Advice request for CCW with family/kids

[ropadop]

I have recently started carrying my G19 iwb instead of a fanny pack. If I drive for any prolonged period of time with my G19 in my iwb holster, my right kidney starts to protest mightily. When I am with the family and kids, I don't want to take the pistol out of the holster since my kids don't know I am carrying. Any suggestions?

[jimbob86]

Find a more comfortable gun and/or holster. A Glock 19 IWB sounds pretty uncomfortable ......

I find Glocks too blocky ...... I'm sure they'd poke me, too.

I Carry an EMP in a Bianchi 100.

[m&p45acp10+1]

I went to pocket carry with a small gun for the times when IWB will not work for me.

[allaroundhunter]

What holster are you carrying that G19 IWB in?

[ClydeFrog]

I'd start by explaining to my kids & family members that Im carrying. :rolleyes:
Im not sure why you want to keep that topic private but Id carry the Glock 19 in a crossdraw or maybe a shoulder-holster.
You can buy a Blackhawk SERPA & get it converted from a straight or a angled carry(for crossdraw).
There are a # of decent OWB or strongside holsters on the US market for compact Glocks. Depending on your choices or budget, you can get horsehide, shark, bull, rhino, etc.
For good shoulder holsters, see; Galco Miami Classic II, Aker Comfort Flex, Kirkpatrick Leather, Ted Blocker Lifeline(used on NBC's Miami Vice & Fox's Bones), Lawman Leathergoods STU holster.

ClydeFrog
www.usgalco.com www.lawmanleathergoods.com www.miltsparks.com www.blackhawk.com www.tedblockerholsters.com www.donhume.com www.wrightleatherworks.com www.mitchrosen.com www.kirkpatickleather.com www.safariland.com www.highnoonholsters.com

[tony pasley]

What ages are the kids? Older kids you can explain that you carry but it is a private thing no to be discussed outside of the home. After that you can get some other type of carry system for long travel,

[X_shooter]

On behalf of all concealed carriers, thanks for dropping the fanny pack. I am in the same position with kids and others that dont know I carry. I have tried several holsters and several guns for that invisible feel. I find that ride height makes a difference as well as cant. I have started making my own IWB kydex where I can adjust those parameters for this very reason.

I find that 9:00 carry or 3:00 for you righties rides better in an extended seating position. I have tried pancreas carry or appendix for you righties if it rides high enough to not poke the privates works too. Pocket carry is always your option. I find this offers the most worry free carry for me.

[WyMark]

I'd start by explaining to my kids & family members that Im carrying.

Good idea, cause having your little kid tell someone that "Daddy's got a gun!" would be good for lots of laughs.

[jimbob86]

My kids all know that dad carries a gun. They also know that there are things polite people don't talk about in public. Things on the inside of our pants are on that list.

[Rob228]

I have a Safariland holster wrapped in skateboard tape that sits between my seat and the console, if I am driving for more than half an hour my Glock 36 comes out of my IWB holster and goes into that one. At the moment it is just my wife, but when our first is born this January I do have a few years to go before it gets explained to her.

[Corrections Cop]

With regards to ccw and family, my kids are young, 2&5. My kids know I carry, but me and my wife do not make a big deal of it. It is normal to them, just like me carrying a wallet. My oldest knows that it is not a toy and only used to defend against bad guys. And since it is normal to them it is hardly ever discussed. With regards to IWB carry, I carry a Sig P226 or a Walther PPKS both IWB, try canting the holster forward, that works best for me, even while driving. Hope this helps.

[Bartholomew Roberts]

What kind of holster are you using? I suspect this is a big part of the discomfort problem. All holsters are not created equal.

[ClydeFrog]

I disagree with post 8.
Small children & pre-teens can be taught how to be around firearms or gear.
Little kids would not make a issue of it or say anything if you teach them about guns/holsters/ammunition.
I don't subscribe to the hide things/lie/mislead/ignore things from young kids.
That's not the type of parent I would be.
Kids aren't dumb or simple, you can talk to them about guns & concealed carry when they are ready.

[Indi]

Ive carried a glock 26/19/23 iwb for the last couple of years. I started carrying in the galco king tuk which is a hybrid iwb holster similar to Crossbreeds supertuck. It worked fine, i carried it all day and was extremely comfortable. The kydex cracked from wear but its still usable. Currently im carrying the same guns in a compatc mtac, i also bought a gun belt with it and am very happy with this set up. Again i carry it all day from morning to night with out any discomfort. I have 1 kydex holster with belt loops for iwb carry and find it to be the most uncomfortable piece of plastic i own, i got it with the glock 19, part of the trade. Ive found hybrid holsters are extremely comfortable.

Good idea, cause having your little kid tell someone that "Daddy's got a gun!" would be good for lots of laughs.

While at the Chicago Field museum last winter my 2.5 year old daughter had to go potty, the womans restroom had a long line, and the mens was empty, so i took my daughter to the mens restroom. Well while shes sitting there she deciedes to ask me loadly "Daddy, you got your gun?"....lol. After finishing up we got out washed our hands and continued on with our buisness. I didnt bring my gun to the museum because of the laws of the state. If she did this to me somewhere in Oklahoma (where i can legally carry) i wouldnt worry much about it, I would tell her yup and tell her to hush.

[Spats McGee]

Telling the kids may or may not be appropriate, depending on the age and temperament of the kids. I have to say, though, that I really like this line:
My kids all know that dad carries a gun. They also know that there are things polite people don't talk about in public. Things on the inside of our pants are on that list.
That's AWESOME!

When my daughter was younger, I told her something similar: Guns are like underwear. I always wear 'em, but I don't want you talking to your friends about them.

ETA: Only the OP can make the determination as to whether to tell the kids, whether to tell them now or later, etc. With that said, it would help to know what kind of IWB holster you're using, OP. I use a Theis, which is a CBST clone. I love the holster, and it does its job very well. I have to admit, though, that it's not as comfortable as an OWB in leather. Since virtually everyone who rides in my car already knows that I carry, I don't have to worry about being "exposed," though.

[Evan Thomas]

Telling the kids may or may not be appropriate, depending on the age and temperament of the kids. I have to say, though, that I really like this line:

My kids all know that dad carries a gun. They also know that there are things polite people don't talk about in public. Things on the inside of our pants are on that list.
That's AWESOME!
It is. I laughed out loud -- because it's perfect.

[Tactical Jackalope]

When my daughter was younger, I told her something similar: Guns are like underwear. I always wear 'em, but I don't want you talking to your friends about them.

ETA: Only the OP can make the determination as to whether to tell the kids, whether to tell them now or later, etc. With that said, it would help to know what kind of IWB holster you're using, OP. I use a Theis, which is a CBST clone. I love the holster, and it does its job very well. I have to admit, though, that it's not as comfortable as an OWB in leather. Since virtually everyone who rides in my car already knows that I carry, I don't have to worry about being "exposed," though.

That's hilarious! lol nice call.


OP, my main CCW is a Glock 19.

I carry the following ways depending on many things:

IWB @ 1:00 (appendix) for work with a Unlce Mike's (garbage holster) and just purchased a PHLster (http://www.phlster.com/) holster, the "Skeleton" and it feels like home. (I'm a kydex guy) Doesn't bother me at all. With a belt loop.

IWB @ 4:00 (strong side) in a De Santis Intruder holster (http://www.midwayusa.com/product/127844/desantis-intruder-inside-the-waistband-holster-right-hand-glock-17-19-22-23-26-27-34-35-kydex-and-leather-black). It's kydex and leather that molds to your body type and it's really comfortable. You forget the gun is even there. With 2 hooks.

IWB @ 4:00 (strong side) in a Bravo Concealment (http://bravoconcealment.com/) holster that's for the Glock 19 with a Streamlight TLR-1s (http://www.streamlight.com/en-us)

OWB @ 3:30 (duty side) from this entrepreneur (http://www.ebay.com/usr/deepconcealmentholsters). He makes one of the best holsters I've ever used.

[allaroundhunter]

My kids all know that dad carries a gun. They also know that there are things polite people don't talk about in public. Things on the inside of our pants are on that list.

This right here could be the best signature line... Ever.

[ClydeFrog]

I find it interesting that a few gun owners/license holders have not discussed or addressed the gun issue with their family members/significant other(s).

I would talk about or plan all of the issues related to concealed carry with my spouse/family before there was a problem or conflict.

A few years ago, I saw a TV program where a active US Secret Service agent discussed being a witness/victim of a "takedown" robbery in a restaurant while he was off-duty.
He said he followed his USSS training for dealing with those incidents.
The US Secret Service, correctly in my view, trains armed personnel in how to handle these events or off duty situations where a crime may occur.
CCW license holders or armed citizens should do the same. What would you do if a armed robbery took place in front of you? What would your spouse or domestic partner do? If armed would they "back your play"? Do you & your family members have any duress codes or signals for emergencies?
Would your older children or teens know what's expected of them in a lethal force event? Could you or your spouse provide basic first aid or treat a gun shot wound/serious injury?
Buying a smoke alarm or a few fire extinguishers after your house burns down isn't a smart plan. Neither is carrying a loaded firearm & not having plans or training.

Clyde

[TailGator]

Some excellent parenting is going on by forum members, with Jimbob86 foremost in today's competition.

I am going to take a little different direction in my gun advice: Go back to the fanny pack for long car trips. That is one of the times when fanny packs really shine. The pistol is laying right there in your lap, with far easier access than an IWB holster inside both a seat belt and a cover garment that you are likely to be either sitting on or binding up with the seat belt. And who cares about what kind of fashion statement you are making at rest stops and gas stations?

If you have opportunity to discretely switch the pistol back to IWB when you get there, so much the better, but why put fashion over comfort and safety?

FWIW, I also find a fanny pack convenient when doing home repairs and lawn work. The pistol is protected from sweat, dirt, and dust, and there is no extra cover garment or worry about accidental exposure. And that is another time when sartorial elegance is of no consequence.

[ropadop]

Thanks for all the great replies. It may be time to talk to my boys about ccw.

I have several iwb holsters. The one that caused me to beg for my fannypack was a remora "sticky" holster wearing shorts and a golf shirt. I was in the car for several hours while on a shopping trip. I also have a hybrid crossbreed type holster, but it feels a little bulky for summer carry. I have a 911 vest, but I never really got comfortable with it. I also have used a belly band with the G19 at 3 oclock a little above my waist line. Although the belly band is stealthy and comfortable, it was a little cumbersome to draw from.

Again, thanks for all the input.

[ClydeFrog]

As concealed carry becomes more common, many outlets are making clothes/gear that conceal weapons.
Check; www.5.11tactical.com www.woolrichelite.com www.blackhawk.com www.glockstore.com www.glockbooks.com www.galls.com www.uscav.com .

There are ways to conceal a Glock compact but you need to train/carry with it too.

Stay safe;
Clyde

[WyMark]

My kids all know that dad carries a gun. They also know that there are things polite people don't talk about in public. Things on the inside of our pants are on that list.

I agree, and that there is funny as hell.

But...

While at the Chicago Field museum last winter my 2.5 year old daughter had to go potty, the womans restroom had a long line, and the mens was empty, so i took my daughter to the mens restroom. Well while shes sitting there she deciedes to ask me loadly "Daddy, you got your gun?"

Kids sometimes blurt things out despite whatever you've talked about, or think they understand. They know immediately that they weren't supposed to say what just came out, but it can sometimes be a little awkward.

[jimbob86]

Some excellent parenting is going on by forum members, with Jimbob86 foremost in today's competition.


Thank You for the compliments, guys ...... sometimes (especially with teen-agers!) it is hard to know if you are doing a good, or even adequate job ..... and it is my full time job ...... I'm a full time dad and part time contractor.

Thanks again.

[Koda94]

I highly recommend a holster that allows you to re-holster one handed. One of the most comfortable IWB holsters I have tried is a "tuckable" IWB from Hidden Hybred Holsters, very high quality at an excellent price. Delivery under 2 weeks. They make one for the G19: http://shop.hiddenhybridholsters.com/HHH-C1-HHH-C1.htm

http://shop.hiddenhybridholsters.com/images/13747116856011321696047.jpeg


I've never hid from my family that I carry, I think its important that they know how to react in public if they realize I'm carrying, not just how to interact with you but what to do if you needed to use the gun. I also had a polite but serious talk with my 10yr old daughter about talking about it in public. She likes to give me hugs alot and so I included how to without grabbing/moving/printing the gun, my wife too whom otherwise is not a gun person.

Thank God your moving away from the fanny pack carry, good luck on your search for a quality holster if your like most you'll end up with a few that didn't work out for you before finding the right one.

[Qtiphky]

When I first started carrying years ago, I didn't have a true "gun belt" and even a cross breed deluxe was uncomfortable. I got a true "gun belt" from Blackhawk and it made a huge difference. I can carry all day long and not even notice I am carrying. I have recently lost a lot of weight and had to order a smaller belt, couldn't find the CQC belt and had to go with a different one. If you look, you can find one that will work. I wear dress clothes virtually every day and even though I am carrying IWB under my dress shirt, you can't tell. I have carried a Walther PPK/S, a Beretta 92FS compact and an M&P40c very comfortably for years. I have found that 3 o'clock is the most comfortable while driving for distances, many times as much as 5-6 hours at a time. Even though IWB would be difficult to draw in a vehicle, the gun is always with me. I have tried Bianchi leather holsters (worked and comfortable), SERPA outside the waistband (not real easy to conceal), Crossbreed Supertuck (fantastic), and a Minotaur Comptac/Mtac (even better).

As for telling your kids, that's entirely up to you. Mine know and have since I started carrying, but they were of an age where they knew to be quiet about it. As far distress words/codes and what I expect from them in a situation, we haven't really discussed it as they think I am being paranoid and nothing ever happens where we live. Even though evil can travel, momma doesn't want to discuss it. Don't talk about it and it won't happen. My boys are showing interest and we talk about it when we can, but it is challenging with so many time commitments on the schedule.

[ZentetsukenVII]

Good thread and good advice. I do not have a CCW so I OC when I feel the need to carry. However, during family event's I often question whether or not to bring my gun. I think that OC would be a bit more trouble than it's worth despite how comfortable it is to carry a 1911 owb (I have a big family, some of which I don't know that well).

The other day my 5 year old nephew came over for me to babysit. I own two guns, an 870 tactical and my 1911. I keep the 870 loaded (not sure what condition this is) but with the pump open (as in ready to be cocked) with 6 in the tube and an empty chamber. When he comes over I always unload it and put it away, even though he'd never be able to pick it up, much less operate it.

As I digress, I took my pistol out of my waistband (I sometime CCW in my house and property) And was about to unload it and lock it up when I realized "My 5 year old nephew is here. If I feel the need to carry a gun when I'm home alone, I certainly need to carry when he's here". I stuck it back in my pants and that was that.

From now on, I always carry concealed at family events. I greatly doubt they will throw the law at me if they knew for whatever reason. But bad things happen in crazy places. I prefer being able to keep my family safe.

[jimbob86]

Good thread and good advice. I do not have a CCW so I OC when I feel the need to carry. However, during family event's I often question whether or not to bring my gun. I think that OC would be a bit more trouble than it's worth despite how comfortable it is to carry a 1911 owb (I have a big family, some of which I don't know that well).



Get your permit. Problem solved.

A 1911 carries IWB pretty well (because it is pretty flat), with a good belt and holster.

When he comes over I always unload it and put it away,

Good plan.

even though he'd never be able to pick it up, much less operate it.


Bad assumption. Kids will do amazing things because they have no fear when they are small..... My son son was just learning to walk, and was using the chairs around our round pedestal dining room table as hand rails, doing laps anound the table .... I went downstairs and changed out the load of laundry, and brought up the basket of clean clothes .... was gone maybe 3 minutes. As I came back through the dining room, there he was, standing on wobbly legs in the middle of the dining room table, pumping his fists up and down and hooting like a demented monkey ..... scared the crap outa me ....

[ZentetsukenVII]

I would, however in Wisconsin you must be 21, and I am only 20. I'll be getting it first thing. Screw drinking legally, I much prefer being a responsible armed citizen.

Yeah I suppose you have a point, he is pretty smart, and quite strong. The assumtion that he can't lift or operate my gun only really applied a couple years ago. Now I am much more careful. He knows not to touch them if they were ever out, and I tell him if he ever wants to see them, ask me. Don't go looking for them. I am always happy to show him my firearms, safely. I think that does a lot to kill his curiosity. When my shotgun, IS sitting out, trigger lock on and unloaded, he never even looks at it twice anymore.

[jimbob86]

I took my kids shooting when they were very small (Eldest touched off my flintlock stoked with 50grains of FFg at age 3) so they understood that guns go BANG! .... and "no BANGING! stuff in the house" was already a rule ...... as was "If it is not yours, don't fool with it!" .....

I miss those days ..... stuff was simpler then ..... now the older ones have boyfriends and jobs ..... drivers liscenses ..... never a dull moment around here!

[peacefulgary]

I went to pocket carry with a small gun for the times when IWB will not work for me.
Agreed.

A small pocket pistol might be the solution.

[Qtiphky]

We had a homecoming parade this past weekend. I was carrying concealed, as I always do, and my wife was giving me the business because "sometimes you don't need to carry. Why would you carry at a parade?" My response, "why wouldn't I? If someone was looking for a public place with a ton a of people who aren't suspecting anything, this would be the place." Again, not that my hometown has any kind of crime problem at all, but criminals can travel rather quickly with vehicles and I don't want to be caught off guard.

[ZentetsukenVII]

Well said Qtiphky. I wouldn't expect to be shot at while walking in the park near my house in a good neighborhood, but boy do wish I had a gun then. Terrible things happen in good places. Many people at my church are carrying now. After the Sikh temple shooting, churches are no longer a safe haven. Infact, no where is. Carry in your house too. All this learning about CCW and stuff doesn't matter if your guns not with you when the bad guys show up. And you're going to feel really dumb when you get killed in your own home because you only carry OUTSIDE of home.

[kilimanjaro]

I know of three local churches with their own security teams, just a few members who carry concealed, they know their congregation can become a target at a diabolical whim.

[daddyo]

Go back to the fanny pack. People make so much hay about them but guess what..........I have only been asked once if I have a gun in my bag (after twenty years to date) and #2 I don't give three craps what others thing about its stylishness. My fanny pack is comfortable, allows me to carry a larger gun and spare mag in any clothing, allows discrete access when needed, is extremely convenient, and eliminates any chance of going unarmed because of attire.

Your children should be educated about your carry gun as soon as they can handle the responsibility. My boys knew at around age 3 and did a very good job of keeping it a secret. Had a couple of hiccups but overall was great. Here is the important part however..........how will your kids react to your having to pull said glock to defend yourself? My kids, if they did as instructed beforehand, would drop to the floor and await my next command. The last thing I want in a gunfire exchange is for my kids to stand and watch making them easy to hit for my adversary. Get those kids trained up for their safety if for no other reason. They will make some mistakes with their lips, so what. Just keep educating them on not doing it.

[MountainDrew]

I am in your same situation. My wife knows I always carry, but my three small kids don't. I cave been carrying all their lives but none of them have ever noticed. I have often carried a pm9 in a pocket, but more often a CW9 or a Glock 23 IWB at 4:00.
for long car rides, just finding the happy position is critical. All my favorite holsters us a single metal clip and can be repositioned easily, and usually I do reposition it (through my shirt) when I sit down in the car. A more steep forward tilt is usually the most comfortable for me while sitting.

[ZentetsukenVII]

I imagine many factors play into car carry. Being a lefty for me is advantages, and also a hindrance. If you feel the need to pull your gun, and your gun is on your right hip, the bad guy may think you are unbuckling your seatbelt. That being said, the seatbelt may hinder your draw. Being a lefty, if I am driving, I can draw more discreetly I imagine. I say get your gun and your holster, sit in your car and practice different positions that are comfortable, and make for a good draw.

Maybe have a friend or family member stand outside of the car to see what it would look like from the bad guy's perspective. You could also try OWB carry for in the car.

Let us know what works!