Creature

Probably has been done to death and if so, Mods, feel free to shake a finger at me and close/lock thread if need be.

I have been carrying a small j-frame IWB at the 2 o'clock for years now. But since then I have been rethinking the "old-school" crossdraw method.

I have found that it is easier to draw while belted into a vehicle and that it is actually more comfortable for me to carry this way.

I understand the idea that the cross draw method makes it somewhat easier for a BG to snatch my gun, and while a valid point, I am having trouble disqualifying the crossdraw outright. I dont really see this as a huge probelm because my gun will be under my shirt and hopefully I will be able to avoid or even counter his move for my gun. Hopefully.

Also, some may mention the "sweep" factor when presenting from a cross draw. Something I need to think about as well.

So...please help me out here. Can anyone make a good argument as to why I should, or should not, use the cross-draw method.

sourmash

I too, carry a mod 36 crossdraw. I really enjoy the comfort and easy access while driving. The bg taking my weapon in any type of carry, is possible but we are talking about concealed carry. We have the edge because the bg should'nt know that we are packin until the draw. One of the greatest advantages of crossdraw is the weakhand's ability to also draw the weapon. So don't sweat the bg taking your weapon and remember the "MINDSET" aspect of ccw. Practice crossdraw and include the weakhand draw, if you do it will improve your self confidence and your tactical "mindset". As always jmho

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PAExplorer

Even if you carry strong hand, you'll still likely have to sweep with your week hand to clear your cover garments. It's easier for me to clear my cover garment while carrying crossdraw because my week hand only has to lift the cover garment straight up instead of sweeping across my body all the way around to 5 o'clock where I carry strong hand. The week hand draw is also an advantage.

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huntermedic

I've been thinking about switching over to cross-draw. I carry a Taurus PT-145, very light and compact. I have just recently started carrying in the appendix position. (7 yrs as an ofc, taught me to carry on the hip or just behind, appendix has taken some getting used to.) However, I have been trying to find a small belt pouch to use in the CD method. Not a fanny pack, because all that does is tell the BG that I am carrying a gun. Any thoughts on the belt puch for a sm 45

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Thumper

99% of the time I carry in the same place, IWB @ 1630hrs but I too want this option especially for the cold weather months when I'm wearing a jacket.

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Redneck Repairs

Well for myself i wont carry in that fashon . My reasons are i am 45+ years old , i fight the middle age spread , its a longer reach around stuff than it was as a kid . Secondarily i am an old cop and tend to do the " interview " stance when talking to folks .. that puts my strongside at the back . IMHO crossdraw is just as valid as ankle carry ... and is worth doing about as much

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Creature

Is there any kind of tactical advantage or disadvantage to the cross-draw?

ExSoldier

Well, I'm ashamed to say it, but crossdraw is out for me simply because I can't get my arm far enough across my GUT fast enough! Yes I'm trying to shrink the gut but it's a constant struggle. I also hesitate to think of the amount of training that would be required to instill the proper amount of muscle memory since I've never carried in this manner. There were times when I carried in a shoulder holster (horizontal rig) but even that's pretty slow and far easier than trying to execute the draw from hip level and across those wide open spaces on my belly.

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ExSoldier

It's supposed to be more comfortable and faster especially if you're seated.

But the down side is that anybody who is aware you're carrying that way is set up to smoothly and decisively grab your gun.

Think of those films: MY NAME IS NOBODY.

Also I think it's about 100% easier to flash display than any other method of carry. Easier to let on that you're heeled in public. Think about it: Think of the distance your cover garment has to move if you're wearing it strong side at 4 O'Clock versus the mere inches if you're wearing it front of the weak side hip.

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past60

depending on the holster you are currently using, you may be able to simply shift your position from 2 to 10. If you're using a straight drop IWB it would be realtively easy. If something else, the maker may offer a no cant version. This way, you can at least test the theory. I'm still not convinced that strongside carry doesn't sometimes send an early signal of coming events with the thrashing of clothes and flailing of elbows in anticipation of the draw. With cross draw it is possible to "prepare" yourself with a casual crossing of the arms - if time allows.


Even Roy, Hoppy and Wild Bill carried one on each side.