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[ARCHIVED THREAD] - The 1911 for CCW (Page 1 of 3)

Posted: 11/13/2017 1:21:53 PM EDT

For those of you that carry a 1911 what is your set up? I have been carrying plastic guns for the past decade and am thinking about making the jump to the 1911 platform. Every time I handle one it just feels right in the hand.

Posted: 11/13/2017 1:33:53 PM EDT

[#1]

5" Govt model in an OWB paddle holster. Been my primary carry gun since I started carrying.

Posted: 11/13/2017 1:35:36 PM EDT

[#2]

I use an OWB Kydex holster @ 3 o'clock and supplement my nylon belt with nylon suspenders. I am fat so the suspenders are a necessity. If you are trim they are not needed.
I have zero concern for the finish on my carry guns so using Kydex is not a problem.

Posted: 11/13/2017 1:36:49 PM EDT

[#3]

Colt defender in a Milt Sparks Versa Max11.

Posted: 11/13/2017 1:39:05 PM EDT

[#4]

4.25” barreled gun in an OWB holster.

Posted: 11/13/2017 1:48:50 PM EDT

[#5]

5" gov't model in a leather IWB rig. All IWB all the time. Currently a Desantis Mad Max, kind of like a poor man's Milt Sparks.
Have an AIWB rig coming for another 1911 that i'm going to try out.

Posted: 11/13/2017 1:59:25 PM EDT

[#6]

5" Springfield loaded

Jmcustom aiwb/mag pouch

Attached File

Posted: 11/13/2017 2:04:15 PM EDT

[#7]

Thoughts on this Springfield Champion?

Posted: 11/13/2017 2:07:46 PM EDT

[#8]

Back when I carried a 1911 it was either a Les Baer TRS or some custom pistol in a Milt Sparks Summer Special. That's been awhile, now I would probably carry using something in Kydex....

Posted: 11/13/2017 2:17:03 PM EDT

[#9]

Quote History

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Thoughts on this Springfield Champion?

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I had the same gun. I liked it alot.

Posted: 11/13/2017 2:23:33 PM EDT

[#10]

Quote History

Quoted:
I had the same gun. I liked it alot.

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Quoted:

Quoted:
Thoughts on this Springfield Champion?

I had the same gun. I liked it alot.

Originally Posted By :
For those of you that carry a 1911 what is your set up? I have been carrying plastic guns for the past decade and am thinking about making the jump to the 1911 platform. Every time I handle one it just feels right in the hand.

Cool. I just emailed the seller to see if they might be interested in a trade for my G19. We shall see.

Posted: 11/13/2017 2:31:31 PM EDT

[#11]

they are heavier than plastic guns but thinner than most. I also shoot best with them and trust the ones I own. I give much less of a shit about printing anymore, so I've been wearing my Baer TRS OWB in a Warbird Leather holster with shark trim. I own some Hanks belts and they do a decent job, but I'm in the process of losing weight so nothing fits perfectly. I have also carried IWB kydex and leather, but OWB is way more comfy for a full size.

I've got a kydex holster inbound to try, but I also want to try some others to see if there's a more comfy option for me when the weather is bad. I don't love leather at the range if I'm going to be working on drills and stuff, but I do it since I want to practice with what I carry.

I have a few OWB mag holders coming for the offhand, too. it's counterintuitive, but weight on the off side seems to make the pistol more balanced.

Posted: 11/13/2017 2:37:12 PM EDT

[#12]

Here is a review of a holster I did for my Colt LW Commander 9mm:

Great Holster for My Colt Commander

Posted: 11/13/2017 3:00:08 PM EDT

[#13]

A Glock 19 weighs about 30 ounces loaded. A full size 1911 weighs about 45 ounces loaded. (weights from Google but think that's about right) You can knock off some of that with a lightweight frame model. Also some say a bobbed frame helps conceal and/or with cutting into your side. Some like the bobbed grip, some don't.

You'll need a very good belt designed for the purpose. Hanks has some heavy duty models and they have good sales on holidays. They make good stuff.

For a holster weight distribution is a good thing. I like two attachments points for heavy guns. CompTac for IWB. I use a Milt Sparks for OWB but they are expensive and have a long wait. With the right gear both IWB and OWB work fine. IWB conceals better. OWB is often more comfortable. I prefer IWB as I find subtlety a virtue when it comes to the 'concealed' part.

I do carry heavy guns from time to time but you might want to hold on to your Glock. I hate shooting them but they are easier to carry.

Posted: 11/13/2017 3:06:11 PM EDT

[#14]

a good gun belt and a great holster, go a long way over, al vs steel frame.

Posted: 11/13/2017 3:45:15 PM EDT

[#15]

I carry both 5” Government models and 4.25” Commanders in Milt Sparks 55BN (OWB) or VM2 (IWB) at 3-4:00, with one of their dual mag pouches at 9:00, all on a Magpul Tejas gunbelt. I’m very satisfied with the setup, but have been toying around with ordering a Milt Sparks belt for no good reason other than to have the colors match better.

I don’t care for the bull-barreled 1911s, but I admit that it’s mostly just preference. I like the traditional bushing setup and 4.25” barrel on Colt Commanders and clones. Just be aware that the takedown is a little different on the bushingless 1911s out there. I also feel better carrying a series 80 over a pre-series 80 1911 due to the addition of a trigger-deactivated firing pin block, but it seems that I’m in the minority on that one (at least in this group).

ETA: As others have already said, a good, solid gunbelt and holster goes a long way in carrying any pistol, but especially steel-framed automatics. If you go the cheap (low quality, I should say) route on a belt or holster, don’t expect an optimal carrying experience.

Posted: 11/13/2017 3:55:32 PM EDT

[#16]

I am currently carrying my 19 in a Blackpoint Tactical "mini wing" and a 5.11 1.75" belt and would probably buy the same holster for whichever 1911 I go with.

Posted: 11/13/2017 6:40:44 PM EDT

[#17]

When I carried one it was a Gov't Model in a Raven Phantom OWB at 3:15 to 3:30.

Posted: 11/14/2017 1:41:31 AM EDT

[#18]

I carry a Colt WC LW Commander in a Raven, OWB holster. Noticed a difference in the weight compared to a 5” steel gov model. I use a quality belt as well.

Posted: 11/14/2017 1:53:13 AM EDT

[#19]

I have a Kimber Super Carry Pro that I customized with SVI parts, but the frame/slide/barrel is still Kimber, everything else is gone though, haha. I use Tripp Research mags. Comp-Tac mag holders. Milt Sparks VMII holster. Love it, awesome setup!!! Of course now I want a Dan Wesson Guardian 45 to replace the old Kimber, or maybe the CCO model... Dan Wesson freaking rocks!! I have one of their Valor models and it's the best 1911 I own.

Posted: 11/14/2017 8:36:29 AM EDT

[#20]

After work ,Kimber ultra 3 in (warm weather), or Ruger lwgt commander with extended barrel (heavy shirt weather). Theis hybrid holster with 2 mags off side. Heavy suspenders (minimal stretch cheap) clipped to belt, untucked buttoned collared shirt.

At work must be very careful about printing. A lot of liberal types, including bosses.

Posted: 11/14/2017 1:50:53 PM EDT

[#21]

Full size 1911 in leather OWB.

Posted: 11/14/2017 2:15:52 PM EDT

[#22]

5" with suppressor barrel in a Galco King Tuk. Spare mag in pocket.

Posted: 11/14/2017 2:51:28 PM EDT

[#23]

RIA pro match and vedder light tuck holster.

When adjusted right I can't even tell I'm carrying.

Posted: 11/14/2017 3:25:36 PM EDT

[#24]

Quote History

Quoted:
5" with suppressor barrel in a Galco King Tuk. Spare mag in pocket.

https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/337946/20170120-134038-129855.jpg

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Wow, you do that right at 3 oclock. I'm not sure I can do that I'm not as thick and buff. Too skinny. I'm always more at 4 oclock, heck even 430.

Posted: 11/14/2017 3:30:18 PM EDT

[#25]

Quote History

Quoted:
Wow, you do that right at 3 oclock. I'm not sure I can do that I'm not as thick and buff. Too skinny. I'm always more at 4 oclock, heck even 430.

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Quoted:

Quoted:
5" with suppressor barrel in a Galco King Tuk. Spare mag in pocket.

https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/337946/20170120-134038-129855.jpg

Wow, you do that right at 3 oclock. I'm not sure I can do that I'm not as thick and buff. Too skinny. I'm always more at 4 oclock, heck even 430.

On my body the frame/grip prints more if I do 4-4:30. So yep, been carrying it at 3 for years and never had an issue, other than a little dimple in my driver's seat and my office chair.

Posted: 11/14/2017 4:29:59 PM EDT

[#26]

Going to try AIWB whenever I get time to finish this up. I've carried the 1911 before years ago in a Milt Sparks VM2 at around 330-4 o'clock, but only recently started AIWB earlier this year (with Glocks). Due to my recent state Senate election results, I want to be prepared to carry something else in case we get a magazine capacity ban

At any rate, my Nighthawk GRP Recon in a custom and shameless copy

of the sidecar/wingman AIWB holster made by me:

Posted: 11/14/2017 4:39:15 PM EDT

[#27]

I carry a RIA 3.5" officers model in a paddle holster above my right hip. It's all steel and heavy, but I like the way it shoots

Posted: 11/14/2017 9:00:56 PM EDT

[#28]

I've been carrying a Colt Defender for about the past year. Much more comfortable than the Government model I used to carry (lighter weight and shorter). Here it is in a Vedder LightTuck IWB. Absolutely love this combo.

Attached File

Posted: 11/14/2017 9:16:11 PM EDT

[#29]

carried one for years

MILT SPARKS and a belt designed for CCW

Posted: 11/14/2017 9:33:47 PM EDT

[#30]

Delta elite in a comp-tac minotaur.

I'm 5'9" 140lbs.

Posted: 11/15/2017 9:39:17 AM EDT

[#31]

Fist holster with adjustable cant.
Was for a Glock 21 - I reshaped with hairdryer and added a couple retention screws.
Muzzle sticks out, rides deep, conceals extremely well.

Posted: 11/15/2017 10:08:51 AM EDT

[#32]

need to add the kimber back into ccw mode.

Posted: 11/15/2017 2:14:29 PM EDT

[#33]

Spring field loaded in a Savoy leather

Posted: 11/15/2017 2:46:39 PM EDT

[#34]

Dont know why I cant post pics says to update my account?

Posted: 11/15/2017 3:04:46 PM EDT

[#35]

Comp-Tac Flatline OWB either open or concealed. Twin Comp-Tac mag holder with two Wilson 47 10-round mags. All loaded with Hornady 220gr Critical Duty at the moment.

Attached File

Posted: 11/15/2017 4:52:49 PM EDT

[#36]

Quote History

Quoted:
Fist holster with adjustable cant.
Was for a Glock 21 - I reshaped with hairdryer and added a couple retention screws.
Muzzle sticks out, rides deep, conceals extremely well.
https://www.glocktalk.com/data/attachments/163/163642-b601c26f1beeb0c14131559c6f41668d.jpg

View Quote

Making some serious use out of that cant adjustment!

Posted: 11/15/2017 4:54:27 PM EDT

[#37]

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Quoted:
Dont know why I cant post pics says to update my account?

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Yep Photobucket shut everyone down and wants $399 a year to use their service! I now use Flickr.com. It's free for now. It is just a bit tricky to figure out how to load and post pics on Flickr if you are used to Photobucket.

Here is how to do it:

Join Flickr.

Add you photos to the "CAMERA ROLL" first (Click "CAMERA ROLL" then simply drag and drop the pics you want to upload on your screen.

Once they have finished uploading, on the progress meter in the upper right hand of the screen, click refresh (?).

Once refreshed, the pics you just uploaded will appear on the screen in your "CAMERA ROLL". Select those pics and choose "ADD TO ALBUM".

The forst time you will have to create an Album. Name the Album what you want. And the pics will migrate to your album.

Click on your "Album" (whatever you named it. You will now see the pics you uploaded. Click on an individual pic and choose "BB CODE"

Copy the whole code and paste it in the thread you are writing in on AR15.com (or anywhere else), and delete all the code except from the beginning of the [img] to the end of the [img/]

Hit submit and your pics will load!

Good luck!

Posted: 11/15/2017 5:26:05 PM EDT

[#38]

Thank you so much

Posted: 11/15/2017 5:35:52 PM EDT

[#39]

Quote History

Quoted:
Making some serious use out of that cant adjustment!

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Quote History

Quoted:

Quoted:
Fist holster with adjustable cant.
Was for a Glock 21 - I reshaped with hairdryer and added a couple retention screws.
Muzzle sticks out, rides deep, conceals extremely well.
https://www.glocktalk.com/data/attachments/163/163642-b601c26f1beeb0c14131559c6f41668d.jpg

Making some serious use out of that cant adjustment!

Yea helps prevent printing if I lean forward a little.
Also helps get muzzle off my hip, more comfort.
I've done 9 mile casual bicycle rides with it, in addition to regular carry.

Posted: 11/15/2017 5:47:08 PM EDT

[#40]

Colt Combat Commander in a Galco Concealable holster.

Posted: 11/15/2017 5:55:13 PM EDT

[#41]

Quote History

Quoted:
Thoughts on this Springfield Champion?

View Quote

A variant for me, the Springfield Champion Operator in an OWB holster. The only changes on mine are Raasco grips and an S&A magwell. I like the option of using a light.

Attached File

Posted: 11/16/2017 10:17:55 PM EDT

[#42]

Quote History

Quoted:
5" Springfield loaded

Jmcustom aiwb/mag pouch
https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/433221/1507987520123-1421381853-333009-361625.JPG
https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/433221/1507987368367-487910285-333008-361626.JPG

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How do you sit down?

Posted: 11/16/2017 11:11:18 PM EDT

[#43]

Quote History

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How do you sit down?

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The trick for me was to use high riding holsters.

Posted: 11/17/2017 11:13:40 AM EDT

[#44]

Quote History

Quoted:

Yea helps prevent printing if I lean forward a little.
Also helps get muzzle off my hip, more comfort.
I've done 9 mile casual bicycle rides with it, in addition to regular carry.

View Quote

Makes a lot of sense. That's why I love the Tucker Gun Leather Cover-Up and Cover-Up Plus. They are completely adjustable for CANT and HEIGHT. Not many holster allow for both adjustments, and some (Milt Sparks) don't allow for ANY adjustments! I also much prefer Leather to Kydex for my guns with a nice finish (like my Colt's with polished blue finish on the flats).

I may have to adjust the Cant on my a little and try it your way for a day.

Posted: 11/17/2017 12:25:23 PM EDT

[#45]

I don't usually carry a 1911, but when I do it's a Colt Combat Unit .45 in a Milt Sparks VM2.

Carrying a full size pistol is all about the belt and holster.

Posted: 11/17/2017 12:34:10 PM EDT

[#46]

Quote History

Quoted:
How do you sit down?

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Quote History

Quoted:

Quoted:
5" Springfield loaded

Jmcustom aiwb/mag pouch
https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/433221/1507987520123-1421381853-333009-361625.JPG
https://www.AR15.Com/media/mediaFiles/433221/1507987368367-487910285-333008-361626.JPG

How do you sit down?

Like normal. I don't wear my pants like a convict

Posted: 11/18/2017 12:26:31 AM EDT

[#47]

Quote History

Quoted:

Like normal. I don't wear my pants like a convict

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Do you wear your pants above your belly button? I would like to try carrying like that but I don’t think my body is shaped that way. Asitting at a 90 degree angle the gun would push into me something horrible.

I need a lanyard and carry it around my neck.

Posted: 11/18/2017 7:01:11 AM EDT

[#48]

Quote History

Quoted:
Do you wear your pants above your belly button? I would like to try carrying like that but I don’t think my body is shaped that way. Asitting at a 90 degree angle the gun would push into me something horrible.

I need a lanyard and carry it around my neck.

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Quoted:

Quoted:

Like normal. I don't wear my pants like a convict

Do you wear your pants above your belly button? I would like to try carrying like that but I don’t think my body is shaped that way. Asitting at a 90 degree angle the gun would push into me something horrible.

I need a lanyard and carry it around my neck.

No

Sometimes on long car trips (hour+) I will undo my belt

Posted: 11/18/2017 12:51:44 PM EDT

[#49]

This thread reminds me that I need a new holster for my 1911.

Posted: 11/20/2017 8:38:50 PM EDT

[#50]

I tried IWB holsters and always hated them because they are so uncomfortable. I've been wearing Blade Tech OWB Eclipse model holster on/off duty for 10 years. After I retired a few years ago I discovered a new company that makes the only IWB holster that I wear. It's StealthGear and the holster is a Ventcore Onyx. They also have a smaller version called the Mini. It is made of a ventilated foam padding with an outer shell made of kydex. I've been wearing this holster with my full size 5" all steel NHC 1911 in 10mm along with 4 spare magazines. I can wear this all day and start to forget I'm carrying a gun.

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - The 1911 for CCW (Page 1 of 3)

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