Subcompact to something larger

rickmelear

New member
I've carried a Kahr P9 for a number of years. It carries easy IWB and I shoot it well. However, in the light of current events in the world I've been thinking of moving up to my Walther PPQ or my M&P, both in 9mm. Just wondering if any of yall have moved from a sub compact to a more full size carry gun. I think I could carry either easly enough in a Crossbreed IWB as I always wear a untucked shirt.
 
I haven't switched from smaller to larger, but I have multiple sizes that I carry, including single stack 9mms and K frame S&Ws.

That said, the hybrid style holster made popular by crossbreed are great for just about any size, particularly large semi autos. I love Alien Gear, since that way I can send shells back on a gun I sell or trade and get a new shell for free.
 
I haven't "switched to" something larger, but have carried (primarily) medium- and large-framed pistols for about 5 years. If your wardrobe allows, or you're willing to dress around the gun a little, carrying a larger pistol is perfectly feasible.
 
It's not difficult to conceal even a full-size handgun, especially if you carry IWB.. When I was shopping for my first carry pistol I tried IWB carry with all sizes, and was surprised how little difference there was from subcompact to full-size.

If you want to make the change you can make it work. If you then stumble upon a Happening, you won't regret having the extra firepower.
 
^^^^^agree^^^^. Pretty easy to conceal a larger pistol, especially in most places where the weather dictates layers of clothing. I actually enjoy the cooler weather in TX just so I can easily cc my larger pistols. Like everyone says, a good belt and holster always does the trick. Ops, just saw your're in Palm beach so you won't be layering clothing yet. Well an extra shirt does the trick most of the time
 
I'm following this because I'm thinking of going from my LC9 to something in the Glock 19/ CZ P-01 range. With the way I normally dress, I can probably conceal the larger pistol with little difficulty. I'm more concerned with the increase in weight. Is there a "cutoff" on how heavy a gun one is able to conceal well?
 
My Walther PPQ conceals very well for me IWB at about 4:30 using a JM Custom Kydex IWB version 4 holster. I usually am wearing a heavy colored cotton T-shirt untucked. IMO a good belt makes a lot of difference in a "CCW system" and I wear a Beltman gun belt.

A hybrid holster is slightly more comfortable but I prefer an all kydex holster and it is much easier/faster to put on and take off than the hybrids I have tried.

My Walther PPQ is slightly bigger than my Glock 19. I like this holster so much I will probably be ordering one soon for my Glock 19 also.

 
Last edited:
Even in TX heat, if I think about appropriate clothing, one can carry a G26 or 19 sized gun.

For folks who want to wear skin tight jeans or t-shirts to emphasize something (we had that discussion), well - you are out of luck.

Floppy light weight shirts cover most gear.
 
seeker,

Is there a "cutoff" on how heavy a gun one is able to conceal well?

If there is, a Glock 19 or CZ 75 P-01 don't reach it. Get a sturdy belt -- stiff is good. Then get a holster that attaches to the belt at two points to distribute the weight. Make sure the holster holds the gun close to your body. Cinch your belt tight and you'll soon hardly notice you're carrying a gun.
 
sub-compact to something larger?

Living in Florida untucked shirts are closer to the rule than the exception.
That said I carry a Ruger LWT Commander(45ACP) in a Wright Leather Works
Marshal. I also carry a 1911 Officer Model from time to time.
IMHO if you can dress to your carry you can carry anything. Of course I should point out that I don't have to dress for work. I'm RETIRED!!!!
 
Iam not going to change what I carry. Because of a possible terror attack . I think better chance of being hit by a tornado . Than caught in a terrorist attack .

If you start changing because of a possible attack . Then they win. We allowed our rights to be stepped on after 911 With TSA and other government take overs of your rights . Don't let this happen again. :mad:
 
Back
Top