[txpossum]

Originally Posted by RUG3R44

I agree w/ DONN.

See message to Donn.

[JTJ]

The typical aluminum frame officers model 1911 weighs 25 oz empty.

[txpossum]

I will admit that there is one disadvanage to carrying a heavier weapon on one's belt -- when unbuckled in the restroom the belt and pants show an inclination to head south.

While disadvanges of wearing a belt holster have been discussed, not much has been said about the "belly band" type of holster. When worn over a t-shirt but under an outer shirt it is comfortable, but when I position the gun under my arm it is almost impossible to detect -- and I am 5'8" and 165 .

[shaf45]

Originally Posted by txpossum

I will admit that there is one disadvanage to carrying a heavier weapon on one's belt -- when unbuckled in the restroom the belt and pants show an inclination to head south.

While disadvanges of wearing a belt holster have been discussed, not much has been said about the "belly band" type of holster. When worn over a t-shirt but under an outer shirt it is comfortable, but when I position the gun under my arm it is almost impossible to detect -- and I am 5'8" and 165 .

I can end all your problems right now do what I do wear suspenders your shirt will cover it as long as you were T-shirt and nobody will ever know and when you going to the bathroom the pants do not move as long as you have a sturdy belt Take it for me I work with my weapon every single day

[JimRau]

Originally Posted by txpossum

Why the emphasis on "lightweight" carry guns? I personally prefer carrying a weapon with a little heft.

I could carry just about any handgun I cared to, and I own many to choose from; however, my two carry companions for the last 15 years (that all alternating -- I don't carry two at the same time) have been either a full size 1911, or a .40 caliber Firestar, which was the first compact .40 caliber. Y'all all know the shape and size of a 1911; the Firestar is about the size of the Colt Officer's ACP that was my carry prior to switching to the Firestar. (Although different internally, the controls of the Firestar are the same as a 1911 -- a very underrated little gun, but that's another story).

I carry in either a IWB holster behind my hip, or, if more concealment is needed, in a "bellyband" under my shirt, without printing or discomfort; their weight and size is so unnoticeable that I frequently forget that I'm wearing them -- I'll have been home a couple of hours before I realize I haven't taken them off yet. (I'm an average sized person)

Why do I carry these guns instead of a smaller, lighter "concealment" gun?

1. Caliber. I like self defense calibers that start with a "4". The .380 used to be known as a "mousegun" (yes, I know advances in ammo has increased it's stopping power), and I've never been a fan of the 9mm (but let's not get into that discussion here).

2. Accuracy. Both of my carry guns are reasonably accurate up to 25 yards. (Yes, I know studies have shown that most gunfights occurs at less than 7 yards. My guns work just fine at this distance too.) Decent sight radius and you can get a good grip on 'em.

3. Control. I believe that the ability to re-acquire a target (or multiple targets) is an important aspect of a self defense firearm. With my carry guns the ability go get back on target quickly is not a problem, even when shooting one-handed.

So . . . why the preference for "little" guns?

Because you do not need a 'big' gun to do the job thanks to modern bullet performance!

[phildenton]

Originally Posted by txpossum

Okay, but I still maintain that with the proper holster, it is just as easy to conceal a 1911 as it is a smaller gun.

Some people are unable to pjysically pick up a full size weapon (not me, i carry a 4" 357), so consider that. Everyone who is safe & sane should be able to defend themselves. You like a hefty weapon, that is your personal choice, dont beat upon someone elses. And besides, there are still plenty of hefty models being manufactured.

[ScottA]

Personally, I find pocket carry unnoticeable, so I keep my carry guns small.

I hate carrying on my waist. I find it very uncomfortable when sitting down, particularly in the car.

I've considered shoulder carry, but haven't sprung for a holster yet.

[hardluk1]

Why a light weight guns?? Really, there easier to carry . Why weigh your self down with a heavy firearm if you can control a lighter version??

[RaySendero]

Originally Posted by HOSSFLY

Its just personal preferance -

Exactly!

I would prefer to carry a small light weight handgun,

But, much prefer shooting a heavier one if I had to!

[Doc3402]

Originally Posted by StainlessSteel215

I understand your perspective on your justification for carrying bigger guns but its quite simple for most people who choose subcompact/small frame/lightweight guns: better conceal-ability.

I agree with you for the most part, but why do so many people prefer Airweight "J" frames over steel "J" frames? Unless it's in an ankle holster as a back up my S&W 360PD never gets out of the safe. By the same token my S&W Mod 60 sees regular use for a few reasons. I can shoot it better, I can reliably use lighter rounds, and I'm not having to regrip it after each shot.