XD Talk

Gonz0 · 07-08-2009, 03:46 AM

Hola, I probably mentioned some of this in my re-intro post, but here's a summary of my situation: I am youngish, but feel effin' old. My spine was crushed in a car accident several years ago, leaving me paraplegic. That means I am totally paralyzed below the chest, but my arms & shoulders were not effected, so I have full use of my upper body, just not my legs or trunk. I got a CWP and an XD(4" 357sig) when I turned 21, though I didn't really carry on my person and thus never found a holster.

Now I "live" in the deep south, and just applied for a CWP in this state. I REALLY hope my application goes through, as I am very obviously a visbly easy target due to my disability. I have been thinking a lot about what kind of holster would work best for my situation. I decided that a Belly-Band would probably work the best for me, though I am also considering getting a granny-pack to have as a backup option. I really don't think any kind of in or out of the waistband holster, shoulder rig, or thunderwear style of holster would work, for a variety of reasons.

I have been searching for info & reviews, and have been surprised by how many varieties of belly-bands there are. I just started trying to put together a list, and it looks like there are well over a dozen different belly-band holsters on the market! It's a little overwhelming, so I could use some advice and help deciding on what would work best for me.

I read someone on here talking about bell-bands, and they said they had tried the Galco belly band, and one of the cheaper ones. They said they liked the cheaper one better because it was more versatile and the Galco leather one could get a little hot against the body. That would definitely be an issue for me, because unfortunately I now "live" in the DEEP SOUTH, where it is hot and humid as hell, probably more so. I have not, and never will adapt to this miserable heat, so I don't need to be wrapped in leather.

I was also thinking my XD(my only firearm) would probably be the best concealed kinda framing my gut. Like with the slide to my side and the grip sitting on top of my gut. I'm not a real big guy, though I have a bit of a gut now that most of my body doesn't function and thus burn fat, and I have zero trunk muscle/ab tone to hold my stomach in.

So if I could find a cheap, vesatile, functional belly band, that would be great. I've seen several very inexpensive ones on eBay, and a bunch more around the web, most for under $50. I would like one with some extra pockets, or at least an extra mag holder; though the more options available the better! Once I get my list more put together I can post some info/pics/links here; but I would really appreciate some suggestions and info from those of you who have experience with and/or know about Belly Band style holsters, so I can make an informed decision and find one that is quality and works the best for my needs. Thanks!

**Spawnz** · 07-08-2009, 03:52 AM

I am assuming you are constantly in a wheelchair. Don't think you would actually need a concealable (on the body type holster) when you could probably mount something to the side of the chair which may work out better. Not on the outside of the chair but between you and the side. Just thinking here and don't know for sure. You could conceal it with a blanket or some other such object over your waist. Have you considered this?

**scjbash** · 07-08-2009, 04:09 AM

A lot of people love the SmartCarry. I have never used one, but I couldn't tell you how many times I've read comments online about how good it is.

SmartCarry - Concealed Gun Holsters

Gonz0 · 07-08-2009, 07:55 AM

Yes, I am what they refer to as "wheelchair bound", ugh. Anyways, I think it is important to have my gun in a holster on my body(like a belly band under my shirt). If I fall or am pushed out of my chair(both of which have happened), or transfer out of it, I'd be in a bad situation. I also think a holster attached to the chair would be difficult to conceal, and would certainly draw unwanted attention when transferring in or out of my car, which I do a lot. Plus I have to take the wheels off the chair and fold the back down to get it into my car, and it takes a beating in the process, a holster would get torn up and be most conspicous.

I've looked at the SmartCarry, but I think I would have the same issues with it as something like the thunderwear. My body is FUBAR and waging biological warfare against me, so I have other equipment in that location, and it is not a safe place for anything I value

Chromey · 07-08-2009, 09:22 AM

For $35 this one would seem to fit the bill, and at least let you try thr "belly band" option without too much out of pocket expense.
Defender Gun Concealment Holsters

J B S · 07-08-2009, 10:00 AM

When I first saw your handle I thought you were a friend of uncle Ted ( Nugent ). You are already aware of the first thing I would have told you. Most attackers want to separate the victim from their wheelchair, you have that covered by having your defenses on your person not the chair. You did not state if you had feeling in the area the gun will be secreted. You already know you want to avoid skin irritation and damage from the holster. I would suggest you contact a couple of the custom holster makers. Tell them your situation and what you want to do. They may be able to change, adapt, or custom make a holster to your measurements that functions for you better than anything available off the shelf.

SRD · 07-08-2009, 10:05 AM

JBS i agree with you, Who knows some holster makers may have already custom made holsters for people in your situation and may know of a better way to adapt one to you. Belly bands are ok but i wouldnt trust one to secure the gun if i am thrown to the ground .

**Houseboat** · 07-08-2009, 03:44 PM

Send me a PM would be happy to discuss what we can do for you

Cremator75 · 07-09-2009, 01:11 AM

If I were in your situation, I would go for a shoulder rig. There are many different brands, and some are very comfortable.

Maximum1 · 07-12-2009, 05:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by scjbash

A lot of people love the SmartCarry. I have never used one, but I couldn't tell you how many times I've read comments online about how good it is.

SmartCarry - Concealed Gun Holsters

Just wondering if you or anyone else heard draw times using SmartCarry (from draw to first shot fired)?