I have been carrying concealed for about 25 years and I have tried many different holsters during that time. No matter which holsters I have tried my overall favorite has been IWB. Is it the most comfortable? No! But it seems to be the most functional. But as I get older that comfort level seems to decrease, so what now?
What are some of the issues that occur when you are getting older?
I am not sure about everyone else but for me, my body seems to be wearing out. I just turned 70 years old and issues are starting to show up.
My first issue has been with my rotator cuff, which mean less flexibility and decreased range of motion. This does affect what works best for me at this time in my life.
I also have a detached bicep – they say this is due to decreased rotator cuff function which puts more strain on my biceps. This has not affected my range of motion yet but it does affect my strength. So I cannot do everything I used to be able to do. This issue does not affect my carrying concealed at the present time but it may in the future.
Arthritis is also something that may limit my ability to carry concealed. Not so much right now but as time goes on it may be a big issue. My knees and hips are affected mostly right now. My hands, fingers, and arms do not seem to be affected yet and that’s a good thing.
Don’t get me wrong, I am not one of those individuals that sits on the couch and watches TV all day and then goes to bed. I work a full-time job and a second part-time job, then have a small farm with cattle, goats, horses, ducks, and chickens to care for when I get home. So I am a very active guy for my age, with many things to do. But as the years go on, my body just seems to be telling me that some changes are going to be necessary. Someone said that getting old is not for sissies and I highly agree.
How Will These Issues Affect Carrying a Handgun?
Since it seems like the above mentioned conditions are changing slowly in my case, certain things about carrying concealed will also happen slowly. Let’s just say some concealed carry methods that were once used may not be the ones that work now. The predominant reason things change is comfort and range of motion, these issues or conditions bring about changes to your body that just makes it uncomfortable to carry a handgun in the same manner that you used to or your range of motion begins to restrict the things that you used to be able to do but cannot anymore..
Changes to your carry methods
As much as I have carried my handguns in IWB holsters for most of my life, I am not enjoying it as much anymore. I find myself using my OWB holster a little more and it works very well. I love my chest holster but that does not work very well as concealed carry option. A while back I purchased a Spectre Shoulder Holster from Gunfighters, Inc. It seems to be easier to carry a handgun under my arm then in my waist band. I am also enjoying using pocket carry to carry concealed. This method works great with a pocket pistol (.380 ACP) and a good Kydex pocket holster. The only thing is it does not work very well with jeans, you need to wear pants with slant pockets so you can get your hand in and out quickly.
Changes to your potential handgun
I have mentioned the discomfort I have been feeling with my IWB holster and my .45 ACP. Now That I am using my OWB holster and shoulder holster more I am finding out that a lighter and smaller handgun works a little better for me these days. So that means going from a Glock 30 (.45 ACP) to a Glock 19 (9mm) is a logical move. Plus pocket carry is also very workable, with the Ruger LCP Max (.380 ACP), nice choice with more firepower. Lighter weight and a smaller package does work well.
Final Comments
As I get older my body is going through some negative changes and that means I need to make some adjustments as I continue to carry a handgun concealed. Changing my primary handgun to a lighter and smaller one is the best place to start. Finding one I can shoot well and that feels great in my hand will definitely make a difference. Making some holster changes will also make things better. Being aware that your body changes and then adapting to those changes is something that is needed as you age. As long as you know this stuff is coming your way you can make the necessary adjustments.
If you have any questions about this post or anything related to Everyday Carry (EDC)/Concealed Carry, feel free to leave a comment below and I will be happy to get back to you.
All the best,
Larry
Founder of Everyday Carry Essentials