I Went With Strong Side

By Paul Rackley (RSS)

December 21, 2011

It was much easier deciding to carry a handgun on a daily basis than it was deciding how to carry that handgun. I knew I wanted it accessible, but well hidden, and I had to be able to train with the system. I also knew that I wanted to carry my Kimber Ultra Carry in .45 ACP.

I started with three carry options—shoulder, small-of-the-back and strong side. This was quickly reduced to two as I didn’t want to have to wear a coat every day. This left SOB and strong side, which I researched to determine which would be best for me. Both styles provide excellent cover and easy access. The deciding factor was that most ranges do not allow drawing from SOB. If I couldn’t train from my holster choice, then it wasn’t the choice I wanted.

The only decision left was whether to carry inside or outside of my waistband. Carrying IWB would require changing the way I dress, but it would also allow for deeper concealment as the handgun would be pulled closer to the body. In the end, I decided on IWB and ordered a Milt Sparks Versa Max II. Currently, I carry one of two handguns—both 1911s—depending on the situation and time of year.  I still carry my Kimber in my VersaMax, but I also like to carry my Colt 1991 in a CrossBreed SuperTuck during the winter months.

Tags:  blogs,  holster options,  i went with strong side,  paul rackley,  rackattack,  strong-side carry,  ways to carry a handgun

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6 Responses to I Went With Strong Side

Bill Johnson wrote:
August 20, 2013

I would think that strong side while seated behind the wheel might be a problem. Personally while driving I prefer the cross draw method & since I designed my own IWB holster it fits either way.

Brad wrote:
January 10, 2012

I was always taught that SOB was bad, because if you fell, you could paralyze yourself.

Mark Cline wrote:
January 04, 2012

I went with strong side carry, also. For muzzle control, and shortest path to the target, it is the best choice. My 4 levels of carry/concealment begin with a Blackhawk Serpa, Uncle Mike's Belt Slide, Uncle Mike's IWB, Galco Belly Band. I carry a Glock 27, winter, or summer. Concealment depends on circumstances and weather. Chest Grip! Chest Pull! Chest Rotate! Chest Fire!!

George Frasier wrote:
January 04, 2012

As a past instructor for Navy Seabees and Boy Scouts I'd recommend youth training or familiarization starting out on the range with a PAPER quart milk carton filled with strawberry jello. That may be a bit graphic but WILL get attention and drive home the fact of damage that can be done with even a small .22 caliber bullet. Many people use watermelons or pumpkins but milk cartons and jello are "year-round" and WILL wake everybody up, even those familiar with guns. It helps to use a hollow point. This may be a good point to pass on to other instructors.

Kieth Gibbons wrote:
January 03, 2012

I believe everyone has the right to defend themselves.

MattS wrote:
December 21, 2011

In the end I opted for strong-side as well. I started out with a great shoulder rig. Then I thought SOB would give better concealment but believe it or not it printed the most. Not when standing straight of course, but every thing else I had to do while going about my day. Finally settled on strong-side and haven't looked back.