Cross Draw Holsters

[recce_o]

Any one have any feelings, either positive or negative on cross draw holsters? They would seem particularly well suited to concealed carry because they have a much less pronounced draw stroke and are much more comfortable and accessable while sitting i.e. while driving.

My theory is that they don't find much favour because range safety dictates the use of right hip carry on the firing line. Plus, they are unconventional. Neither of which are valid objections IMHO.

[Riley]

I think the reason they don't have much favour at matches and ranges is that it's easier to "flash" somebody with the muzzle of the gun as well as violating the 180 degree safety zone. The same is true for shoulder holsters as they are also cross draw,as you pointed out.

However, with the correct methods, the cross draw is no more dangerous than the standard hip carry. It is much more confortable as well as accessable when driving a vehicle.

Some things to remember:
1. Always be aware of muzzle.
2. When seated in a vehicle, undo coat and run the seatbelt under you coat and holster, if worn cross draw.
3. Drive OR Shoot
4. Try not to switch carry methods i.e. cross draw to strong side. You may become confused.
5. Buy a quality holster and practice.

Ok, enough of my preaching as you probably know all that. I have no problem with cross draw, in fact I like them, only behind the hip is easier for me to conceal and seems to hide better if you are overweight. I think the only real concern, is that you never let the muzzle cover anything you don't want to destroy. Other than that, if it's confortable and you're comfortable, use it.

Just my $.02. Anyone else?

------------------
Riley
Do it right, or not at all.

[This message has been edited by Riley (edited 04-17-2000).]

[RECON5]

Ok my .02 Worth.

I have worn cross draw holsters in the past when the assignment allowed, but like Riley stated you dont want to switch. I prefer to wear mine as close to center front as possible. This has certain advantages, and disadvantages. This makes the weapon extrememly hard to conceal for concealed carry, but does make the draw stroke smoother, and avoids the muzzle issue Riley spoke of if drawn from the interview position. The other disadvantage is if you are over weight it becomes very uncomfortable sitting, or in any other position. The cross draw holster worn close to center also makes it more secure than a shoulder rig."Opinion".
The non-popularity of the holster maybe for several reasons. Few if any uniform services allow cross draw, so the idea of not switching would eliminate the off duty option. In domestic law enforcement alot of plain clothes also work off duty jobs requiring a uniform, again not switching switch is the best.
Again to reitterate what Riley said, if you decide to go this route get a goog quality holster, and practice with it before depending on it. (you may want to consider the Galco Dual Position Pheonix Holster, or the Don Hume Parner)
My .02 worth, be safe

[xcop]

As someone who is in the business of the manufacture of concealed carry holsters I thought I'd throw my 2 cents in here.

Cross draw is primarily a special purpose holster system--it finds a great deal of use with persons or units who mainly operate from behind the wheel of a car. The presentation is much simplified in this circumstance.

A secondary use is by women who due to body structure are often prevented from wearing a strong side rig in comfort.

The third circumstance is for pistols/revolvers with length too long to permit a strong side presentation, such as most Ruger Blackhawks, SAA's, etc. In this case concealment is generally not an issue.

As a general purpose holster for concealment purposes I do not recommend the cross draw. It is more difficult to conceal--some of the holsters listed in the posts are virtually impossible to conceal without the use of an Austrailian duster (unbuttoned). The main problem is that most designs will allow the butt of the weapon (the most difficult part to conceal without printing) to pull away from the body, causing it to print. Look for designs that use more than one attachment point for the holster, this will minimize the print.