While open carrying, we're always out of Condition White -- it's our responsibility to be aware of our surroundings and appropriately protect our firearm. As such, obtaining a holster with a level of retention is a crucial part of the gear we should carry.
Holsters
A personal recommendation, and a recommendation of others, is the Blackhawk Serpa CQC which offers an active retention mechanism that locks the firearm into place when it's inserted into the holster. It's easily drawn by using your natural draw grip to activate the platform level and release your weapon. The holster also comes with, in addition to the standard belt loop attachment, a paddle attachment for a closer position to the body.
If you have any other suggestions on holsters that use other forms of retention, please post your advice here; however, to those who are looking for holsters and intent to OC, DON'T rely on friction alone to keep your firearm secure!
Belts
Other recommended gear includes, of course, a decent gun belt. I wear my gun belt every day -- it's the dress belt from Concealed Carry Clothiers which is doubly reinforced leather. Wearing it almost everyday for the past half year, it shows absolutely no sign of wear or stretching. Your standard dress belt will generally sag or begin to sag after several weeks.
Illumination
I often carry a high intensity flashlight that provides 66 lumens of illumination. This is great for low light situations or even getting the mail at night.
Magazines
Since your magazine is a mechanical device that can fail, some members like to carry an extra magazine.
Less Than Lethal
Lastly, some folks like to carry another LTL (Less Than Lethal) item such as OC Spray or a knife on their weak side either as a non-lethal method of defending yourself.
Feel free to give tips, recommendations and explain what you carry and why for the benefit of others.
Holsters
A personal recommendation, and a recommendation of others, is the Blackhawk Serpa CQC which offers an active retention mechanism that locks the firearm into place when it's inserted into the holster. It's easily drawn by using your natural draw grip to activate the platform level and release your weapon. The holster also comes with, in addition to the standard belt loop attachment, a paddle attachment for a closer position to the body.
If you have any other suggestions on holsters that use other forms of retention, please post your advice here; however, to those who are looking for holsters and intent to OC, DON'T rely on friction alone to keep your firearm secure!
Belts
Other recommended gear includes, of course, a decent gun belt. I wear my gun belt every day -- it's the dress belt from Concealed Carry Clothiers which is doubly reinforced leather. Wearing it almost everyday for the past half year, it shows absolutely no sign of wear or stretching. Your standard dress belt will generally sag or begin to sag after several weeks.
Illumination
I often carry a high intensity flashlight that provides 66 lumens of illumination. This is great for low light situations or even getting the mail at night.
Magazines
Since your magazine is a mechanical device that can fail, some members like to carry an extra magazine.
Less Than Lethal
Lastly, some folks like to carry another LTL (Less Than Lethal) item such as OC Spray or a knife on their weak side either as a non-lethal method of defending yourself.
Feel free to give tips, recommendations and explain what you carry and why for the benefit of others.
Rob/Wynder
Delaware Open Carry, Founder
Notary Public
Delaware Open Carry, Founder
Notary Public