Quoheleth
Member
As I get closer to getting my CCL (take the class in either Sept. or Oct., depending on when it's offered & scheduling), I’m wrestling with what to carry and where to carry it on Sunday mornings.
I’ve been thinking that the kel-tek .32 or .380 or Ruger LCP would be my choice. They are small & flat, disappear into the front pocket of a pair of slacks (my usual Sunday morning attire, outside of the service) and relatively inexpensive. From comments I’ve read here, most seem to be able to shoot them reasonably well (6”) out to about 20 feet or so.
But this morning I realized that if a BG entered through our doors at the rear of the sanctuary, and I were at the front of the chancel (altar area), I would be more like 20 YARDS+ away. The very characteristics that make the KT or LCP an excellent pocket auto (and close-range weapon) could make it difficult to use at that distance should, God forbid, I need it. I’ve held both KTs and LCPs: are these weapons capable of accurately engaging man-sized targets at that distance?
So, that’s got me wondering if I should pursue something a bit bigger with better sighting equipment – Bersa .380 concealed carry, PT111, XD9c, M&P9c all come to mind, along with a j-frame Smith or Taurus. While these provide better sights and better grip, they become conspicuous for pocket carry w/out a coat or something worn over the top (I see the similar thread here about PF9 vs j-frame). During the worship service I wear full vestments – alb (full-length robe) gathered at the waist with a cincture (rope). A larger weapon in the pocket wouldn't be a problem then; the robe covers the bulging pockets. But between services and after the late service, I wear only slacks & shirt – rarely a suitcoat – so bulging pockets would be a quick giveaway.
I could carry in the pocket during the service and then transition to IWB during Bible class and after-church meetings, but I would prefer to not have to move the weapon around, even in the privacy of my office.
That leaves ankle carry. I saw an episode of downrange TV where Todd Jarrett was demonstrating how weapons in different positions could be brought into action. The ankle was no where as fast as untucked-IWB, but it also provides the benefit of dropping into a crouching position, making a smaller target.
Honestly I’ll probably have to begin my carry process with an IWB weapon – I don’t have funds to purchase a new carry weapon AND my license. I have a full-size MP9, 3” SP101, and 1911 in my safe; I would probably use the SP101 to start, tucked IWB, and hope that should something happen I could get to it fast enough. I just couldn't see toting that SP101 in an ankle holster...
I’m sorry this is long; I wanted to explain my thoughts and why I am thinking what I am thinking. If I am wrong and KTs and LCPs can be used to engage targets at 20+ yards, the rest of this is moot. If, however, their diminutive size, sights, and grips make such shooting difficult then I need to be thinking of other options.
Thanks,
Q
I’ve been thinking that the kel-tek .32 or .380 or Ruger LCP would be my choice. They are small & flat, disappear into the front pocket of a pair of slacks (my usual Sunday morning attire, outside of the service) and relatively inexpensive. From comments I’ve read here, most seem to be able to shoot them reasonably well (6”) out to about 20 feet or so.
But this morning I realized that if a BG entered through our doors at the rear of the sanctuary, and I were at the front of the chancel (altar area), I would be more like 20 YARDS+ away. The very characteristics that make the KT or LCP an excellent pocket auto (and close-range weapon) could make it difficult to use at that distance should, God forbid, I need it. I’ve held both KTs and LCPs: are these weapons capable of accurately engaging man-sized targets at that distance?
So, that’s got me wondering if I should pursue something a bit bigger with better sighting equipment – Bersa .380 concealed carry, PT111, XD9c, M&P9c all come to mind, along with a j-frame Smith or Taurus. While these provide better sights and better grip, they become conspicuous for pocket carry w/out a coat or something worn over the top (I see the similar thread here about PF9 vs j-frame). During the worship service I wear full vestments – alb (full-length robe) gathered at the waist with a cincture (rope). A larger weapon in the pocket wouldn't be a problem then; the robe covers the bulging pockets. But between services and after the late service, I wear only slacks & shirt – rarely a suitcoat – so bulging pockets would be a quick giveaway.
I could carry in the pocket during the service and then transition to IWB during Bible class and after-church meetings, but I would prefer to not have to move the weapon around, even in the privacy of my office.
That leaves ankle carry. I saw an episode of downrange TV where Todd Jarrett was demonstrating how weapons in different positions could be brought into action. The ankle was no where as fast as untucked-IWB, but it also provides the benefit of dropping into a crouching position, making a smaller target.
Honestly I’ll probably have to begin my carry process with an IWB weapon – I don’t have funds to purchase a new carry weapon AND my license. I have a full-size MP9, 3” SP101, and 1911 in my safe; I would probably use the SP101 to start, tucked IWB, and hope that should something happen I could get to it fast enough. I just couldn't see toting that SP101 in an ankle holster...
I’m sorry this is long; I wanted to explain my thoughts and why I am thinking what I am thinking. If I am wrong and KTs and LCPs can be used to engage targets at 20+ yards, the rest of this is moot. If, however, their diminutive size, sights, and grips make such shooting difficult then I need to be thinking of other options.
Thanks,
Q