I was going to make this a podcast but because the subject would only take 10 to 15 minutes to talk about I’ll just write it as an article, or what we call in the biz a “listicle.” As many of you know I’ve been (trying) to EDC a Ruger Blackhawk in .45 Colt with a 4.63 inch barrel this summer and after much experimenting this is, so far, what I’ve found to be comfortable. I have some links in but these are not affiliate links don’t worry.
Obviously you want outside the waistband carry. I have been using a Wild Hare buckleless gun belt for a while but I switched a DeSantis Gunhide E25 belt which is stiffer and stays in place better as well as keeping the holster in place better. The Wild Hare belt would be great for lighter guns and worked but wasn’t perfect and I used it as an outside belt over my pants belt. The DeSantis rig lets me use it on belt.
The best holster I’ve had so far, and easiest to conceal, is the Bianchi 1l Lawman OWB holster. It’s worked great and with a over shirt I wear it keeps the gun basically hidden. It allows for a decent draw speed and is comfortable enough to wear all day, in restaurants, and shopping. I have tried a Galco 1880s Crossdraw holster which sits too low for everyday wear but I do wear it at night to walk the dog. I have other crossdraw holsters that allow me to draw with either hand (using the “cavalry draw” with the hand on that side) but the Galco’s angle and position means I can’t which is a definite negative when walking a dog and I may have one or another hand busy. I carry because there are foxes, possums and other critters who’d love to snack on my 14 year old Havanese.
I use cartridge slides and in terms of the best quality ones I own the Hunter six round belt slide. They are good quality leather and hold the rounds securely but release easily. However Uncle Mike’s belt slides are half the price and are also good quality - if you can find them. One caveat is that the leather slides edges can wear your jeans in places. I usually carry an extra 12 rounds on my belt.
I use Safariland Speed Strips for double action revolvers and they work but they can also be used to organize and make single action revolvers easier to load. It takes some practice to get used to using but they are easy to stick in a pocket and carry unnoticed. Tuff products makes similar products cheaper. I carry another 12-18 rounds of .45 like this.
I’ve been carrying American Eagle 225 grain Jacketed Soft Points as my everyday carry. I think they are a good middle ground between expense and modern self defense loadings. .45 Colt is an expensive round to run and some of the self defense ammo is up to $3 a round. I didn’t get to be the guy who doesn’t have to charge money for news letters by not budgeting. I do have some Grizzly brand self defense loads however.
And that’s about it. I’m sitting with my gun on while typing it out. Like I said - this wouldn’t have been a long conversation.