Anybody who has conceal carried for a full day

[cmichael22]

Does 8 more ounces make a big difference when carrying? I would be carrying IWB and be using just a normal dress belt. One gun weighs 18 ounces and the other weighs 26.

[Theseeker]

If you are wearing civilian clothes and a lighter pistol 15-28 ounces yes, 8 ounces makes a big difference. If you have a full size steel .45 on a duty belt with cuffs, radio, baton, spare magazines, mace, cuffs, knife, baton probably not.

Be more specific. You will get better answers. What are you comparing and how do you intend to use it?

[OldLincoln]

Yes it does make a difference but not a show stopper. I found it really depends on the belt and holster. I have a PM9 and a Colt Commander 1911 .45. Big difference in weight but I don't feel that much extra because I have a good belt and my 1911 holster has 2 belt clips that spread the weight, while my PM9 had one clip. Each are exactly what's needed to carry comfortably.

For a short time I carried 2 10rd ,45 spare mags besides the Colt - now THAT's heavy. My next gun will be a .45 with 10rd mag and no spares.

See my sig line for guns and holsters although today and for my next gun it'll be a Garrett Silent Thunder Fusion.

[cmichael22]

Yeah for my belt it would just be like a suit belt or casual belt

[BimmerBob]

Someone else with more experience will probably add to this, but I think you would have to look at the dimensions of the guns, as well. Even a small variation in width can make the difference between a gun that is comfortably pocketable and one that is not, weight not withstanding. Seems like width would be a little less critical with IWB, but still an issue.

[ripley16]

Several factors go into making carrying a pistol simple and easy or a chore. The quality of the gun belt is important, as is the type and quality of the holster. Where you wear and the mode, ankle, OWB, IWB, etc., have a huge impact on "all-day comfort". The size and weight factor in when you find yourself "adjusting" your gear frequently, or discovering what you have is hard to keep concealed. If your carry gear bothers you in any way, then something is wrong, and whether it is 16oz. or 30, subcompact or full size, you'll need to find a way to correct what's wrong.

IMHO, the easiest and most comfortable way to carry a larger, heavier pistol is OWB, where there is less disturbance to normal daily activity.

[wyntrout]

A good GUN belt... stiff enough to not deform or sag... and a two-clip holster make all of the difference to me. My Looper Kydex-reinforced belt and my PM9-sized Minituck are my universal CC rig... carrying my PM9, P40, PM45, and will even hold my K9, but it's just too heavy. The belt tension hold any of those securely and it's hard to tell the difference with the polymer pistols after a few minutes. I just have to remember to choose the correct magazine holder before putting on the belt.

Wynn:)

[les strat]

I pocket carry my CM9 every day in a Bear Creek front pocket holster (that I love). Even carrying in pocket, a good belt is in order so you don't get the thug sag look going on one side :)

If I carry my G30, it is OWB. I absolutley can't stand IWB.

[Bill K]

It makes a big difference in pocket carry as in my P3AT vs. my PM9. Belt carry not so much.

[APSKahr]

It makes a difference but you can overcome it if you are dedicated. My loaded G26 is 8oz heavier than my loaded CM9. Pocket carry with the G26, my pants will come down unless I tighten my thewilderness belt to a level that forces indigestion. IWB it is less noticeable.

[JFootin]

I am now carrying my J-frame AIWB in a pocket holster. No kidding! I am using the Stays-Put Ultra (http://www.concealmentspecialties.com/products.html) - just $14.95 shipped to you. As the name suggests, it stays put in my pocket better than any pocket holster I ever tried (and I have tried a lot). It is pretty thin, yet it disguises the shape of the gun well. But much to my delight, I have found that it will stay put all day long without having to fiddle with or adjust it AIWB behind a good 1 1/2" belt, with the belt at it's normal notch. I sit it in there pretty low with a backward cant, which keeps it away from my leg when I sit down and facilitates the draw. The cant also makes the grip lay down horizontally right next to my waistline. I have a cell phone case with 2 belt loops (I removed the metal clip) that I mount just behind the grip so that the cell phone is the only thing that prints under a loose shirt. I love that it is as easy to draw sitting down as it is standing, and I can do it without my elbow jutting out like when I draw from behind the hip. And this thing is 100% comfortable all day long! The holster is well made and, I think, durable. It is made of microfiber with the typical smooth nylon inner lining. It breaths and does good keeping moisture away from the gun. You just can't beat it! :)

Edit:

I will add that the weight of the gun doesn't matter in this scenario because the holster is pressed against my belly by belt pressure, so the gun is not weighing my pants or belt down.

I also concur that a good belt is critical for carrying a gun, even when carrying in a pocket, and more so with increased weight.

It sounds like you are wanting to carry in a work setting with dress requirements: business or business casual attire, tucked dress shirt, etc. In that case, I would highly recommend the SmartCarry (http://www.smartcarry.com/) holster. Take some time to read the whole site. Look at the big guns that thin men and little women hide with it. I have one and can attest to it's comfort and security. And it provides complete concealment as long as your pants aren't too tight fitting. A friend of mine wears one every day at the office.

[OldLincoln]

I recommend you take one of those plastic grocery bags and put the weight in it and tie it to your belt up as close to the belt you can get it and wear that around the house. Look in the mirror and see how your belt is handling it.

They do make narrow gun belts for dress pants including gun belts that are narrow in the front and widen out to regular size. About 1.25" is as narrow as I've seen with a taper to .75".

Just remember, whatever your situation there are a lot of folks in the same and so, lots of solutions that work.

[jeepster09]

The lighter the better! However there are many good holsters that compensate. For me, either in pocket with Desantis Super Fly or a quality Tuckable in the waist. I also find I like the slip on clips over the lace your belt through clips.....the easier on/off the better.

[7shot]

Does 8 more ounces make a big difference when carrying?

Lots of variables their...but 1/2 lb can be a big difference.

[Barth]

Does 8 more ounces make a big difference when carrying?

Like everyone is saying, It depends.
That's a real open ended question without enough info to give a specific answer.

8 ozs more in addition to what?
And how are you carrying?
This is important info you're not sharing.
Plus what cloths and belt you wear matter too.
And finally what's comfortable is subjective anyway.

Generally pocket carry needs to be 16/18 oz or less to be really comfortable.
With a good belt you can go heavier, but with less comfort.
Belt carry you can go 20/30 oz pretty well.
Even up to ~ 40.
But lighter is better.

Finally caliber and reloads are important too.
You have to consider loaded weight of gun, mag and spare mags.
I can really feel the difference between a high cap 125 gr 357 sig
and 180 gr 40. Even with a low round count 230 gr .45 ammo weight
starts to add up quickly.


My S&W 342 ti weights 13.5 oz loaded with 135 gr GDHP 38s.
For me it's the ultimate pocket pistol. An I can run around all day
with that in my pocket and not even notice it's there.

I can put my SS S&W 640 in my pocket too.
But I know it's there and it's too much for a comfortable backup gun.

My Glock 27 is ~ 20 oz empty.
Loaded around 30.
That's dreamy on a belt.
I think my MK40 is about the same (~30 oz loaded).

My Sigs start empty at ~30 and are close to 40 loaded.
Like my S&W 629 44 mag.
That's about as big and heavy as I can run with all day.

I usually like the loaded gun at around 30 oz on a belt for real
all day long comfort.

Opinions vary.
Must of us have lots of different guns and a box of holsters to go with them.
It's really a work in progress.

[Russ]

Does 8 more ounces make a big difference when carrying?

I noticed 3 oz in my pocket when I went from the CM9 to the Nano. Not so much when I went from the Nano to the Shield at another 1 oz.

Russ

[yqtszhj]

If you are wearing civilian clothes and a lighter pistol 15-28 ounces yes, 8 ounces makes a big difference. If you have a full size steel .45 on a duty belt with cuffs, radio, baton, spare magazines, mace, cuffs, knife, baton probably not.

Be more specific. You will get better answers. What are you comparing and how do you intend to use it?

He did say concealed carry in the thread title..;)

[Stides]

Everyone is giving you great advice. When you go to look at handguns ask them if you can stick the gun in your pocket, see if they will let you try it in a holster. Many shops have holsters lying around they and will let you see how that particular gun feels on you. It is a very personal thing. I usually tell the clerk my pockets are empty so nothing in there will scratch the gun, etc. and they are always willing to let you see how the gun feels on you.

[wagon]

Does 8 more ounces make a big difference when carrying?

That is half a pound. yes, you will surely feel the different.... when you switch to a lighter weapon (such as cm / pm), it just like how you feel after you removed yiur ski boots after a day on the slope.

[muggsy]

Does 8 more ounces make a big difference when carrying?

When I asked same question of my father, a gunsmith and practical sort, if he could lighten one of my guns he answered by saying why don't you just lose ten pounds and carry two guns. The fact is, every additional ounce wears on you over time. Eight ounces is a full half pound. I carry the lightest thinnest guns available. Everyone of my carry guns has the word KAHR engraved in the slide.

[pesty3782]

I carry either a light weight Colt Commander or the PM45. I use only aker B-21 and B-22 reinforced gun belts and their 168a holsters. I am ccw for over 15 hours a day in and out of cars, suits no suits. A good gun belt is the best investment you can make.

Tony P.

[cw45fan]

Does 8 more ounces make a big difference when carrying?

To me, yes... For EDC, think light!

[CJB]

8 ounces makes a LOT of difference, when you're talking the difference between 19 and 27 ounce guns.

I know my PM45's weigh more... than my PM9, and there's two ounces difference (or so) when unloaded. Loaded total difference is more or less 4.5 ounces... and I know one is a lot heavier in my pocket.

[jocko]

8 ounces is a ton when ur talking about a PM9 which is only 14ounces. As some have stated 8 ounces on a gun weighing 28 ounces and then adding 8 more might not be noticeiablle as ur gonna be waiste band carrying it, but if u even thinkin of pocket carry then 8 ounces IMO is a ton. Just sayin

From what I read, most are not worried if it is waste carried..

[rholmes69]

Just to get an idea of the difference, get a pair of cargo shorts. Cinch your belt to normal tightness, then put a can of soda in one of the pockets. After adjusting to that, go throw another can of soda in there. Best way to ballpark what the weight difference will be like.....

[JERRY]

a good belt and holster make IWB or OWB seem relatively simple and effortless.

[muggsy]

It's just like the difference between men and women. On a man a little extra weight isn't noticed, but on a woman it's a disaster. Why do you think that they refer to guns as she?

[bandrich]

Yes to me a bit of weight makes a big difference.

LCP with shorts and t-shirt loaded weight with one in pipe + Ramora holster = 14oz
Kahr CM9 with 1.5 inch belt loaded weight with one in pipe + OWB holster = 22oz
Beretta PX4 SC .40 with 1.5 inch belt loaded weight with one in pipe etc. = 32oz

Yes I would say it makes a big difference.

[seaswol]

I've tried 4 popular pocket carry holsters for a Glock 26, none work for me. I was spoiled by a P3AT front pocket carry but my accuracy at 7 yds was just OK. Purchased a S&W BodyGuard .380, a little bulkier than the P3AT but much, much more accurate in my hands but the on/off laser button failed after 2 months. I ordered a PM9 on July 30 and picked it up Aug 6. I'll cover that gun once I get the replacement front night sight from KAHR. I did not fire the gun yet. It’s been a comedy of errors between Kahr, Fedex and Hurricane Isaac trying to get it replaced. So far, Ian, at Kahr, has been most helpful but anyone else takes your name and number and never gets back to you, 8/22, 22 minutes on hold, 8/23, 30 minutes on hold and 8/24 when Ian picked up immediately. Once I've fired 100 rounds of Federal 124 gr. and 100 rounds of Underwood and 200 rounds of my 124gr Montana Gold with 4.0 gr. of Titegroup will I report on the my PM9. I like the size and appreciate the honest reviews and understand a break-in period/rounds. I always discount the cool aid-drinking fanatics of any gun manufacturer. And as always the best information does NOT come from the "highest posters", the most "blinged guns" or ones that try to use the sound of illiteracy as a form of plausibility.
Chris
Pensacola, FL

[JFootin]

seaswol, rather than waiting on the phone, try sending an email with good photos if needed to illustrate. You will get quick responses and nothing said gets lost because you have a record of it.
service@kahr.com

Someone here may be able to give you Ian's email address.

[Bawanna]

I have it but I'm a kool aid drinking fanatic with a high post count so it's probably incorrect.

[ripley16]

I have it but I'm a "kool aid drinking fanatic with a high post count" so it's probably incorrect.

That was directed as a compliment, wasn't it? Must have. Yeah... sure it was! :cool:

Peace. :hippie:

[TonyT]

I carried a Glock-36 for several years but found that I could not conceal it reliably at all times. I opted for the PM-9 in a pocket holster and it is my constamnt compamnion. Personally I would not want an additional half pound in my pocket. That PM-9 is about as much as my pocket can take for a whole day.

[cmichael22]

TonyT what about IWB concealed carry half pound make difference then at least to you?

[Path4]

I would say yes but Ive only carried a CM9 and S&W scandium j-frame (13 ounces). Id say the biggest factor is the width of the slide, the cylinder on the j-frame is quite wide in comparison to my CM9 and far less comfortable to carry in an IWB holster. Itll make it harder to conceal also, with length of the grip another big factor. But my CM9 absolutely disappears with my crossbreed holster and Ill usually wear jeans and a larger shirt in this Florida heat when im carrying but its not necessary. When I bend over the handle will barely print but just looks like im carrying a cell phone on my waist and noones paying attention anyway.

Id go with the smaller option, I havent even carried my jframe since i got the kahr its easier to conceal and far more comfortable, plus I dont like my jframe holster

[jocko]

I carried a Glock-36 for several years but found that I could not conceal it reliably at all times. I opted for the PM-9 in a pocket holster and it is my constamnt compamnion. Personally I would not want an additional half pound in my pocket. That PM-9 is about as much as my pocket can take for a whole day.

I did all my mods and customising to my PM9 blunt noxe kahr with slide melting and grips stipplying etc. My PM9 loaded weighs 18 ounces with corbon power ball. I don';t even know I am carrying it, I have been pocket carrying it for over 5 years and it sits next to my wallet so when ever I leave the home both are with me. As much as I have always like glocks and own a G19, NONE IMO are pocketable or at best none are what my PM9 can do..
To meit is allabout ur comfort zone when u carry, if u wanna dress to carry then any damn gun will work, for u are adjusting to the gun. If u desire to pocket carry then ur limitations are getting fewer and fewer. I'm a jeans guy, I ride damn near every day on my Harley. Pocket carry for me is perfect. certainly not a fast draw area, but I recognize that and accept that slight deterent over the fact that my PM9 is with me 24/7.

[JFootin]

I would say yes but Ive only carried a CM9 and S&W scandium j-frame (13 ounces). Id say the biggest factor is the width of the slide, the cylinder on the j-frame is quite wide in comparison to my CM9 and far less comfortable to carry in an IWB holster. Itll make it harder to conceal also, with length of the grip another big factor. But my CM9 absolutely disappears with my crossbreed holster and Ill usually wear jeans and a larger shirt in this Florida heat when im carrying but its not necessary. When I bend over the handle will barely print but just looks like im carrying a cell phone on my waist and noones paying attention anyway.

Id go with the smaller option, I havent even carried my jframe since i got the kahr its easier to conceal and far more comfortable, plus I dont like my jframe holster

I have moved the other way. I don't carry my CM9 as much since I got my J frame customized and found a carry position and holster option that works for me. That said, I dearly love my customized J frame!

http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/Miscellanious%20Guns%20and%20Holsters/My638-1.jpg

When I carry it, it is usually in the AIWB position, riding low with a backward cant. For quick and effortless deployment, I often use the amazing Stays-Put Ultra Pocket Holster (http://www.concealmentspecialties.com/products.html) that works perfectly in that AIWB position. It stays put and is comfortable there all day long, and it stays put better in my pocket than any other holster I have tried (and I've tried a lot). BTW, the J frame draws better from the pocket than the CM9 does. The shape of the gun and the grip make the difference...

...Which brings up another advantage that the J frame has over even a very compact semi-auto like the CM9: it carries so well. Though either gun is (for me) a bit big for pocket carry, the J frame works better there. And in that AIWB position where I love to carry the J frame, I find that the CM9 is too bulky and uncomfortable. You see, the drawback with the CM9 and just about any semi-auto is that it is relatively blocky. You have an almost 1" wide slide that is just as wide at the front as it is way at the back of the gun, and a frame to match. That is a much thicker package to insert inside your waistband, and the back of the slide sticks out above the waistline, causing printing. The J frame's frame is only 1/2" wide, and the barrel is thiner than that. The only wider parts are the cylinder and the grip. That very thin barrel and frame make for less bulk inside the waistband and also make it much easier to reholster the gun, even in that pocket holster that closes up when I draw the gun. The way I carry it, the cylinder sits behind my belt where the bulge isn't noticeable. The back of that thin frame is cut away or rounded off starting just behind the cylinder, so there is nothing there above the waistline to cause printing.

For dressier occasions, I use this custom designed (to my detailed specs!) tuckable leather clip AIWB holster made for me by James Dean, an incredibly talented artist in leather! An ingenius design and execution, IMHO! :D It's really a great holster and I'll bet James could sell a boatload of them over on the S&W Forum. (Reminds me, I need to make some nice photos and post over there to get the stampede started.)

http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/Miscellanious%20Guns%20and%20Holsters/MyAIWBHolsterCompleted.jpg

The rounded edge makes for no corner to dig into my belly or leg. The low ride and backward cant make the grip lay down horizontally just above my belt, where it hides underneath my middle aged spread that expands above it. :o The backward cant shifts the muzzle of the gun and holster toward the center so that it doesn't bind against my leg when I sit down (result: comfort all day long, sitting or standing), and it also presents the gun at the ideal angle for drawing from that position. With the pocket holster, I use an untucked shirt to cover it, but this holster's clip is tuckable if I want to be dressier.

I love that I can draw the gun from that position as easily whether I am sitting or standing, and without jutting my elbow out noticeably like I have to do when drawing from the hip or behind the hip. In fact, being a lefty, I can draw the gun easily when belted in the driver's seat of my car. (This will work just as well for a righty riding shotgun.) Drawing is effortless with the backward cant letting the gun go in the natural direction that your hand wants to go.

But let me tell you, I do love this pretty girl, as well!

http://i1105.photobucket.com/albums/h355/JFootin/MyPolishedKahrCM9/KahrCM9PolishedLSwMagandBullets.jpg

When I carry it, it is usually in my PJ IWB Holster (http://pjholster.com/?page_id=37) that is so comfortable that I literally can't tell I'm carrying it; standing, sitting or moving about. I have to reach back there just behind my hip and touch the gun to confirm it is there!

http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/Miscellanious%20Guns%20and%20Holsters/DSCN4660.jpg
(Photo from another member's post.)

In cooler weather, I use my James Dean IWB Holster.

http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/Miscellanious%20Guns%20and%20Holsters/MyJDHolsterFront.jpg

[Path4]

I have moved the other way. I don't carry my CM9 as much since I got my J frame customized and found a carry position and holster option that works for me. That said, I dearly love my customized J frame!

http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/Miscellanious%20Guns%20and%20Holsters/My638-1.jpg

When I carry it, it is usually in the AIWB position, riding low with a backward cant. For quick and effortless deployment, I often use the amazing Stays-Put Ultra Pocket Holster (http://www.concealmentspecialties.com/products.html) that works perfectly in that AIWB position. It stays put and is comfortable there all day long, and it stays put better in my pocket than any other holster I have tried (and I've tried a lot). BTW, the J frame draws better from the pocket than the CM9 does. The shape of the gun and the grip make the difference...

...Which brings up another advantage that the J frame has over even a very compact semi-auto like the CM9: it carries so well. Though either gun is (for me) a bit big for pocket carry, the J frame works better there. And in that AIWB position where I love to carry the J frame, I find that the CM9 is too bulky and uncomfortable. You see, the drawback with the CM9 and just about any semi-auto is that it is relatively blocky. You have an almost 1" wide slide that is just as wide at the front as it is way at the back of the gun, and a frame to match. That is a much thicker package to insert inside your waistband, and the back of the slide sticks out above the waistline, causing printing. The J frame's frame is only 1/2" wide, and the barrel is thiner than that. The only wider parts are the cylinder and the grip. That very thin barrel and frame make for less bulk inside the waistband and also make it much easier to reholster the gun, even in that pocket holster that closes up when I draw the gun. The way I carry it, the cylinder sits behind my belt where the bulge isn't noticeable. The back of that thin frame is cut away or rounded off starting just behind the cylinder, so there is nothing there above the waistline to cause printing.

For dressier occasions, I use this custom designed (to my detailed specs!) tuckable leather clip AIWB holster made for me by James Dean, an incredibly talented artist in leather! An ingenius design and execution, IMHO! :D It's really a great holster and I'll bet James could sell a boatload of them over on the S&W Forum. (Reminds me, I need to make some nice photos and post over there to get the stampede started.)

http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/Miscellanious%20Guns%20and%20Holsters/MyAIWBHolsterCompleted.jpg

The rounded edge makes for no corner to dig into my belly or leg. The low ride and backward cant make the grip lay down horizontally just above my belt, where it hides underneath my middle aged spread that expands above it. :o The backward cant shifts the muzzle of the gun and holster toward the center so that it doesn't bind against my leg when I sit down (result: comfort all day long, sitting or standing), and it also presents the gun at the ideal angle for drawing from that position. With the pocket holster, I use an untucked shirt to cover it, but this holster's clip is tuckable if I want to be dressier.

I love that I can draw the gun from that position as easily whether I am sitting or standing, and without jutting my elbow out noticeably like I have to do when drawing from the hip or behind the hip. In fact, being a lefty, I can draw the gun easily when belted in the driver's seat of my car. (This will work just as well for a righty riding shotgun.) Drawing is effortless with the backward cant letting the gun go in the natural direction that your hand wants to go.

But let me tell you, I do love this pretty girl, as well!

http://i1105.photobucket.com/albums/h355/JFootin/MyPolishedKahrCM9/KahrCM9PolishedLSwMagandBullets.jpg

When I carry it, it is usually in my PJ IWB Holster (http://pjholster.com/?page_id=37) that is so comfortable that I literally can't tell I'm carrying it; standing, sitting or moving about. I have to reach back there just behind my hip and touch the gun to confirm it is there!

http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/Miscellanious%20Guns%20and%20Holsters/DSCN4660.jpg
(Photo from another member's post.)

In cooler weather, I use my James Dean IWB Holster.

http://i1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/Miscellanious%20Guns%20and%20Holsters/MyJDHolsterFront.jpg

Verrrrrrrrry interesting! :eek: I mean this with all seriousness, Jfootin knows his stuff alot more than I do!!!!!!! I have only been carrying a little over a year and started getting into firearms 3 years ago, and humbly know there are alot more people out there that understand this much better than i do!!!!!! Makes me realize just how little I really know, but its good to have that perspective I believe because if you're a know-it-all then theres nothing left to learn (and theres plenty of those in the firearms world)

[titus1971]

I have found that when carrying IWB the thickness of the gun rather than the weight is more of factor (provided you have a good gun belt and a decent holster).
I guess that's why I'm a Kahr fan!

[JFootin]

Verrrrrrrrry interesting! :eek: I mean this with all seriousness, Jfootin knows his stuff alot more than I do!!!!!!! I have only been carrying a little over a year and started getting into firearms 3 years ago, and humbly know there are alot more people out there that understand this much better than i do!!!!!! Makes me realize just how little I really know, but its good to have that perspective I believe because if you're a know-it-all then theres nothing left to learn (and theres plenty of those in the firearms world)

Oh, I am still learning. I have owned guns most of my life, but just started getting serious about carrying for self defense a few years ago. I had gone through a lean period and sold all but one of my guns - a 25 acp Budischowski TP-70. About 15 months ago, I was in a better situation and wanted to obtain some SD weapons. I had owned a CW9 and was thinking about getting another one. Then, I discovered the CM9! About that time, I found the forum and fell in love with a mirror polished CM9 for sale here. I had to sell the TP-70 to pay my bills that month, but I had to have it! And, boy, do I love this gun! :D (Slideshow (http://s1230.photobucket.com/albums/ee486/John_England/My%20Custom%20CM9/?albumview=slideshow))

After I got the CM9, I started a quest for holsters and carry gear that I find is almost as fun as getting a new gun! I have learned a lot over the last year and a quarter, made some mistakes that I learned from, and I have arrived at some holsters and carry methods that work great for my guns. After I got my J frame, I stepped up to a new level and worked up design specs for a tuckable, low riding, reverse canted, all day comfortable, single offset clip leather AIWB holster for it. James Dean used his incredible talent to bring my concept perfectly to life! (See the picture in my post above.) So, you see, I have a second hobby that brings me a lot of joy and is the reason why I know a few things that I can share about holsters, and some holster makers.


I have found that when carrying IWB the thickness of the gun rather than the weight is more of factor (provided you have a good gun belt and a decent holster).
I guess that's why I'm a Kahr fan!

+1 to that! All 3 of my guns are thin. The J frame surprised me how well it carries, as I discussed above. And I am looking seriously at the Springfield XDs because it is even a hair thinner than the Kahr 45s. Of course, a new gun will mean a new holster search! :)

[cmichael22]

JFootin how did you get your CM9 to look like a mirror looking polish?
I didn't think you could buy a CM9 that looked like that.

[OnTarget31]

I think 8 oz is big difference, however I think the thickness of the gun is more important in terms of comfort. A good belt and holster can make a heavy gun light on the hip.:D

[FatMatt]

Yes it does, it will make a big difference, maybe not at first but after a while it will.

[Path4]

JFootin how did you get your CM9 to look like a mirror looking polish?
I didn't think you could buy a CM9 that looked like that.

I think he bought one someone had polished......its preeeeeetty i want

[cmichael22]

I know the CM9 looks good and i don't know does weight matter if you get the holster that just clips on to pants not the ones that go around belt? I am considering one of those.

[Path4]

I know the CM9 looks good and i don't know does weight matter if you get the holster that just clips on to pants not the ones that go around belt? I am considering one of those.

I would say so yes, weight matters anywhere you can carry IMHO, but I've only carried a CM9 and a Jframe revolver. I tried on my friends Taurus Judge before but that doesn't count its waaaay outside the size range for carry, but it was extremely uncomfortable.

A few CM9 size range 9mm guns off the top of my head (i feel like im forgetting some obvious ones though)
S&W Shield
Beretta Nano
Sig P290
Boberg XR9-S
Kimber Solo Carry
Ruger LC9

I wouldn't consider:
Kel-Tec PF9
Diamondback DB9


I would strongly recommend going to a reputable and helpful local gunstore and asking to try on several firearms inside the waist band or however you prefer to carry. But keep in mind it will be significantly heavier when fully loaded. Its pretty much unanimous that width is the most important dimension when it comes to comfort and i believe its up there with ease of concealment too. i personally believe grip length is the most important for ease of concealment. note: i live in hot hot florida, if you live in colder climate itll be easier to conceal most of the year

[JFootin]

I know the CM9 looks good and i don't know does weight matter if you get the holster that just clips on to pants not the ones that go around belt? I am considering one of those.

The first holster I bought for my CM9 had a J hook, which goes under the belt. It would make my pants hem (even denim jeans) sag down behind the belt. I now use holsters that fit on the belt for my CM9.

My J frame weighs about the same as my CM9, and I have a custom made AIWB holster with one clip. If I clip it just to my jeans, it is not stable; it moves up and down and right and left and changes cant. But when I clip it over the belt, it is stable as it should be.

Now, if you are trying to not have anything showing on the outside of the belt, get a PJ Holster (http://pjholster.com/?page_id=37) with Velcro attachment. (Its not real clear on that page, but you can order the Velcro option.) I have one, and it is also tuckable. It is stable and completely incognito. You can make small adjustments to ride height and cant when you put it on, and it will stay the way you stick it. (Of course, he sends you a strip of Velcro loop to put on the back of your belt.)