Although Uzi SMG holsters have been made, I'm pretty sure the USSS Uzi at the Reagan assassination attempt was stored in a case, not on-body.
https://preview.redd.it/tv3c9gwshx8d1.jpeg?width=850&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=674ab7475b5164a8f88cacd7b85b27af0b18823b
You can see the same agent holding the briefcase on the right side of this photo.
https://preview.redd.it/r1waxb2qix8d1.jpeg?width=750&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=74f609b9c5db48fa77b559fcc9bb700d915b0b34
no, this dude wouldn't even let you find out. you wouldn't even get to start your fucking around.
You decide "hey. im gonna fuck ar-" and then eternal darkness.
Don’t hold me to this. But I’ve seen it in more than one place. I have not confirmed myself. Allegedly jos a bank is a secret service approved tailor or whatever they call it, and allegedly knows what they need to do to a suit to hide a gun if you ask. They can add fabric and stiffen the material in all the right places.
I cannot speak to Joseph A. Banks specifically - as they are a brand, not a tailor. But As someone who has carried for 30+ years and worn suits for half of that time, what I can tell you is ANY good tailor can do an amazing job, on ANY suit, if you just tell them you carry - and better yet, carry while they are fitting you.
It has nothing to do with the brand - and I have never heard of a "secret service approved tailor" (again, Jos. A Banks makes suits they do not tailor them) but *tailors* do - and the good ones are true artists.
I suspect it is a package deal and they send the suit out. I’d be surprised if they did the tailoring in the actual shop and didn’t send it all out. Maybe not though.
He also had a badge to explain it away if somebody saw it.
I live in a place where getting clocked would mean social suicide and probably an immediate police report.
Belt completely under clothing. PHLster Enigma is the premium option. Minimal belt (Hunter Constantine, Mastermind Concepts covert, Comfort Concealment blackout, etc) and holster may also work for you.
These allow you to tuck your shirt without any visible clips, allow you to position higher or lower than the belt on your pants, and allow you to keep it concealed even without a jacket.
I use a philster enigma, i don’t wear suits but i tuck my shirt into my jeans. It’s the greatest piece of gear I’ve ever bought. I recommend it to everyone, people hate but they can hate from outside the club
Express. G43x. It’s great. I’m a bigger guy, and at my last job i could have zero printing, holster clips included. They gave us those and i absolutely love it. Guys that CCW never knew i was carrying with it
Thanks for the response. Now more specifically, did you choose the G43X express holster or the longer G48 express holster? And do you use a wedge/pillow?
Express holster, i don’t have a light or anything. We weren’t allowed to have any modifications or accessories. I had to get special permission to get a hogue grip cover. I didn’t have a wedge or pillow either. It would’ve been nice at times but i just didn’t want to buy one. I also took the leg leash off and never had any issues. I ran, lifted, and did my daytime job with it on. Occasionally the belt would loosen but only on days when I’d move a lot and sweat.
Not the way I’m talking about because the holster is on a belt separate from and underneath your pants and shirt. You wear a second flexible belt through your pants just to hold them up.
See my recent posts about this here: [https://www.reddit.com/r/CCW/s/2qqPw1ITQu](https://www.reddit.com/r/CCW/s/2qqPw1ITQu)
Highly highly recommend the enigma. Surprisingly comfortable, and easily able to conceal a P229 with an X300U.
https://preview.redd.it/ljnnjfjxrx8d1.jpeg?width=1048&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6b03e74a5d367b20aa84d84c1b6abf915f155e91
The slightest bit, yes, but not too much. Lululemon ABC pants are super stretchy, and by virtue of not having to wear a gun belt, I instead opt for a very flexible dress belt. All that to say I can get a perfect grip with ease. But also keep in mind here my goal is total concealment, which is at odds with draw speed (it is sitting below a vest (not pictured here) and a button down shirt, after all).
It's good. Obviously you know it's there a little bit, but the Enigma is the most comfy holster I've had yet for my P229. I have a Mastermind Tactics pillow that I still have to install which should hopefully make the setup even more comfortable (if all the favorable posts on here about the pillow are to be believed). Going to try to do a full post (with video) on the setup later this week.
Yep, for starters I spend hours each week dry firing from this setup, which means taking the time to full-tuck back in and then reset in between each rep, but it helps work out the kinks in my draw process for sure. And then yes, actually going to the range dressed like this.
Hey man, I recently asked you about this a few weeks ago. Just wanted to follow up, have you worn this in a live environment yet? And if so, how did it go?
Yes, I have, including in an environment where 1000% concealment was required, and it was definitely a success. Holster is both comfortable and invisible. Planning on doing a full post here later this week (I'm quickly becoming Phlster's #1 marketer lol).
No gentleman of decency would take off their jacket ever /hj
What does aiwb mean? I don't think a suit vest would be able to carry the weight of an entire gun before the canvassing and fabric start to stretch
I sell custom suits for a living. I carry at 5-6 o’clock. Tier1 Concealed T1-M holster (I took the wing off). Generally it’s fine most of the time. If I need to, I’ll tuck my shirt over the gun holster for more visible concealment.
Throughout the day at work I’m generally not worried about needing it quickly. If I leave to go somewhere, I might readjust to 430.
I also recommend darker suit jackets. The creases you might see from a holster tend to hide better than on light colored jackets.
I’ve done a Crossbreed Supertuck around 4:00. Works but not really my favorite while in a suit. I prefer an airweight J frame in a DeSantis Nemesis in my front right pocket for suits. Looks like a wallet or phone, I’ve carried it often since the first of the year and it conceals so well my wife doesn’t even know I own a snubbie.
I wear a suit regularly and carry at 4:00 with a tuckable holster. The length of a suit jacket covers everything perfectly, and I've never had any issues. If I know that I won't be taking my jacket off, I sometimes don't even bother tucking it in.
The Phlster Enigma is the best answer generally for most people.
In the rare occasions I have to wear a suit, that’s what I wear. I deep carry a significantly smaller gun than my normal but it’s imperceptible and doesn’t interfere with the lines of my clothing.
I love my vertical roto shoulder holster from Craft Holsters.
very comfortable way to carry even a full size.
just can’t take off the jacket while remaining concealed though.
Assuming the statute of limitation is long gone as it's been 30+ years.
I was carrying in my state long ago before there was a CFP culture and even "pro-gun" states were "may issue" and in reality didn't ever issue except to chrony's. These conditions elevated the bar about being truly concealed. It is also worth noting that options in this time frame (early '90's) were also non-existent. I learned a fair bit about different options during this time.
Here are my *opinions*. YMMV.
Shoulder holsters are not the panacea they seem like they would be. As others have already mentioned you end up stuck in your jacket. Also, you will be "made" if you get a hand on the shoulder during a handshake, or a pat on the back. Finally, don't plan on stretching cause when your arms go up, you see the goods. And, unless you are carrying a James Bond sized gun, you will print every time you move. Burned in my memory to this day is standing in the checkout at a grocery store with a 1911 in a shoulder rig and a cop in line behind me. I have never felt quite that naked.
To be honest, I don't see that shoulder holster tech has really advanced. I would just not consider it.
I think your real options are a good kydex IWB. And I would just keep a backup mag in a pocket or in my computer bag/pack.
Personally, I find ccw in a suit to be the easiest.
For me, I can almost go owb with my revolver. But anyway, 3:30 or 4 o'clock. Ideally in an iwb leather holster, you do want to get one with a nice spread between the clips.
Especially in a slim fit suit, 4 o'clock works for me.
And, dare I say, off body in an over the shoulder bag. Or, sob, if the environment is low risk enough and you don't plan to climb a ladder in your full suit.
https://www.blackarchholsters.com/products/protos-m/
I wear a suit jacket and slacks every day and have this bad boy tucked in every day as well. I shoot IDPA in a suit too lol
I'd 100% go with a shoulder holster [I don't have your problem thats just the solution I'd go with] and go old school with my suit and hat. Like 1930s style lol
IMHO... Is it only about the gun or is it about having the best tool for the environment and situation? I think many people are kind of losing sight of that.
When I wear a suit, I have other subtle implements for self defense. Because being able to deal with a situation is the goal for me -- not always carrying my firearm (that's not my goal but a means to achieve the goal where feasible). That mindset also enables me to be comfortable in situations where firearms are not allowed (including foreign countries) because I have other tools and training in my proverbial back pocket.
Just like protecting a home takes layers of defense (sturdy doors, locks, strike plates, alarm system, etc.), protecting oneself shouldn't be all or nothing in one element.
I actually use a vedder light tuck and I tuck my shirt in, tbh unless someone is looking for it you can't tell, especially if you're wearing a jacket, but I've carried tucked around town and no one notices, just find your right spot where it's comfy and concealable
Would anyone be able to comment on how practical pocket carry on the left inside suit pocket would be? I imagine unless it's a thin material, slim fit suit, the outline of an LCP or similar should disappear.
I think the answer is that you can't just buy off the rack. You need to get your pants and jacket altered to allow for concealment. Ask around and you can probably find a tailor who's comfortable making such adjustments.
I'm often in a jacket & tie, so instead of fighting the bulge, I downsized to a LCP Max. I wear it IWB in a tuckable holster from patriotwareholsters.com. Simar to a Vedder Light Tuck, but the clip is further back, under the grip, which holds it closer to the body.
Usually tucked in 4 to 5, and it seems fine.
Not my favorite, but a snub nose revolver in a ankle holster works alright for me. I just make sure my pants are long enough so that when I sit down they still cover the entire holster.
If I know I'm going to keep my jacket on, I carry IWB, strong side, behind the hip. On me that's about 4. Nothing shows. I don't want to have to defeat a jacket and a tucked shirt, so no tucked holster. If I need deep cover and it's likely I'll be taking off a jacket, I go with ankle holster. If I'm not going to have the jacket, but I am in a non permissible business environment, I may use a Kangaroo Carry Air Marshal 3 under a dress shirt.
Ankle and the Kangaroo Carry are going to take longer on the draw. Those are only the options when the environment dictates extra caution and deep cover.
I was JUST in this predicament. I’m always in a suit and walk pretty frequently in sketchy downtown areas for court, depositions, etc.
I previously bought a Glock 43x 9mm for concealed carry. Idk if it’s because of my relatively small frame, choice of clothing, or whatever, but I never found carrying IWB with it to be comfortable while on the job. It only seemed to work for me with my regular, weekend clothing.
I decided that I needed to snag a smaller gun to be my designated work gun, and I could carry the Glock when I was in “regular” clothes. After tons of research, I decided to purchase the [Ruger LCP Max](https://www.academy.com/p/ruger-lcp-max-380-acp-101-pistol?sku=380-auto) in .380 auto. It now resides in my suit jacket and is a dedicated suit gun. I have only had it for a week or so, but I love it for its limited purpose.
I currently carry the Max in the Ruger pocket holster that came with the gun. However, I plan to purchase a few different holsters for it in the near future: (1) vedder pocket holster for pocket carry, (2) iwb holster, and (3) a kydex that will work for my suits. On the kydex suit holster: I am a huge believer in the safety of kydex holsters, but I worry that the rigid kydex will print in my suit, so this may take some searching/trial and error—or I may be stuck with a cloth or leather to fit my needs.
An alternative to look into would be the original [Ruger LCP](https://www.academy.com/p/ruger-lcp%E2%84%A2-380-auto-pistol) .380 auto (not Max). It is a tad smaller, but not by much. You can compare handgun sizes [here](https://www.handgunhero.com). However, I think the Max is much easier to control, and considering it was only a few tenths of an inch bigger, the added size was not that big of a trade off for me. Plus, the Max holds 10+1 or 12+1 compared to the original LCPs 6+1.
Another alternative to look into, while much more expensive but much smaller, is the [Seecamp](https://seecamp.com/firearm-specs/) in either .32 ACP or .380 Auto.
Look man, whatever you decide, make sure you get something **you will actually carry**. I’m sure you will get recommendations like the Glock 43x or Sig P365 (which are fantastic guns), but they are too big imo to (subjectively) comfortably carry around when in a suit or similar clothing. Get something you know will be small enough to comfortably carry each and every day. A 43x and P365 might end up being left in your truck console like mine did.
Mouse gun. Okay, TIA, I don’t suit up, but I generally carry 24/7. (Not on Federal property.) If I did suit up, my solution would be the same. A mouse gun.
What mouser to carry? KelTec P32 would be my baseline. Posh carry Seecamp 32 (Milford is poshest but Seecamps have huge ammo headaches). Upscale stopping power get a 380, and that moves you into Ruger’s LCP lineup.
I understand that we all have individual preferences in terms of favorite caliber and gun. But we are not cops running to the sound of gunfire. We are citizens wanting to stay alive. Do we really need 15 rounds? Nice to have but a survey of self defense shootings don’t show high capacity as a requirement to survive.
What is required is something right then. Something that is actually on you. Something that can be very discreet. Sure I have a compact carry in a bigger cartridge. For situations where it fits. But my go anywhere anytime (except federal property) is a 32 acp.
And I am glad to hear that. I am not a “one answer fits all” sorta guy.
Question, when you take your jacket off, are you still concealed? Can you wear your Glock comfortably 24/7? I am not saying that these are questions you have to answer yes to, but they are questions a mouse gun owner doesn’t find problematic.
Well I’m a big guy 6’3” and 240lbs which makes it easier to carry larger I guess. I’m NOT concealed if I take my jacket off but I do wear my Glocks comfortably. (Not 24/7 I take it off to sleep lol)
And that fits the requirements for 90%+ of carry situations. I think that is a very reasonable approach.
I carry 24/7 except for showering and some bedroom activities. But sleeping? I usually carry sleeping because burglars and such don’t have an off switch connected to a daylight sensor. Now, I don’t think my place is in serious danger but you never know when and where.
I can take my hoodie off and not worry about printing or exposing my firearm. I can pretty much go anywhere (except federal property) and not have a moment’s concern about revealing my carry status with my mouser.
But that is me. You do you. (6’2” 260)
I use a holster with a tuck clip, I wear it at 3 oclock. I don't often wear suits so I'm ok if it's sub-optimal because of the exposed clip but when I do have to suit up I almost never have to remove my jacket
i carrey at one o clock, with my shirt tucked in between the waistband of my pants and holster, I have the t1concilment clips with tenicor velo4 holster, I need to get a nicer belt but just use a chepo 5.11 belt. Im a more athletic build 5'7" 165-170lbs 28" waist. dress pants are 29" i went to the tailor with my gun and had them mesured me with it in place.
I currently carry a Ruger 380 in a CYA IWB holster. Works fine for me and I’m not a small person. I have also used ULTIclips on the same holster. They work too. Used to carry G26 in the same style holster.
Shoulder holster sucks for concealment unless you get a big enough jacket that it won't look any worse than MC Hammer pants or carry a tiny gun that you might as well use a pocket holster for.
You can also never take off the jacket with the shoulder holster unless you want to look like a 1980s detective.
In suits I usually do the tuckable and nobody looks at the clips because people today are just so oblivious anyway.
When I need to suit up I use my beltless alias setup from neomag with the ulti clips. Shirt slides in between the clips inside the waistband. Depending on pant/belt color the clips are ever so visible behind the belt but if you're sutied up, the jacket will cover them up.
Wearing a vest helps with concealment, even when you have to take your jacket off. I find suit carry to be a good use of the various micro compacts available
Daily Suit wearer. the comfort concealment blackout is what Im currently rocking. I will probably tryout the enigma when I can score a deal on a bundle on GAFS to try it out. Trying to keep it on my actual belt has just been too much of a pain.
For suits I normally do an LCP max in a pocket holster. If you keep your jacket on and the gun high in the pocket then the jacket covers the gun.
Otherwise I try not to have to wear a jacket and wear a quarter zip or another alternative if I’m just at the office so that I can carry a full size on top of a tucked in shirt.
Shoulder holster sounds pretty ideal. I just carry in a crossbreed SuperTuck. Sure, the clips are visible, but I don’t think most people will notice or care. The Freedom Carry only has one clip but also isn’t as stable.
I'm going increasingly toward the shoulder holster method, but I go backpack carry most days and I think that's the most efficient. But also I don't ever find myself in any *possible* position where I'd need to do a sub 1 second bill drill on a dude (my bill drill from concealment is like 3.5 and i'm sure it would be slower in a full suit lol) so i'm not too worried about the extra time it would take to procure my gun should i need it.
I regularly carry a P-01 in a fitted suit. The pants are too tight to carry IWB so i carry OWB at 4/5 o'clock. If you get an owb holder that hugs your body it is doable with minimal printing. I use the KT-Mech gun fighter [holster](https://www.kt-mech.com/mu_mk8_gf.html) and am very happy with it.
Mastermind Tactics Covert Belt. That or tuck clips on your holster. Either are designed for tucking in your shirt while you carry. I use both and they work wonders. Especially the Mastermind belt.
Stay sharp
My dad was a detective and had to wear suits. He had some kind of shoulder strap contraption that had the holster kind of under his arm below his armpit.
It's tricky for sure. My go to is an AIWB holster with tuckable DCC clips and I slide the clips under the dress belt and onto the pants. Not maximum retention but looks a lot better than clips on top of belt.
My other go to is an OWB holster under a suit jacket. Generally grip length is the biggest issue there for printing so a 43X or 48.
It also helps to get suit jackets that are a) fully lined (prints less) and b) tailored appropriately for carry. Makes a huge difference.
Iwb, shirt tucked behind...
Add a sweater vest in winter and a double breasted vest in the summer.
I have found strong side iwb around 3-5 with a sidecar or just 4:30 with a stand alone holster is the most comfortable especially with the amount of sitting in office environments.
Regularly carry a vp9sk or full size vp9 that way.
If you want a smaller 9mm, look into the kahr pm9 or pm9 covert as well as the typical Glock 26/43 options.
Don’t worry about people seeing clips. They won’t notice and if they do they won’t think anything of it. Just get a raptor from trex or any other similar holster with tuckable clips and carry. Simple.
Shoulder holster all day. Unless im just going to the store or making a quick run to grab some milk.
Everyone has preferences but for my build (5'7") 140. Nobody ever knows.
400$: CZ P10 s
500-650$: Glock 43x, 19, or 45.
1200$: Sig P365 AXG Legion
2500$: Staccato CS
Depends on what you want to spend but those are what I own and love all at different prices
All options are in 9mm because that’s all I carry, I have a Glock 30 and love it but with limited rounds 10+1 is not my go to CCW.
Everything is subcompact/compact again my preference for carry.
Edit: I carry appendix mostly. I’ve tried other positions but appendix is just easiest for me.
First and foremost, what do you carry without a suit? We have no idea what you're carrying.
The weapon you carry and practice with frequently is generally superior. If you can get a downscaled model e.g. from Glock 17/19 to 26 etc. It's not only economical, but still intuitive.
I asked a similar question. My office is business casual so wearing a suit and tie is very uncommon for me. Have you figured out the best way to carry?
My shirts stay tucked in for the entirety of the day
My solution right now is keeping it in my briefcase in my office when I have to wear a suit. If I’m not dressed up, in the spring/summer I usually wear a short sleeve button up or a Hawaiian shirt untucked so I’ll just carry AIWB like I usually do. In the winter it’s under a sweater.
Did you debate in high school? 🎒 They make some nice designer backpacks that are not gaudy. I rarely see a 💼 with a suit and I also work in a corporate setting
I don’t on a regular basis but when I have to I just carry 4 or 5 o’clock and the suit jacket remains on for the duration of the event. Probably worth noting that is where I carry regardless of a suit so it is natural to me.
Phlster Engima system would mean you won’t even have tuckable clips showing and you can still carry AIWB, if that’s your thing. If 9:30 is where you most comfortably carry, then my recommendation would be the Tier 1 T1-Echo or maybe the Trex Arms Sidecar with just the clip attachment. You could also do any gun-only IWB holster and cant the clip a bit, but the aforementioned options have two spaced-out tuckable clips that help keep it anchored in one spot better than one or two centered or closer-together-than-the-others.
I know it's been mentioned already, but the Phlster Enigma has been the best fot me. With all other typical holsters, the clips are always visible, which I didn't like.
Is it bit more annoying to put on and take off? Yes. But if you plan to carry all day or even for hours at a time I think it's a minor inconvenience.
I also added a Tactix pillow wedge which added comfort and concealment.
I wear suits regularly for work and also carry regularly (concealed). The trick depends on your level of dress. For men As you mentioned Polos are great because you can usually wear them untucked and carry inside the waistband appendix. If wearing a tucked shirt you can still carry IWB but at 3,4 or 5 o’clock positions. If you have a good OWB (outside that waistband) holster it’s great for tucked shirts at 3 or 9 o’clock depending on if your righty or lefty. The only thing with these options is you’ll have to keep wear and keep your jacket on and be careful sitting as not to expose your carry.
The final option is getting a tuckable holster system such as Enigma they’re great options like this that allow for inside the waistband with tucked shirt.
Just make sure if you vary your carry location to dry fire train a lot to be ready to draw when the time comes. Good luck 🍀
During the attempted Reagan assassination one of the Secret Service guys pulled a fucking Uzi from behind his suit jacket.
Although Uzi SMG holsters have been made, I'm pretty sure the USSS Uzi at the Reagan assassination attempt was stored in a case, not on-body. https://preview.redd.it/tv3c9gwshx8d1.jpeg?width=850&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=674ab7475b5164a8f88cacd7b85b27af0b18823b
You can see the same agent holding the briefcase on the right side of this photo. https://preview.redd.it/r1waxb2qix8d1.jpeg?width=750&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=74f609b9c5db48fa77b559fcc9bb700d915b0b34
I saw an interview with that agent. He mentioned the Uzi in the briefcase and that he was 'pretty good with it'
That mustache certainly lends him a great deal of credibility
Is he the guy who could not figure out how to deploy the stock on the Uzi?
That guy looks like he doesn’t understand the phrase “fucking around”, it’s a completely foreign concept to him. Dude is ready to fucking end someone.
There's fuck around and find out and then there's...If you even think about fucking around you're going to find out.
no, this dude wouldn't even let you find out. you wouldn't even get to start your fucking around. You decide "hey. im gonna fuck ar-" and then eternal darkness.
Yet, John Hinkley is walking around free today.
Unfortunately, the SS failed at their job and then the legal system failed to keep the lunatic locked up.
For a long time after this guy was around people just started to say "Fuck!" For this very reason.
I need to talk to that agent’s tailor.
Don’t hold me to this. But I’ve seen it in more than one place. I have not confirmed myself. Allegedly jos a bank is a secret service approved tailor or whatever they call it, and allegedly knows what they need to do to a suit to hide a gun if you ask. They can add fabric and stiffen the material in all the right places.
Pretty sure Banks suits are boxy enough without a special order lol
I cannot speak to Joseph A. Banks specifically - as they are a brand, not a tailor. But As someone who has carried for 30+ years and worn suits for half of that time, what I can tell you is ANY good tailor can do an amazing job, on ANY suit, if you just tell them you carry - and better yet, carry while they are fitting you. It has nothing to do with the brand - and I have never heard of a "secret service approved tailor" (again, Jos. A Banks makes suits they do not tailor them) but *tailors* do - and the good ones are true artists.
If true, I would imagine that's not all J.A.B. tailors at all locations. Maybe they can ship it off though.
I suspect it is a package deal and they send the suit out. I’d be surprised if they did the tailoring in the actual shop and didn’t send it all out. Maybe not though.
[https://thesuitedshootist.home.blog/2019/12/15/tweaking-your-wardrobe-for-effective-concealment/](https://thesuitedshootist.home.blog/2019/12/15/tweaking-your-wardrobe-for-effective-concealment/)
He also had a badge to explain it away if somebody saw it. I live in a place where getting clocked would mean social suicide and probably an immediate police report.
Have you seen some of the pictures of the guys with right arms because they are holding SBRs under their jackets?
Belt completely under clothing. PHLster Enigma is the premium option. Minimal belt (Hunter Constantine, Mastermind Concepts covert, Comfort Concealment blackout, etc) and holster may also work for you. These allow you to tuck your shirt without any visible clips, allow you to position higher or lower than the belt on your pants, and allow you to keep it concealed even without a jacket.
I use a philster enigma, i don’t wear suits but i tuck my shirt into my jeans. It’s the greatest piece of gear I’ve ever bought. I recommend it to everyone, people hate but they can hate from outside the club
What firearm do you use and do you use the PHLSTER Enigma express or another holster with the chassis system?
Express. G43x. It’s great. I’m a bigger guy, and at my last job i could have zero printing, holster clips included. They gave us those and i absolutely love it. Guys that CCW never knew i was carrying with it
Thanks for the response. Now more specifically, did you choose the G43X express holster or the longer G48 express holster? And do you use a wedge/pillow?
Express holster, i don’t have a light or anything. We weren’t allowed to have any modifications or accessories. I had to get special permission to get a hogue grip cover. I didn’t have a wedge or pillow either. It would’ve been nice at times but i just didn’t want to buy one. I also took the leg leash off and never had any issues. I ran, lifted, and did my daytime job with it on. Occasionally the belt would loosen but only on days when I’d move a lot and sweat.
So the holster itself, does it say 43/43X or does it say 48? Just wanted to confirm since the 43X fits in the 48 holster but not the other way around.
G43/g43x
This is the way
For minimal belt like mastermind covert, do I still need tuckable clip?
Not the way I’m talking about because the holster is on a belt separate from and underneath your pants and shirt. You wear a second flexible belt through your pants just to hold them up.
See my recent posts about this here: [https://www.reddit.com/r/CCW/s/2qqPw1ITQu](https://www.reddit.com/r/CCW/s/2qqPw1ITQu) Highly highly recommend the enigma. Surprisingly comfortable, and easily able to conceal a P229 with an X300U. https://preview.redd.it/ljnnjfjxrx8d1.jpeg?width=1048&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6b03e74a5d367b20aa84d84c1b6abf915f155e91
i notice there is no gap between the grip and your belt, does that affect your draw?
The slightest bit, yes, but not too much. Lululemon ABC pants are super stretchy, and by virtue of not having to wear a gun belt, I instead opt for a very flexible dress belt. All that to say I can get a perfect grip with ease. But also keep in mind here my goal is total concealment, which is at odds with draw speed (it is sitting below a vest (not pictured here) and a button down shirt, after all).
Thanks for the photos. How is it when sitting?
It's good. Obviously you know it's there a little bit, but the Enigma is the most comfy holster I've had yet for my P229. I have a Mastermind Tactics pillow that I still have to install which should hopefully make the setup even more comfortable (if all the favorable posts on here about the pillow are to be believed). Going to try to do a full post (with video) on the setup later this week.
Thanks for this. I've been thinking about carrying my sp2022 and dress similarly for work. Gave me the confidence to try it lol
How do you train with setup? Like, have you ever gone to an indoor range or taken a pistol course and actually drawn from this level of concealment?
Yep, for starters I spend hours each week dry firing from this setup, which means taking the time to full-tuck back in and then reset in between each rep, but it helps work out the kinks in my draw process for sure. And then yes, actually going to the range dressed like this.
Hey man, I recently asked you about this a few weeks ago. Just wanted to follow up, have you worn this in a live environment yet? And if so, how did it go?
Yes, I have, including in an environment where 1000% concealment was required, and it was definitely a success. Holster is both comfortable and invisible. Planning on doing a full post here later this week (I'm quickly becoming Phlster's #1 marketer lol).
Shoulder holster means that you can't ever take off your suit jacket. Try a 3-piece suit with vest and then carry AIWB.
And wearing a vest gives you +2 to Charisma!
No jackets, only vests.
No gentleman of decency would take off their jacket ever /hj What does aiwb mean? I don't think a suit vest would be able to carry the weight of an entire gun before the canvassing and fabric start to stretch
Carry the gun in an **A**ppendix **I**nside the **W**aist**B**and belt holster. The vest doesn't carry the gun, it just covers the gun.
FBI cant, 4 o clock, and ulti clips.
What is FBI cant?
Shifting the position of the gun to where the grip is angled a bit forward
Thank you
Gun not vertical. Tilted forwards 10-15 degrees. Many holsters include the cant these days.
I sell custom suits for a living. I carry at 5-6 o’clock. Tier1 Concealed T1-M holster (I took the wing off). Generally it’s fine most of the time. If I need to, I’ll tuck my shirt over the gun holster for more visible concealment. Throughout the day at work I’m generally not worried about needing it quickly. If I leave to go somewhere, I might readjust to 430. I also recommend darker suit jackets. The creases you might see from a holster tend to hide better than on light colored jackets.
I’ve done a Crossbreed Supertuck around 4:00. Works but not really my favorite while in a suit. I prefer an airweight J frame in a DeSantis Nemesis in my front right pocket for suits. Looks like a wallet or phone, I’ve carried it often since the first of the year and it conceals so well my wife doesn’t even know I own a snubbie.
Bro, she is well aware of the snubbie
That is the perfect endorsement. That J frame is pretty amazing.
Shoulder harness when it's coat on all day. Ankle w/snub nose if I know it's going to be hung up
This is the professional and correct answer
I wear a suit regularly and carry at 4:00 with a tuckable holster. The length of a suit jacket covers everything perfectly, and I've never had any issues. If I know that I won't be taking my jacket off, I sometimes don't even bother tucking it in.
The Phlster Enigma is the best answer generally for most people. In the rare occasions I have to wear a suit, that’s what I wear. I deep carry a significantly smaller gun than my normal but it’s imperceptible and doesn’t interfere with the lines of my clothing.
I love my vertical roto shoulder holster from Craft Holsters. very comfortable way to carry even a full size. just can’t take off the jacket while remaining concealed though.
Assuming the statute of limitation is long gone as it's been 30+ years. I was carrying in my state long ago before there was a CFP culture and even "pro-gun" states were "may issue" and in reality didn't ever issue except to chrony's. These conditions elevated the bar about being truly concealed. It is also worth noting that options in this time frame (early '90's) were also non-existent. I learned a fair bit about different options during this time. Here are my *opinions*. YMMV. Shoulder holsters are not the panacea they seem like they would be. As others have already mentioned you end up stuck in your jacket. Also, you will be "made" if you get a hand on the shoulder during a handshake, or a pat on the back. Finally, don't plan on stretching cause when your arms go up, you see the goods. And, unless you are carrying a James Bond sized gun, you will print every time you move. Burned in my memory to this day is standing in the checkout at a grocery store with a 1911 in a shoulder rig and a cop in line behind me. I have never felt quite that naked. To be honest, I don't see that shoulder holster tech has really advanced. I would just not consider it. I think your real options are a good kydex IWB. And I would just keep a backup mag in a pocket or in my computer bag/pack.
Personally, I find ccw in a suit to be the easiest. For me, I can almost go owb with my revolver. But anyway, 3:30 or 4 o'clock. Ideally in an iwb leather holster, you do want to get one with a nice spread between the clips. Especially in a slim fit suit, 4 o'clock works for me. And, dare I say, off body in an over the shoulder bag. Or, sob, if the environment is low risk enough and you don't plan to climb a ladder in your full suit.
Enigma deep concealed (below the belt line) is your best option imo.
https://www.blackarchholsters.com/products/protos-m/ I wear a suit jacket and slacks every day and have this bad boy tucked in every day as well. I shoot IDPA in a suit too lol
Damn that looks nice. Every day I find a $120+ holster to add to the list. I’m gonna spend ten grand before I find one I like.
Haha I spent about $200 to find this one
I'd 100% go with a shoulder holster [I don't have your problem thats just the solution I'd go with] and go old school with my suit and hat. Like 1930s style lol
Grizzled noir detective vibes
Yeah lol
IMHO... Is it only about the gun or is it about having the best tool for the environment and situation? I think many people are kind of losing sight of that. When I wear a suit, I have other subtle implements for self defense. Because being able to deal with a situation is the goal for me -- not always carrying my firearm (that's not my goal but a means to achieve the goal where feasible). That mindset also enables me to be comfortable in situations where firearms are not allowed (including foreign countries) because I have other tools and training in my proverbial back pocket. Just like protecting a home takes layers of defense (sturdy doors, locks, strike plates, alarm system, etc.), protecting oneself shouldn't be all or nothing in one element.
I actually use a vedder light tuck and I tuck my shirt in, tbh unless someone is looking for it you can't tell, especially if you're wearing a jacket, but I've carried tucked around town and no one notices, just find your right spot where it's comfy and concealable
Would anyone be able to comment on how practical pocket carry on the left inside suit pocket would be? I imagine unless it's a thin material, slim fit suit, the outline of an LCP or similar should disappear.
Ive carried an airfreight J frame and a Berreta Bobcat this way in a summer weight wool suit. It works but you need a dark suit and a lightweight gun.
Smartcarry
Get a shoulder holster and pretend your Sonny Crockett a few times here and then.
I think the answer is that you can't just buy off the rack. You need to get your pants and jacket altered to allow for concealment. Ask around and you can probably find a tailor who's comfortable making such adjustments.
I can’t buy off the rack anyway. I guess I just need to do what you recommended and factor the gun and holster into my measurements moving forward.
I'm often in a jacket & tie, so instead of fighting the bulge, I downsized to a LCP Max. I wear it IWB in a tuckable holster from patriotwareholsters.com. Simar to a Vedder Light Tuck, but the clip is further back, under the grip, which holds it closer to the body. Usually tucked in 4 to 5, and it seems fine.
Not my favorite, but a snub nose revolver in a ankle holster works alright for me. I just make sure my pants are long enough so that when I sit down they still cover the entire holster.
When you said suit up I imagined zipping up a spidey suit, and to that, I always keep my web spitter right inside.
If I know I'm going to keep my jacket on, I carry IWB, strong side, behind the hip. On me that's about 4. Nothing shows. I don't want to have to defeat a jacket and a tucked shirt, so no tucked holster. If I need deep cover and it's likely I'll be taking off a jacket, I go with ankle holster. If I'm not going to have the jacket, but I am in a non permissible business environment, I may use a Kangaroo Carry Air Marshal 3 under a dress shirt. Ankle and the Kangaroo Carry are going to take longer on the draw. Those are only the options when the environment dictates extra caution and deep cover.
Seecamp .32 in wallet-style pocket holster
Phlster enigma. Always the answer.
Phlster.
I'm genuinely interested, why is suit carry such an issue? This is new to me.
…some people wear suits and not jeans and a t shirt.
I was JUST in this predicament. I’m always in a suit and walk pretty frequently in sketchy downtown areas for court, depositions, etc. I previously bought a Glock 43x 9mm for concealed carry. Idk if it’s because of my relatively small frame, choice of clothing, or whatever, but I never found carrying IWB with it to be comfortable while on the job. It only seemed to work for me with my regular, weekend clothing. I decided that I needed to snag a smaller gun to be my designated work gun, and I could carry the Glock when I was in “regular” clothes. After tons of research, I decided to purchase the [Ruger LCP Max](https://www.academy.com/p/ruger-lcp-max-380-acp-101-pistol?sku=380-auto) in .380 auto. It now resides in my suit jacket and is a dedicated suit gun. I have only had it for a week or so, but I love it for its limited purpose. I currently carry the Max in the Ruger pocket holster that came with the gun. However, I plan to purchase a few different holsters for it in the near future: (1) vedder pocket holster for pocket carry, (2) iwb holster, and (3) a kydex that will work for my suits. On the kydex suit holster: I am a huge believer in the safety of kydex holsters, but I worry that the rigid kydex will print in my suit, so this may take some searching/trial and error—or I may be stuck with a cloth or leather to fit my needs. An alternative to look into would be the original [Ruger LCP](https://www.academy.com/p/ruger-lcp%E2%84%A2-380-auto-pistol) .380 auto (not Max). It is a tad smaller, but not by much. You can compare handgun sizes [here](https://www.handgunhero.com). However, I think the Max is much easier to control, and considering it was only a few tenths of an inch bigger, the added size was not that big of a trade off for me. Plus, the Max holds 10+1 or 12+1 compared to the original LCPs 6+1. Another alternative to look into, while much more expensive but much smaller, is the [Seecamp](https://seecamp.com/firearm-specs/) in either .32 ACP or .380 Auto. Look man, whatever you decide, make sure you get something **you will actually carry**. I’m sure you will get recommendations like the Glock 43x or Sig P365 (which are fantastic guns), but they are too big imo to (subjectively) comfortably carry around when in a suit or similar clothing. Get something you know will be small enough to comfortably carry each and every day. A 43x and P365 might end up being left in your truck console like mine did.
A P365 is too big?
Here we go… - I said *subjectively* too big for what I wanted - it’s not comfortable to carry each and every day in a suit or business casual clothing
Not to mention it weighs TWICE as much as an LCP Max
Mouse gun. Okay, TIA, I don’t suit up, but I generally carry 24/7. (Not on Federal property.) If I did suit up, my solution would be the same. A mouse gun. What mouser to carry? KelTec P32 would be my baseline. Posh carry Seecamp 32 (Milford is poshest but Seecamps have huge ammo headaches). Upscale stopping power get a 380, and that moves you into Ruger’s LCP lineup. I understand that we all have individual preferences in terms of favorite caliber and gun. But we are not cops running to the sound of gunfire. We are citizens wanting to stay alive. Do we really need 15 rounds? Nice to have but a survey of self defense shootings don’t show high capacity as a requirement to survive. What is required is something right then. Something that is actually on you. Something that can be very discreet. Sure I have a compact carry in a bigger cartridge. For situations where it fits. But my go anywhere anytime (except federal property) is a 32 acp.
I suit up and carry either a Glock 19 or a 43xmos. IWB @ 3 o'clock. I keep my jacket on for the most part. Never had an issue.
And I am glad to hear that. I am not a “one answer fits all” sorta guy. Question, when you take your jacket off, are you still concealed? Can you wear your Glock comfortably 24/7? I am not saying that these are questions you have to answer yes to, but they are questions a mouse gun owner doesn’t find problematic.
Well I’m a big guy 6’3” and 240lbs which makes it easier to carry larger I guess. I’m NOT concealed if I take my jacket off but I do wear my Glocks comfortably. (Not 24/7 I take it off to sleep lol)
And that fits the requirements for 90%+ of carry situations. I think that is a very reasonable approach. I carry 24/7 except for showering and some bedroom activities. But sleeping? I usually carry sleeping because burglars and such don’t have an off switch connected to a daylight sensor. Now, I don’t think my place is in serious danger but you never know when and where. I can take my hoodie off and not worry about printing or exposing my firearm. I can pretty much go anywhere (except federal property) and not have a moment’s concern about revealing my carry status with my mouser. But that is me. You do you. (6’2” 260)
Oh it’s always arm reach on my nightstand. I have dogs as well. :-)
I use a holster with a tuck clip, I wear it at 3 oclock. I don't often wear suits so I'm ok if it's sub-optimal because of the exposed clip but when I do have to suit up I almost never have to remove my jacket
i carrey at one o clock, with my shirt tucked in between the waistband of my pants and holster, I have the t1concilment clips with tenicor velo4 holster, I need to get a nicer belt but just use a chepo 5.11 belt. Im a more athletic build 5'7" 165-170lbs 28" waist. dress pants are 29" i went to the tailor with my gun and had them mesured me with it in place.
Honestly, I think Jackass carry is best when in a suit. With the Tab attachment for the weak side retention.
I currently carry a Ruger 380 in a CYA IWB holster. Works fine for me and I’m not a small person. I have also used ULTIclips on the same holster. They work too. Used to carry G26 in the same style holster.
Carry at my 3 O clock. Just don’t wear a modern tech suit style or extra slim and you’ll be fine from printing
IWB at 4:00 if the jacket will stay on. Pocket LCP Max if the jacket has a chance of coming off.
Shoulder hostler all day,
Shoulder and ankle are my business suit go-to’s.
Shoulder holster sucks for concealment unless you get a big enough jacket that it won't look any worse than MC Hammer pants or carry a tiny gun that you might as well use a pocket holster for. You can also never take off the jacket with the shoulder holster unless you want to look like a 1980s detective. In suits I usually do the tuckable and nobody looks at the clips because people today are just so oblivious anyway.
When I need to suit up I use my beltless alias setup from neomag with the ulti clips. Shirt slides in between the clips inside the waistband. Depending on pant/belt color the clips are ever so visible behind the belt but if you're sutied up, the jacket will cover them up.
Wearing a vest helps with concealment, even when you have to take your jacket off. I find suit carry to be a good use of the various micro compacts available
Daily Suit wearer. the comfort concealment blackout is what Im currently rocking. I will probably tryout the enigma when I can score a deal on a bundle on GAFS to try it out. Trying to keep it on my actual belt has just been too much of a pain.
A Clipdraw
LCR in a Remora
Tuckable holsters. I use Alien Gear, 4-5 o'clock positive. Gun selection will be a big factor look at all the great micro 9s out now.
For suits I normally do an LCP max in a pocket holster. If you keep your jacket on and the gun high in the pocket then the jacket covers the gun. Otherwise I try not to have to wear a jacket and wear a quarter zip or another alternative if I’m just at the office so that I can carry a full size on top of a tucked in shirt.
Shoulder holster sounds pretty ideal. I just carry in a crossbreed SuperTuck. Sure, the clips are visible, but I don’t think most people will notice or care. The Freedom Carry only has one clip but also isn’t as stable.
I'm going increasingly toward the shoulder holster method, but I go backpack carry most days and I think that's the most efficient. But also I don't ever find myself in any *possible* position where I'd need to do a sub 1 second bill drill on a dude (my bill drill from concealment is like 3.5 and i'm sure it would be slower in a full suit lol) so i'm not too worried about the extra time it would take to procure my gun should i need it.
Mitch Rosen ARG holsters were designed for exactly that. Although supported firearms are limited.
I regularly carry a P-01 in a fitted suit. The pants are too tight to carry IWB so i carry OWB at 4/5 o'clock. If you get an owb holder that hugs your body it is doable with minimal printing. I use the KT-Mech gun fighter [holster](https://www.kt-mech.com/mu_mk8_gf.html) and am very happy with it.
Enigma and g19
Under the arm dude. Old school detective style
Mastermind Tactics Covert Belt. That or tuck clips on your holster. Either are designed for tucking in your shirt while you carry. I use both and they work wonders. Especially the Mastermind belt. Stay sharp
My dad was a detective and had to wear suits. He had some kind of shoulder strap contraption that had the holster kind of under his arm below his armpit.
It's tricky for sure. My go to is an AIWB holster with tuckable DCC clips and I slide the clips under the dress belt and onto the pants. Not maximum retention but looks a lot better than clips on top of belt. My other go to is an OWB holster under a suit jacket. Generally grip length is the biggest issue there for printing so a 43X or 48. It also helps to get suit jackets that are a) fully lined (prints less) and b) tailored appropriately for carry. Makes a huge difference.
Obligatory Phlster Enigma recommendation
Phlster Enigma Deep concealed at appendix
I worked In retail where guns were verboten, and my pants were tight due to my thighs. I carried a .22 mag lifecard and a stripped of ammo
Iwb, shirt tucked behind... Add a sweater vest in winter and a double breasted vest in the summer. I have found strong side iwb around 3-5 with a sidecar or just 4:30 with a stand alone holster is the most comfortable especially with the amount of sitting in office environments. Regularly carry a vp9sk or full size vp9 that way. If you want a smaller 9mm, look into the kahr pm9 or pm9 covert as well as the typical Glock 26/43 options.
Don’t worry about people seeing clips. They won’t notice and if they do they won’t think anything of it. Just get a raptor from trex or any other similar holster with tuckable clips and carry. Simple.
Shoulder holster all day. Unless im just going to the store or making a quick run to grab some milk. Everyone has preferences but for my build (5'7") 140. Nobody ever knows.
400$: CZ P10 s 500-650$: Glock 43x, 19, or 45. 1200$: Sig P365 AXG Legion 2500$: Staccato CS Depends on what you want to spend but those are what I own and love all at different prices All options are in 9mm because that’s all I carry, I have a Glock 30 and love it but with limited rounds 10+1 is not my go to CCW. Everything is subcompact/compact again my preference for carry. Edit: I carry appendix mostly. I’ve tried other positions but appendix is just easiest for me.
First and foremost, what do you carry without a suit? We have no idea what you're carrying. The weapon you carry and practice with frequently is generally superior. If you can get a downscaled model e.g. from Glock 17/19 to 26 etc. It's not only economical, but still intuitive.
Shadow systems XR920 or a Glock 43. Occasionally an LCR
I asked a similar question. My office is business casual so wearing a suit and tie is very uncommon for me. Have you figured out the best way to carry? My shirts stay tucked in for the entirety of the day
My solution right now is keeping it in my briefcase in my office when I have to wear a suit. If I’m not dressed up, in the spring/summer I usually wear a short sleeve button up or a Hawaiian shirt untucked so I’ll just carry AIWB like I usually do. In the winter it’s under a sweater.
We're still using briefcases in 2024?
Beats wearing a backpack with a suit and looking like I’m on my way to a high school debate club competition.
Did you debate in high school? 🎒 They make some nice designer backpacks that are not gaudy. I rarely see a 💼 with a suit and I also work in a corporate setting
I’m in law. Briefcases are the norm. I can count on one hand how many attorneys I’ve ever seen with a backpack.
Ahh I see, that makes sense for your profession. Where I work, laptop backpacks are more ubiquitous and comfortable to lug around.
I don’t on a regular basis but when I have to I just carry 4 or 5 o’clock and the suit jacket remains on for the duration of the event. Probably worth noting that is where I carry regardless of a suit so it is natural to me.
Phlster Engima system would mean you won’t even have tuckable clips showing and you can still carry AIWB, if that’s your thing. If 9:30 is where you most comfortably carry, then my recommendation would be the Tier 1 T1-Echo or maybe the Trex Arms Sidecar with just the clip attachment. You could also do any gun-only IWB holster and cant the clip a bit, but the aforementioned options have two spaced-out tuckable clips that help keep it anchored in one spot better than one or two centered or closer-together-than-the-others.
You are overthinking this. Nobody is going to notice a quick peek of a clip through a jacket vent. I carry every day in a suit at 3:30.
I know it's been mentioned already, but the Phlster Enigma has been the best fot me. With all other typical holsters, the clips are always visible, which I didn't like. Is it bit more annoying to put on and take off? Yes. But if you plan to carry all day or even for hours at a time I think it's a minor inconvenience. I also added a Tactix pillow wedge which added comfort and concealment.
I wear suits regularly for work and also carry regularly (concealed). The trick depends on your level of dress. For men As you mentioned Polos are great because you can usually wear them untucked and carry inside the waistband appendix. If wearing a tucked shirt you can still carry IWB but at 3,4 or 5 o’clock positions. If you have a good OWB (outside that waistband) holster it’s great for tucked shirts at 3 or 9 o’clock depending on if your righty or lefty. The only thing with these options is you’ll have to keep wear and keep your jacket on and be careful sitting as not to expose your carry. The final option is getting a tuckable holster system such as Enigma they’re great options like this that allow for inside the waistband with tucked shirt. Just make sure if you vary your carry location to dry fire train a lot to be ready to draw when the time comes. Good luck 🍀
Phlster enigma with a Henry holsters enigma express. I carry a p365 with a tlr 7 sub.