Best CCW For Business Casual Attire

Mercenary · November 30, 2011, 06:48 PM

With my current job I am required to dress in a business casual attire. Usually it's slacks and a tucked in button down or polo. No ties or sports jackets. In the last month there have been a at least 10 armed robberies in my town and the neighboring town (VERY unheard of in this area), both of which I travel and do business in.

For my work attire, what would be the best option for carry? And how should I carry it so that it's not noticeable? I work mostly with healthcare businesses, so technically I am not suppose to carry a concealed weapon. However, my CCW instructor always says that concealed means concealed from public view.

Suggestions??

srommes · November 30, 2011, 06:59 PM

I'm a controller and I wear business attire similar to what you stated. I carry in my front pocket a Ruger LCP in a Blackhawk size1 pocket holster everyday. I put a back-up mag in my other front pocket. I hardly ever notice them. The LCP is great for the front pocket due to its size and weight. I have a Sig P238 and a Kahr CM9 as well that I wear iwb on the days I don't wear a shirt tucked in. The Sig and Kahr are too heavy for front pocket carry with dress-pants/khakis in my opinion. Hope that helps!

Deaf Smith · November 30, 2011, 07:09 PM

For absolute concealment how about a Bersa CC .380, nickel plated, and a good Kyndex IWB holster and Cor-Bon DPX ammo. Real good if you wear a suit.

Very small, very flat, no sharp corners.

Or maybe a S&W 642 .38 Airweight with Cor-Bon DPX! Good IWB holster made for appendix carry when you wear the polo shirts.

Deaf

CWKahrFan · November 30, 2011, 07:09 PM

Ruger LCP .380; very reliable and easy to CC.

**Spats McGee** · November 30, 2011, 07:57 PM

If sportcoats are allowed, add that to your attire. They provide nice cover for a front-pocket pistol, or something a little larger at the 3-4 o'clock position. Pick the size with CC in mind. With winter coming, no one will think twice about your wearing a jacket.

RT · November 30, 2011, 08:20 PM

Officer's Match · November 30, 2011, 09:03 PM

SmartCarry is an option, pick your pistol.

Cheapshooter · November 30, 2011, 09:30 PM

Elsie Pea: The gun you can carry when you can't carry a gun!

Front pocket carry in a DeSantis Superfly pocket holster W/O the fly or Back pocket with the "fly" attached to the holster

horseman308 · November 30, 2011, 09:44 PM

I was in a gunshop recently with a buddy who was looking at the S&W Bodyguard .380.The clerk showed him a padded portfolio that looked exactly like a daytimer/notebook, but it was a holster for the pistol and a spare mag slot. If you carry a notebook or anything like that with your work, that might be another option (assuming you ALWAYS have it with you).

Shadi Khalil · November 30, 2011, 09:55 PM

It's hard to beat the LCP or Kel Tec.

Micahweeks · November 30, 2011, 09:55 PM

+1 on the AirLite .38 +P. I don't really like small guns in general, but I make the occasional exception for a good snubby. Revolvers are what I first learned on, so they still strike a chord with me. I'd pocket carry one without question.

WESHOOT2 · November 30, 2011, 10:26 PM

Pairs of LCP or KelTec or similar in rear pocket holsters.

-Small
-Flat
-Well-holstered

Patriot86 · November 30, 2011, 10:33 PM

My job requires Business Casual or Business Formal attire at all times, If CC is ever made legal here in IL I plan to use a pocket holster any some kind of compact Kahr.

hblac · November 30, 2011, 10:34 PM

I have the same dress code as the OP and what works best all around is Kel-Tec P3AT in a DeSantis Nemasis pocket holster in the right front pocket. No-one will ever know its there and its lighweight. You're still going to need a good 1.25" gunbelt. Galco makes a good one in black and dark brown.
In my company vehicle there's a glock 26 riding on a gun magnet in the console. That' my everyday carry system. Been doing that for about 2.5 years now.

Bigger guns are just too hard to carry without an over garment when you must wear a tucked in shirt all the time. You might find that the Kahr PM9 works OK in the front pocket. I haven't wanted to spend that much money on it. The Walther PPS, Kahr CW9 and Kel-Tec PF9 all stick out like a sore thumb even with a tuckable IWB waistband holster.

doeop · November 30, 2011, 10:37 PM

LCP in your wallet pocket (he asked for your wallet!!!!!!)

Mrgunsngear · November 30, 2011, 10:37 PM

S&W Bodyguard 380 in an Uncle Mike's pocket holster. Mine's been 100% reliable and it actually has usable sights as opposed to the LCP.

mitranoc · November 30, 2011, 10:39 PM

I go between suits and scrubs and the Ruger LCP is perfect. Prior I had a Seecamp LWS .380 which concealed even nicer...but pricey. You can't go wrong with the Ruger.

doeop · November 30, 2011, 10:46 PM

Sorry first Post aimed toward carry possition. My wife carries a body guard fine pistol. ( I pitty the fool that asks her for her wallet ) She's mean.

Many fine carry options pick the one best for you and Practice, Practice, Practice!

Cheapshooter · November 30, 2011, 11:10 PM

Quote:

it actually has usable sights as opposed to the LCP.

My Elsie fits my hand so naturally it is like pointing to the target. Out of my pocket, to firing position, double tap two quick shots always center mass. Raise my arm a bit, third shot to head. No sighting, just shooting. A the range these guns are intended for, 10yds or so, The LCP points so naturally for me that I don't need the sights.

doeop · November 30, 2011, 11:29 PM

The LCP points so naturally for me that I don't need the sights.

I agree cheapshooter!

CWKahrFan · November 30, 2011, 11:58 PM

I'm constantly astonished at my LCP's accuracy at the range... It's a minimal-sights short-barrel gun yet I shoot very tight groups with it at SD distances. Ballpark number of LCP's sold in the few years they've been out must be somewhere around 1 million... maybe more... That says a lot.

ClydeFrog · December 1, 2011, 12:57 AM

Hi "Merc";
From your post, I'd suggest a simple 5/6 shot J frame DA only revolver or a Ruger LCR .357magnum. If you want a simple semi auto for protection/concealed use and have the $$$, I'd suggest these models;
the Glock 36 .45acp, the Walther PPS in 9x19mm, the SIG Sauer P239 DAK in SASII with 3 dot night sights(.40 or .357sig).
A CT lasergrip would be a smart add-on(if you work at night or in low light areas), www.crimsontrace.com .
As for holsters, I'd check into undershirts or dress shirts with concealment pockets. 5.11, Kramer, Blackhawk, Woolrich, etc all sell men's shirts that do not scream; 5-0 or BLACKWATER CONTRACTOR.

Be aware of "printing" & understand proper concealment.
Real "armed professionals" understand tradecraft & buy gear/clothing that works properly.
A large US military spec ops unit had formal classes & seminars with a fashion expert to teach them how to wear business attire & conceal weapons.

ClydeFrog
www.galls.com www.glockstore.com www.5.11tactical.com www.policehq.com www.uscav.com www.qmuniforms.com
ps: Go read the novel; The Protector & the non fiction book; Inside The Delta Force by CSM Eric Haney.

KyJim · December 1, 2011, 01:06 AM

I will carry either a Ruger LCP or Sig P238 (both are .380 caliber) in a pocket holster or my Kahr CM9 (9mm) in a tuckable holster. The CM9 is small and the tuckable holster allows you to tuck in the shirt, blouse it out just slightly, and hide the clip. If anyone does see the clip, they think it is a cell phone carrier or something similar.

I am using a Garrett Industries Silent Thunder holster. It is leather on the inside to protect the finish with a Kydex shell to repel moisture.

CWKahrFan · December 1, 2011, 01:35 AM

Nice-lookin' CM9 setup y'got there KyJim...

ClydeFrog · December 1, 2011, 01:58 AM

I'd add the Kahr sub compacts too, but they may be are to get in some types/calibers.
See www.gunsamerica.com or www.jgsales.com or www.gilbertsguns.com .
Clyde
ps: If a cool, yet professional looking men's jacket/sportcoat, see the Duluth Trading Presentation Jacket.
It's made of "fire hose" fabric & has 11 pockets in the garment.
www.duluthtrading.com
It's made in WI too!

November 30, 2011, 06:48 PM	#1
Mercenary Senior Member Join Date: April 28, 2011 Location: NC Posts: 311	Best CCW For Business Casual Attire With my current job I am required to dress in a business casual attire. Usually it's slacks and a tucked in button down or polo. No ties or sports jackets. In the last month there have been a at least 10 armed robberies in my town and the neighboring town (VERY unheard of in this area), both of which I travel and do business in. For my work attire, what would be the best option for carry? And how should I carry it so that it's not noticeable? I work mostly with healthcare businesses, so technically I am not suppose to carry a concealed weapon. However, my CCW instructor always says that concealed means concealed from public view. Suggestions?? __________________ "The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and bear arms is, as a last resort, to protect themselves against tyranny in government." - Thomas Jefferson

November 30, 2011, 07:09 PM	#3
Deaf Smith Senior Member Join Date: October 31, 2000 Location: Texican! Posts: 4,453	For absolute concealment how about a Bersa CC .380, nickel plated, and a good Kyndex IWB holster and Cor-Bon DPX ammo. Real good if you wear a suit. Very small, very flat, no sharp corners. Or maybe a S&W 642 .38 Airweight with Cor-Bon DPX! Good IWB holster made for appendix carry when you wear the polo shirts. Deaf __________________ “To you who call yourselves ‘men of peace,’ I say, you are not safe without men of action by your side” Thucydides

November 30, 2011, 07:09 PM	#4
CWKahrFan Senior Member Join Date: November 3, 2010 Posts: 2,016	Ruger LCP .380; very reliable and easy to CC. __________________ What did Mrs. Bullet say to Mr. Bullet? ... "We're having a BeeBee!"... IF THE SHOE FITS, WEAR IT!... IF THE GUN FITS, SHOOT IT! "Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it."

November 30, 2011, 07:57 PM	#5
Spats McGee Staff Join Date: July 28, 2010 Location: Arkansas Posts: 8,821	If sportcoats are allowed, add that to your attire. They provide nice cover for a front-pocket pistol, or something a little larger at the 3-4 o'clock position. Pick the size with CC in mind. With winter coming, no one will think twice about your wearing a jacket. __________________ I'm a lawyer, but I'm not your lawyer. If you need some honest-to-goodness legal advice, go buy some.

November 30, 2011, 09:03 PM	#7
Officer's Match Senior Member Join Date: January 16, 2007 Location: LANCASTER,OHIO Posts: 3,944	SmartCarry is an option, pick your pistol. __________________ REAL EYES REALIZE REAL LIES

November 30, 2011, 06:59 PM	#2
srommes Member Join Date: July 1, 2011 Posts: 58	I'm a controller and I wear business attire similar to what you stated. I carry in my front pocket a Ruger LCP in a Blackhawk size1 pocket holster everyday. I put a back-up mag in my other front pocket. I hardly ever notice them. The LCP is great for the front pocket due to its size and weight. I have a Sig P238 and a Kahr CM9 as well that I wear iwb on the days I don't wear a shirt tucked in. The Sig and Kahr are too heavy for front pocket carry with dress-pants/khakis in my opinion. Hope that helps!

November 30, 2011, 08:20 PM	#6
RT Senior Member Join Date: September 9, 2000 Location: San Antonio, TX Posts: 2,194

November 30, 2011, 09:30 PM	#8
Cheapshooter Senior Member Join Date: December 2, 2007 Location: Missouri Posts: 8,306	Elsie Pea: The gun you can carry when you can't carry a gun! Front pocket carry in a DeSantis Superfly pocket holster W/O the fly or Back pocket with the "fly" attached to the holster __________________ Cheapshooter's rules of gun ownership #1: NEVER SELL OR TRADE ANYTHING!

November 30, 2011, 09:44 PM	#9
horseman308 Senior Member Join Date: November 3, 2009 Location: Maryland Posts: 526	I was in a gunshop recently with a buddy who was looking at the S&W Bodyguard .380.The clerk showed him a padded portfolio that looked exactly like a daytimer/notebook, but it was a holster for the pistol and a spare mag slot. If you carry a notebook or anything like that with your work, that might be another option (assuming you ALWAYS have it with you). __________________ You only take one shot at a time - make it count.

November 30, 2011, 09:55 PM	#10
Shadi Khalil Senior Member Join Date: September 23, 2006 Location: Alexandria, VA Posts: 5,210	It's hard to beat the LCP or Kel Tec.

November 30, 2011, 09:55 PM	#11
Micahweeks Senior Member Join Date: February 21, 2009 Location: North Mississippi Posts: 854	+1 on the AirLite .38 +P. I don't really like small guns in general, but I make the occasional exception for a good snubby. Revolvers are what I first learned on, so they still strike a chord with me. I'd pocket carry one without question.

November 30, 2011, 10:26 PM	#12
WESHOOT2 Senior Member Join Date: February 20, 1999 Location: home on the range; Vermont (Caspian country) Posts: 14,324	buy a pair *Pairs of* LCP or KelTec or similar in rear pocket holsters. -Small -Flat -Well-holstered __________________ . "all my ammo is mostly retired factory ammo"

November 30, 2011, 10:33 PM	#13
Patriot86 Senior Member Join Date: December 23, 2010 Location: Chicagoland Posts: 1,293	My job requires Business Casual or Business Formal attire at all times, If CC is ever made legal here in IL I plan to use a pocket holster any some kind of compact Kahr.

November 30, 2011, 10:34 PM	#14
hblac Member Join Date: April 23, 2009 Location: North Carolina Posts: 76	I have the same dress code as the OP and what works best all around is Kel-Tec P3AT in a DeSantis Nemasis pocket holster in the right front pocket. No-one will ever know its there and its lighweight. You're still going to need a good 1.25" gunbelt. Galco makes a good one in black and dark brown. In my company vehicle there's a glock 26 riding on a gun magnet in the console. That' my everyday carry system. Been doing that for about 2.5 years now. Bigger guns are just too hard to carry without an over garment when you must wear a tucked in shirt all the time. You might find that the Kahr PM9 works OK in the front pocket. I haven't wanted to spend that much money on it. The Walther PPS, Kahr CW9 and Kel-Tec PF9 all stick out like a sore thumb even with a tuckable IWB waistband holster.

November 30, 2011, 10:37 PM	#15
doeop Member Join Date: November 30, 2011 Location: Ohio Posts: 15	LCP in your wallet pocket (he asked for your wallet!!!!!!)

November 30, 2011, 10:37 PM	#16
Mrgunsngear Senior Member Join Date: May 13, 2011 Location: Carolina Posts: 3,415	S&W Bodyguard 380 in an Uncle Mike's pocket holster. Mine's been 100% reliable and it actually has usable sights as opposed to the LCP.

November 30, 2011, 10:39 PM	#17
mitranoc Senior Member Join Date: November 24, 2011 Location: West Palm Beach, FL Posts: 337	I go between suits and scrubs and the Ruger LCP is perfect. Prior I had a Seecamp LWS .380 which concealed even nicer...but pricey. You can't go wrong with the Ruger.

November 30, 2011, 10:46 PM	#18
doeop Member Join Date: November 30, 2011 Location: Ohio Posts: 15	Sorry first Post aimed toward carry possition. My wife carries a body guard fine pistol. ( I pitty the fool that asks her for her wallet ) She's mean. Many fine carry options pick the one best for you and Practice, Practice, Practice!

November 30, 2011, 11:29 PM	#20
doeop Member Join Date: November 30, 2011 Location: Ohio Posts: 15	The LCP points so naturally for me that I don't need the sights. I agree cheapshooter!

November 30, 2011, 11:58 PM	#21
CWKahrFan Senior Member Join Date: November 3, 2010 Posts: 2,016	I'm constantly astonished at my LCP's accuracy at the range... It's a minimal-sights short-barrel gun yet I shoot very tight groups with it at SD distances. Ballpark number of LCP's sold in the few years they've been out must be somewhere around 1 million... maybe more... That says a lot. __________________ What did Mrs. Bullet say to Mr. Bullet? ... "We're having a BeeBee!"... IF THE SHOE FITS, WEAR IT!... IF THE GUN FITS, SHOOT IT! "Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it."

December 1, 2011, 12:57 AM	#22
ClydeFrog Junior member Join Date: May 1, 2010 Posts: 5,797	concealment rigs for business or office wear... Hi "Merc"; From your post, I'd suggest a simple 5/6 shot J frame DA only revolver or a Ruger LCR .357magnum. If you want a simple semi auto for protection/concealed use and have the $$$, I'd suggest these models; the Glock 36 .45acp, the Walther PPS in 9x19mm, the SIG Sauer P239 DAK in SASII with 3 dot night sights(.40 or .357sig). A CT lasergrip would be a smart add-on(if you work at night or in low light areas), www.crimsontrace.com . As for holsters, I'd check into undershirts or dress shirts with concealment pockets. 5.11, Kramer, Blackhawk, Woolrich, etc all sell men's shirts that do not scream; 5-0 or BLACKWATER CONTRACTOR. Be aware of "printing" & understand proper concealment. Real "armed professionals" understand tradecraft & buy gear/clothing that works properly. A large US military spec ops unit had formal classes & seminars with a fashion expert to teach them how to wear business attire & conceal weapons. ClydeFrog www.galls.com www.glockstore.com www.5.11tactical.com www.policehq.com www.uscav.com www.qmuniforms.com ps: Go read the novel; The Protector & the non fiction book; Inside The Delta Force by CSM Eric Haney.

December 1, 2011, 01:06 AM	#23
KyJim Senior Member Join Date: July 26, 2005 Location: The Bluegrass Posts: 9,142	I will carry either a Ruger LCP or Sig P238 (both are .380 caliber) in a pocket holster or my Kahr CM9 (9mm) in a tuckable holster. The CM9 is small and the tuckable holster allows you to tuck in the shirt, blouse it out just slightly, and hide the clip. If anyone does see the clip, they think it is a cell phone carrier or something similar. I am using a Garrett Industries Silent Thunder holster. It is leather on the inside to protect the finish with a Kydex shell to repel moisture.

December 1, 2011, 01:35 AM	#24
CWKahrFan Senior Member Join Date: November 3, 2010 Posts: 2,016	Nice-lookin' CM9 setup y'got there KyJim... __________________ What did Mrs. Bullet say to Mr. Bullet? ... "We're having a BeeBee!"... IF THE SHOE FITS, WEAR IT!... IF THE GUN FITS, SHOOT IT! "Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it."

December 1, 2011, 01:58 AM	#25
ClydeFrog Junior member Join Date: May 1, 2010 Posts: 5,797	Kahr pistols... I'd add the Kahr sub compacts too, but they may be are to get in some types/calibers. See www.gunsamerica.com or www.jgsales.com or www.gilbertsguns.com . Clyde ps: If a cool, yet professional looking men's jacket/sportcoat, see the Duluth Trading Presentation Jacket. It's made of "fire hose" fabric & has 11 pockets in the garment. www.duluthtrading.com It's made in WI too!