayUSA
Next up, the Ruger 3" LCRx... As they say ounces turn into pounds when in the woods. Your post mentioned this gun would be used OWB for hiking. The 3" LCR is light enough to almost disappear when on your hip and in my opinion would be a great option for you.
I bought mine for in the woods carry and it fills that bill quite well. It weighs around 1 pound and the longer 3" barrel appears more accurate than the snubbie versions because of the extra sight radius. You also get an a little more velocity with the longer barrel, however the 3" barrel doesn't allow for pocket carry. I generally limit my 3" Ruger to in the woods carry because the longer barrel makes it harder to conceal when compared to my other carry options. The snubbie version could give you more options for concealed carry if that is something you are looking for.
I carry my 3" LCRx OWB in a leather pancake style Mitch Rosen holster which I purchased from
Ruger's on-line store. My revolver came with a $25 discount coupon from Ruger which made this holster a great buy.
The 3" LCRx is a great lightweight trail gun, but here are some other considerations... 1) It only has a 5 round capacity. Not a show stopper for me, but some want more rounds on tap. 2) It is only chambered in 38 Special +P. This is a good defensive caliber for 2-legged threats and is a very effective caliber for taking small game. However, if bears are the reason you are carrying a sidearm I would look to a more effective caliber. I no longer live in a location with a big bear threat so a lightweight revolver in +P 38 Special is just fine. 3) Grip angle. The LCR's grip angle is much more vertical than that of your G26. This isn't good or bad, but the LCR will point much lower if you use your standard GLOCK hold. 4) Lastly, a light weight revolver can be a challenge to shoot accurately. The trigger pulls are heavy and lighter guns tend to move around more during the trigger stroke and may require some practice to master.
In summary... The G26 and 3" LCRx both get a thumbs up from me for in the woods carry. Regardless of the choice, for hiking I suggest OWB carry in a pancake style holster.
Let us know what you pick!
Edmo