Compact = OWB, Fullsize = IWB?

[BerettaNut92]

Has carrying a compact vs a fullsize made the difference for you whether you go OWB over IWB?

I carry a fullsize Beretta IWB; my reasoning is the shorter grips on compacts don't make much difference as far as concealability, and the shorter snout is irrelevant as it's in your pants.

But as carrying OWB has its advantages as far as draw speed, have you found that carrying a compact means you carry OWB instead = faster draw?

Compacts to me have always meant less sight radius, but lately have been considering one as the chopped length means it's likely to peek out from under my shirt?

 

[ACP]

I would think just the opposite. Usually it's the longer barrels that poke and prod you in an IWB, so folks opt for an OWB holster. The shorter guns, which probably have a more compact frame, too, can fit more comfortably in an IWB.

From what I recall of your photos, Skunk, you are a pretty trim guy. That's not the case for those THR members who may be fighting the battle of the bulge, or at least aren't buying their pants 2" too big to accomodate an IWB. Then (I imagine) a large-framed, long-barreled pistol would be hell in an IWB.

I've never liked IWBs, and I've had some good ones, including a Mitch Rosen. Just can't seem to get the grip as fully and as quickly as I'd like. I have always opted for OWBs for 1911s, Glocks, BHPs, and S&W K- and L-frames. I carry a J-frame in a pocket holster.

If you are worried about quickly clearing the leather (or Kydex), just get one with a front cutout, like the BladeTech models have.

Just my .02...

 

[SapperLeader]

I carry both fullsize and compact pistols iwb. My reasoning is that I need less of a cover garment since I only need to conceal the grips. From a comfort standpoint, I would think that fullsize might be more comfortable owb, but it is certainly doable iwb.

 

[jacketch]

If carrying a compact (P239) it is always IWB because of clothing/weather constraints(warm weather). When carrying fullsize (1911, BHP) lax clothing restrictions usually allow either IWB or OWB (cool weather).

 

[Smoke]

I carry Fullsize (Para P14 Limited) IWB & OWB. Depends on cover clothing.
I carry COmpact (Kimber Ultra Carry CDP) IWB & OWB. Depends on cover clothing.


I have all sizes of 1911's and have carried each of them in almost every fashion I can think of. I use the same holsters for full size and compacts. It really doesn't matter.

Smoke

 

[P95Carry]

OWB, OWB ...... oh and - OWB!! hell .. compact, std ... whatever .... IWB just does not work for me!!!

Oh and sho rig sometimes .... another option.......... plus... if pushed - Smart Carry and even Ankle Pocket. But IWB .. hell no!! (just me!! )

 

[PCRCCW]

I carry both sizes in both ways. It just depends on the guns and the day.
Access to the guns and the draw is the same....my IWB carries just like my Pancakes do...same angle, position and grip angle.....Why change what it took so long to learn in the first place??????????????

Shoot well...............

 

[Khornet]

If I can only have one...

it'll be an IWB, full size or compact. That way I can conceal whatever the climate or dress. I ain't skinny, but a G22 or a Para Tac Four do just fine all day long in my Tucker Texas Heritage holsters.

 

[Marko Kloos]

I carry a fullsize Beretta IWB; my reasoning is the shorter grips on compacts don't make much difference as far as concealability, and the shorter snout is irrelevant as it's in your pants.

You're actually wrong on the grip issue. The height of the grip is what determines concealability. The width of the gun determines carry comfort, and the length of the gun only matters when you carry OWB. A longer gun is more difficult to conceal OWB, but barrel length (within reason) is irrelevant in a good IWB. A shorter snout may, however, provide increased comfort in some models...a Commander-length 1911 won't have the full-sized model's tendency to shove the butt of the gun into your ribcage when you sit down. Also, the shorter snout will clear leather faster, both IWB and OWB.

 

[PCRCCW]

Marko....some good points but not as accurate as you may think.

Depending on your build, carry location and so on...the longer slide can indeed become a hinderence when carried IWB. Ive had to alter customer owned hoslters so they ride higher or make them new ones just for that reason.
Ive experienced it on occasion. At 4.00 with alot of cant and a Govt 1911, the muzzle may hit the chair when sitting and cause the grip to go away from the body.....this can be rectified by shifting the gun before sitting...but this is not always a "proper thing to do"

Everyone is different and thats about the only rule.

Shoot well.