Crossdraw: In Defense of the Other OWB

The holsters in the thumbnail from right to left are the Bianchi Cyclone, the Galco Phoenix, a Vega convertible crossdraw/strongside, a Desantis Criss/Cross, in an Alien Gear shape shift. I hope that helps.
For T-Shirt info, contact: Warbirdbunker.com
Join this channel to get access to exclusive members only content:
/ @hrfunk

[@hrfunk]

Hey gang, I won't be here for this premier. I hope you enjoy it and have a great day!

[@davidkachel]

Well then, you can forget about an Oscar! ;-)

[@hrfunk]

@@davidkachel Darn! Passed over again!

[@danieldravot4534]

I have always carried cross draw. I learned from a lieutenant on the Williamsburg Virginia police dept ages ago. Everything you described is correct. One place you can be seated is a restaurant and able to get your pistol out discreetly and easily. You can have your pistol in your hand under your coat and no one knows. Some people will say that you can get it taken as it is right in front. It is very easy to protect. Put your left arm across your body over the pistol and hook your thumb in your belt. It will take someone a lot of work to get at your pistol. You will not be able to get it out quickly but you CAN get it weak hand. Try to get a pistol out of a high ride strong side holster with your weak hand. Sweeping your cover garment back to draw a strong side carry is a neon sign that says "going for gun" In a car you are most likely going to want to point your pistol out the driver window. With a cross draw it is a very quick move. If someone is in the car with you it will be very hard for them to snatch your pistol. One more thing, there are relatively few people who are left handed. If someone is looking for the telltale bulge of a pistol they rarely look on the left size.. I once went someplace they were looking for guns. I pulled the right side of my coat back and they waved me though. I had an M1911 and four spare mags n the other side.

[@hrfunk]

Great points. Thanks for the comment.

[@CMDRZero01]

As a lefty... in both senses lol, I carry cross draw as it's extremely comfortable. The car does bring an issue since it's right next to the seat belt buckle and it's almost impossible to aim out the drivers side window at close range. Another plus can come down to your stance. You can draw and fire from the modified weaver very quickly, and depending on the clothing, no one would even know you were armed until it's too late.

[@danieldravot4534]

@@CMDRZero01 Dear Pilgrim. You must have a wonderful time trying to find holsters. It is tough enough for a right hander to find a good cross draw holster. To find a left handed one must be a major quest. We all have a problem shooting weak hand but with a decent holster you can usually get a cross draw out weak hand if you have to ( and practice a good bit ) which could be helpful. I like Hawaiian shirts in the warm weather which will cover even a full sized 1911 or similar so it is very handy.

[@CMDRZero01]

@danieldravot4534 Hahaha, 100% on the holsters. The second you click left-handed, all your options fly out the window. I managed to find and import a really good level 3 holster that has a pivot function so I can change the orientation from vertical to roughly 45 degrees. Depending on if I'm cross or strong side I'll change it for ease of use. I'm in an open carry state, though I have a license for concealed. You and I have a similar taste in shirts. Love a good opened Hawaiian or button-down short sleeve. OWB is pretty obvious at times but I don't get any stranger looks than normal.

[@danieldravot4534]

If I recall right I was in Williamsburg back in 1958 or 59 so that was well before the murders started. There was a piece in the local paper that they think that the guy that was doing them died a few years ago. It is one more reason to never travel with out a sidearm. @@drewberry5737

[@fredschmidt6802]

I will always be surprised to find out how many do called gun experts their are out there . As we age our comfort level changes & we need to adjust to those changes . Wise to have an open mind . People say bad things about shoulder holsters and yet they have there place .

[@hrfunk]

Agreed. Thanks for watching!

[@DynomitePunch]

i personally like shoulder holsters, even as a brouder individual, i feel it's super comfortable and reliable in almost EVERY situation, standing, seated, working, your gun is right on your side just under your arm, it's super accessible, the only downside to me is having to have a cover garment while carrying concealed cuz it could get hot or uncomfortable

[@dave_1958]

I truly believe that the lack of comfort while sitting or driving, especially a larger handgun, are the reasons people will leave their weapon at home or in their vehicle. The cross draw holster in my opinion is the perfect option. Excellent video! 👏

[@hrfunk]

Thank you David, and I agree.

[@zeus3428]

Another advantage I like is that I can stand in a non-threatening appearing posture with my arms casually folded across my chest with my right hand concealed inside my cover garment already fully on the pistol grip. This gives me great comfort knowing I am already well into the drawing process in case a sketchy situation escalates. This correlates to a comment made about you making a video testing which draw might be faster, side-draw or cross-draw. I think my position of casually standing there, arms crossed, with my concealed hand already on the pistol would win out.

[@Desperado3248]

I will sometimes carry crossdraw, a carry over from carrying two revolvers in Cowboy shooting . There are other reasons. One it works well when seated. Two you can access the the weapon with your non preferred hand. Three , if done correctly , it is fast. You can also have your hands in front of you and access the weapon quickly. Last, it is safe when you draw as you did. Cutting the circle instead of sweeping the circle. You can also draw with the holster side forward, drawing the revolver pointing at your target and stepping g back to create some distance. This was a draw Doc Holiday used very well

[@rebelyankee4910]

Carry cross draw everyday 3 seasons out of 4. 1911 or CZ75 in a shoulder rig with two extra mags, often under a light vest when the weather warms. Love it, and in a vehicle there is no better way IMHO. 😎

[@samhicks7568]

After getting a cross draw holster, I found that it was more comfortable when walking distances. Carrying OWB at 4:00 position when walking would cause my hip to ache. Thanks for sharing.

[@hrfunk]

I’ve noticed the same thing with large/heavy revolvers.

[@melissakitchen9117]

Something else to be mindful of is that you can always turn your body slightly when drawing to keep the amount of firearm sweep down. I see this very often with the SASS cowboy shooters who like to have one revolver set up as a crossdraw.

[@arthuroubre7562]

I was a young deputy at the Polk County in Florida. "America's Sheriff" Grady Judd was my patrol major. I remember seeing the old time Florida Troopers still using the cross draw holsters. This was because a lot of trooper cars didn't have cages. The trooper would put his prisoner in the front passenger seat. Another reason for cross draw holsters is back or sciatic nerve pain. I have set up duty rig with the holster moved up on the belt. This helps with the nerve pain. But I still experience a little pain. I deal with the pain on duty. Off duty I use a cross draw holster. I have also got some shoulder holsters. These holster have also helped.

[@eviljesus1482]

I got into cross draw carry off of horseback and tractor work as a youngster, while sitting you have faster access to it and a much more natural draw. Typically I carry a small bird head revolver there, usually a .22 for ranch critters. I may have another larger caliber pistol on my right hip in a standard rig, or may slide the holster from one to the other (hip for walking, slide across the belt for seated). Not something I bother with concealing, all open carry work stuff, but has its place.

[@hrfunk]

There are a lot of great things about living and working on a farm!

[@mr.goldenrod291]

Perfect demonstration of drawing a handgun. The handgun needs to be towards the target as soon as possible and close to the drawer’s body when drawing to minimize someone taking the gun away. I also dislike inside the waistband for the reasons you state. IMO, there are two drawbacks of cross draw. First is the butt of the gun can protrude even with a cover garment; second, unless the holster is a paddle or clip-on, it’s a hassle to undo my belt to slip the holster on. Both are minor issues, but present.

[@jrcannon8945]

I switched to cross draw after a shoulder injury, carrying iwb & owb have found it to be very comfortable and safe. The only thing I had to work out was the holster to get the cant I desired. I should have switched years ago.

[@hrfunk]

I’m glad that works for you. Thanks for watching!

[@AshGreen359]

What do you use for IWB Crossdraw?

[@jrcannon8945]

@@AshGreen359 I buy Concealment Express holsters, right hand draw iwb, they have adjustable cant to switch to cross draw. I also use shoulder holster in winter when I'm wearing a coat.

[@sgtmajtrapp3391]

When driving or in an office environment the cross draw is the best superior and faster than a shoulder rig for the same applications. I have used the IWB for so long even with large heavy handguns, I don't even know its there.I have found that the VEDDER IWB with the optional claw device holds the weapon close to the body is the most comfortable system for me. I used a shoulder rig often when a major case investigator working violent crimes and in charge of bank robbery investigations. Many hours on stakeouts. I use a concealment vest today as well and one must be sure it is not encumbered by the seat belt, so I pull it over to allow a rapid draw if necessary. The Florida Highway Patrol for decades essentially used the cross draw back in the days of revolvers. They used five and six inch guns including the COLT PYTHON, S&W MODEL 27 and some Model 28 .357 Magnum sidearms.

[@hrfunk]

I think it's like anything else, it has a place in one's carry arsenal. Most of us have to change up our carry method from time to time depending upon various factors. I wanted to throw this one out there for some viewers who might not be familiar with it.

[@leeadams5941]

Great video, Ive carried cross draw for years and it works, as you said especially if your driving or just sitting. Ive never heard the "swing around the room " complaint or the finger on the trigger drawing complaint...but some folks will complain about anything..I use to carry strong side but a friend of mine on the hwy patrol mentioned the same things you did about the negatives of carrying that way so I switched...and it works for me '

[@butchdresser6928]

Im a still active LEO in NH and I'm 68 years old. until recently I carried a Browning High Power off duty. However after having a shoulder injury , I found strong side carry hard on the joint. I decided to buy a CZ75 PCR compact and a 1791 4 way holster and wear it cross draw. It is so much better for me and a pleasure to carry. I have a draw full of holsters like most people that collect dust, But I've now got 5 different 1791 leather holsters and the quality is amazing..I'll never buy another holster unless its from 1791. Check them out, you wont go back Chief

[@kirkhiggins3044]

Cross draw also makes weapons retention more secure as it would be much harder for a perp to reach your weapon from behind.

[@hrfunk]

I agree. Oddly, some folks seem to think crossdraw carry is more susceptible to a gun-grab.

[@SpartacusColo]

I was just about to comment. I think it grants a very high degree of security. With it more 'in front', as worn in the video, you can use both hands to protect the gun, if necessary.

[@neiljohnson6815]

Retired LEO here. Back in the day, we called a cross draw holster a widow maker. If you are standing facing someone, he can draw your pistol faster than you can.@@hrfunk

[@marioacevedo5077]

Another outstanding video. I've switched to Cross Draw IWB since with all the recent car jackings, it's optimal for drawing when seated in a car.

[@briancaine9130]

Good video. I just started using Galco cross/strong holster for 686-4”. Cross carry is secure, comfortable and easy to access, even with the retainer strap.

[@stevenrush9862]

I totally agree with iwb being VERY uncomfortable . I accidentally acquired a crossdraw holster for my single six. I ordered a regular holster but they shipped a crossdraw. I tried it and liked it so I’m keeping it.

[@anthonydennis460]

Great video !!! While I was with the LAPD in the late 1960s, most detectives on the LAPD carried a two inch .38 revolver in a Lewis cross draw holster. IMO, Lewis made the best cross draw holster. Watch the old Dragnet series and you can see Sgt. Joe Friday carrying his Colt Detective Special or his S&W Model 10 two inch revolver in a Lewis cross draw holster. His partner, Bill Gannon carried his S&W Model 15 four inch in a Lewis Cross Draw holster as well. Those LAPD Model 15 S&W four inch revolvers were made to fire double action only with Spear 158 gr. round nose lead bullets.

[@hrfunk]

Thanks Anthony! That is great info. I was/am a fan of the old Dragnet series. I used to hurry home after working second shift back in the 1990's just to watch the re-runs that came on at midnight.

[@guardianminifarm8005]

Good perspective & consideration. I have been intending on making a couple crossdraw holsters for various purposes of which you mentioned. Very helpful. Confirmation for my objective.

[@Bob-lq9ys]

Very good info , I have been kicking this around a bit , now I have my answers . Thanks

[@hrfunk]

Good, I’m glad the video was helpful.

[@loulunetta425]

Thank You. I have open carried on the hip when hiking. Snags were a problem. I transitioned to a cross draw chest rig and have had no issues. Practice at the range has me getting my model 19 on target quicker than from the hip. So, I agree - sometimes it is better.

[@GeezerWheels]

I'm retirement age, but still active in shooting and motorcycling. However, I've now had cortisone shots in both knees, one shoulder, plus back surgery. A literal "pain" to draw from strong side (right), esp while seated. I carry daily, but almost 100% cross draw (small 9mm). In a car, my strong side carry is almost impossible. I find that cross draw is very fast and comfortable. I train to slightly blade my body to minimize muzzling those in the "arc" of the draw. Also train to keep muzzle low. A Blackhawk CQC (level 2 retention "paddle" release makes the arm secure and is very easy and intuitive to learn. Thanks for your great vids!

[@hrfunk]

You’re welcome. Thanks for watching!

[@joelhunter984]

I carry crossdraw as well. It is safer as far as retention because if someone attempts to disarm you (Bad idea) you can lean forward and if in a ground fight it is either under you, face down fight, or ON top of you and accessible if fighting on the ground face up where as other carry methods I.E. side carry you would have to lean one way or another to access your pistol. When I was a lawman and seated in a patrol vehicle in order to access my pistol from a level three retention holster, I would have to lean forward and lean left in order to avoid banging my elbow on the safety screen. Crossdraw also allows you to have your hand on your gun in a secretive fashion. Just looks like you are holding your belt buckle. Great video!!!

[@dangerman007]

Thanks for showing this. I think this is a very viable way of carrying. I would certainly consider it much safer than the current trendy appendix carry method.

[@Tdream8]

Really well organized and thought out presentation for any of us considering this method of carry. Thank You sir.

[@hrfunk]

My pleasure. Thanks for watching!

[@jasonsippola183]

I have carried cross draw for thirty years. Always used an OWB paddle style holster at forward nine o'clock cross draw and/or forward three o'clock strong side. Varies with handgun selection, load out, season, and wardrobe. I have carried my sidearm and/or backup this way concealed carry, on my battle belt, and on chest rig/plate carrier setup. Same pistols always in the same place or very close to the same. The only change in thirty years is holster. Stepped into the 21st century with We the People and Fobus Kydex OWB paddle holsters instead of Uncle Mike's Nylon OWB paddles with retention straps. Loved the video and points on this style carry. It has served me well for the past thirty years and couldn't agree with you more. Every method has strengths and weaknesses. Know them. Train your equipment the way you are going to fight.

[@thormusique]

Great video, thanks! And I agree with everything you've said here. When I recently purchased a Uberti Colt-replica, I decided to go for a crossdraw holster. I've been loving it so much, and find it so much more comfortable and accessible, that I've now started replacing the IWB and OWB holsters I own with crossdraw version for all my other handguns. I realised that if I can make a revolver with a 5.5" barrel easy to carry, I can certainly do the same for all my shorter-barreled firearms. And btw, crossdraw is also a perfect way to carry on horseback. Cheers!

[@joejhurojr3914]

In my 78 yr.s I've always preferred cross leather cross-draw holsters especially driving or riding fence at the ranch. Thanks hrfunk. 1SG., J J Huro, Jr USA, RET.

[@hrfunk]

Thanks for the comment First Sergeant Huro. I don’t always carry crossdraw, but I always like it when I do. Thanks for watching!

[@heitorgomesmd6215]

Really a comfortable and very fast draw position. There is a must watch “hitman scene”from a Miami Vice episode here in KZbin. A drawback is the accessibility of the gun to the bad guy in a very close combat situation.

[@hrfunk]

In that type of a confrontation, is a strong side waistband holster really any better?

[@nomikes4392]

@@hrfunk Yes. Because of the position of the butt re hand position. Easier grab almost to the point of being the same as the carrier

[@jeffwoollard2280]

Watching this video reminded me of a holster my uncle used to wear during walks in the woods, or on hunting excursions many, many years ago. Fond memories I had forgotten. It was a green canvas shoulder rig that also attached to your belt and was very comfortable even on hot days. I remarked about how much i liked it and got one for my next birthday. I had it for years and cannot remember where it went. The draw was very similar to a cross draw, depending on how you set it up, which took some time to get right by the way. But once you did.... It easily held a full size revolver and also allowed you to carry two reloads for shells. Ironic that back then that was considered a lot of ammo. When it was dirty you threw it in with the wash. Probably why as I've gotten older I have adopted the cross draw. Most modern owb holsters allow for cant adjustment with an allen wrench. I didn't purchase the two holsters I use for cross draw, but they were very simple to convert. That said, something tells me I'm going to do a little research and see if I can find one of those canvas rigs again. Great video, and thank you for helping me remember!

[@hrfunk]

You are most welcome. Thanks for watching Jeff!

[@stevekatz4372]

In my entire gun life, I started to CC with a Fanny Pack here in Florida which was very popular in this all year round hot climate. I then switched to a inside the waist holsters, which were many, then I went to a pocket carry which I did for many years. Here in Florida's hot weather, I always wear a shirt over my belt line along with Cargo Shorts with very deep pockets, which allowed me to cary many different kinds of small to medium size hand guns! The Glock 26 became my Favorite pocket holster for many years but over the years as I became Older (Now 78) I have switched to a Cross Draw Holster from Desantis which fit my G43, G48 & my Kel-Tec P17. No more IWB holsters for me!

[@marknagel6939]

Hi Mr. Funk, I carry my .44 special snub nose in a shoulder holster. A lot of the reasons you pointed out for cross draw apply to my rig too. In the car when belted up my rig works great.(right handed). Have a great day and keep up the informative videos.

[@hrfunk]

Will do Mark. Thanks for watching!

[@TheROMaNProject]

When I had to use a cane, I tried carrying crossdraw IWB, with both revolvers and pistols. I found it also was more easily concealable with even a light shirt or t-shirt. I am overweight and all OWB & IWB right hand holsters all were visible, even when wearing a sweater or jacket… doubly so when bending forward. And, as this video mentioned, when in a car a right side holster is blocked by the driver’s seat belt and latch. Today, I no longer wear anything but a crossdraw holster.

[@Fudmottin]

Nice presentation. My carry revolvers all have barrels of 3" or less in length. I've only toyed with the idea of a cross draw. But for something like a 5" barrel, that seems ideal, not to mention a cool look. As for IWB, I can't comfortably do that with even the slimmest of firearms. J-Frames usually go in a pocket. I still use a holster for those. One thing about seatbelts that you mentioned at the end. In a crash, they may have very powerful pretensioners that fire when airbags are deployed. They don't just lock up like under heavy braking. It would be most uncomfortable to have your seatbelt over your firearm.

[@hrfunk]

Depending upon your car, sometimes it's not all that comfortable even when you're not in a crash.

[@MrCopTom]

VERY good informative video! Thanks for sharing! I'm partial to the Cross Draw position too > seems to be the best position for if seated & also fine for standing too...

[@ericbonifield768]

Really appreciate your content sir.

[@hrfunk]

Thank you Eric!

[@keithtate1241]

Thanks for the information. I have been thinking about getting a cross draw holster for my backup revolver.

[@michaeldavis5909]

Good video. Your topics are really informative and makes you think of different options that you might not think of.Its hard to change what you are use to doing,but change can be good.Thanks for ideas of something different.

[@hrfunk]

You’re welcome

[@strshooter7399]

Very solid review of Cross Draw holsters. Thanks, had never even considered them, but I'm going to look at a few manufacturers going forward. Solid review sir. 🙂

[@hrfunk]

Thank you and thanks for watching!

[@allenw969]

If an attack comes from someone coming up to the driver’s side door, the only one the muzzle would sweep would be the bad guy. (If carrying with a forward crossdraw position as you show.)

[@SilentWatcher594]

I've been cross draw carrying for decades,,,for the very same reasons described in this video. While LEO, I hip carried, but that's a different scenario. Best carry location is one that YOU feel most comfortable with.

[@papimaximus95]

Great points. Hard to argue against any of those! Definitely good for open carrying my 686+ when out fishing.

[@hrfunk]

It works very well with large revolvers.

[@jwc00789]

Great Video and Info! I have and use several Cross Draw Holsters!

[@Slow_Hand_Path]

I started carrying cross draw after having a baby because it allowed me to draw my weapon with either hand. After doing it for a while I realized it's quite superior and self-defense because I can use my dominant hand to manipulate door knobs or car keys or strike someone while protecting or drawing the firearm with my non-dominant hand.

[@DrumandPianoDude]

Great video! I'm a large guy, so the strongside (rt-hand) is my favorite. I go with IWB with a Foxx holster with the comfort pad. You're right about needing larger pants to accommodate. However, I wear drawstring athletic pants, so I carry lighter weight polymer pistols with the clip-on IWB holster. It's actually pretty comfortable, and I've had great retention. If I were built more like you, I'd enjoy crossdraw. I agree that appendix carry isn't too slick. I don't like the muzzle aiming at my manhood or femoral artery in my inner thigh.

[@pauljernigan5125]

Thank you as always for a mature & thoughtful presentation. Long before I exercised my own right to carry. I noticed friends who did many times wore pants too big for comfort. Occasionally we’d hear clunk in the restroom. Some might be better served to explore cross draw.

[@vnsfxr]

"Occasionally we'd hear clunk in the restroom" Made me smile, remembering shortly after receiving the1st CCW while still in rookie status of my 1st year.

[@robertdodd9623]

Excellent Video ! Crossdraw seems the most universal carry . I like access to a loaded weapon in front of me, rear and side owb is easier accessed by others when your caught off guard.

[@davidh9585]

Thanks for bringing more attention to this method of carry. If I carry a sidearm hunting, I favor cross draw since I sling my rifle strong side. I find that OWB on the same side can cause hang ups and interference when hiking. Thanks HR!

[@hrfunk]

You’re welcome . Thanks for watching!

[@SHOT_GUNNER]

Always look forward to another great video from you. Semper Fi 😎✌🏻

[@hrfunk]

Thanks and Semper Fi!

[@ms.annthrope415]

Another good, informative video, HR!

[@hrfunk]

Thank you!

[@mkshffr4936]

Great stuff amigo. Another aspect that I have not seen addressed is the range of motion required for a strong side v.s. crossdraw can be a factor for those of us with arthritis or other orthopedic issues that limit mobility of joints of the arm. The strong side requires fairly extreme angles of the shoulder and elbow joints that can be problematic. I also wonder whether IWB crossdraw would not have some benefit for use with lighter clothing.

[@hrfunk]

Possibly. That would be somewhat similar to AIWB which is currently in vogue.

[@chiefslief1886]

I love them Cross Draw Holsters in the driving position. Awesome Channel too,thanks👍🏻🇱🇺

[@hrfunk]

My pleasure. Thanks for watching!

[@BirdDogey1]

I recently purchased a leather CD holster for my Bodyguard 380. Secured for times when I'm driving in less desirable neighborhoods. I carry mine in the same position; way forward.

[@williamscott3444]

I've been considering crossdraw carry. I appreciate your thoughts on the subject. You made some good points. Semper Fi.👍

[@hrfunk]

Semper Fi William. Thanks for watching!

[@AMX86]

Mas Ayoob has a great video on cross draw and how to do it.

[@ronaldmcelhiney5219]

I found the cross draw on a separate belt a little higher up on my hip more comfortable. Large revolvers are easy to conceal and draw from when seated. Thanks for the angle the barrel back tip, appreciate it.

[@hrfunk]

You’re welcome!

[@floridajim3023]

A second belt? I’ve never thought of that excellent idea

[@wpmbell]

Very interesting discussion. Thanks!

[@hrfunk]

You’re welcome. Thanks for watching

[@joea5810]

X draw is a solid choice. Especially for SW 642. Thanks for the video instruction, Sir.

[@hrfunk]

My pleasure. Thanks for watching!

[@LionquestFitness]

More than likely you heard the same mantra from police instructors over the decades that cross draw holsters were inefficient and unsafe. And for police and military training purposes I'd definitely agree. However, for citizen concealed carry a "trained" cross draw could work well. I'm a bit old fashioned, but I often carry a four inch model 10 or model 64 in a Kramer holster worn cross draw.

[@andycraig6905]

Truth is you'd be better off than most people in the world, keep on keeping on man. My plastic fantastic .40 s&w is great, but a few .35 caliber holes from a .38 special in your sternum is bound to change your behavior just fine.

[@hrfunk]

By the time I came along, crossdraw had more or less faded away into the annals of history. I have more or less rediscovered it on my own, and I have found that in some circumstances it works very well for me.

[@yellowboxster06]

Great video as always. FWIW, I agree with your assessment especially for vehicle carry. I do a lot of long distance driving and I feel my greatest threat is a car jacking while at a service station. Maintaining firearm accessibility while getting in and out of my vehicle is important to me. A cross draw holster seems ideal for that and I certainly agree that IWB carry, while more concealable, is not the most comfortable option when driving for long distances. Fortunately I live in Texas and I don’t worry too much about absolute concealment so to speak.

[@hrfunk]

Nor do I. Having spent many years carrying a firearm in plain view, I just don’t worry all that much about it.

[@danoneill2846]

Yep Thanks !!

[@hatchetjack1031]

Very fashionable in my opinion, Lance corporal. That's a great looking Rig. I'm a big fan of cross draw, particularly when mounted on some vehicle. Way more comfortable! Thx for the video!

[@hrfunk]

You’re welcome Jack. Thanks for watching!

[@vlogfriendsutopia]

@@hrfunk That'd be Corporal, no?

[@hrfunk]

Correct.

[@safecracker45]

good thoughts and information. Thanks

[@bobbyw9046]

At least in my neck of the woods, wearing a vest such as the one you had on, SCREAMS gun! Especially when the weather is such that no normal person would be wearing any more clothing than necessary because of the heat. For a person that spends 8-10 hours a day sitting in a vehicle or similar - I can see cross-draw. For most people packing and living normal everyday lives, it makes it a bit to easy for someone to grab it right out of your holster. I have carried cross draw on certain occasions but I use more of a 9 o'clock position on my left hip (I am right handed). This still allows for a relatively quick draw when seated (not as fast as the 12:00 position of course) and is still more comfortable for hours and hours behind the wheel. ANY concealed carry method is a compromise of some sort - and I guess it depends on how an individual spends most of his/her day.

[@danieldravot4534]

A couple more thoughts. People worry which way a cross draw points. Look at where a high rise strong side is pointed. Not a lot of difference. When you draw, Pull the pistl and carry it in front of yourself pointed down. When it is on your center swing it up and present it. No sweep and totally safe. Another beauty is you can stand with your arms crossed across your chest and your right hand is under your cover garment with your pistol in it. You have not "Brandished" your pistol but you still have it in your hand. and a fraction of a second away. from Deployed. During warm weather I like Hawaiian shirts They are not see though because of the heavy prints and will hide even fulli sized pistols. Thanks for a very well done piece.

[@mineplow1000]

Re: IWB carry "Is that a 8" magnum in your waistband, or are you just happy to see me?" (ba-dum-tish)

[@hatchetjack1031]

Have never felt uncomfortable when in the presence of any U.S. Marine ,carrying any weapon in any manner. Training and practice!

[@stephenmartini5890]

H.R., I've always liked the cross draw method and being a Lefty, I have worked out some methods of drawing, sitting, standing, driving which can be scary or drawn with the weak hand, in some scenario's. It's very comfortable to just sit without adjustment in any way. And, I have learned to draw a few different guns. This video made some good points on concealment and driving and the right way to draw a handgun.

[@jamesschopp959]

been thinking about the cross for awhile now. Thanks

[@hrfunk]

You're welcome.

[@Desperado3248]

If you can find one, the old Roy Baker pancake holsters work well for strong side or crossdraw, with the ability to alter the rake of the draw as well due to multiple belt slots. The later holsters molded to the handgun look better and function smoother

[@akyukon]

Excellent tutorial!

[@hrfunk]

Thank you!

[@jeffanon1772]

Thanks for another great video...👍👍

[@hrfunk]

My pleasure. Thanks for watching!

[@shastaham7630]

An amusing anecdote... Dragnet, the radio and television show of the 50's and 60's starring Jack Webb as L.A.P.D. detective Joe Friday, was extremely accurate in its portrayal of police officers. Jack Webb, the shows producer as well as star, was described as almost obsessed with authenticity. Joe Friday carried a Smith and Wesson Model 10 38 Special revolver with a short (2-2 1/2 inch) barrel in a crossdraw holster worn in the 9 o'clock position, a long reach even for the slim Jack Webb. In the series, he only fires his weapon on two occasions.

[@hrfunk]

I used to love watching that show. It was in re-runs when I was working as a police officer. I got off at 2300 when I worked second shift and it came on at midnight. It was always great to wind down after work with Sgt. Friday.

[@thomaswhite2802]

Answers a lot of my questions 👍

[@Stoney_AKA_James]

Good video H.R. When a driver on special details, I use a crossdraw holster under a Tru-Spec vest for the same reasons you mentioned.

[@hrfunk]

Great minds….

[@dsnider1360]

I carry both my VP9 and my Taurus PT92 in a cross draw position, in an inside the waistband holster. Like you said, it's a lot more comfortable, especially with a full-sized/duty gun.

[@YellowHammer26]

Thanks, I can see where that can be an effective way to carry.

[@copanobaydoc1986]

Howdy HR! As always, a most enjoyable and informative presentation. I too much prefer OWB-Crossdraw, especially, in urban environments. Outdoors (ranch work, hiking, fishing, etc.), I carry using either a shoulder or chest rig. Thank you for the great vids!

[@hrfunk]

You’re welcome! Thanks for watching.

[@d7dun1010]

In your intro scene, I believe I still have the same holster you show second from the right? Mine is a paddle for my old WG Sig p226. Guess you were right, we do think alike!!!! Good for us!

[@hrfunk]

Great minds!

[@garyK.45ACP]

Good video and interesting topic. I was never a big fan, but they have advantages for longer barreled guns when seated in a car (if you're right handed). I am definitely a fan of leather and OWB. The city police department I was with didn't allow crossdraw holsters for uniform duty, though the State Police used them exclusively. The theory at the time (early 70s) was that they presented the gun butt to an attacker (from the front) and made it easier to take the gun away from the officer. At that time, most of us just had a strap over the hammer, some officers had "thumb break" holsters, but there were no "retention" holsters. FWIW, the State Police used full flap holsters. In any case, I never really used them, so they aren't on my "radar" so to speak.

[@hrfunk]

Understood, thanks for watching Gary. Just an FYI I think the fact that the crossdraw positions your handgun closer to the front of your body makes it easier to see a potential gun grab coming. Unless, of course, it's coming from a politician!

[@garyK.45ACP]

@@hrfunk I never really bought into that "excuse" and I really haven't heard it in a long time. I mean, why not just snatch my gun away from the rear? For whatever reason, our department didn't allow it crossdraw holsters for duty use, while the State Police we interacted with nearly every day, carried their handguns in crossdraw holsters ONLY. 🤷‍♂️

[@libra7624]

3 more advantages 1.) you have firearm in front of you wich is harder to do gun grab by others 2.) when you open carry with out vest people cant see firearm if they are behind you giving you some concealment 3.) less of the pistol is touching your body like it would apendix or on you side meaning your draw nothing is in the way of getting a full grip wich is the most important part of your draw

[@davidhawthorne7423]

Good video, very informative.

[@alans3023]

A thoughtful and interesting presentation, as ever, and in this case a persuasive one too. I never had the opportunity to try a cross draw holster for real, because they weren't allowed under the UKPSA rules (back in the 80s), but on days when I had the range to myself and was able to experiment with the position I always found it to be comfortable, secure and fast. I agree that it requires a little investment of time to ensure that muzzle remains pointed in a safe direction while the pistol is brought into the firing position, but that's true of any holster design and just demonstrates a responsible attitude to firearms ownership and usage. It would be interesting to compare the same pistol shooting a standard course of fire from both a strong side OWB holster and a cross draw OWB holster. A future presentation perhaps?

[@hrfunk]

I was going to do something like that in this video, but I decided to wait until I could go to the range and perform the exercise there. Stay tuned Alan!

[@WoodySanford]

Agree on all points. I just went back to cross draw recently with a Craft holster for my 1911's. I'll add that I find crossdraw (in front) to be the most comfortable to carry something heavy like a full size 1911, it's a breeze to carry in this position. Drawing is faster for me with cross draw than any other position, I'm 55 and shoulders are old. I would add that I have a piece of magnet, the type you can get in a roll for putting things on your refrigerator, in the pocket of my vest that covers the pistol. This stops my vest from ever flapping open and exposing the pistol. I have shopped for groceries like this with my vest open and unzipped. If I was just driving, like cross country, I would opt for a shoulder, but I really can't think of another position to carry that is as much of a cover-all that crossdraw can be.

[@hrfunk]

That magnet idea is intriguing. I might have to give it a try. Thanks for the comment!

[@WoodySanford]

I'm sure there is a good place to find a strong enough little magnet online, but I just raided the fridge in a different way. Once you find one strong enough, it puts an end to the wind or movement from allowing your vest to flag/expose your weapon. It releases when you grip the weapon and it just stays in the pocket for when you reholster.@@hrfunk

[@jennifernichols9468]

"You'll shoot your eye out kid" lol.

[@swedeson6188]

Great video with good points! I will make a crossdraw video when I return to Sweden.

[@hrfunk]

Thank you!

[@brianharris4275]

Now I want one for my Shield Plus! I have always wanted one and just got dune watching " OLD HENRY " on demand .A shootout western I think you would enjoy! I really think your on to something with the cross draw . Comfort and access a plus especially while driving. Thanks again.

[@brianharris4275]

By the way that SMITH looks awsome and Intimidating when presented! With all the autos it's nice to look at revolvers for a change. 357 is awesome!

[@hrfunk]

Thanks Brian!

[@deadeye566]

Some very interesting comments about cross draw holsters. At the moment, I don't own one, but I might have to think about picking one up. My two main carry holsters are very different. But my two carry guns are very different. In size, anyway. I usually carry a Sig P238 in a Milt Sparks IWB holster. The gun is small enough that it's perfectly comfortable using a strong side IWB carry holster. I picked the Milt Sparks holster for two reasons. One, the company is located in Boise, so I could go over there and talk to them, and they're also one of the better holster manufacturers. I have been very pleased with their IWB rig. My other carry gun is a full size 1911 lightweight Commander that I carry in a Galco OWB hip holster. But I usually don't use this for carrying concealed. I normally wear this when I'm volunteering as a Range Officer at the local outdoor shooting range. However, since viewing your video, I will have to think very seriously about finding a cross draw holster to use if I want to carry the Commander concealed. You really made some very good points about cross draw holsters.

[@hrfunk]

Thank you. If you try one out, be sure to let me know what you think of it.

[@deadeye566]

@@hrfunk Just ordered a Master's cross draw holster from Optics planet. Probably won't get it for a few days.

[@pjford5254]

When you carry a rifle or shotgun, it's not banging your pistol if it's on the weak side.

[@davefletch3063]

I prefer cross draw over any other carry. It’s faster and more natural to draw and you can get the muzzle on target with less movement than from the other draw methods

[@edwardstanley2195]

Thanks.

[@georgetreepwood1119]

I love cross draw holsters ---I'm getting one for my PP size concealed carry ...

[@zszs123]

Excellent video thanks for the vdeo and time 👍

[@hrfunk]

You’re welcome. Thanks for watching!

[@timnelson75]

When drawing the gun from the cross draw position and swinging the gun across, like you mentioned. I can see that being an opportunity for an adversary to block your draw or grab the gun. The odds are that's not going to happen. It's just seems to be there more than strong side draw.

[@hrfunk]

Just to clarify, I was demonstrating that as the way not to draw from a crossdraw holster. A proper presentation is no more prone to a weapon grab than drawing from a strong side holster.

[@brittlanders351]

Well done

[@hrfunk]

Thank you!

[@MBDronePhoto]

As an Uber/Lyft driver... I love the Galco Classic Lite shoulder rig, but a crossdraw is more accessible to me. Never cared for IWB. Go back and forth. Shoulder rig much easier to conceal and anything under 20oz is almost not there.

[@EdwardNash-sx3ri]

Interesting video. I am a former NJ Police Officer, East Orange PD '73 - 78, Rockaway Twp. PD '78 - ' 88. At that time EOPD carried .38 Spec revolvers on and off duty, RTPD had S&W Nickel Model 59 9mm semi-autos. Strong arm carry on-duty both departments was a requirement, off duty you could do whatever you desired. Semi-annual firearms qualifications with RTPD required you to simulate your strong arm was disabled and to reload and fire with your weak side, at least 1 magazine. NJ is very restrictive with their firearms policy and as a result since leaving the PD in '88, I did not carry until I relocated to Las Vegas in 2014. I am right handed and now open carry in a standard ambi-dextrous cloth holster ( muzzle pointed down not canted ) with a thumb break retainer on my weak side with the pistol butt facing to the front. THIS manner affords me a couple of advantages : 1) I can draw my weapon with either hand in the event I have one arm/hand disabled and 2) Any attempt to disarm me has to be from the front and not from behind. Additionally, as you state while seated the weapon is readily accessible and this style of carry lends itself equally well to open or concealed carry. Just wanted to add my 2 cents to your informative video.

[@hrfunk]

Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching!