My final (I think) decision.

[DavidS]

Earlier, I posted questions about OWB concealed carry holsters as IWB just do not work for me. I wound up on the track of checking out fanny pack and pouch types.

I tried the Sneaky Pete as posted in this thread. It did not work out - for me.
http://www.kahrtalk.com/showthread.php?24350-Sneaky-Pete-for-MK40-returned-to-sender&p=309883#post309883 (http://www.kahrtalk.com/showthread.php?24350-Sneaky-Pete-for-MK40-returned-to-sender&p=309883#post309883)

I next tried out the DeSantis Gun Caddie.
http://www.desantisholster.com/THE-GUN-CADDIE
I chose it because it was the smallest I could find in that style. It was not quite as small as advertised but again a good quality item and still the smallest available. My biggest problems with it were that it: 1) would not unzip down the sides to the bottom, and 2) nothing held the gun in a specific position while holstered so it would shift around some from where it was placed. Again, the supplier was very accommodating to my needs and I returned it.

Now, I want to say that all the holsters I looked at and tried have been very good quality and the suppliers have been first rate. Just because they did not work for me does not say they will not work for you. Do not discard any of these as potentials for yourself just because of my experience. Everyone is different. If these holsters did not work for anyone, the companies would not be in business.

Finally, I just received what I believe will be the holster for my concealed carry. It is a Cordura Fanny Pack - Small from GunGear.com.
http://gungear.com/ez-catalog/X300536/215/400C-%20SM
It is slightly larger than the DeSantis but I like nearly everything about it. The gun compartment unzips almost all the way around, there is a Versa-Mount holster that is held in place inside the compartment with velcro and is position-able, the pack looks a lot like a camera case so it is not obvious there is a gun inside, its other compartments easily allow for the carrying of additional items like cell phones, point-shoot camera, etc. If there is one thing I would change, it would be to attach belt loops to the back rather than have the included belt permanently attached, then a person could choose whether to use the fanny pack belt or the belt holding up their pants.

The GunGear folks were FANTASTIC to deal with. On the day I placed my order, they closed up shop at noon and were packing to leave town for several days. I had placed my order online that morning but noticed an error on my part and wanted to make a change. I phoned them mid-afternoon and they changed my order and still got it in the mail same day. Two thumbs up!

Final acceptance will depend on using it for the next several days, but I am pretty confident this is "the one". If anything changes, I will post an update here. I plan to keep my Recluse pocket holster for those dressier times when a fanny pack would not be appropriate.

(A special shout to knkali - Thank you for putting me onto GunGear)

[muggsy]

IMHO fanny packs scream, "I'm carrying."

[DavidS]

IMHO fanny packs scream, "I'm carrying."
I have seen that listed several times on this forum.
My opinion: fanny packs scream, "I'm carrying" - to people educated in firearms such as those on this forum, even if they just have a camera and cell phone inside. To the general public, not so much, even the bad guys.

[Rob K]

:Amflag2:Sorry, but fanny packs "scream" tourist, inviting problems.There are a lot of Kydex IWB holsters that are paper thin, strong,and although not able to absorb sweat, they generally sit down in front of your underwear and do not even contact your skin.Mine is a Cook's Holsters and I can wear it all day without even knowing I have it on. About $50
Check them out. Custom fit, light weight and give you that "click" when the pistol is seated.Try Cook's holsters

[DavidS]

Sorry, but fanny packs "scream" tourist, inviting problems.There are a lot of Kydex IWB holsters that are paper thin, strong,and although not able to absorb sweat, they generally sit down in front of your underwear and do not even contact your skin.Mine is a Cook's Holsters and I can wear it all day without even knowing I have it on. About $50
Check them out. Custom fit, light weight and give you that "click" when the pistol is seated.
Appreciate the suggestions but as I stated, IWB is not for me.
I respectfully disagree that this big old boy will invite more problems just because I am wearing a fanny pack. I have not seen any studies that correlate that fact or not, it is just that I do not see fanny packs as being any part of the news stories being aired/published concerning violent encounters.

[zamboni]

Good luck with your choice, but for me the last thing I want to do if I need my gun would be to find and unzip a zipper.

[kerby9mm]

My choice is owb leather only belt loop holsters that can be put in different positions. I'm old school so nothing that is remotely like a purse. I have no plastic guns or plastic holsters. To each their own.

[DavidS]

Good luck with your choice, but for me the last thing I want to do if I need my gun would be to find and unzip a zipper.
Quick draw will never be my strong point anyway, even if I was carrying OWB on my hip. However, you might want to do a little research on the packs, do not need to "find and unzip a zipper". Opening the fanny pack to expose the gun is probably similar timing to getting the shirt out of the way to get at the IWB.
For your edification: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVsI3hw78e8

[DavidS]

Saw this a little while ago.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MF2i3BnNvg

[CPTKILLER]

I seriously considered a Sneaky Pete for my MK9 but the reviews left enough questions that I decided against it.

[kerby9mm]

The fanny pack gun carrier isn't a secret anymore.

[DavidS]

Let me repeat. I cannot do IWB holsters.
I went looking for OWB holsters. I do not believe that it is possible in most cases, or my case in particular, to avoid printing with an OWB holster when wearing cargo shorts/pants and a t-shirt - my attire most of the year.
I then looked at packs/pouches and found what I was looking for after a few trial and error selections. I was very pleased to find a solution that is both workable and comfortable FOR ME.

I am now done with defending my decision. As they say, opinions is like ***holes, most everyone has them and mine don't smell any better or worse than anyone else's.

If one size fit all, we would not have the multitude of carry methods available - IWB, OWB, pack, pouch, thigh, ankle, pocket, purse, bra, etc. Some may think I have made a poor decision or a bad decision or a downright wrong decision because I do not carry like they carry. That is their "opinion", they are not me.

[kerby9mm]

Relax. I was just being sarcastic. I forgot to put lol at the end of my post. I'm glad for you that you found something that works for you.

[DavidS]

Relax. I was just being sarcastic. I forgot to put lol at the end of my post. I'm glad for you that you found something that works for you.
Actually, I was composing when you posted so I was unaware of your last comment. Besides, I have no problem with either of your posts, they were respectful with no undertones of negativity.:cool:

[muggsy]

David, a word to the wise is generally sufficient. I have the feeling that we could talk to you all day and not change your mind. If you want to take the word of some liberal gun owner on You Tube I'm not going to stand in your way. Some people just have to learn the hard way. I made Senator Voinovich's body guard before he was even introduced to me, because he was wearing fanny pack.

[DavidS]

Your "two cups" are showing. :eek:

[DavidS]

David, a word to the wise is generally sufficient. I have the feeling that we could talk to you all day and not change your mind. If you want to take the word of some liberal gun owner on You Tube I'm not going to stand in your way. Some people just have to learn the hard way. I made Senator Voinovich's body guard before he was even introduced to me, because he was wearing fanny pack.
I would rather carry the way I prefer and maintain my 2A right to carry than give up my 2A right to carry because I cannot carry the way you decide I should carry.
You act like a liberal trying to force your gun views on me.:001_tt2:

[b4uqzme]

Not my choice but I'm glad you found something that works for you. You'll probably find several options over time.

Around here a fanny pack will certainly get noticed. Whether they connect the dots and "think gun" is anybody's guess.

[Bill K]

To the original poster... Good for you!

I like that you can get to your gun with one hand and do it rather quickly - I would not have guessed. I don't know if it is the same fanny pack but I've I friend who suffered a stroke and now carries using a fanny pack. Folks like my friend Mike and myself who are in our late sixties/early seventies seldom get a second glance no matter how we're dressed. Folks get chided for their pocket carry or appendix carry or small of the back carry or ankle carry or crotch carry (e.g. SmartCarry holster) yada, yada, yada. I betcha that there is a mode of carry that could prove the best in one SD scenario and the worst in another.

[DavidR]

I'm glad you've found an option that works for you. It's concealed and you have it with you so both "requirements" have been met.

I have struggled with how to carry my CM9 concealed. I'm a small/lean guy (5' 8", under 160), I live in Florida and I generally don't wear loose fitting clothes or multiple layers. IWB doesn't work for me either - either I can't sit or it print constantly so I'm pocket carrying. Have been doing both front and back pocket. Both have their limitations (front prints more, back is a little harder to get too) but either one is better than leaving it at home.

[berettabone]

I had the exact same problem and still do....................didn't like IWB carry. I usually front pocket carry. OWB is out of the question for now, because I don't want to end up face down on the concrete. I solved the situation the best as I could with the purchase of a High Noon Centerfold holster. It allows me to carry at about 2:00 o'clock, with no pinching or stabbing. Comfortable in the car. Front pocket is still my most comfortable way of carry, but when I need a different mode, this holster fits the bill, so far.

[DeaconKC]

Here's a suggestion I heard some time ago for fanny packs. Get a sew on patch of your local sports team or a soft drink you like and sew it on the pack. Kind of a "yuppy urban camoflage".

[DavidS]

Here's a suggestion I heard some time ago for fanny packs. Get a sew on patch of your local sports team or a soft drink you like and sew it on the pack. Kind of a "yuppy urban camoflage".
Now that is an idea worth considering! :cool:

[muggsy]

I would rather carry the way I prefer and maintain my 2A right to carry than give up my 2A right to carry because I cannot carry the way you decide I should carry.
You act like a liberal trying to force your gun views on me.:001_tt2:

This is a free country, David. You are free to do as you please. I was simply offering you my best advice. You aren't forced to take it. Your fanny pack will be checked at every sporting event.

[DavidS]

.................................Your fanny pack will be checked at every sporting event.

What is the logic behind that statement? :confused:

It is illegal in this state to bring a firearm to any professional sporting event or onto any public school grounds.
Therefore, my pack will be at home or locked up in the truck.

On the other hand, if I were able to attend a sporting event where carrying a weapon was allowed, why would I care if they checked? I am legally licensed to carry.

[yqtszhj]

I have a fanny pack attached to my backpack. I like it. My dad uses one all the time even when his sig isn't in it. Mom does too and she doesnt carry. Where I live who cares if some people know your carrying. You can open carry anyway and at least in the fanny pack they have to wonder. Of course we're backward here where I live so its not a fashon disaster to wear one either.

[zamboni]

Quick draw will never be my strong point anyway, even if I was carrying OWB on my hip. However, you might want to do a little research on the packs, do not need to "find and unzip a zipper". Opening the fanny pack to expose the gun is probably similar timing to getting the shirt out of the way to get at the IWB.
For your edification: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UVsI3hw78e8
I actually meant no disrespect at all with my first post, like all who have posted here we were just trying to help. My research on this subject will be limited to watching your YouTube link. While there is no zipper, the guy has to unclip a plastic clip to get to his gun!! LOTS of practice and editing make him look fast but in a real situation that plastic clip will cost someone their life. Again, I am glad you are happy with your choice but I would never use that holster

[knkali]

The fanny pack arguments do not hold water here folks. I have been carrying in a Fanny pack for a quite a while and the reasons cited in this thread for its dismissal as a alternative form of carry are marginal at best. Most of this mindset against the FP carry is rooted form the 1970's.

[Planedude]

Best of luck with the "final" choice, I personally have a shoe box (size 13 4EE) full of my final choices...

The fanny pack may tell some that you MIGHT be carrying, but even those "in the know" won't really "know" a darn thing if your doing it right.

My Dad carried a fanny pack for many, many years. Never once was he armed with a firearm, As a gruff, old, retired Master Sargent who could catch anyone's attention with a barked command, I did wonder how many miscreants did not chance messing with my Dad for the "not knowing...for sure".

While my Dad has now passed, I still see his pack hanging at my parents home when I go visit my Mom. Makes me smile.

[blackbird94]

In my work I am in a lot of facilities that I can't carry in. I bought a Bulldog fanny pack and love it. It looks like your basic geek fanny pack, no hint that there is a holster at all. I have been asked why I carry a fanny pack, I just tell them it carries everything I need to have with me. When I go in a facility, I just unclip the belt, lock it in the service van. Come back hook it back on and go about my business. Think it was $20 something at Gander Mountain. My other is an Alien Gear IWB tuckable. love that as well

[berettabone]

Fanny packs draw attention, good or bad...............................if you like to be the center of attention, this will work great for you. In the general public, fanny packs ALWAYS draw my attention.............good or bad?

[DavidR]

Best of luck with the "final" choice, I personally have a shoe box (size 13 4EE) full of my final choices....

lol

[DavidS]

Ten day update:
I have had my fanny pack holster for 10 days now. I have made several trips to town and we took a four day road trip to Kansas City.
The road trip worked very well. I was able to keep my phone, wallet, money clip and credit card in the pouch along with the Kahr. My keys and extra mag stayed in my pants pockets. The road trip was for a midwest high school basketball tournament (170+) teams, guns not allowed in the venues. When we went inside, I locked the Kahr in the truck and replaced it with a camera in the pouch.
The best experience was using it for trips from home to town. When at home, the fanny pack with all contents hang on a hook in our bedroom (I carry a Glock open carry at home). Time to go to town, just strap it on and it has everything I need except my keys and extra mag already packed and ready to go.
I never noticed people giving me a second glance in town, on the road, or at the games because I was wearing a fanny pack. Not even a comment from my sis in law, who is quite vocal about matters of style.
I love the danged thing. Even if not carrying, they are pretty darned handy. Wish I had picked one up years ago. I don't understand why they have not become more commonplace, I guess ego gets in the way.
I may have to get a couple more!!

[knkali]

Ten day update:
I have had my fanny pack holster for 10 days now. I have made several trips to town and we took a four day road trip to Kansas City.
The road trip worked very well. I was able to keep my phone, wallet, money clip and credit card in the pouch along with the Kahr. My keys and extra mag stayed in my pants pockets. The road trip was for a midwest high school basketball tournament (170+) teams, guns not allowed in the venues. When we went inside, I locked the Kahr in the truck and replaced it with a camera in the pouch.
The best experience was using it for trips from home to town. When at home, the fanny pack with all contents hang on a hook in our bedroom (I carry a Glock open carry at home). Time to go to town, just strap it on and it has everything I need except my keys and extra mag already packed and ready to go.
I never noticed people giving me a second glance in town, on the road, or at the games because I was wearing a fanny pack. Not even a comment from my sis in law, who is quite vocal about matters of style.
I love the danged thing. Even if not carrying, they are pretty darned handy. Wish I had picked one up years ago. I don't understand why they have not become more commonplace, I guess ego gets in the way.
I may have to get a couple more!!
Shout it out brother. I never get people looking at the pack as if there is a gun in it. Convenience is off the charts with them for sure. I have 3 of em. Dif sizes for dif weapon systems. Yep even my 1911 has a pack of its own. They work and work well. Beats not carrying at all. They get better with age as the fabric softens a bit. Please consider the changes I pm'ed you about. Enjoy. Hope you never need the gun portion of the pack. Don't forget to practice with it like any rig.

[DavidS]

Really loving this thing. Cannot understand why they are not more popular, even with the non-carry folks. Been carrying every day when going to town and made another road trip to east Tennessee. Never got a second glance from anyone.
http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h134/DScholten/IMGP3232_zpsf9f244d6.jpg (http://s63.photobucket.com/user/DScholten/media/IMGP3232_zpsf9f244d6.jpg.html)
http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h134/DScholten/IMGP3230_zps61268981.jpg (http://s63.photobucket.com/user/DScholten/media/IMGP3230_zps61268981.jpg.html)
http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h134/DScholten/IMGP3230copy_zps8e0ea0e0.jpg (http://s63.photobucket.com/user/DScholten/media/IMGP3230copy_zps8e0ea0e0.jpg.html)

Yellow - small pocket with money clip and credit card - instant access at gas pumps and checkout counters for all my purchases
Red - wallet with drivers license and other id
Blue - cell phone and/or point/shoot camera
Green - MK40 - hopefully never used pocket with zippers and instant access pull tab.

[knkali]

:amflag:

[TheTman]

DavidS, if it works for you go for it. You are the one that has to carry it, not the naysayers. Everyone has to figure out what works for them, and someone is bound to say that they don't like this or that about it.

[DavidS]

DavidS, if it works for you go for it. You are the one that has to carry it, not the naysayers. Everyone has to figure out what works for them, and someone is bound to say that they don't like this or that about it.
Yeah, I noticed that. ;)

[blackbird94]

I do have a "Bulldog" fanny pack style holster. It fits the CW45 well. The velcro allows you to put the gun in any angle you want. Nice thing is this one has a lanyard that when pulled, separates the holster zippers very quickly. I can't carry in a lot of places I go, this allows me to buckle it up when I can carry and lock it in the van when I can't.

[tv_racin_fan]

Kinda reminds me of a Maxpedition pack.

http://www.maxpedition.com/store/pc/OCTA-VERSIPACK-40p433.htm

I have one of these but haven't used it yet...

http://www.maxpedition.com/store/pc/JUMBO-VERSIPACK-40p6.htm

[Rhead Louis]

I'm a new Kahr CM9 owner and do not have enough posts to include a photo yet (won't be long though) but I've carried for many years. I had fanny packs early on (25 years ago?) when they were not popular for carry and people did not recognize them as a holster - the issue of gun access with them always bothered me. I've found for me that I need 3 different type holsters depending on my activity when I'm carrying. I live in a hot state where clothing is minimal most of the year and it is more difficult to conceal wearing shorts and a t-shirt. Here are 3 considerations for you:

1) My CM 9 fits in my front pocket very nicely because my pockets have been extended / deepened long ago. This was necessary for jeans but not usually for docker type pants or cargos. I use mostly Remora holsters for this carry and it works extremely well at being discrete and comfortable.

2) When I am wearing an un-tucked t-shirt or similar I carry an OWB extreme Hi-Ride. Mine were made by C. Rusty Sherrick and they are a piece of Art. I have 2 of Rusty's now and if I end up keeping the Kahr I will get another made for it. The bottom of the holster is flush with the bottom line of my belt and the holster keeps the pistol tight against my side. They are built open top but with perfect retention. An un-tucked t-shirt covers everything well (I'm not over weight so I can't speak to how that would work). They are perfect for driving because the gun sits high and is not affected by seating. Very comfortable - very fast and effective.

3) I carry IWB only when I must - I hate it - but Remora (the same one I use in my pocket) is the most comfortable when this type is required. I've spent more money on IWB than any type holster and have ended up selling most. One exception is when I must carry a full-size piece IWB (P7 M8) I use Horseshoe Leather's IWB because of the 34 oz weight.

[DavidS]

Here are 3 considerations for you:


I have been through several trials of different types of carry and have settled on three that meet all my needs very well. I cannot do IWB and I am a big guy so OWB prints easily. Note that I spend most of my time in shorts and T/polo shirts.
1) The fanny pack when out and about
2) A Barsony OWB when working around the home property (flap provides protection from dirt and debris)
3) A Recluse pocket holster on those few occasions when dressier apparel is in order.
Unless I see something new and unique, a better mousetrap so to speak, I am done looking.