Is Appendix Carry Safe?

In the final installment of our mini-series on appendix carry (AIWB), we're taking a look at some of the common safety concerns with this method of concealed carry.
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[@Paelorian]

Now I know you're not truly proficient with a handgun. _Real_ gunslingers reholster by spinning their Glocks by their finger inside the trigger guard for 1-3 complete revolutions and then in one swift movement as the pistol is still spinning they reholster in the blink of an eye. Usually into a soft leather holster that doesn't cover the trigger for fast access. I'm an expert, I've seen it done in hundreds of movies and video games.

[@MediaevalJames]

"You're pretty good, but that style of shooting is more suited to a revolver than an automatic."

[@davidstegman8147]

Nice trolling, but still funny.

[@TheTyphoon365]

@@MediaevalJames eyyyyy nice reference my guy

[@springsteen-games5134]

Haha nice one! But for real I don't get the argument that's it's just as safe. If you look at people accidentally shooting them selves it mostly inside the leg plus who wants a gun poking them in the belly😜

[@tomrkba4685]

I have seen people spin striker fired guns on their finger at the range.

[@thereallantesh]

I appendix carry. My method of preventing an accidental discharge when re-holstering is to not do it. I carry a Glock 42 in a kydex holster. I place the gun in the holster, and then put the gun/holster combo inside my waistband, and clip it to my belt. When I get home I remove them as a unit as well. When practicing drawing and re-holstering I do it with the gun unloaded. The only time I'll ever draw it loaded is if I ever have to use it.

[@superstatus2640]

Same here

[@rhabdob3895]

Now that makes some sense.

[@mohawk3371]

How do you train? Don't you do drills drawing from concealment and shooting? If so do you then remove the holster from the belt to reholster for the next iteration? That seems terribly inefficient. If, on the other hand you never train drawing a loaded gun and shooting, then I think that is also a problem as that means you have never practiced a simulated defensive use of your firearm.

[@thereallantesh]

@@mohawk3371 I practice dry fire drills at home. The only place I have to shoot is a local indoor range. So the type of training you are suggesting isn't readily available. However if it was I would holster and re-holster loaded during training sessions. I'm only saying it isn't necessary to do so during daily carry.

[@rhabdob3895]

You train unloaded.

[@YOSUP315]

I can't think of any valid reason to need to holster a gun quickly.

[@humorss]

WHY WOULD ANYONE REHOLSTER QUICKLY? only put away the pistol when threat is neutralized, one have all the time in the world to do it slow and safely.

[@YOSUP315]

@Cold Rain I stand corrected.

[@gm683]

It makes ladies moist

[@pleasedontwatchthese9593]

It's good if you hate yourself and like pain

[@Eatsoup3]

@@Renaldo135 Not that quickly d:

[@elijahchilders1520]

"If I thought there was even a chance for the gun to discharge on its own, while it's holstered, I wouldn't carry at all" Thank you! Ever since I realized appendix carry was right for me, this has been my response to those who criticized me for pointing my gun there.

[@hunterehall999]

I really appreciate this clear explanation of AIWB safety concerns. You didn’t discount them, but rather explained why the risks exist with any type of carry. Important realization and tips for risk mitigation!

[@andrewseamaster]

I carry my appendix every day. Some had it removed when they got an infection.

[@alexzee4564]

Lmao underrated comment.

[@stopglobalswarming]

Enjoy it. It’s fuxkif painful when infected and worse to have it out.

[@damonschouw656]

Priceless

[@DutchmanRadio]

Damnit lmao

[@doctoruttley]

I am Canadian. That is the only appendix carry allowed 🤦🏻‍♂️🇨🇦

[@RandomButtonPusher]

Reasonable, rational, and responsible -- you're setting the standard for firearms instruction and commentary.

[@Kratos_God_of_50_BMG]

Agreed! If only MORE KZbinrs made such logical, reasonable presentations, there’d be less to fight about in the comment sections and the gun community wouldn’t be at each others throats over what carry position is “in” this season, and which caliber makes you look fat......Jeez! lol

[@rtotheizzle]

Why does someone feel the need to make such a meaningless comment. Every firearms instructor practices these attributes.

[@paintballjunkie65]

Carrying a gun is not "inherently safe" in general. Some people think that carrying with a round in the chamber is unsafe. Not a huge fan of James Yeager, but he puts it best- "the more safe a firearm is, the less usable it is...."

[@mr.techaky7655]

@Crown Commando No one should carry with an empty chamber.... If you're going to have a handgun for self defense, you might as well have it fuckin' loaded, otherwise, you got an over-glorified hunk of metal you can chuck when the occasion arises.

[@mr.techaky7655]

@robert warner Fair enough, I'll take the r/woosh.

[@pleasedontwatchthese9593]

I'm going to start carrying a nambu. That's the least safe gun I know.

[@pleasedontwatchthese9593]

@@mr.techaky7655 guns are not all or nothing, you can carry unchambered, it's less effective but it's as bad as not having a gun. For people without who only have old guns with known problems it might be worth the traid off.

[@BoopSnoot]

Some styles are safer than others. 4'oclock doesn't sweep the body with a normal draw or holster. Appendix does. Worse yet, appendix sweeps the body in one of the most dangerous areas its possible to be shot in, next to the heart and the head. Only way I'd appendix carry is with a DA/SA with the safety on. I don't care if it makes you fractionally less combat effective, it makes you drastically less likely to shoot yourself which is probably more likely for the average person.

[@Kuztomshop]

4:40 - reholstering hard with a finger on the trigger. Excellent demo of what not to do. So down and think people.

[@borkwoof696]

Did you even listen to a word he said??

[@fredpc41]

lol I observed the same thing. So clearly

[@shavguru]

Nicely put. My best buddy carries at 4 o'clock, iwb. He was practicing his draw, proceeded to shoot himself in the ass on the draw. Caught both safeties on the way out, with .45 RIP ammo! He's oh so lucky the bullet had to go through both sides of the holster, and his belt, before it went into him, down the back of his leg, perfectly between the muscles and tissue, to be removed fully intact from a half inch incision behind his knee. I'll never let him forget that one. Carry on, peace.

[@randallreece3636]

If he was carrying appendix and that happened he would have bled out in 30 seconds.

[@BrandonAilion]

I never understood people practicing their draw with a live weapon, glad it didn't end any worse for your friend

[@bigz5262]

@@randallreece3636 how?

[@thunderbear0]

@@bigz5262 because you're pointing at your penis and leg which have the largest blood artery in our whole body and it takes about 20 to 30 seconds to bleed out and die

[@shavguru]

@digduck2020 negative. Springfield XD-M. Got hung up in his hoodie

[@Kratos_God_of_50_BMG]

I’m 38 now, and started appendix carrying at 21. So 17yrs of appendix carrying under my belt, and I still have Moe, Larry, AND Curly. Every point you made was absolutely correct. Finger control, a good quality holster, and LOTS of practice make appendix carry as safe as any other position. If you’re an idiot, then it doesn’t matter if you carry your gun in a safe tied to your hip in the 1 o’clock position! Thanks for a well thought out and logical presentation......even if some people will STILL thumb their nose at appendix carry till the day they die! LOL To each his own....

[@Kratos_God_of_50_BMG]

What your lame attempt at a joke......nah, it was so bad how can I?

[@strat1080]

Kratos, there have been many accidents where a foreign object got inside the triggerguard. It’s not just a trigger finger control issue. The trend of appendix carry coupled with 4 lb triggers on carry guns without manual safeties is a recipe for disaster IMO.

[@BananarchOfTedKacistan]

@strat1080 yeah? And you’re not supposed to holster like the Wild West. You check for debris in your holster, and appendix allows easy access to that. If you so wish, you can even safely and easily remove your holster and insert your handgun off your body without using even a table. You don’t have to be fast reholstering your weapon. We are taught in training and CWP classes that if you holster, you have concluded there is no longer a present threat and you do not need your weapon. I’ve talked with more people that failed to defend themselves because they couldn’t rack their slide or get their safety off on their handguns. Appendix is for fast response to a already developed situation. Any extra time to prime your weapon aside of bringing it to your target can leave you dead or disarmed.

[@josgha2917]

Haha its literally under your belt

[@josgha2917]

@@DonHavjuan In the video, he literally talks about how it is an individual matter, with some almost commandment-style rules. So his anecdote suffices FOR HIM. It was not meant to suffice FOR US.

[@flatophall]

These have to be some of the best if not THE best instructional videos produced for conceal carry. Thanks!!

[@OriginalEric]

They really are. I'm sad to see him advocating such an ill-advised carry position, but they're still awesome...

[@24roughing76]

Eric ill advised? Your opinion. Did you even watch the video?

[@SilverStarHeggisist]

I carry at the same spot at all times, so reaching for my gun can be as instinctual as breathing. I also carry my mags facing the same orientation.Thanks for the holstering lesson. I've learned a new better way to holster my firearms now thanks to you two.

[@steveinspokane3096]

Great job Chris. I see your logic and agree. Well explained and no sugar coating. I would add....with experience comes safety. I have had three neglegent discharges. I was conscious of where the barrel was pointed each time and except for embarrassment nothing else bad happened. The last time I had a neglegent discharged was over 35 years ago which tells me I have learned a thing or two. And same with traffic tickets! :)

[@blockchainbaboon7617]

What caused them?

[@chrisv2174]

Love the last statement..

[@andylawcc]

you mean last statem

[@steviepii]

I'd like to see a video of a loaded gun being banged on by robots with hammers at different angles and forces to see if it goes off.

[@jkewzz4126]

right here kzbin.info/www/bejne/d2exYmior7Vgd6M

[@raydrexler5868]

I’m sure they are out there. Manufacturers do it, and they probably have video.

[@glennhynes5263]

Again. Awesome logic. Something sorely lacking in the community. Excellent. God Bless

[@richb.4374]

I used to appendix carry years ago when I first got a CCW. For me it's terribly uncomfortable but to each his own.

[@blaydekanton9077]

Did you utilize a foam wedge while using appendix carry? I went to a micro 9 because it was uncomfortable but even that was painful at times. Then I put on a wedge in order to reduce printing and what do you know!? It actually helped with the pain below the belt where the holster would dig in.

[@gastonmannlicher8077]

I’ll be honest, I’ve only been shooting a few years and have always carried at my 3:30/4:00 position as I had be told (via print, audio, internet, etc) that aiwb carry was inherently dangerous. However, I never felt comfortable with having my firearm behind me especially in situations such as standing in line. I always feel I don’t have the full control over my firearm as I want. Having it aiwb gives me more control over the firearm and I can react quicker and probably more effective in a situation in which someone was attempting to snatch it. Sorry, rambling. Great video.

[@nomercy4521]

I haven't been doing it for long either. I've been trying a cross draw and like it so far.

[@lostsaxon7478]

That's the inherent advantage that made me go with appendix. Far more controllable. They have to come into YOUR space for the gun and at that point, teeth are coming into play. That and if you happen to get knocked down to your hands and knees, far easier to retain a gun at the appendix than right behind you.

[@Afrikaaner11]

I have been doing appendix for years. And this video still gives me plenty to think about. Thank You.

[@Ben-Dover75]

I've never heard of a striker control device before. It seems pretty nice. Might invest in one now...

[@The_sinner_Jim_Whitney]

When I carry a handgun, particularly in the summer, I carry a DAO revolver inside the waistband appendix. I've never felt unsafe in the slightest. I personally wouldn't carry anything that wasn't DAO in that position, but I also probably wouldn't in any other position either. I'm not saying I don't think others should if they're comfortable with it, just that I'm not. For me, the sheer amount of shit that would have to go wrong for a DAO handgun to discharge accidentally while holstered is enough to make me think that if that happens, it was just my time to go. Appendix is just about the only position a small guy (5'9", 150 lbs) like me can truly conceal a handgun in summer clothes. Good vid.

[@ransombaggins9301]

Fantastic video! Great series. Warrior Poet recently posted a great video pointing out some of what he thinks are fallacies associated with appendix, 3 o'clock, and 4 o'clock carry. It's concise, reasonable, and helpful. Long story short: appendix is arguably much safer than 3 o'clock and you're still going to hit flesh at 4 o'clock. I'd add that at 4 o'clock you may be introducing other issues like accessibility, exposing the firearm after certain movements, and risking someone taking your gun more easily. Anyways, in my experience, appendix is safer and actually comfortable with the right holster and training and discipline.

[@thefusilier4702]

Glad to see you're still, up and running... I believe it comes down to training, train and more training, these are perishable skills that need to be kept up.....

[@ericmckinley5777]

Love the series, Chris. Been shooting dot torture and took my required concealed carry class. 99% of the gun community just doesn't try and it shows. I will carry AIWB because of you with my px4 compact carry. My man.

[@pzkw6759]

Well explained. It's made me more comfortable carrying. As someone once pointed out to me, when you're holstering, the reason for your weapon being out is gone. So go slow and pay strict attention to what you're doing. Nothing in the world is happening that is more important at that time than getting that gun safely holstered.

[@Usicky12]

Take the holster off put the gun in every time if your really scared. There’s no reason to need to holster fast.

[@evanwindom3265]

Your point about people seeing the safety rules as "binary" is brilliant. It's not a "zero sum" game, but people want to act like "If I'm right, then you have to be wrong". Well said.

[@karmakshantivyapini4734]

One thing more, those of us who are about 60 years or older usually have some degree of limited range of arm and hip motion. Looking at you drawing, I can clearly see that your left hand making two separate motions and taking an extended time in the total draw also, you bend at the waist in the push out from Appendix and you twist and push your torso forward with Strong Side. We oldsters are slower and some times can't bend that far. To adapt to this, my suggestion would be to go to the cross draw. First, the clearing hand makes a motion straight down up that motion is faster and requires much less range than Appendix. Second, there is less motion asked of the hip and arms when drawing to high ready. Further, the hip movement is less, and straight forward without a twist. Finally if your gun is canted, there seems to me to be far less risk with the coverage of the body by the gun even when holstered. What do you think? Also, if you use the technique described with the dummy gun, you should factor in your adrenalin rush as a part of your practice with much more use with drills that have time pressure. Enough adrenalin can easily make your hand shake after you draw and fire. The fashion in the gun community is to discount Cross Draw as a carry option. There may be some point to that if you are young and fast with mobile joints, but if you are old and slow and stiff like me, Cross Draw may be the best carry there is.

[@folkblues4u]

Thanks for making these videos. I carry appendix, have for about 2 years... Have no choice, I have a spinal condition that makes me hunch-over somewhat, so carrying behind the hip doesn't work at all for me because the gun prints like a SOB. I get a lot of crap from so-called "experts" about how dangerous it is, but it's only as dangerous as YOU, YOURSELF allow it to be.

[@octanejimmy]

I switched from a P320 to a P229 because of the DA/SA on the P229. I like the added level of security to myself being able to thumb the hammer just to make sure nothing is actioning the weapon. Great added information put out in your video. You can never be safe enough no matter the situation or where you carry a weapon. Thanks for all these videos. You guys are top notch with information.

[@ed9129]

Jimmy Olson I also switched from a P320 but to a P07 but for the same DA/SA feature. When you reholster simply place your thumb on the hammer and with pressure on the hammer the trigger becomes almost impossible to pull. But I won’t substitute this added safety feature for proper and safe technique.

[@octanejimmy]

Rednick Filipino I was going to go with the P07 also I just couldn't come to grips with the smaller slide. It's just me though, it's an amazing handgun.

[@ed9129]

Jimmy Olson the short slide makes for a flat shooter tho... But the p225A-1 is peaking my interest to replace my shield for the summer.

[@octanejimmy]

Rednick Filipino I think that would be a good choice for sure.

[@obergruppenfuhrerjohnsmith5981]

I fully agree with this. This is why I carry HK LEM variants, and have for years. Pretty much all the things people like from strikerfire triggers ( moderately light Paul, same weight and feel on every shot) but with the added benefit of being able to thumb the hammer one reholstering. In my personal opinion, especially in the V1 Light LEM variant, it's really the best carry action money can buy.

[@Wild_Bill57]

After watching this video,, bought a Versacarry Compound series (stiff and stays open) and carry my PPS original (M1) appendix carry. A good thing to note, PSS is very friendly, reholstering. I put my thumb over the back of the slide, so if the trigger were to snag for any reason, I will feel it. Sit at a desk all day and not only comfortable, but if I were ever needing to draw, very accessible.

[@Armertronic]

8:55 you're right it's not unsafe, it is insafe 😂😂😂

[@ericguerrero1298]

Ha!! Good one....it is insafe!!

[@six_twentythree]

100% agree with your points. I just started carrying appendix with T-Rex Arms AIWB Sidecar holsters so I had to be able to address all these points to myself first. Thanks for the informative video, as always!

[@tayloralbrecht8362]

six_twentythree same! Love my sidecar

[@BILLYBOBJohnson-kj2zd]

"and some of your most valued body parts" Well said :-)

[@clayz1]

I’m here to find out what Appendix Carry is. Never heard the term. Turns out, I’m close to it because I carry itwb on my strong side. I feel better with the thing on my hip because it is easy to reach and you can allow your shirt or jacket to open, with no reveal, and sitting down is no problem. Alternate carry is inside front pants pocket using the same holster, or just put the gun in a jacket pocket. You can shoot right thru the garment if need be. (Revolver user).

[@Vapourwear]

The thumb on the hammer while holstering is ultimately why all the weapons I carry have a hammer.

[@notsure7874]

Yeah, I've always hated strikers. I had a Glock, and hated it. I'm reconsidering because of the Sig p365 - I just really wish it had a hammer.

[@Vapourwear]

@@notsure7874 Strikers are great....in rifles.

[@notsure7874]

@@Vapourwear I agree 100%! If the p365 was a hammer pistol, I'd already have one. I've carried DA/SA auto pistols for over 20 years. Striker pistols just bother me.

[@user-vs4pb8js5f]

This is the first video that has me considering appendix carry.

[@xxtycomeagainxx]

There is also a chance the gun is dead inside the box

[@Fudmottin]

@teknomogul I think it is quietly reloading itself from a secret stash of ammunition so it can go on a shooting spree in the studio.

[@darkwraithknyack126]

Right, the whole spectrum thing can be used to argue and validate the morality and ethics of literally anything. 'It isnt right or wrong, to point a gun at your privates, its a SpeCtRumM." Yeah ok.

[@dp1381]

...but the only way to know is to open the box and take a look, right?

[@NikkyElso]

Schrodinger's Glock?

[@robertsexton4518]

Schrodinger's Gat.

[@anthonyclaudio1189]

I’ve been appendix carry for years, so far no issues. Your video is an excellent review of learning patience and being aware at all times. Well done Chris I use a Kahr MK9 since 2003

[@LaSushiFighter]

Not everyone will agree with this, but you can carry without a round in the chamber. The con of this is you will have to rack your slide, losing a second. It's your choice of course and what you think will best fit your needs.

[@bluestarindustrialarts7712]

Ive been around for 65 years. Ive carried in some sketchy places parts of Philly, Miami,etc. I was always more comfortable with my Sig P229 DA/SA with one in the pipe than a striker fired pistol. Now I only carry 2 guns. A Sig P365 and a S&W Bodyguard.380. Depends on what clothing I am wearing. The BG has only 7 rds but it is DAO and has a safety which is not easy and fluid to engage but very easy to disengage with a swipe of the inside of my thumb. Most of the time that gun is carried in a well made pocket holster in my right front pocket. I am quite comfortable carrying that gun with one in the pipe. My striker fired Sig which I appendix carry, is with a full mag but empty chamber. I am aware of the drawbacks but I believe statistically being the way I am cautious about my surroundings etc, that the extra half second to rack is insignificant. Hey, you could be carrying with one in the chamber and be approached by 2 armed thugs that level guns at your head. Before you realize they are there. What are you going to do in that situation? Attempting to draw your weapon at that point is futile and will probably get you killed. Being observant is always your best first line of defense. Sense something wrong, some one obviously following you? Keep moving and if conditions allow, discreetly draw and chamber your weapon. Id rather have my gun in my hand if my senses prove to be correct than in a holster.

[@ricktenter1631]

Love it. Been carrying appendix for years. And it’s good to have a healthy disagreement like you said. There are those who can’t handle the conversation or, weren’t raised to have a debate about a topic. No need to be an ass, it’s the first sign of losing the conversation.

[@maxmuller1585]

Good video.

[@stefanf922]

Excellent demonstrations, I've been considering trying appendix, this convinced me.

[@SP-qo1so]

Biggest thing bro. PRACTICE and practice SLOW. I’m talking thousands of slow deliberate draws to the point where unless you are pressing from compressed ready outward on target, 100% of the time, your trigger finger rides high on the slide.. and to the point where it isn’t even a thought in your head. Just as your eyes blink without conscious action, your trigger finger discipline should be THAT good and well timed on your draws.

[@halfaron]

I really appreciate your channel. Your videos are always well-reasoned and balanced. Thank you.

[@thefilipinoknight6617]

Started carrying a few months ago, and I tried all other ways of carry (even off the body) but had to settle on AIWB simply because it was the only way to have a gun on me relatively concealed (my torso is peach shaped). I was initially apprehensive about having a gun there since I have kids, but realized later on that it was far safer than other modes of carry due to some points people don’t always talk about: 1. Appendix gives you the most control over your gun. Whether it’s an assailant grappling with you on the ground, or ambushing you from behind, or even your daughter just wanting to wrestle and be carried, the position will give you the maximum degree of control over the gun. From behind, no one can grab the gun unless they fully reach around you. From the front, both your hands are in the way to prevent the grab. At the hip, you only have one hand to deflect things (and that hand could be holding something or someone). At the back, you just have minimal control. 2. Appendix allows you to check concealment without being super obvious. When I’m worried that my shirt moved and exposed my firearm, I can just casually pretend to look at my shoes or adjust my belt. If I fear it became loose, I can just pretend to rub my belly. 3. In my country, armed guards are everywhere. In schools, hotels, malls... literally everywhere. Most buildings have a no firearms policy (which is why plenty of armed robberies occur in malls without any resistance whatsoever - go figure). Appendix is basically the ONLY spot they don’t check for a firearm, and it allows me to stay armed even when stupid rules say otherwise. I’m not advocating violating the law - these are just private rules enforced by unthinking gun-scared building management. 4. Lastly, appendix allows me to reach for my phone, keys, and wallet, without any risk at all that someone might get a peek at the butt of the gun.

[@redtra236]

Wtf? They do body searches before entering a motel? What kind of shithole do you live in like damn

[@jubjub905]

Garrett Smith read his user name

[@LMacNeill]

Ok, this definitely answered the questions I had after watching your previous video... It sure looks dangerous, where the gun is pointing -- particularly when you're seated. But I see what you're saying about the gun being "inert" when it's in a good holster, and it's properly maintained.

[@j.b.708]

Risk is a function of Probability and Severity. Period. If EITHER of these factors is higher, the risk is higher. You can train to reduce the probability, but not the severity.

[@skzion2]

J. B. Yes, but we don't know either of these things now. It's also important how are gun reduces risk, and that is related to the holstering issue.

[@tonyrose6776]

Thanks! Great information here. As usual, your comments are presented from an intelligent, logical, reasoned position. More often than not, it seems that is not the case with KZbinrs.

[@t-wrecks3227]

I personally feel like I can get my fastest draw time with appendix carry when it comes to IWB holsters, as long as your not an idiot with your guns it shouldn't be an issue🤷🏻‍♂️

[@kevinparks3041]

I don’t shoot competitions and only carry for self defense. My local range doesn’t allow live fire drawing from the holster, so if my gun is ever coming out of my holster with an intent on actually firing its only coming out for a real threat. (I practice dry firing drills at home). With that in mind regardless of what method I carry (appendix, small of back, etc) I refuse to ever reholster with the holster in my waist line. I simply secure the gun on a stable surface or my dominant hand, I then remove the holster (kydex with spring retention belt clips) from my waist, and then i place the gun back in the holster with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. I then place the system back on my waist. I understand this method will have its critics, but it’s how i train and what works for me. And it completely takes away the hesitations and concerns I always have about an AD while reholstering .

[@oldcop18]

IWB with a Glock or similar striker gun makes me too nervous and it’s something I would NEVER do. I have carried my revolvers IWB and feel very safe doing that b/c of the heavy double action trigger.

[@conman1395]

10:17 As a surgery resident, who's spent literally months on vascular and trauma seeing people who have shot themselves, I'm always fascinated with everyone's obsession with the femoral artery. Yeah it's huge and you don't want to damage it, but I'd generally consider any self-injury while holstering your weapon -regardless of style of carry - potentially fatal and thus equally dangerous. Whatever carry allows you to feel most confident holstering your gun safely is what you should do. Just know that it's for your mind

[@FreedomandBaconHomestead]

Excellent information! I watch a lot of 2A content and you continually impress me. Well done!

[@greymas3006]

Great take on degrees of safety

[@adamwoolston253]

So the answer to this, like most gun-related questions, is training and preference. Should you carry a 9 or a 45? What matters is you train with your carry gun, caliber question is preference. Should I use Hornady, Speer, or Federal? Train with your carry ammo to make sure your gun cycles reliably, and carry your preference. Holster at 3:00 or appendix? Train on drawing and re-holstering , and carry your preference. We tend to make a big deal out of all these questions, but what ultimately matters is training. A well-trained shooter can pull a .22 revolver with ball ammo out of an appendix holster and put a bad guy down. Train first, and go with the setup you prefer

[@CramcrumBrewbringer]

Love your vids man. Great content always.

[@keithplymale2374]

I didn't see anything in this about carrying a snubie revolver. I am and I'm a big guy so standing works but sitting I noticed muzzle moves in. Great series.

[@johnthompson965]

To each there own method. Firearms being mechanical things and things mechanical being capable of malfunction. I chose to carry IWB at 3 o' clock or OWB at same. Usually. No method is ever going to be 100% when carrying concealed and knowing that. I'd rather the piece be pointed at the ground as much as possible during carriage. Or at whatever least likely to not cause unintentional death to myself or anyone else as possible. Yet still give immediate access to the weapon if necessary. And I've carried a handgun that way, in many, many, different holster types and designs, with multiple handguns,over the span of almost 20+ years. So far without an accidental discharge. I put that down to as much a combination of training, weapon selection and proper maintenance, as carry method. But. All that aside. I've saw very bad things happen to folks with pistols shoved down the fronts of their pants. And thats why I, personally, pass on appendix carry.

[@brucebarnes8138]

Excellent video. I have one word on this subject. Condition 3.

[@TeachAllNations]

3:58 Did I hear that man's belly growling? My word!

[@swisscheese911]

Had the privilege of taking a class with Spencer. What a guy, if he is ever in your area... check him out.

[@RedTrauma]

these videos are high quality in with the info and production.

[@echo_research_and_development]

I think you made a very good and important point. The real elephant in the room that people do not want to admit to is not whether if Appendix carry is safe or not. The Appendix carry safety controversy is just a symptom of a bigger problem. YES, THERE ARE SITUATIONS WHERE A PERSON HAS TO TEMPORARILY POINT A GUN AT SOME PARTS OF THE PERSON'S BODY OR OTHER THINGS THE PERSON DO NOT WANT TO SHOOT, TO PREVENT BIGGER DANGER, ESPECIALLY DURING A FIGHT. Once that reality, which some people would never accept no matter how obvious it should be, is recognized, questions like whether if appendix carry is acceptable becomes obvious. It's just a matter of whether if accepting risk involving Appendix carry pointing at some part of a body may be a little more helps to handle a bigger danger, especially when there is no reasonable alternative that is just as effective for a particular person in question in a particular situation.

[@DeandreSteven]

Jokes on you guys, my appendix exploded years ago, i can appendix carry without complication.

[@Eli-el7mr]

Great series and great video! Thanks for the work you do and the time you put in to make quality content. I would be really interested in a gun maintenance series,if you guys are willing to take suggestions. Knowing when to replace parts or how to check if they need replacing would be a great help and it'd go a long way in making sure folks dont have a failure when they need their gun most. Thanks again for all your hard work and take care

[@Defossion1]

I'm sure you're all as relieved as I was when he had a 2nd T-shirt on at 3:50 .

[@DEATH_TO_TYRANTS]

Speak for yourself buddy.

[@randyhibshman3682]

yes, risk is a continuous spectrum. in engineering risk assessments, we quantify risk as the product of (probability of an event) x (severity of that event), which can be a continuous spectrum of values. even the risk of high severity events may be tolerable if the probability is sufficiently small.

[@immikeurnot]

Short answer: Yes. It's safe as long as you're safe. The real problem with AIWB is that you can't sit down.

[@garyK.45ACP]

But we KNOW that negligent discharges happen. They DO happen. They happen to good people who were "safe" until they happened. So when you "aren't safe", where do you want your gun pointed? At your genitals and femoral artery...or your ass cheek?

[@fosty.]

Yes you can. I carry a CZ P07 in the appendix position every time I go somewhere and have no problem sitting down.

[@enesex]

Carrying a 43x right now in a belly band AIWB sitting down no issues...

[@garyt521]

It may sound crazy to you, but I find it to be more comfortable to sit with AIWB than with OWB holsters at 3 or 4 o'clock. This is when I am either carrying a S&W M&P 9c or a S&W Model 637.

[@juansvmax1]

This is a great gun channel. Love the video quality and professionalism of the host. Definitely subbed!

[@mitubogoogle]

Real professional trainers should teach the different methods of carry, along with advantages and disadvantages of a chambered gun -for people to decide which methods work better for THEM (not the trainer)

[@Boarderforlife15]

Doing an advanced pistol course in NY to allow for unrestricted IWB carry in 3 days. I plan to carry appendix and I already bought my Alien Gear holster. This is the kind of stuff I need to have in my head while practicing. Thank you.

[@baird329]

If everybody carried the same way it would be easier for bad guys. With dozens of potential places it makes it harder for a potential bad guy to look for weapon outline. So different strokes for different folks.

[@Dollsteak69]

My buddy lives off grid and was taking a BM and removed a Beretta 92 from the holster. He pulled up his pants and "Shoved" it back into his holster at 3ish o clock and it discharged. Projectile, ball ammo, bounced off this thigh bone and exited above his knee. ER, LE all got involved.

[@evin98]

That trainer just moved 80% of his body mass above his belt. That's why his muzzle isn't covering his lower half.

[@tommyleegraves423]

and as he was holstering he put his finger BACK on the trigger AFTER stressing that it should be as far away from it as possible

[@notsure7874]

@@tommyleegraves423 I think he was doing that to keep the laser on? I hope? Because ... I saw that too and it made me cringe. It looked a whole lot like bad muscle memory, and terribly unsafe habits - because the OP's laser worked just fine without his finger on the bang switch.

[@alexm6936]

Perry Love that guy explains that he was only do that for the laser before it showed the clip

[@SI0AX]

@@alexm6936 He explains that like 3 times, lol.

[@venusfallen]

@@SI0AX People don't listen, as evidenced by those above

[@josephdecker0]

beautifully done. there's always something to learn. I had a definite bias against AIWB, but considering the logic you presented, it was pretty foolish. I've jammed a pistol in my pants a time or two out of necessity, and thought very hard about doing so, but always thought aiwb was inherently ''bad''. now i see that's not the case.

[@pnwadventurist]

Been carrying AIWB for a couple years, still have my balls and my femoral artery has never been severed. As long as you practice gun safety, have a quality belt, and holster, you will be fine.

[@Hawk-ODA212]

Really good assessment of AIWB concealment concerns. I'm old school but due to a hip injury on my strong side, I'm transitioning to AIWB and possibly a shoulder holster. As a personal standard for myself I have decided to only carry only a DA, DA/SA or 1911 style thumb and backstop safety platform to start out with until I ensure the techniques for reholstering you demonstrated are engrained into my muscle memory.

[@bobgoodwin3653]

That’s why you train daily with an unloaded gun. Muscle memory training.

[@MrMister1227]

I live in California where I can't carry a gun unless it's in a safe and the key is lost😂

[@Fudmottin]

And the safe has to be kept in Sen Diane Feinstein's office.

[@5.7Hemi4x4]

Damn bro, I always felt bad for Commiefornia...Now I'm suffering while the great commonwealth of Virginia is slowly morphing into it

[@QSfcom]

I'll be 50 in Dec , & I've always carried 3:00 right hip (Inside or outside WB holster) , my current sidearm is a Colt Commander 45 . It's become decades of muscle memory & habit .I'm not knocking anyone's preference , I'd rather see you carry in most any fashion rather than not carrying at all .

[@neverbackdown772]

Really important to always follow your gun with your eyes right into the holster.

[@Kratos_God_of_50_BMG]

In an active shooter situation, or a self defense shooting that’s not ALWAYS an option! That’s where continuous training comes into play. : )

[@Ecosse57]

if there's still a threat why re-holster?

[@Kratos_God_of_50_BMG]

In a defensive shooting you don’t want to be holding a loaded or unloaded gun when the police arrive!

[@einyv]

In a self defense situation why would rush to re-holster? You wouldn't. If the threat is gone you cautiously re-holster. I carry AIWB but all my pistols have a safety because that is what i am used to and i do not lose any time on the draw. But I put the safety back on and re-holster. If you don't have a safety you do it slowly. Never be in a rush to re-holster. If you have read any books by Andrew Branca or Massad Ayoob or watched the videos or reading materials from ACLDN or USCCA if the cops come on the scene you can just place your weapon on the ground, if you don't have time to re-holster, don't point it at the cops.

[@Kratos_God_of_50_BMG]

No one said anything at all about rushing. Where did you read that?

[@ethanadams8143]

I just bought a We The People holster for my CZ P07 for appendix carry and that holster is so sweet. I love it. I would recommend it to anybody.

[@ZRFehr]

I steered clear of WTP because I saw some of their facebook ads and they spent a silly amount of time actually arguing with people. I went with a Clinger holster instead and they're pretty excellent.

[@strat1080]

A foreign object entering the trigger guard while holstering has nothing to do with safety rules. It’s something that can happen regardless of how much training anybody has. The difference is where the gun is pointed while holstering with the appendix method

[@Daniel-oy4gu]

Actually I think that is a big perk of AIWB because u can visually confirm a clear holster

[@chrisragone8785]

Precisely why with a DA/SA firearm you put your thumb on the back of the hammer or if a Glock install a Tau Development Striker Control Device and do the same thing to prevent the trigger from moving when re-holstering.

[@427SuperSnake1]

That’s why I bought the XD. It’s not just the trigger safety it’s also the grip safety. So even if my finger slips or the leather holster breaks down and grabs the trigger the grip safety is not activated therefor even with the mistakes than can be made with the trigger and holster or finger and holster the gun still will not fire until I grasp the handle. So I need three different things to go completely wrong rather than one or two.

[@GmanTheTank]

Carry how you want to carry, what works best for you and don't tell other people how they should carry. Sounds good to me.

[@KristianMartin-o8w]

I love my shield plus with the safety. it fits me like a glove.

[@mr_fnh]

Careful bro! This kind of logic may actually brake the Internet forever.

[@ikigai47]

As an FNG, this is one of the points of confusion for me. So many gun vets in talking about compacts and sub compacts hate manual safeties. Currently I have a Beretta (84bb) with a manual safety and for this reason I love it. I have zero worries of striking myself while hastily re-holstering because of it, yet I can switch safety off and fire the gun in a fraction of a second if need be. If I had say, a TP9 elite sc with a trigger safety only, an accident seems far more likely because if something gets hung up on the trigger, who's to say it won't flatten out the trigger and make it fire. Manual safety reduces that risk. Someone educate me on how my thinking is off, I honestly don't know and since I'm in the market I'd like to understand the logic.

[@AC-pm7sn]

“When the gun is in the holster it is inert...” Tell that to the P320.

[@bumpercoach]

did one ever go off inside a holster?

[@bumpercoach]

youd think liberal lawyers woulda been arguing that for their 3-time-loser clients for years now@R.C.B.

[@cafenightster4548]

@R.C.B. Schrodinger's pistol.

[@jkewzz4126]

David Chiu they’re not drop safe

[@prdarkfirecaro5583]

What's wrong with the P320? I have one, zero trouble with it. Newer model, drop issues have been resolved so...

[@ken244]

You Sir are correct and a gentleman.

[@sweetcostarica8714]

The odds of a negligent discharge are the same with any way of carrying a gun concealed or not concealed i.e. "Murphy's Law". So the question is: *If or when I have a negligent discharge up drawing/re-holstering do I want to get shot in:* - the butt cheek (4 o'clock)? - the arm (shoulder holster)? - the chest (chest/bra rig)? or - the man tool or large femoral artery (appendix carry)? For me it is in the butt cheeks as I can probably live that down but *losing my woman slayer* or to die by a *direct shot* to the femoral artery is not an option. Just saying... as a fully functional man.

[@BananarchOfTedKacistan]

Si, but what happens in the situation where the gun is needed? Appendix is more controllable, effective in getting on target, and you can check your holster for debris better than you can at your 3 or 6.

[@YoushouldloveyourselfNOW1738]

Shoulder holsters fix that problem. Best way to carry, and you can't argue with me on that because I'm a minority.

[@zack9912000]

The Herald Of Netflix the less the single digit chance you will ever use it vs the high percentage at some point you will become complacent and shoot yourself or have a near miss with a ND. So the argument of its the fastest doesn’t make a stupid idea better when your chances of using it less of a chance then winning the power ball lottery

[@gurugoguzhanson]

Perhaps the hipster tacticool AIWB carry is the gun worlds version of natural selection.

[@Sprice93USAF]

Lol they cover that in the video

[@calinculianu]

Not a fan of AIWB because I just find it less comfortable than behind the hip IWB for my body type. But this is a well put together video regardless of my personal preference to avoid AIWB....

[@DavidMN-]

In the last 8 or 9 years, have you ever shot your junk off? It wasn't clear ;-) Great video bud! I gotta be honest... all the issues with safety come from re-holstering, which is something you likely wouldn't do in a self-defense situation anyway. I practice my draw stroke, but in and out of the holster seems like an unnecessary risk. In the morning I holster it, put it in my belt-line. At the end of the day I take out the holster from my belt-line, take out the gun and put it where I put it at night :)

[@MrJamestreynolds]

David MN you're not gonna want to have a gun in hand when the cops show up.

[@TacticalStrudel]

take a handgun class and you're going to reholster about a thousand times. you should be able to comfortably/safely reholster. in a defensive situation if you need to do something with your hands (open or close a door, assist someone, get in a vehicle etc) or when the cops roll up you're going to want to be able to holster your gun.

[@loseerich493]

Just attended a multi-day handgun class & you are 100% right. You're reholstering constantly all day long.

[@deandaniel6504]

Cletus Kasady I’m not David MN but my answer would be AIWB where I can check my holster visibly and watch it into the holster the entire way.

[@strat1080]

David, reholstering is not likely? You’re an idiot. As soon as the threat is neutralized you check the scene, reholster, and call the authorities

[@josephconnelly7124]

Thanks- great info and wisdom re: interaction over “opinions”. All deserve respect, however some opinions are more informed the others. Bravo !

[@utah_koidragon7117]

There is a difference between the risk of an action, and the danger it presents. I would say that the *risk* of appendix carry is no greater or less than the risk of strong side carry- you're not more or less likely to commit a negligent discharge with either method. But the *danger* is significantly greater with appendix carry. The techniques presented seem to have some value, but they really do NOT address the riskiest portion of re-holstering. I doubt many people shoot themselves while moving their gun towards their holster- they shoot themselves after the muzzle is inserted in the holster, while they're trying to seat the gun all the way, with their finger on the trigger. At that point, with appendix carry, you ARE muzzling your groin and/or femoral artery. That isn't the case with strong side carry.

[@thatf_inguy8220]

I do risk management for a living (for medical device development). We evaluate risk using two factors, probability and severity. When you say "danger" we refer to that as "harm" The harm is evaluated for severity and given a score, independent of the probability of occurrence. The probability of occurrence is evaluated independent of the harm and also given a score. We multiply them and get a risk index. So in your example (and what chris spoke about) a ND while carrying strongside vs appendix may have different probabilities. Strongside has less visibility, appendix may be more susceptible to bending/movement. The harm, however, is almost certainly greater with appendix. A formal risk assessment would take into account all of the factors you mentioned, plus more as individual risk assessments with differing probabilities and most likely different harms (i.e. bullet bounces of a bone in the ass and ends up in ones shoulder, high harm, low probability).

[@kpday22]

@@thatf_inguy8220 This is a very intelligent response. What Spencer and Chris tend to gloss over or ignore is that the likelihood of severe harm is significantly higher with appendix carry. By citing exceptions, or possible but unlikely outcomes with other types of carry, they gloss over the likelihood of severe harm from a ND into the areas covered during re-holster while carrying appendix style. All other things being equal, the gravity of the harm with appendix carry is more severe. Plus, Spencer and Chris either ignore or give short shrift to how stress comes into play in the real world. Yes, if you contort your body while re-holstering during appendix carry by leaning way back and follow very specific step by step movements or protocols you might be successful in not covering very sensitive body parts and the risk goes down. However, during high stress that level of complexity is quickly forgotten. If leaning backwards during re-holster as demonstrated in this video, and having to follow the very precise movements is how you re-holster "safely" with appendix carry, then this video becomes exhibit A as to why you should not carry in this fashion. Finally, attempting to justify appendix carry with the argument that "you never know what a bullet is going to do" and therefore other carry methods are just as dangerous, is a very odd and illogical argument.

[@Windmill97]

Bravo, Chris. Very well done. Maybe another video on tips on concealment during appendix carry. I’m a slim dude like you, and I feel like my pistol would stick out like crazy if I went AIWB. Also, right now I have a G26, so I wouldn’t have the added safety of thumbing the hammer of a hammer-fired pistol when reholstering. What handgun do you find is most comfortable and concealable WRT AIWB? Finally, I want to say that I recommend your site to my buddies for ammo purchasing. I tell them that my money goes towards ammo AND education because your videos teach me so much. The value of your site and channel are extremely high. Good job, all around.

[@calinculianu]

I'm a slim dude too and I feel for my body type behind the hip carry (4-5 o'clock if you are right handed, 7-8 o'clock if you are left) works better and hides the weapon better. I think AIWB is better for guys with a bit more "mass" around their bellies :)

[@da.reverend]

"And if you have to disagree with somebody, try not to be such an as-- - " LANGUAGE!! :D

[@1967RVN]

Good job, like usual..... Your right on all counts.....If you follow the "rules",, one type carry vs. another are REALLY the same...

[@mopar_dude9227]

Please teach the big guy some basic anatomy, he thinks the femoral artery is on the outside of your hip. Being in the medical field, I have seen 2 accidental discharges from people wearing aiwb holsters. One nearly died because he did hit the femoral artery, luckily his buddy was an EMT/P and got good pressure on the artery (actually got his fingers in the wound and pinched the artery). The other shattered his femur, but somehow missed the femoral artery. I guess he was lucky, if you call being in surgery for nearly 7 hours lucky. Common sense tells you that you would never carry a gun that is pointed at your body, because shit happens. It is your right to carry how you like, but please don’t try to justify it as saying carrying strong side is just as dangerous, because it isn’t.

[@chasingthefish9042]

Correct me if I am wrong but the femoral artery runs through your hip. I have seen a guy get shot in the hip it sounded like it hurt until his heart stopped beating about 1-2 mins later.

[@jackjill521]

Thank You for this series on appendix carry. It has been very helpful and informative. Well Done!!!!

[@oliverallen5324]

Just keep your finger out the guard till you’re ready to shoot :/ I don’t know if I’ve ever owned clothes so ratty I worried about strings and material pulling a trigger going in a holster. I appreciated the video.

[@westcoastwarriorsarchive7929]

Right? isnt that the whole point of a trigger guard? So that things like stray threads cant interface with the trigger resulting in a separation of balls from body?

[@LuckyGunner]

Drawstrings and straps at the bottom seam of jackets are a common culprit.

[@anglerforlife6354]

Tell that to this poor fella: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jmamg2psd6djnLM