Systems approach to CCW and Training

[wjh2657]

Being a retired Marine, I am used to the “system” approach to any equipment I or others may have to operate. Simply stated, the training equipment should be as close to the real equipment as possible. Also, if multiple platforms are needed for delivery, they should be designed to be as close to the same as possible for ease and familiarity of operation.

When I decided to carry concealed I found that I did indeed need two platforms to match my attire. I needed in the pocket carry with a lightweight weapon for hot weather and belt carry OWB for colder weather, utilizing a somewhat more powerful delivery system to overcome the possibility of the target wearing multiple layers of clothing also.

I decided on the S&W Centennial J-Frame as the basis of my system.

For carry, I deploy a 640 (.357 Magnum in SS) for colder weather and a 642 (.38 Spcl +P) in the warmer weather. I actually carry .38 Spcl +P in the 640 and .38 Spcl SP in the 642. In case of extreme circumstances the .357 Magnum in the 640 would be a viable option for upgrade of response.

My training system includes a S&W 317 in .22 CB for frequent shooting in my indoor garage range (bullet Trap and backdrop) and in .22LR outside in woods. I utilize a Blackhawk demonstrator (plastic copy) S&W Centennial as a trainer in practicing weapon retention with my #2 son who is a martial artist. I also use the trainer to practice draws from different attire and positions.

Every two weeks I fire the seasonal carry weapon at indoor range with practice ammo that has characteristics matched to my carry ammo.

Thus my delivery system and training systems are in synch and allow for a full spectrum of training.

Just off the top of my head, I believe that the 1911 and Glock systems would lend well to this approach. Others probably would too, but I know for sure that those two have .22LR adapters and plastic trainer guns made for them.

Edited May 22, 2009 by wjh2657

[Guest 3pugguy]

Hello and Semper Fi from a retired Squid,

Great post and idea on training/prep and carrying a weapon. I thought of going with different carry for different season, but for now am going with the Glock19, OWB under a long shirt. If for any reason I cannot carry the Glock on my person, I still have it secured in my vehicle and have my BUG (Kel-Tec P32) in my pocket (and a trusty knife).

At some point, I may look into IWB, but have a hold on spending a lot on accessories for now and don't want to experiment with holsters.

Thanks again for the post and ideas!

Barry