Never thought I would ask, but...

[PA_PB&J]

I'm finally seeing Open Carry as an option in some very specific circumstances.

I managed to skip or avoid most Open Carry gear articles and discussions for the last 25 years or so, so I have to ask;

What is a secure, Open Carry holster suitable for casual carry? Not something to be used only at the range.

What level of retention/security do you feel comfortable with?

BTW, main sidearm is a Glock 26.


Edited to add: Retention Levels

[Sgt.K]

I OC a 5" 1911 IWB in a super tuck clone. Retention comes from good holster fit, belt tension, and a good solid love handle. If I don't want it coming out, it's not. It's almost all I use.

[H.E. Pennypacker]

Unless you're worried about going hand-to-hand with someone, a simple leather holster with no strap is fine.

[BestDefense=StrongOffense]

Someone's gonna say it, might as well be me...



...check out the Blackhawk! SERPA



Seriously though, level 2 retention is a good place to be.

[Deleted]

It should be sexy... with a little shark skin or elephant trim. Oh yea!

[Deleted]

Someone's gonna say it, might as well be me...



...check out the Blackhawk! SERPA



Seriously though, level 2 retention is a good place to be.

You will shoot your leg off!!

[Manxdriver]

I'm finally seeing Open Carry as an option in some very specific circumstances.

I managed to skip or avoid most Open Carry gear articles and discussions for the last 25 years or so, so I have to ask;

What is a secure, Open Carry holster suitable for casual carry? Not something to be used only at the range.

What level of retention/security do you feel comfortable with?

BTW, main sidearm is a Glock 26.


Edited to add: Retention Levels

First off, Tupperware belongs in the fridge, not the range! Second, a good 1911( yeah, any 1911 is a good gun) can be securely carried in a Serpa, and if you are going to a more formal function than getting gasoline and a burrito at WAWA, then go leather with a retention strap. Safariland, Galco, Don Hume, etc... all of these produce quality, good looking leather holsters.

[PAMedic=F|A=]

Some people well tell you that you must use a high level retention holster, and then cite examples of cops being shot with their own guns & the like. Although with elite enough google-fu I am sure you could find an example - the only ones I am aware of occurred because the cop started wrestling someone they should have shot/tased or maced.

Cops should not wrestle people. It is dangerous, and they could get hurt. When they get hurt, it costs me, the tax payer money. They also should not be interacting with bad people (cuffing, searching, what have you) well still holding a firearm. Prison guards don't do it. The Army doesn't do it. Cops shouldn't be doing it.

Now to answer your question: I use a Pancake Simply rugged holster. I don't have Sgt.'s love handles, but everything else he said is true. I also carry at the 1 or 2 O'clock that way my firearm is in front of me & I could draw in my car if needed.

If I am going to a more urban area where I expect crowds or lines I use a serpa holster & slide to a 3 O'clock.


As Manxdriver said: Now that you're becoming an American you're going to need a 1911. You'll want your 1911 to look good, so check out Photon Engraving Although there are pricier guns out there, Citadel makes a good 1911 that you'll be very happy with.

[BestDefense=StrongOffense]

It's ok to carry a Glock in America. Eventually, you'll need a hammer to hang a picture, so 1911's are kinda handy I guess


I own and OC both, so I can bash with glee!

[BestDefense=StrongOffense]

You will shoot your leg off!!

...must spread rep...yadda...yadda...yadda