Suit Carry

[ScotchMan]

How do ya'll carry when wearing a suit? This is one thing I have never really come up with a good answer for. My current answer is a J-frame in my pocket, but it doesn't fit super well, is difficult to draw due to the cut of the pockets, and has all the negatives associated with a J-frame. I would normally say it didn't conceal well enough, but with a jacket it's tough to see, so I've been getting by. It's not super comfortable either. I attended an outdoor wedding in 80+ degree NC this summer, and actually ditched the J-frame in the car halfway through (not my proudest moment).

I normally appendix carry a G19, but none of my tailored suits/tuxedo will fit it. And I don't yet have the kind of relationship with my tailor where I might ask to have my pants 2" larger to accommodate a firearm. Not to mention that I would have a tucked-in shirt and don't feel great about the exposed clip on tuck-supported holsters. I could move back to 4:30 so the jacket covers it I suppose, but that position conceals poorly for me. And I would need to buy a black leather gun belt that looked dressy enough to expose to the world, an additional expense.

Every time I suit up, I mentally chastise myself for still having not ordered a shoulder holster of some kind. I have no experience with them, and that is likely the only time I'd use one. I would probably dig the Walther PPS out of the safe for that, but having no experience I don't know what reasonably conceals well. Seems awfully James Bond too.

Then there's the ankle holster. Would still probably roll with the J then, but maybe I could manage a G26/P2000sk type thing. Also no experience there, familiar with the multitude of downsides.

So what do you all do? On paper I think shoulder holster with a subcompact and/or single stack is my best shot, but I have doubts. For reference I am 6'5" and almost back down to 200lbs.

[nalesq]

If there is any possibility I will have to remove my coat, a PPS in a bellyband is the only way I have managed to carry a decent sized pistol with a properly fitted suit.

[TGS]

I think you might be surprised to find that tailoring for firearms is more routine, normal business than you think. I just bought a couple suits from Jos A Banks and they had such options listed, and said they do it all the time. They even suggested that I wear my gun in, to measure while actually carrying.

As for an ankle holster, it wont work unless you look like a slob and have pants longer than they should be. Anytime you sit, it will be exposed if youre wearing a half break, single break, or probably even a double break.

You could always go for a thunderwear, JJ Racazza 5-0, or some similar holstering option.

[ScotchMan]

Oh yeah, bellyband. I have a good one, issue there is I generally carry it low enough that the size of the pants interferes, just like IWB. I suppose I could play with moving it around.

[TR675]

Tailored suits and carry...there's a reason Bond carried a skeletonized .25.

[DocGKR]

"I think you might be surprised to find that tailoring for firearms is more routine, normal business than you think."

This.

I wear a G19 AIWB in a JM Custom, CCC Looper, or Fricke Seraphim without any issues--of course you have to man up and not take off your jacket like some silly kid. That or wear a 3 piece suit with a vest or tux with cummerbund that covers the AIWB holster if you absolutely must take off the jacket...

[ScotchMan]

This.

I wear a G19 AIWB in a JM Custom, CCC Looper, or Fricke Seraphim without any issues...of course you have to man up and not take off your jacket like some silly kid.

Are you using a tuckable version of those? Or not even unbuttoning your jacket?

It's common etiquette to unbutton your jacket when sitting, but I suppose its not strictly required.

[Chuck Haggard]

Paging Southnarc to the thread........

[DocGKR]

Not tuckable.

I wear the holster at 1 o'clock.

When sitting, it is easy to unbutton the jacket while ensuring the right side of the jacket front remains lying over the pistol.

[ScotchMan]

Huh, I will have to experiment with that. My initial reaction is that it seems very ballsy; even standing, a gust of wind exposes the gun. With normal AIWB, at least my cover garments aren't split in the middle. But it could certainly work; I do like that it uses the hardware and software that I have spent a lot of time and money acquiring.

[TGS]

Not tuckable.

I wear the holster at 1 o'clock.

When sitting, it is easy to unbutton the jacket while ensuring the right side of the jacket front remains lying over the pistol.

What about when the wind blows hard and lifts up the flappy corner of the jacket front? If youre only doing your top button, then it would surely reveal your gun, no?

[Dagga Boy]

Men's Warehouse has been great with me. I have two "Suit Uniforms" from working a Federal contract protection detail where the whole Secret Service look was required. The belt loops were made wide enough for a thick real gun belt and strengthened. The coats were tailored around the gun.
I recently bought a Tux. It was tailored around a P2000SK in an Alessi Bodyguard shoulder holster with two spare P30 mags. This will also work with a S&W 2" Model 12 carried AIWB under the cummerbund with a Model 37 on the ankle if I want a set up where I can take the coat off. I have also used messenger type bags when working protective details that will hold an amazing amount of support gear and do not look out of place in today's office environments.......although I never seem to blend in to those environments and look like "the bodyguard". It is why I prefer to dress like the landscape contractor when I can to better fit in.

[TGS]

Men's Warehouse has been great with me. I have two "Suit Uniforms" from working a Federal contract protection detail where the whole Secret Service look was required. The belt loops were made wide enough for a thick real gun belt and strengthened. The coats were tailored around the gun.
I recently bought a Tux. It was tailored around a P2000SK in an Alessi Bodyguard shoulder holster with two spare P30 mags. This will also work with a S&W 2" Model 12 carried AIWB under the cummerbund with a Model 37 on the ankle if I want a set up where I can take the coat off. I have also used messenger type bags when working protective details that will hold an amazing amount of support gear and do not look out of place in today's office environments.......although I never seem to blend in to those environments and look like "the bodyguard". It is why I prefer to dress like the landscape contractor when I can to better fit in.

Did you encounter a problem with the regular belt loops?

All of my pants seem to fit a horsehide 1.25" double-thick belt a-ok.

[SouthNarc]

How do ya'll carry when wearing a suit? This is one thing I have never really come up with a good answer for. My current answer is a J-frame in my pocket, but it doesn't fit super well, is difficult to draw due to the cut of the pockets, and has all the negatives associated with a J-frame. I would normally say it didn't conceal well enough, but with a jacket it's tough to see, so I've been getting by. It's not super comfortable either. I attended an outdoor wedding in 80+ degree NC this summer, and actually ditched the J-frame in the car halfway through (not my proudest moment).

I normally appendix carry a G19, but none of my tailored suits/tuxedo will fit it. And I don't yet have the kind of relationship with my tailor where I might ask to have my pants 2" larger to accommodate a firearm. Not to mention that I would have a tucked-in shirt and don't feel great about the exposed clip on tuck-supported holsters. I could move back to 4:30 so the jacket covers it I suppose, but that position conceals poorly for me. And I would need to buy a black leather gun belt that looked dressy enough to expose to the world, an additional expense.

Every time I suit up, I mentally chastise myself for still having not ordered a shoulder holster of some kind. I have no experience with them, and that is likely the only time I'd use one. I would probably dig the Walther PPS out of the safe for that, but having no experience I don't know what reasonably conceals well. Seems awfully James Bond too.

Then there's the ankle holster. Would still probably roll with the J then, but maybe I could manage a G26/P2000sk type thing. Also no experience there, familiar with the multitude of downsides.

So what do you all do? On paper I think shoulder holster with a subcompact and/or single stack is my best shot, but I have doubts. For reference I am 6'5" and almost back down to 200lbs.

Can you give me an idea of what kind of suits you wear? Bespoke, MTM, or off the rack? I'd like some brand names as I'm familiar with most of the major brands and how they fit. How often are you in suiting?

[ScotchMan]

Can you give me an idea of what kind of suits you wear? Bespoke, MTM, or off the rack? I'd like some brand names as I'm familiar with most of the major brands and how they fit. How often are you in suiting?

All off the rack, and then tailored. My build generally requires very large sizes in order to get long enough sleeves, and then to be taken in greatly to actually fit me. I'm 6'5" so finding sleeves long enough is a challenge as most can only be let out an inch or less. As for brands, my tux is Calvin Klein, I have a couple Joseph Abboud (now owned by Mens' Wearhouse), these are half-canvassed, and one that I can't recall the brand of, cheap fused.

There will be a three piece Brooks' Brothers full-canvas purchase in the mid-near future. I suit up quarterly, or so. Hence why this is still a dilemma 5 years into my becoming a responsible citizen.

[SouthNarc]

All off the rack, and then tailored. My build generally requires very large sizes in order to get long enough sleeves, and then to be taken in greatly to actually fit me. I'm 6'5" so finding sleeves long enough is a challenge as most can only be let out an inch or less. As for brands, my tux is Calvin Klein, I have a couple Joseph Abboud (now owned by Mens' Wearhouse), these are half-canvassed, and one that I can't recall the brand of, cheap fused.

There will be a three piece Brooks' Brothers full-canvas purchase in the mid-near future. I suit up quarterly, or so. Hence why this is still a dilemma 5 years into my becoming a responsible citizen.

So you have the waist suppressed? Or is there other tailoring involved? What's your drop? 7-8?

Abboud generally has pretty aggressive waist suppression and would be on the slim side.

[ScotchMan]

So you have the waist suppressed? Or is there other tailoring involved? What's your drop? 7-8?

Abboud generally has pretty aggressive waist suppression and would be on the slim side.

I may be in a little over my head here on the formal wear talk. Not sure what waist suppressed means. Usually they don't need to do much with the pants other than make them a touch longer. They do take them in a little sometimes in the waist. I don't know what drop is.

They are slim fit suits I recall now that you mention it.

Is this what it feels like when new gun owners come and we are talking about bore axis and length of pull?

[DocGKR]

Guys---work with your tailors; they do this stuff all the time for cops, DA's, judges, Federal agents, PI's, citizens with CCW's, etc...

If you want the bottom button undone look, have your tailor fabricate a hidden fastener to keep the jacket from blowing open while still looking stylishly "unbuttoned" or just keep it buttoned.

[LSP552]

I think you might be surprised to find that tailoring for firearms is more routine, normal business than you think. I just bought a couple suits from Jos A Banks and they had such options listed, and said they do it all the time. They even suggested that I wear my gun in, to measure while actually carrying.

This^

I've had a number of suits/sport coats fitted while wearing my carry rig.

[SouthNarc]

I may be in a little over my head here on the formal wear talk. Not sure what waist suppressed means. Usually they don't need to do much with the pants other than make them a touch longer. They do take them in a little sometimes in the waist. I don't know what drop is.

They are slim fit suits I recall now that you mention it.

Is this what it feels like when new gun owners come and we are talking about bore axis and length of pull?

No big deal! Drop refers to the number in inches difference between waist and chest So a drop "7" would mean that a 40 jacket would have matching trousers that have a 33" waist. The drop number is a pretty good general indicator of how fitted an off the rack brand is. And this gives me an idea of how fitted you are wearing your suits.

Most Amercian men wear a drop 6 hence the old phrase the American "Sack" suit. Good Brit or continental tailoring usually starts at a 7 unless you have you're thick around the middle.

I would do this for right now: Get a good inside the waistband strong side hip holster in a minimalist configuration like the TT Gunleather Mke's Special and try it with your suiting. The worst case is that it doesn't work and you still have a fine holster. The Mike's Special has some extra cant and might very well do the trick.

If you are going to be taking the jacket off and walking around then it's belly band time and that may very well require some trouser and shirting adjustment.

[ScotchMan]

No big deal! Drop refers to the number in inches difference between waist and chest So a drop "7" would mean that a 40 jacket would have matching trousers that have a 33" waist. The drop number is a pretty good general indicator of how fitted an off the rack brand is. And this gives me an idea of how fitted you are wearing your suits.

Most Amercian men wear a drop 6 hence the old phrase the American "Sack" suit. Good Brit or continental tailoring usually starts at a 7 unless you have you're thick around the middle.

I would do this for right now: Get a good inside the waistband strong side hip holster in a minimalist configuration like the TT Gunleather Mke's Special and try it with your suiting. The worst case is that it doesn't work and you still have a fine holster. The Mike's Special has some extra cant and might very well do the trick.

If you are going to be taking the jacket off and walking around then it's belly band time and that may very well require some trouser and shirting adjustment.

Thanks. I think some additional tailoring might be needed for a Glock; a single-stack might just fit though.

Is the general consensus on shoulder holsters a "no," even for this limited use scenario? On paper it checks a lot of boxes, but in practice I agree that a normal strong side setup would probably be more effective.

[SouthNarc]

Thanks. I think some additional tailoring might be needed for a Glock; a single-stack might just fit though.

Is the general consensus on shoulder holsters a "no," even for this limited use scenario? On paper it checks a lot of boxes, but in practice I agree that a normal strong side setup would probably be more effective.

They really don't conceal better than hip holsters unless you're wearing a baggy suit and then it really doesn't matter where you carry the gun.

[Talionis]

I have a fairly slim build, and my drop is 7. SouthNarc would be my go-to source when it comes to dressing as sharp as possible. If you are just wanting to look good in a suit and carry a real gun, however, I suggest seriously considering adopting the 3 piece look. A waistcoat (vest) is bar none one of my favorite concealment garments for carrying appendix. I find that they can be fairly heavily structured which tends to accentuate the classic V the ladies love and also has a nice side effect of concealing a full size grip in the appendix position. In an environment where you might be expected to unbutton or take off your suit coat, the vest allows you to do so in perfect comfort, and it even allows for an even more streamlined draw.

ETA: My suits aren't nearly as well fitted as SouthNarc's, but I have frequently carried a G19 AIWB in a tailored 3 piece suit, and can get away with a G34, though it is less comfortable. I think if you can solve the front exposure issue of unbuttoning the jacket with something like a vest, it conceals as well or better than something like a single stack PPS/Shield/G42 carried cavalry style at 4:30 with a double vent suit coat.

[DocGKR]

Good advice.

Also, it is much easier to work around a real handgun when using a suit with a more traditional fit vs. some of the very thin cut, short Euro styles that are popular these days.

[Chuck Haggard]

I asked Craig to stop by because he is THE SME on being a gun guy while wearing a sharp suit.

He is single handedly bringing sexy back to the trainer field.

[EVP]

I have to wear a suit maybe a few times a month and I just usually carry my g19 in a vg2 and use it as a tuckable holster. Works well for me and I don't have to do any extra tailoring. No body has ever seen or mentioned the snap belt loop.

[Dagga Boy]

I asked Craig to stop by because he is THE SME on being a gun guy while wearing a sharp suit.

He is single handedly bringing sexy back to the trainer field.

Yea, but he is talking about sizes from the youth section. To get the right "drop" on my last trip for formal wear, there was enough left over pants to make Craig a complete suit....;)

Don't get me started on 1 1/4" belts........not how I load out for a working detail. Sure a lightweight pistol and magazine, but if I am wearing a suit, it is usually to keep someone from getting killed, so it has to cover a fighting size pistol (often that was a 1911), several spare magazines, cuffs, light, and often a fixed blade.
That is kind of the difference for personal protection vs. EP/VIP protection.

[SouthNarc]

Yea, but he is talking about sizes from the youth section. To get the right "drop" on my last trip for formal wear, there was enough left over pants to make Craig a complete suit....;)

Don't get me started on 1 1/4" belts........not how I load out for a working detail. Sure a lightweight pistol and magazine, but if I am wearing a suit, it is usually to keep someone from getting killed, so it has to cover a fighting size pistol (often that was a 1911), several spare magazines, cuffs, light, and often a fixed blade.
That is kind of the difference for personal protection vs. EP/VIP protection.

I'm sorry there are no good tailors in Middle Earth.

On a serious note Darryl brings up a good point about on the job stuff and suits. If you're working a detail where you might very well end up fighting, running, shooting etc. then I'd say go cheap and get enough tailoring that you look smart.

But if you're not working something like that and you just want a suit to look like a sexy motherfucker then Men's Warehouse is the Lorcin of fine men's wear. And nobody wants Lorcin on their wiener.

Just sayin'...

[Mitchell, Esq.]

I never had a problem with a HK45c appendix carry in a High Noon tuckable holster. Men's Warehouse fit the pants while I was wearing a pistol (Glock at the time...but no real difference to me.), and the saleswoman advised on how to blouse the shirt so the belt clip and grip don't show, but I still look good enough that nobody asks awkward questions.

Sales clerk was good to me, and she was a gun person too.

[Mitchell, Esq.]

But if you're not working something like that and you just want a suit to look like a sexy motherfucker then Men's Warehouse is the Lorcin of fine men's wear. And nobody wants Lorcin on their wiener.

Just sayin'...

I need to up my game...

[SouthNarc]

I need to up my game...

Yes...you do.;)

[1slow]

25 plus years ago when I wore a suit 5 days a week.
1911 at 3:00 Milt Sparks Executive (elbow covered gun while standing). 2 mags at 7:00-8:00 Milt sparks IWB carrier. Alloy J frame in left front pocket. For a while I added a Maringer 10" blade Vorpal in a Kydex upside break front under the left arm. Vorpal got to be a bit much.
I was getting tailored suits but they were not tightly fitted.

Now with AIWB I would have to go bellyband, vest, or back to my old positioning.

Whatever you do get an disposable suit/sport jacket and train like you carry.

[SouthNarc]

Damn I haven't thought about Tom Maringer in years!

[SpyderMan2k4]

At the moment I've got a CM9 in a smart carry... I can't make it print if I try.

[El Cid]

WRT belts, look into the tapered designs like Mitch Rosen offers. The thin part is what's visible through the suit opening but the rest is thick enough to support the needed gear.

http://www.mitchrosen.com/products/belts/

[Default.mp3]

WRT belts, look into the tapered designs like Mitch Rosen offers. The thin part is what's visible through the suit opening but the rest is thick enough to support the needed gear.

http://www.mitchrosen.com/products/belts/

How thick are they, though? Just because they're finished like a dress belt doesn't mean they look like a dress belt. I have a ~28" waist, so my Beltman horsehide belt looks out of place even for business casual, just from the sheer thickness of it in relation to my waist, let alone any attempt at informal or semi-formal dress. The very few times I've carried while wearing a button down shirt, I've simply cranked down my regular dress belt with my RCS at my ~0300, and it seems to work okay, but not optimally.

[El Cid]

How thick are they, though? Just because they're finished like a dress belt doesn't mean they look like a dress belt. I have a ~28" waist, so my Beltman horsehide belt looks out of place even for business casual, just from the sheer thickness of it in relation to my waist, let alone any attempt at informal or semi-formal dress. The very few times I've carried while wearing a button down shirt, I've simply cranked down my regular dress belt with my RCS at my ~0300, and it seems to work okay, but not optimally.

I haven't used Rosen's belts (have a few other pieces of his). It's designed to be a gun belt so I imagine it's got the meat to support it. I've used Galco's dress gun belts for years with suits and they do exactly what they are advertised to do. And that is with a G21/x300 in a Raven, cuffs, badge, spare mag and light (in a Rosen SOS), and fixed blade. My next dress belt will be one that tapers like the ones I linked just to maintain the illusion that I'm a regulator citizen. Not that the Galco belts are tells, but the taper will be more discreet in my opinion.

And regarding tailors my experience has been the same as others here - they don't bat an eye when you tell them to fit you for a gun. I usually wear the gun for the fitting since I refuse to leave it in the car or the dressing room.

[98z28]

Your PPS and a spare mag in a Smart Carry is probably the easiest immediate solution. I've used this setup a good bit and it works well. The biggest downside is the draw can be difficult and slow, especially when seated. My favorite formal wear setup is a belly band. It's the most discreet in my experience, but it has a few drawbacks. First, the draw is slower than a traditional IWB, but that's the price you pay to be able to take your jacket off. Second, it requires a darker and looser shirt than you could wear with something like an ankle rig or Smart Carry. With a well-fitted and/or light-colored shirt the gun is still visible when you take the jacket off. Third, you'll still need some extra room in your pants just like a traditional IWB. On the upside, the draw is more consistent from a variety of positions and there are no belt loops to see. You can believe that no one "made" you the last time you had belt loops visible, but I bet hard cash most of the ladies noticed them. Even if they didn't realize what it was, they noticed the extra loops on your belt. If it's a business environment with semi-fashion conscious men, they'll notice as well.

[JTQ]

I have a ~28" waist, so my Beltman horsehide belt looks out of place even for business casual, just from the sheer thickness of it in relation to my waist, let alone any attempt at informal or semi-formal dress. The very few times I've carried while wearing a button down shirt, I've simply cranked down my regular dress belt with my RCS at my ~0300, and it seems to work okay, but not optimally.
I'd think a large footprint kydex holster like RCS Phantom (it is the Phantom you are referring to, correct?) would be more of a problem than a gun belt for somebody with such a small waist as you. The Phantom is a great holster, but you've got to have a pretty large flat spot on your body to put that holster. Come to think of it, how does it work at 3:00? Even on a larger guy I'd think aft of the hip would work much better and it just seems as if it wouldn't work properly at 3:00 on such a thin person.

[SeriousStudent]

If I may be so bold?

About 20 years ago I was a suit salesmen for a very large retailer clothier. I was quite happy to have armed customers, since they tended to need more clothes.

A discreet question to the salesperson will likely uncover a complete absence of hoplophobia. I just asked my clients to bring their tools of the trade in a briefcase they could secure. Most stores these days have a fitting room designed to help customers in wheelchairs, due to the Americans with Disabilities Act. A big dressing room equals space for you, the tailor and the salesperson. And an advantage of the briefcase is that you can tote several rigs and belts, and see what works - or doesn't.

Have the salesperson bring you the suits, whilst the tailor examines the fit and marks any needed alterations. If they do not have an on-site tailor, then I believe police refer to that as a "clue".

Some of the things we did included removing the Bemberg acetate liner, and sewing in a very thin layer of non-waterproofed canvas, then replacing the liner. (I do prefer a silk-lined suit, but it's quite difficult to find a durable, quality silk liner these days. :( ) You had the same elegant drape, but it broke the outline of a pistol or cuffs. We'd also sew in a thin line of loop Velcro in the left or right jacket pocket. You could then Velcro some dimes in to the pocket. They would not jingle, but would have enough weight to keep a jacket from blowing in a soft breeze. They also helped give weight when you flipped the garment back during the drawstroke. Some of the Federales liked a divided canvas pocket sewn into one of the inside breast pockets, to hold a pair of magazines. We even made a reinforced leather inner belt for a senior Deputy who liked speedloaders.

I had a lot of Armed Good Folks in my customer book - US Bureau of Prisons, Texas Rangers, USSS, Dallas PD, DEA, Dallas County DA's Office, USMS. Sadly, Raylan was not a client.

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I'd think a large footprint kydex holster like RCS Phantom (it is the Phantom you are referring to, correct?) would be more of a problem than a gun belt for somebody with such a small waist as you. The Phantom is a great holster, but you've got to have a pretty large flat spot on your body to put that holster. Come to think of it, how does it work at 3:00? Even on a larger guy I'd think aft of the hip would work much better and it just seems as if it wouldn't work properly at 3:00 on such a thin person.

It's been close to over a year since I last carried OWB, so my memory was a bit off. It's actually closer to 0330, but because I used a fairly aggressive forward cant (somewhere around 25°-30°), the butt of the gun and all that is right at the 0300. I have to have the aggressive cant so that the butt of the gun (a P30LS with an X400) wouldn't print if I left the jacket front button undone . If I push it further back with a less aggressive cant, IIRC, the butt would stick out a bit more; I'd have to have it basically SOB to not have a print if I was to get away from the 0330 with an aggressive cant. I think. It's all a little hazy.

[Chance B.]

I would do this for right now: Get a good inside the waistband strong side hip holster in a minimalist configuration like the TT Gunleather Mke's Special and try it with your suiting. The worst case is that it doesn't work and you still have a fine holster. The Mike's Special has some extra cant and might very well do the trick.

I'm looking for a good 1.25" dress belt to pair with that holster. What are some belts that you would recommend looking at?

[ScotchMan]

Good stuff guys. I had not even considered a vest. Ironically I have been wanting to get a 3-piece, dark charcoal suit, for some time. I am waiting for the next Hickey Freeman warehouse sale here where they're based. It sounds like the vest combined with some tailoring can get me exactly where I want to be. And maybe I can get some more fashion cred in the process.

[Hambo]

you just want a suit to look like a sexy motherfucker

I always look like a sexy mofo, just not a well dressed sexy mofo. More like "hobo Chechen terrorist" sexy mofo. ;)

[TGS]

I'm looking for a good 1.25" dress belt to pair with that holster. What are some belts that you would recommend looking at?

I use an AG Custom 1.25". That said, my next one is going to be from our very own JR Customs. Ive seen his double-horsehide belts in person, and theyre magnificent.

I would not buy a beltman again. Not a "bad" belt, much better than Galco....but the stitching isnt as good as the AG nor JRC's....so it squeeks.

[Dropkick]

A discreet question to the salesperson will likely uncover a complete absence of hoplophobia.

What are some good examples of that question for those of us that don't have a badge to flash?

[SouthNarc]

I'm looking for a good 1.25" dress belt to pair with that holster. What are some belts that you would recommend looking at?

I have two from Lou Alessi that he made me when he was still alive and they're still going strong. Don't know about the current iterations from that company.

I'd probably look at Matt Del Fatti and I'm sure John Ralston could probably do something nice. Rosen makes REALLY nice stuff too.

[SouthNarc]

Good stuff guys. I had not even considered a vest. Ironically I have been wanting to get a 3-piece, dark charcoal suit, for some time. I am waiting for the next Hickey Freeman warehouse sale here where they're based. It sounds like the vest combined with some tailoring can get me exactly where I want to be. And maybe I can get some more fashion cred in the process.

A three piece is money and looks good if you can wear it with aplomb.

[luckyman]

I use an AG Custom 1.25". That said, my next one is going to be from our very own JR Customs. Ive seen his double-horsehide belts in person, and theyre magnificent.

I would not buy a beltman again. Not a "bad" belt, much better than Galco....but the stitching isnt as good as the AG nor JRC's....so it squeeks.

What TGS said. AG Custom belts are great; JR Customs are superb. Dang I need to buy a couple more in different colors.

[SouthNarc]

Something else to consider too:

Many high end suits don't use belts. Alot of Savile Row houses use waist tabs and/or suspenders. Very common not only in the UK but even here in the US. Most tuxedos don't have belt loops.

[TGS]

What are some good examples of that question for those of us that don't have a badge to flash?

I really wouldn't worry about it. The salesmen at Jos A Banks let on that they do it for lots of customers, not just cops.

The tailoring business seems to be a more old-fashioned business culture where bringing personal politics into the workplace by the staff is verboten, and discretion is still valued. It's not like I shop at high end places where you need a secret cufflink to get in, either. Burlington Coat Factory, Jos A Banks, and a mall department store I can't remember.

If they act perturbed, then maybe you should take your business elsewhere.....or just say you're a businessman who carries large amounts of cash for deposit. Or play with them and just respond flatly, "I'm a hitman."


Something else to consider too:

Many high end suits don't use belts. Alot of Savile Row houses use waist tabs and/or suspenders. Very common not only in the UK but even here in the US. Most tuxedos don't have belt loops.

I imagine with a tux you could wear a cummerbund, though. Probably the easiest turnkey concealment option ever, right?

How common is it to find 1" belt loops instead of 1.25"?

[SouthNarc]

I imagine with a tux you could wear a cummerbund, though. Probably the easiest turnkey concealment option ever, right?

How common is it to find 1" belt loops instead of 1.25"?


Cummerbunds do indeed work nicely for concealing a flat pistol. Remember pleats up on your cummerbund for civvie black tie and pleats down if you're an Army officer, Not sure what Corp regs are on that.

1" is not very common.

[Chuck Haggard]

I had a 642 AIWB under my cumberbund at my wedding, Glock 26 on my ankle. CCW in a tux is rather easy to pull off really.

That's about all I got, because I tend to dress more like Belker than James Bond on most days.

[JRCHolsters]

If you need a really nice "dress" belt, I can taper and round the front of the belt. I think the first picture on the belt page my website shows that style. The other thing that can be done is to glass the belt(rub it down with a glass rod) and then rub it out with wax and rubbing compound. It would never be mistaken for an ordinary gun belt. You may also consider a bit of velcro on the back, to be used with tuckable J style hooks if you want to tuck and not have errant loops on your belt-line for no apparent reason.

[SouthNarc]

If you need a really nice "dress" belt, I can taper and round the front of the belt. I think the first picture on the belt page my website shows that style. The other thing that can be done is to glass the belt(rub it down with a glass rod) and then rub it out with wax and rubbing compound. It would never be mistaken for an ordinary gun belt. You may also consider a bit of velcro on the back, to be used with tuckable J style hooks if you want to tuck and not have errant loops on your belt-line for no apparent reason.

Man that hornback gator is sweet!

What's the thinnest leather you work in that offers the most support? Have you worked in shell cordovan? I think most dress gun belts are a bit thick and to be quite frank I'm not looking for a belt that I would use for a training class. Just enough to support a gun and maybe a magazine.

[SouthNarc]

Here's a link to a company that's pretty hotshit on Styleforum.net right now.

http://www.equusleather.co.uk/

I think some hardware changes and some careful material selection would yield a truly fashionable gunbelt that actually worked.


::::edited to add:::: I like these buckles and this belt design for suiting ALOT.

http://www.equusleather.co.uk/belts/bridle-leather-belts/aspley-bridle-leather-belt.html

[JRCHolsters]

Man that hornback gator is sweet!

What's the thinnest leather you work in that offers the most support? Have you worked in shell cordovan? I think most dress gun belts are a bit thick and to be quite frank I'm not looking for a belt that I would use for a training class. Just enough to support a gun and maybe a magazine.

I love the Hornback also. Ha, wish gator hides were cheaper so I could justify making one for myself.

Typically, I get my hides from Horween in the 5-7oz range. Essentially, the thickest portion ends up at 6 o'clock. The 7oz area can be skived down a little. I use hard rolled hides, so they tend to be denser and have more torsional rigidity, allowing for a thinner belt. I have worked with Shell Cordovan also and it should be stretched over a thin liner, like the exotic hides. I use horsehide for my liners. Because of the size of the Cordovan, they usually end up being billet belts, depending on belt length.

[SouthNarc]

Like this one too.

http://www.equusleather.co.uk/belts/bridle-leather-belts/stratfield-belt-kit.html

[SouthNarc]

I love the Hornback also. Ha, wish gator hides were cheaper so I could justify making one for myself.

Typically, I get my hides from Horween in the 5-7oz range. Essentially, the thickest portion ends up at 6 o'clock. The 7oz area can be skived down a little. I use hard rolled hides, so they tend to be denser and have more torsional rigidity, allowing for a thinner belt. I have worked with Shell Cordovan also and it should be stretched over a thin liner, like the exotic hides. I use horsehide for my liners. Because of the size of the Cordovan, they usually end up being billet belts, depending on belt length.

Have you had a hard time sourcing shell? Alden shoes and boots in "rare" shell colors like Ravello and Cigar are fetching well over a grand in the secondary market, and the justification is that Horween is only producing the larger batches in color #8 and black.

[orionz06]

Like this one too.

http://www.equusleather.co.uk/belts/bridle-leather-belts/stratfield-belt-kit.html

That's pretty slick, I usually hate most buckles, seems like they're always an afterthought.

[JRCHolsters]

Have you had a hard time sourcing shell? Alden shoes and boots in "rare" shell colors like Ravello and Cigar are fetching well over a grand in the secondary market, and the justification is that Horween is only producing the larger batches in color #8 and black.
I have always been able to get shells when I need them. Sometimes there is a wait, but no more so than normal waits. Typically I order 50-100lbs of russet hides at a time with about 8 week lead times. I think #8 is the most popular color and when it gets a good patina, it is gorgeous. I am pretty sure that is why it is the standard. I have never even thought to ask about different colors for the shell. I imagine the wait would be quite a bit longer, hoping to piggy-back on another larger color order.

[JRCHolsters]

As a quick side note, I just talked to my exotic hide supplier and he happens to have some shell cordovan. He had black for sure and thought he had some #8. He was going to check for me and get back tomorrow. I may pick some up, just to have on hand.

[SouthNarc]

As a quick side note, I just talked to my exotic hide supplier and he happens to have some shell cordovan. He had black for sure and thought he had some #8. He was going to check for me and get back tomorrow. I may pick some up, just to have on hand.

#8 is a fantastic color for a dress belt as it goes with navy and gray and is more interesting than black.

[JRCHolsters]

#8 is a fantastic color for a dress belt as it goes with navy and gray and is more interesting than black.
Agreed. I tend to lean towards the #8.

[Dropkick]

Remember pleats up on your cummerbund for civvie black tie and pleats down if you're an Army officer, Not sure what Corp regs are on that.

I always heard it was pleats up for dinner, and pleats down for the opera... But then again I probably break more fashion rules then I know exist.

[SouthNarc]

I always heard it was pleats up for dinner, and pleats down for the opera... But then again I probably break more fashion rules then I know exist.

Well they were originally used for ticket stubs so you'd have to go pleats up for that.

[Dagga Boy]

Are we talking about Star Trek Wars again......:confused:

[runcible]

I have a pretty narrow niche, and suits aren't wholly within that; so please keep that in mind with my remarks. That said...

A well tailored suit, preferably tailored with the gear in mind or with the gear, aids in concealment by itself. My carry methodology with a suit is oriented around suit etiquette; so having the jacket at different levels of buttoned\unbuttoned, wearing a vest, and walking in the manner of the professionally suited are influences. A very poorly fit suit catches the eye and inspires the viewer's imagination in an unhelpful manner; similarly, sitting with coat still fastened or having all of the buttons fastened comports poorly in some circles (I still use the "always (top button always fastened) - sometimes (middle button, if present, sometimes fastened) - never (bottom button, never fastened) for wear when standing and walking about. Not very nuanced, but it's functional.) Being habitual about unbuttoning one's coat when seated can relieve a lot of the tension that would otherwise make for printing, though it allows for different concerns.

There are a few jokes about certain agencies in the above, particularly involving muscular looking people in unfit suits. A properly appearing - and appropriately color matched - belt, also goes a long way; shoes, too, though those don't have to support a firearm.

I have a general preference for a 3-button jacket, though that's not appropriate to all venues. The higher collar and subsequent coverage also lies differently on the body when fully unbuttoned, and for some seems more likely to keep the backplate\hammer of the pistol in shadow, when worn on the hip. Additionally, there seems to be a bit more structure to them when worn, which is great when standing; perhaps less advantageous when sitting. With the former, and given conducive tailoring and holster, the sides seem to distort less over the weapon's contours; again, in the standing.

Running a 3-piece suit is awesome, if it doesn't make heat stress an issue; sans undershirt, paper-thin and very slim fit oxford, and with a vest that is color-alike to the holster and weapon may help with that odd moment when the jacket falls open just so as one stands. Wearing your shield on your belt might detract from that a bit, if applicable; but is part of a different set of realities. This isn't to say one should aim for being a big blob of monochrome; but even a well worn black and white ensemble can shine.

Leather, flexible as it is and sewn as they usually are, seems to better glom over the hip for most; it can be done with kydex, but with different limitations. Leather holsters that have the slide pushed forward more (closer to where the holster marries with the belt at its' leading edge) can reduce protrusion from the rear with holsters canted and not. They are not the majority on the market. :( Rideheights may need to be adjusted to ensure it doesn't drop below the hem during expected activities, and to find a good indexing of the magwell against the body.

It's not nearly the issue it is for day-to-day pants, but ensuring your suit pants are compatible with the height you prefer\need to wear your gunbelt at, is best settled before the purchase; one can only tailor so much. I prefer mine closer to my true waist, vice nearer to the iliac crest, so traditional fits usually work alright. If running IWB, I prefer a slimmer cut pair of trousers, to reduce any bagginess associated with sizing-up the waist; this has gotten me designated as from the Fashion Channel elsewhere. :D

Waist suppression seems to be one of the marks of a good tailor, to my uneducated self; finding a good balance in tailoring is a must. Too much can hug the gun and allow it to print through (and wear away at the lining), or worse yet pull fabric right over the top of it; too little, and there's now a lot of fabric in motion and not looking to flattering. Getting into that "I wear a suit like I was born into it" walk pairs really well with tailoring that presents as being less then skin-tailored, but not Bags McBaggy. Great tailoring and walking full aggro work against each other.

Pockets... I don't like putting fighting stuff in there in general, and that especially so for suits. That said, if such must go into pockets somewhere, I'd recommend using the trouser pockets; it won't throw off the pants near as much as loading the jacket pockets can alter its' hang; and the indexing is superior as I see it.

Suits can be confining affairs that have the wearer radiating discomfort and discontent; or they can be a put together ensemble that camouflages one into a whole different category, to the observer.

SouthNarc, I'd love to hear your thoughts on ties and tie accouterments, please!

[SouthNarc]

Are we talking about Star Trek Wars again......:confused:


You feel SO left out don't you?

[Dagga Boy]

You feel SO left out don't you?

Can we talk about flip flops....please...

My brother is the fashion icon.........me......not so much.

[SouthNarc]

Can we talk about flip flops....please...




To quote Claude "The road to hell is paved in flip-flops".

[Dagga Boy]

To quote Claude "The road to hell is paved in flip-flops".

I will lead my people!

[El Cid]

One more thing to consider regarding the pants is use of ankle holsters. I have suit pants that fit great - until I put on the ankle holster. If you wear anything there, bring it with you for fitting.

[SeriousStudent]

What are some good examples of that question for those of us that don't have a badge to flash?

As TGS said, it's not a big deal. By discreet, I meant "do not hollar like Bubba to his kin in the Walmart parking lot." I was doing this stuff prior to the CHL laws passing in Texas. Most folks simply asked "Can you accommodate some tailor requirements?" I told them we would have no problem helping them carry a cell phone, pager or other object on their waist without ruining the drape of their suit. That was really all the secret handshake that was needed.

Besides, it was Texas. Everyone traveled armed, prior to Gee Dubbya signing the CHL law. He just made it legal, is all.

[Dropkick]

I always heard it was pleats up for dinner, and pleats down for the opera... But then again I probably break more fashion rules then I know exist.


Well they were originally used for ticket stubs so you'd have to go pleats up for that.

I probably got it backwards then... I mean, why would you want to catch the crumbs in your cummerbund?? Durr! :o

[SLG]

I have to say, this thread kind of amazes me. I've never heard of anyone having difficulty concealing a gun in a suit, let a lone a j frame. Where the OP is 6'5", I'm only 5'6".. I've carried a 5" 1911 in a suit for years, as well as a G22 and a Sig 228/229 before that. All AIWB, though at times regular strongside. All of my suits are bespoke from a guy in NYC who specializes in weird sized athletes. Mohan's, for anyone who is interested. He fits me twice, both times with all my gear on, and still makes the suit look like it was meant to look. Without getting as technical as Southnarc (cause I can't) a good starting point is a european cut suit. That is, a closed back being a very good thing to have. He also made all of my shirts, since most dress shirts have too much material in them. Along those lines, military garters work really well to keep your shirt from fouling your draw. Aside from the gun, I carried a radio, baton, cuffs, spare mags and a flashlight. All of it disappeared under the suit. While wearing all that, I once had dinner at the Natural History museum, and the woman sitting next to me was Queen Rania, of Jordan. It was rather important that I blend in, and my Mohan's Tux did the job nicely. Highly recommended. Nothing worse than looking like the help, even if that's what you are.

[TGS]

SouthNarc or anyone else in the know:

Is there any reliable list or way to find a good tailor in our respective areas?

[Dagga Boy]

I agree that concealing the pistol is not the problem (especially if I get to choose how the jacket looks....baggy and comfortable being my preference). THe problem comes in on how people like them cut to accentuate whatever it is they are trying to accentuate. Additionally, there are many times when the jacket is almost expected to be removed. Carrying a gun, you will be the person with a jacket on when nobody else does. If I am at an event where I know the jacket is coming off (usually weddings) are the few times when my pistol gets secured in the car and I rely on a J frame on the ankle as a primary.
I have zero issues concealing a simple pistol and magazine pouch in a suit. It just means you are stuck with having a jacket on all the time. At this point, getting the jacket cut right is important.
I will be stealing the line "weird size athlete"..........sounds better than Asymetric Shrek build.

[Cecil Burch]

SouthNarc or anyone else in the know:

Is there any reliable list or way to find a good tailor in our respective areas?

As much as I loathe the site, www.styleforum.net is the place to start.

DO NOT ask about tailoring for a gun. The amount of elitist douchery on that forum makes the worst gun or martial art forum look like a gathering of welcoming Mennonites. If you start asking specifically about concealing a firearm you will get inundated with Euros making fun of you. However, there are already some threads in a similar fashion, so you can search them out. Also, the general tailoring hints are terrific. And there are a number of threads/posts talking about the best clothing shop or tailor in a given area.

There are so many previous threads already there that you never really need to ask something new or post. Just search around and you will most likely find something.

[Dagga Boy]

I wonder how they handle looking good when your shirt is starting with a 22" neck, 6 ft. tall with a 30" inseam (that length should sound familiar to the Tactical Lollipop Guild). Shrek is not "Euro cut". At least now that I am living in Texas, shoes are no longer an issue......boots are ALWAYS okay.

[Erik]

They can make anybody look good.

http://www.thenervousbreakdown.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/ritz.jpg

[SouthNarc]

I know your brother is in that industry but go to Stanley Korshak out there in DFW.

[SouthNarc]

I have to say, this thread kind of amazes me. I've never heard of anyone having difficulty concealing a gun in a suit, let a lone a j frame.


I would venture to say that's because...




All of my suits are bespoke from a guy in NYC who specializes in weird sized athletes.


That's why Mistah Bond.

;):cool:

[JRCHolsters]

Just an fyi, I talked to my exotic hide guy and he has a 3sq ft(which is huge) shell with the color marking #7, which is just a shade lighter than #8. If anyone is seriously interested, let me know. I would probably run these gun belts right at $200. I can only get a few belts out of one of these and won't be sure till it arrives.

[Dagga Boy]

I know your brother is in that industry but go to Stanley Korshak out there in DFW.

Trust me, my brother does not like me in his stores, and they don't have a big & tall section.....I loudly ask everytime I go in. My brother doesn't think it's as funny as I do.

[DI1]

I have to say, this thread kind of amazes me. I've never heard of anyone having difficulty concealing a gun in a suit, let a lone a j frame. Where the OP is 6'5", I'm only 5'6".. I've carried a 5" 1911 in a suit for years, as well as a G22 and a Sig 228/229 before that. All AIWB, though at times regular strongside. All of my suits are bespoke from a guy in NYC who specializes in weird sized athletes. Mohan's, for anyone who is interested. He fits me twice, both times with all my gear on, and still makes the suit look like it was meant to look. Without getting as technical as Southnarc (cause I can't) a good starting point is a european cut suit. That is, a closed back being a very good thing to have. He also made all of my shirts, since most dress shirts have too much material in them. Along those lines, military garters work really well to keep your shirt from fouling your draw. Aside from the gun, I carried a radio, baton, cuffs, spare mags and a flashlight. All of it disappeared under the suit. While wearing all that, I once had dinner at the Natural History museum, and the woman sitting next to me was Queen Rania, of Jordan. It was rather important that I blend in, and my Mohan's Tux did the job nicely. Highly recommended. Nothing worse than looking like the help, even if that's what you are.

I've carried concealed in a suit for over 15 years and my experience mirrors SLG's. A well tailored suit will conceal your gear easily.
If you don't need (want to spend money) on a bespoke suit, Brooks Brothers sells separates (jacket and pants) in different sizes from the same pattern cloth. This way you can wear 30" waist pants with a 44" chest jacket without having to have extensive alterations done. I would stay away from their Outlet suits, the regular suits are very well made and last quite a long time. They will do free alterations for you in the store and are very familiar with gun carriers and their needs.
If you have a need to take off your jacket, then the only options would be a "tuckable" holster, belly band, or pocket holster (j frame).
The Brooks Brothers shirts are also well made and look professional.
They run a Bi-Annual sale, that is the time to "suit up"!

[JonInWA]

I've found Bianchi's Professional 100 to be a pretty good "suit" holster. It's an IWB with a clip (the clip is very durable, so it's not quite the immediately "fail" that might come to mind), a fairly high sweatshield, and a thin leather pouch. I have one for a Glock 17, 1911/Hi Power. The 1911/Hi Power is probably the best route. The downside is that the holster mouth is not reinforced, which can make re-holstering a two-handed affair.

http://www.safariland.com/inside-waistband/model-100-professional-inside-waistband-holster-10812.html

Best, Jon

[SLG]

S'narc. I get that, but a J frame? :-)

[State]

Queen Rania. You always did get all the good details while I was stuck with the cheap Israelis.

[TGS]

I've carried concealed in a suit for over 15 years and my experience mirrors SLG's. A well tailored suit will conceal your gear easily.
If you don't need (want to spend money) on a bespoke suit, Brooks Brothers sells separates (jacket and pants) in different sizes from the same pattern cloth. This way you can wear 30" waist pants with a 44" chest jacket without having to have extensive alterations done. I would stay away from their Outlet suits, the regular suits are very well made and last quite a long time. They will do free alterations for you in the store and are very familiar with gun carriers and their needs.
If you have a need to take off your jacket, then the only options would be a "tuckable" holster, belly band, or pocket holster (j frame).
The Brooks Brothers shirts are also well made and look professional.
They run a Bi-Annual sale, that is the time to "suit up"!

Are you suggesting people wear an oversized suit jacket?

There's a point to wearing a suit. An oversized suit jacket is counter to that, and you may as well not even wear a suit at that point.


Subjective view:

FWIW, I'm not talking about the typical American sack suit. While not sharp looking, an American sack suit is socially acceptable and still considered professional. On the other hand, at best an oversized suit jacket makes you look like a doofus who can't dress like a professional...at worst you look like a smashed bag of ass who should be sent home until mommy can come over to dress you.

Objective view:

An oversized suit jacket attracts attention.....mostly negative....and does not play well into that whole gray man theory. In an NPE I'd say it attracts so much attention that you're endangering yourself. Kinda like a VBIED with an overloaded suspension, or Jihad Johnny wearing a heavy jacket in the summer. Something ain't right, and people notice it.

[DI1]

Are you suggesting people wear an oversized suit jacket?

There's a point to wearing a suit. An oversized suit jacket is counter to that, and you may as well not even wear a suit at that point.


Subjective view:

FWIW, I'm not talking about the typical American sack suit. While not sharp looking, an American sack suit is socially acceptable and still considered professional. On the other hand, at best an oversized suit jacket makes you look like a doofus who can't dress like a professional...at worst you look like a smashed bag of ass who should be sent home until mommy can come over to dress you.

Objective view:

An oversized suit jacket attracts attention.....mostly negative....and does not play well into that whole gray man theory. In an NPE I'd say it attracts so much attention that you're endangering yourself. Kinda like a VBIED with an overloaded suspension, or Jihad Johnny wearing a heavy jacket in the summer. Something ain't right, and people notice it.


NO, I'm not suggesting to wear an oversized jacket as that looks ridiculous. Was only stating that if you need non-standard sizing, the separates is an option without having to extensively alter a standard suit.

[Duces Tecum]

NO, I'm not suggesting to wear an oversized jacket as that looks ridiculous. Was only stating that if you need non-standard sizing, the separates is an option without having to extensively alter a standard suit.

In support of DI1, my drop is larger than is accomodated by the typical American suiting. Brooks Brothers "separates" are a splendid option and I've been wearing them for years. You still get a suit (matching coat and trousers) but it requires less tailoring than something off the rack.

[Alpha Sierra]

I no longer wear suits, but I do wear sportcoats quite often in fall, winter, and spring. With them, the same IWB holster that I use in summer works just fine. The P-07 or the round butt K frame disappear under any of my coats. When I go out, I simply do not take it off which is completely normal around here.

[DocGKR]

I picked up a new Canali Exclusive suit today--no issues getting the appropriate tailoring done to make a G19 in a JM custom AIWB virtually disappear.

[Gray222]

Good thread.

I use a vanguard 2, tucked shirt with my g26.

Works well.

[UNK]

A vertical high ride is a good option if you don't have to take off your jacket . It uses the thickness of your chest front to back to hide the grip. I can't access a pistol IWB on the hip without serious gymnastics if I'm sitting. The high ride is accessible from all positions. I've carried a Gov't and Commander like that. I got mine from C Rusty Sherrick
http://www.c-rusty.com/pages/holsters/vertbelt.html

Also I've heard that belts under a certain length (over 40" was what I heard and my waist is 34) should not have an internal stiffener. I bought an Aker belt from a police supply store and it had the internal stiffener. It's a lot thinner than a normal gun belt and very rigid. I really like it. You can also replace the buckle and keeper.

[JTQ]

A vertical high ride is a good option if you don't have to take off your jacket . It uses the thickness of your chest front to back to hide the grip. I can't access a pistol IWB on the hip without serious gymnastics if I'm sitting. The high ride is accessible from all positions.
I'd think a canted holster worn either IWB or OWB would be easier to access when seated than a straight drop holster.

This article always comes to mind when I think of straight drop holsters used when sitting. The series of photo's with the guy sitting in the car demonstrates the problems with a straight drop holster. I suspect the problem would be alleviated with a canted holster. http://www.shastadefense.com/CrossDrawHolsters.htm

[JTQ]

Though I'll admit he'd have less trouble if the holster was moved more forward.

[UNK]

I'd think a canted holster worn either IWB or OWB would be easier to access when seated than a straight drop holster.

This article always comes to mind when I think of straight drop holsters used when sitting. The series of photo's with the guy sitting in the car demonstrates the problems with a straight drop holster. I suspect the problem would be alleviated with a canted holster. http://www.shastadefense.com/CrossDrawHolsters.htm


Though I'll admit he'd have less trouble if the holster was moved more forward.

Those are not High Ride holsters at least by Rusty's definition. Rusty offers some models which were specifically designed for presentation from a seated position.
I know. I have one and am about to order another one.

[Wendell]

...an oversized suit jacket attracts attention...mostly negative...and does not play well into that whole gray man theory. In an NPE I'd say it attracts so much attention that you're endangering yourself...Something ain't right, and people notice it.

I'm reminded of this (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aCIQj750nQg).

[xmanhockey7]

I would highly recommend looking at the JMCK AIWB tuckable holster. I use it for work (tucked in polo and dress pants) as well as with suits. A wedding I went to this weekend I wore the JMCK with my S&W Shield. It was a good friend's wedding and we know a lot of the same people so I got "checked" jokingly for a pistol on my hip. Opened the jacket up for them to reveal nothing. I find this holster in a suit conceals incredibly well and in my work close pretty well. For a good balance of speed and concealability its tough to beat. Granted, if my work were a total NPE, I'd likely go for a Smartcarry just in case.

[Drang]

Has anyone posted this?
10 Conceal Carry Firearm Tips | Wearing a gun with a mens suit blazer or sport jacket (http://www.atailoredsuit.com/conceal-carry-tips.html)

[JTQ]

Re: Oversized suit jacket…


I'm reminded of this (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aCIQj750nQg).

On the other hand, I always think of David Byrne of the Talking Heads. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9r7X3f2gFz4

You could carry a awful lot of stuff if this was a fashionable look.

[TGS]

Re: Oversized suit jacket…



On the other hand, I always think of David Byrne of the Talking Heads. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9r7X3f2gFz4

You could carry a awful lot of stuff if this was a fashionable look.

Hahahaha!

Granted it's a bit large, but people in the 80's definitely had it easy for concealing.

[SLG]

Has anyone posted this?
10 Conceal Carry Firearm Tips | Wearing a gun with a mens suit blazer or sport jacket (http://www.atailoredsuit.com/conceal-carry-tips.html)

Some of those tips are good and are commonly employed by tailors who know what they are doing, but others are a bit dated, IMO. I would not put weights/coins/line into the corners/hem of my suitcoat. A proper draw stroke does not require them, and though they will help the jacket drape when standing still, they will exacerbate any issues if you have to move dynamically.

[Crash41984]

Topic seems to have died down, but I just got to the party so I'm throwing my $0.02 in anyway. I used RCS phantoms at 4:00 for years and they concealed awesome. Once I finally graduated from law school my wardrobe changed from jeans and hoodies to tailored suits pretty much overnight. Until I got ahold of my first JM AIWB, I was getting used to the fact that a J Frame in a MS Pocket Holster was the best I was going to do. The JM allows me to carry pretty much whatever I want, reasonable or not. My G23 completely disappears without issues regardless of whether I'm wearing a slimfit suit or not. I opted for the 1.5" clip attachment and it holds on to any and everything, even a POS flimsy dress belt. That and I can take it on and off very discreetly. This is an important consideration in the Courthouse parking lot. Yes, you have to keep the top button closed on your jacket, but I consider it a small price to pay.

[deputyG23]

I no longer wear suits, but I do wear sportcoats quite often in fall, winter, and spring. With them, the same IWB holster that I use in summer works just fine. The P-07 or the round butt K frame disappear under any of my coats. When I go out, I simply do not take it off which is completely normal around here.

A round butt K frame Smith revolver is my favorite suit or tux gun.
I am a part time musician in addition to being full time LE. I use a Wild Bill's Concealment Fusion Paddle holster with a 4" skinny barrel RB M&P .38 and it hides well. A tux gig calls for an old Bianchi #6 clip on suede holster at 3:30. One or two speed strips go in pants pockets.

[23JAZ]

If I may be so bold?

About 20 years ago I was a suit salesmen for a very large retailer clothier. I was quite happy to have armed customers, since they tended to need more clothes.

A discreet question to the salesperson will likely uncover a complete absence of hoplophobia. I just asked my clients to bring their tools of the trade in a briefcase they could secure. Most stores these days have a fitting room designed to help customers in wheelchairs, due to the Americans with Disabilities Act. A big dressing room equals space for you, the tailor and the salesperson. And an advantage of the briefcase is that you can tote several rigs and belts, and see what works - or doesn't.

Have the salesperson bring you the suits, whilst the tailor examines the fit and marks any needed alterations. If they do not have an on-site tailor, then I believe police refer to that as a "clue".

Some of the things we did included removing the Bemberg acetate liner, and sewing in a very thin layer of non-waterproofed canvas, then replacing the liner. (I do prefer a silk-lined suit, but it's quite difficult to find a durable, quality silk liner these days. :( ) You had the same elegant drape, but it broke the outline of a pistol or cuffs. We'd also sew in a thin line of loop Velcro in the left or right jacket pocket. You could then Velcro some dimes in to the pocket. They would not jingle, but would have enough weight to keep a jacket from blowing in a soft breeze. They also helped give weight when you flipped the garment back during the drawstroke. Some of the Federales liked a divided canvas pocket sewn into one of the inside breast pockets, to hold a pair of magazines. We even made a reinforced leather inner belt for a senior Deputy who liked speedloaders.

I had a lot of Armed Good Folks in my customer book - US Bureau of Prisons, Texas Rangers, USSS, Dallas PD, DEA, Dallas County DA's Office, USMS. Sadly, Raylan was not a client.

Ok I've been on this forum for a while now. I always new you could find A LOT of info on a lot of firearms related stuff on here. After reading this post, I am convinced you can find EVERYTHING about EVERYTHING firearms related here! Seriously PF even has it's every own tactical tailor!? That's just freakin awesome.

[SELFDEFENSE]

I have only used Safariland Gun Quik for medium to large pistols and High Noon tuckable for service-sized. If worse comes to worse, drop a Beretta 950 BS in your shirt pocket. :)

[DocGKR]

I recently wrote the following at another forum discussing professional attire while carrying handguns.

Specific recommendations are tough, as individual anatomy plays a huge role. Find a suit cut and shoe that fit, then stick with those models. A good tailor is essential. For suits, whenever possible go with made to measure (MTM)--it costs a bit more, but the suit will typically fit better and can offer improved esthetics. Avoid cheap fused suits and stick with fully canvased ones. Navy, charcoal, grey, and blue are good starting points for color; tans and browns can also be innovative--black suits are not ideal. Solid colors, along with light pinstripes/chalk strips, subtle plaids, as well as windowpanes are all useful patterns. A 3-piece suit is always a good choice, as it gives you more options--especially if you need to take your coat off; also don't be afraid of nicely executed double breasted suits--especially if you carry AIWB. An open blazer or sport coat can work better for folks who OWB carry in the 3-5 o'clock area.

For an off-the-rack (OTR) suit purchase, probably the best bang for the buck right now is Canali; get the 13xxx model (Sienna) if you are more muscular (like a running back) and go with the 14xxx (Firenza) model if you are leaner (like a triathlete or middle distance runner). For lower cost, Samuelsohn makes some decent suits that fit more muscular folks, while Pal Zilari makes acceptable suits that fit leaner individuals. In general, for higher end OTC suits, items like Brioni, Canali (Sienna cut), Ralph Lauren (Purple Label), and Tom Ford (Windsor cut) work for more muscular guys, while Canali (Firenza cut) Isaia, Kiton, Ralph Lauren (Black Label) Tom Ford (O'Connor cut) and mainline Zegna (not the odious fused Z-Zegna) work for leaner folks. There are obviously numerous other superb manufacturers, but this brief listing is just mentioning some quality options that are commonly found in this area. If you are in New York, London, Paris, Milan, Rome, or Naples, you will have a host of other available choices.

Eton has some good options on OTR/MTO shirts and Hamilton has some great MTM ones. For a quick reference on shirt colors, I typically wear white shirts about 50% of the time followed by blue (various solids, stripes and checks) 30% of the time, with more infrequent wear of grey, lavender, pink, ecru/tan/brown, red/maroon, green, and yellow, for the remaining 20% of occasions.

For shoes you definitely want some sort of rubber layer for traction, I use the relatively inexpensive Ecco's every day at work, since I can stand in them for 12-18 hours, they handle the muck, detritus, and blood from surgical procedures pretty well, allow rapid movement like running shoes, and don't need much break in. Mephisto is similar. For nicer shoes, you can run the gamut from the more traditional Allen Edmunds, Alden, Crocket and Jones, to the more exotic shoes like DiBianco, Gravati, Paraboot, Santoni, on up to pinnacles of footwear like Bontoni, Corthay, Edward Green, Gaziano & Girling, John Lobb, etc... Much like Canali for suits, the best balance of craftsmanship, style, and cost I've discovered for nice footwear is Gravati (I get MTO ones with the thin rubber "Beverely" soles).

Bloomingdales and Nordstroms carry a few of these lines, while more are at Barneys, Nieman Marcus, and Saks. Specialty stores like Stanley Korshak and the Mitchell Stores (Wilkes Bashford, Marios, Mitchells, Richards) will also have an excellent selection, as do the various boutiques from each manufacturer.

As always, Southnarc is a great resource for higher end clothing purchases for armed professionals.

[JHC]

I recently wrote the following at another forum discussing professional attire while carrying handguns.

Specific recommendations are tough, as individual anatomy plays a huge role. Find a suit cut and shoe that fit, then stick with those models. A good tailor is essential. For suits, whenever possible go with made to measure (MTM)--it costs a bit more, but the suit will typically fit better and can offer improved esthetics. Avoid cheap fused suits and stick with fully canvased ones. Navy, charcoal, grey, and blue are good starting points for color; tans and browns can also be innovative--black suits are not ideal. Solid colors, along with light pinstripes/chalk strips, subtle plaids, as well as windowpanes are all useful patterns. A 3-piece suit is always a good choice, as it gives you more options--especially if you need to take your coat off; also don't be afraid of nicely executed double breasted suits--especially if you carry AIWB. An open blazer or sport coat can work better for folks who OWB carry in the 3-5 o'clock area.

For an off-the-rack (OTR) suit purchase, probably the best bang for the buck right now is Canali ; get the 13xxx model (Sienna) if you are more muscular (like a running back) and go with the 14xxx (Firenza) model if you are leaner (like a triathlete or middle distance runner). Mainline Zegna (not the fused Z-Zegna) is also a nice option. For lower cost, Samuelsohn makes some decent suits, as do a few other vendors. In general, for higher end OTC suits, items like Brioni, Canali (Sienna cut), Ralph Lauren (Purple Label), and Tom Ford (Windsor cut) work for more muscular guys, while Canali (Firenza cut) Isaia, Kiton, Ralph Lauren (Black Label) Tom Ford (O'Connor cut) and Zegna work for leaner folks. There are obviously numerous other superb manufacturers, but this brief listing is just mentioning some quality options that are commonly found in this area. If you are in London, Paris, or Naples, you will have a host of other available choices.

Eton has some good options on OTR shirts and Hamilton has some great MTM ones. For a quick reference on shirt colors, I typically wear white shirts about 50% of the time followed by blue (various solids, stripes and checks) 30% of the time, with more infrequent wear of lavender, grey, pink, tans/browns, red/maroon, ecru, yellow, and greens for the remaining 20% of occasions.

For shoes you definitely want some sort of rubber layer for traction, I use the relatively inexpensive Ecco's every day at work, since I can stand in them for 12-18 hours, they handle the muck, detritus, and blood from surgical procedures pretty well, allow rapid movement like running shoes, and don't need much break in. Mephisto is similar. For nicer shoes, you can run the gamut from the more traditional Allen Edmunds, Alden, Crocket and Jones, to the more exotic shoes like DiBianco, Gravati, Paraboot, Santoni, on up to pinnacles of footwear like Bontoni, Corthay, Edward Green, Gaziano & Girling, John Lobb, etc...

Bloomingdales and Nordstroms carry a few of these lines, while more are at Barneys, Nieman Marcus, and Saks. Specialty stores like Stanley Korshak and the Mitchell Stores (Wilkes Bashford, Marios, Mitchells, Richards) will also have an excellent selection, as do the various boutiques from each manufacturer.

As always, Southnarc is a great resource for higher end clothing purchases for armed professionals.

Will subscribe this thread for this one post. I'm long overdue a nice suit.

[TGS]

Shoes?

DSW. I've gotten the best deals there. I love my 2 pairs of $49-$69 Bostonians and 1 pair of $79 Eccos, especially.

I just got my first half-canvassed suit as a present. Tom Jones. After researching them, it appears they are wicked overpriced. I feel sorry for my uncle whose been buying them his whole life.

What does the hive think about Combatant Gentleman and Indochino suits?

[Up1911Fan]

I've looked into the online MTM as well. I've ordered a couple shirts, but no suit yet. I very rarely need to wear a suit, I have a couple from BR that I had tailored. The material may not be the best, but the fit is. Also curious if anyone has done the online MTM thing? For shoes I like Allen Edmonds and Paul Evans.

[bornandraisedlv]

I have worn a suit, 5-6 days a week for the past 15 years and suits are as personal a choice as holsters are. All depends on body type on what will work for you. MTM is the same. My MTM suits will not be the same as yours as style and fit differences vary. If your current with fashion you know slim to to small is the current fashion and this is difficult for concealed carry.

In the past 5 years I have only had a handful of MTM suits made as I am lucky when it comes to suits and a 38 regular of most off the shelf is a perfect fit for me, even with the current slim/athletic cuts out there, Michael Kors, Boss and banana republic are my go to for these. Indochino is my current MTM go to. Even used them for my wedding suit and was not disappointed. Good quality fabric and tailoring is of good quality as well, haven't had a hem or seem fail.

However now that I am concealing on a daily basis my next MTM will be done locally with a tailor who is aware and comfortable with my objective.


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[TGS]

I just got my first half-canvassed suit as a present. Tom Jones. After researching them, it appears they are wicked overpriced. I feel sorry for my uncle whose been buying them his whole life.

Correction: That should read Tom James.

Looks like I had someone else on my mind. I'm sure buying Tom Jones would be a much better value.

[JTQ]

If your current with fashion you know slim to to small is the current fashion and this is difficult for concealed carry.

I've noticed this. Men's suit jackets/sport coats have become short and tight.

Is there a chain mens store that still caters to the more traditional cut?

[Matt O]

I've noticed this. Men's suit jackets/sport coats have become short and tight.

I blame Daniel Craig.

[DI1]

I've noticed this. Men's suit jackets/sport coats have become short and tight.

Is there a chain mens store that still caters to the more traditional cut?

I've worn a suit while armed for the past 16 years.
Brooks Brothers has traditional and slimmer cut. They offer free alterations and their tailors are comfortable working with armed/concealed carry. Their shirts also wear the best of any high end shirts I've tried. Ties are of very good quality.
For shoes, Peal and Co are currently my favorite.

I have some nicer "special occasion" suits, but for everyday, the Brooks Brothers suits are very good.

[fatdog]

If there is any possibility I will have to remove my coat, a PPS in a bellyband is the only way I have managed to carry a decent sized pistol with a properly fitted suit.

Same here except Shield or D frame. About 25 years ago my definition of a "properly fitted suit" changed because of the need to be comfortable with this and remain undetected in the NPE.

[bornandraisedlv]

I've noticed this. Men's suit jackets/sport coats have become short and tight.

Is there a chain mens store that still caters to the more traditional cut?

As mentioned Brooks Brothers is a good one as is Jos a Banks.

Also one trick the a lot of the suited casino security here in vegas use is they have the strong side of the jacket weighted somewhere from the lower front corner to under the lower front pocket. Depends on your draw technique but it helps get that jacket out of the way. I personally have never tried using that method.


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[DocGKR]

A PROPERLY FITTED suit done by a quality tailor should easily allow carry of pistols like a G19, P229, M&P9, 1911, etc... If you are not finding this to be the case, the suit is not properly fitted or the tailor does not know what they are doing. Again skip the crappy fused suits and go with fully canvased. Get a suit cut that works with your body shape, is classic and not trendy, and uses high quality fabric.

[Cool Breeze]

I wear a suit or at least a blazer almost all of the time. I am a rather slim guy and have tried a number of options. The only thing I have found to work is the JRC SSA straight drop. I wear it slightly forward of 3 o'clock and it works great. Anything canted behind 3 prints like crazy for me.

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[GabeNew]

I tuck my shirt and continue to appendix carry, using Ulticlips instead of over hooks or loops.

[DI1]

I tuck my shirt and continue to appendix carry, using Ulticlips instead of over hooks or loops.

Which holster/gun?
Photos?

thanks

[TGS]

I've got "enough" suits for right now, but I found a new Brooks Brothers 1818 Madison in my size for just over $300 made with 9oz Trabaldo Togna "Estrato" Australian merino wool.

Damn, what a tempting deal......because I don't know how SLG was buying Mohans when he was in my place.

[SLG]

I've got "enough" suits for right now, but I found a new Brooks Brothers 1818 Madison in my size for just over $300 made with 9oz Trabaldo Togna "Estrato" Australian merino wool.

Damn, what a tempting deal......because I don't know how SLG was buying Mohans when he was in my place.

Have they gone up in price? Several of us bought a few suits and shirts a piece. He threw in some nice-but-not-as-nice-as-the-suits ties. They weren't cheap back then, but I still think they were very reasonable for the quality of the material, as well as the superb fitting they did for us and our gear.

[TGS]

Have they gone up in price? Several of us bought a few suits and shirts a piece. He threw in some nice-but-not-as-nice-as-the-suits ties. They weren't cheap back then, but I still think they were very reasonable for the quality of the material, as well as the superb fitting they did for us and our gear.

In all honesty, bespoke is just out of my price range right now. They could very well be a good value, I just wouldn't know.

He very well may have been good to you guys for bringing in business as a group, too. Recently "we" found a guy who uses a real nice heavy duty liner for holster patches and is very pleasant and capable at tailoring. Within a week 5 of us took our suits there for tailoring and the holster patches, which is better than what Jos A Bank uses. I had him do all 7 of my suits, a shirt or two, and my rain jacket as well (sleeves too long, were fouling master grip). I didn't ask if he does bespoke or MTM, but his small shop was filled with S150 Brionis and the likes.

I worked a detail recently and the boss was definitely from your era of Gucci agents. We sat at a venue talking suits and custom shoes for 4 hours straight. Not a bad way to earn money, in my opinion. :cool:

Too expensive, though. I'm at the point where anything I buy will likely be a Brooks Brothers 1818 on discount, a Jos A Bank 'tailored' cut Signature Gold on sale for under $400, or a SuitSupply. Anything more than that for off-the-rack seems like a wasted expense. I quite like my Tom James suit, honestly, so I might be interested in waiting for a MTM event at Brooks Brothers. Something about that MTM suit just feels great to wear. My next set of shoes will probably be Allen Edmonds with the dainite sole.

[State]

SLG and I are from the same era. Do a tour on MSD, SD or some back to back unaccompanied ones and you'll be buying your first Rolex or PAM before you know it.

[SLG]

SLG and I are from the same era. Do a tour on MSD, SD or some back to back unaccompanied ones and you'll be buying your first Rolex or PAM before you know it.

Definitely. When I bought my nice suits, I was overseas for 6 months a year.. Guys were buying homes with cash.


"Too expensive, though. I'm at the point where anything I buy will likely be a Brooks Brothers 1818 on discount, a Jos A Bank 'tailored' cut Signature Gold on sale for under $400, or a SuitSupply. Anything more than that for off-the-rack seems like a wasted expense."

Totally agree for work suits. Silly to spend more. Fun though;-)

[heyscooter]

SLG and I are from the same era. Do a tour on MSD, SD or some back to back unaccompanied ones and you'll be buying your first Rolex or PAM before you know it.

Or paying your divorce lawyer. We all know someone who has done it.

[State]

True that. After 11 years of that I got off that train and chose family over the job.

[DI1]

Have been very impressed with SuitSupply blue line. Alden's, Allen Edmonds or Peal &Co with Dainite soles are excellent work/dress shoes/boots!

[heyscooter]

I love my suit supply suit but I'm afraid of wearing it for work because it will mess it up :(

[DocGKR]

This video about Bontoni shoes (very nice, as well as comfortable) was well done: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cmi0fZ45Q7I

[luckyman]

I'm typically not very hard on my dress clothes, so they tend to last a while. If I'm dropping the coin for a classically styled MTM or maybe a Canali Sienna, anyone have a guess on how many years should I expect to get before the styling gets outdated enough that it starts to look out of place, assuming I keep up with recent ties?

[TGS]

I'm typically not very hard on my dress clothes, so they tend to last a while. If I'm dropping the coin for a classically styled MTM or maybe a Canali Sienna, anyone have a guess on how many years should I expect to get before the styling gets outdated enough that it starts to look out of place, assuming I keep up with recent ties?

As long as you buy along the lines of classic style instead of a fad, I wouldn't be concerned about it. Decades.

Single or double vent, two button, notch lapels, moderate tailoring/fit, at least a single break on the pant legs, no pleats with no cuffs.........that shouldn't ruffle any style feathers until well after the next civil war.

[fishing]

I'm typically not very hard on my dress clothes, so they tend to last a while. If I'm dropping the coin for a classically styled MTM or maybe a Canali Sienna, anyone have a guess on how many years should I expect to get before the styling gets outdated enough that it starts to look out of place, assuming I keep up with recent ties?


As long as you buy along the lines of classic style instead of a fad, I wouldn't be concerned about it. Decades.

Single or double vent, two button, notch lapels, moderate tailoring/fit, at least a single break on the pant legs, no pleats with no cuffs.........that shouldn't ruffle any style feathers until well after the next civil war.


agree. make sure the fabric selection is not to fadd-ish either and you'll be good as long as it fits.
suits are like shoes in the sense that wearing them too often without rotating leads to accelerated wear etc.
no silly duckbill shoes etc either please.

[Duces Tecum]

If I'm dropping the coin for a classically styled MTM or maybe a Canali Sienna, anyone have a guess on how many years should I expect to get before the styling gets outdated enough that it starts to look out of place, assuming I keep up with recent ties?

No worries. The first twenty years, you be da Man!. The second twenty years you're a hipster into Vintage. The next two decades you're a cute old man who can't remember to change his clothes.

[Mr. Goodtimes]

I don't often have to wear a suit and I'm generally jeans and a t shirt but I do enjoy looking good when it matters and a couple times a year I do need to wear a suit. As far as suits go, is there a substantial difference between a $500 and $1000 suit?

I'm going to assume that suits are somewhat like optics.

$1000 would be the absolute upper end of my budget for just the suit.


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[fishing]

I don't often have to wear a suit and I'm generally jeans and a t shirt but I do enjoy looking good when it matters and a couple times a year I do need to wear a suit. As far as suits go, is there a substantial difference between a $500 and $1000 suit?

I'm going to assume that suits are somewhat like optics.

$1000 would be the absolute upper end of my budget for just the suit.


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so long as it fits your body well (either off the rack, or with minor alterations), go to suitsupply and buy a darker blue or grey suit and you'll be gtg. spend the remainder of the budget on belt and shoes.

[luckyman]

No worries. The first twenty years, you be da Man!. The second twenty years you're a hipster into Vintage. The next two decades you're a cute old man who can't remember to change his clothes.

Unfortunately for me the second twenty years I will hopefully already be in "cute old man" status. So once again PF is enabling me to spend money [emoji1]

[Crash41984]

I don't often have to wear a suit and I'm generally jeans and a t shirt but I do enjoy looking good when it matters and a couple times a year I do need to wear a suit. As far as suits go, is there a substantial difference between a $500 and $1000 suit?

I'm going to assume that suits are somewhat like optics.

$1000 would be the absolute upper end of my budget for just the suit.


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Suits are somewhat like optics.. Yeah, that analogy works. However, spending $1,000.00 on one is more akin to buying target ammo at $30.00 a box. I'm a litigator by trade and I have to do the monkey suit thing everyday. Suffice it to say, I need lots of suits and they have to promote an image of success in the minds of those that retain me. You need to locate your closest Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, etc... Find out when they shove last season's merchandise out of the store to make room for new inventory and plan to buy them then. There are usually major sales going on at that time, and not always advertised. Every suit I own is Hugo Boss, Versace, and Valentino. I don't think I paid $1,000.00 for any two of them, much less one.

Buy cheap and stack deep is universal advice.

[Mr. Goodtimes]

Ive been lifting a lot lately and had to pick ups suit for an event on a whim and needed it quickly so I bought a Joseph Abboud suit from Men's Wearhouse. Hopefully I did alright, it wasn't crazy expensive but it wasn't cheap either. The fabric is Italian and it's sewn in the US, which I liked. It's a separate and the jacket I fit right into but the pants needed a little work in the waist. MW was very accommodating to my gun carrying needs. My G19 AIWB disappears.

I need some nice sub $500 shoes, now, though. I love to Bontonis but I can swing 1k + on a pair of shoes I'll wear three times a year, although, I do absolutely see the merit in them. 1k for a pair of shoes you'll wear the rest of your life is actually a screaming good deal.


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[fishing]

Ive been lifting a lot lately and had to pick ups suit for an event on a whim and needed it quickly so I bought a Joseph Abboud suit from Men's Wearhouse. Hopefully I did alright, it wasn't crazy expensive but it wasn't cheap either. The fabric is Italian and it's sewn in the US, which I liked. It's a separate and the jacket I fit right into but the pants needed a little work in the waist. MW was very accommodating to my gun carrying needs. My G19 AIWB disappears.

I need some nice sub $500 shoes, now, though. I love to Bontonis but I can swing 1k + on a pair of shoes I'll wear three times a year, although, I do absolutely see the merit in them. 1k for a pair of shoes you'll wear the rest of your life is actually a screaming good deal.


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feet generally change in shape/size with age - typically need wider as one gets older.
a 1k pair of shoes no matter how fine will not last a lifetime if worn too often, and will need a resoling or two if worn regularly anyway.

let me know if you need specific shoe recs - i'm kind of a shoe nut

[Vic51]

When I used to wear a suit I carried either a Colt Detective Special or Walther PPK/s in a shoulder holster. It was perfect for driving to and from work, easy to take off in the office and put it into my desk drawer and then back on again for the drive home. Once I scared off three would be muggers simply by opening my suit jacket so that they could see my Colt. They apologized because they had to get by me to leave. I just nodded and let them get away. A day without having to shoot anyone is a very good day indeed.

What you carry depends on your body build. When I was skinny a snub nose was fine. Now that I am shaped more like Sponge Bob, I need a flatter gun or else it rubs against my side and arm. Any single stack would do. If you want a double stack an HK P30SK, Glock 25, Glock 19, M&P 9c or comparable will work also. The read choice is whether to go with a vertical or horizontal shoulder holster. I do not like horizontal ones because I will muzzle everyone behind me and with a gun like a Glock that can go off if you grab the trigger during a panic draw you can shoot someone behind you. With a vertical you can shoot someone on your side since the muzzle will point to the side before you bring it forward.

For these reasons I went with a revolver or a gun with a manual safety when I used a shoulder holster. Be warned that they are not very comfortable for all day wear though. Lay your arms flat by your side and see if there is room for a gun and holster there or will it rub your arm every time you move. These days I pocket carry at work. Normally it will be either an 11.3 ounce S&W 340PD Scandium revolver loaded with .38 +P Gold Dots, a Colt XSP .380 at 12 oz. or my Glock 43 with the extended mag. I also have a Ruger LCR in .327 Federal Magnum that holds 6. A pretty good but not as well known round that hits like a .357 with about 80% of the recoil.

Another thing to consider is a briefcase with a built in holster. I used to use one of those when I wanted to carry a bigger gun. When I got into my car to and from work, I placed my gun in my center console of a Remora Sticky Holster tucked under my belt for easy access. When I got to work I would put it in an easy open handgun safe in my desk drawer or if possible, in my pocket.

I have all sorts of jackets, coats, messenger bags, fanny packs and vests that look like regular vests and not tactical ones. In the winter I wore a coast over my suit but the coat had two holsters built in and mag holders. Use your imagination and like me you too will be able to carry a gun while wearing a bathing suit with a NAA Pug in .22 magnum inside a water proof pocket or insert. :)

[BillSWPA]

When I used to wear a suit I carried either a Colt Detective Special or Walther PPK/s in a shoulder holster. It was perfect for driving to and from work, easy to take off in the office and put it into my desk drawer and then back on again for the drive home. Once I scared off three would be muggers simply by opening my suit jacket so that they could see my Colt. They apologized because they had to get by me to leave. I just nodded and let them get away. A day without having to shoot anyone is a very good day indeed.

What you carry depends on your body build. When I was skinny a snub nose was fine. Now that I am shaped more like Sponge Bob, I need a flatter gun or else it rubs against my side and arm. Any single stack would do. If you want a double stack an HK P30SK, Glock 25, Glock 19, M&P 9c or comparable will work also. The read choice is whether to go with a vertical or horizontal shoulder holster. I do not like horizontal ones because I will muzzle everyone behind me and with a gun like a Glock that can go off if you grab the trigger during a panic draw you can shoot someone behind you. With a vertical you can shoot someone on your side since the muzzle will point to the side before you bring it forward.

For these reasons I went with a revolver or a gun with a manual safety when I used a shoulder holster. Be warned that they are not very comfortable for all day wear though. Lay your arms flat by your side and see if there is room for a gun and holster there or will it rub your arm every time you move. These days I pocket carry at work. Normally it will be either an 11.3 ounce S&W 340PD Scandium revolver loaded with .38 +P Gold Dots, a Colt XSP .380 at 12 oz. or my Glock 43 with the extended mag. I also have a Ruger LCR in .327 Federal Magnum that holds 6. A pretty good but not as well known round that hits like a .357 with about 80% of the recoil.

Another thing to consider is a briefcase with a built in holster. I used to use one of those when I wanted to carry a bigger gun. When I got into my car to and from work, I placed my gun in my center console of a Remora Sticky Holster tucked under my belt for easy access. When I got to work I would put it in an easy open handgun safe in my desk drawer or if possible, in my pocket.

I have all sorts of jackets, coats, messenger bags, fanny packs and vests that look like regular vests and not tactical ones. In the winter I wore a coast over my suit but the coat had two holsters built in and mag holders. Use your imagination and like me you too will be able to carry a gun while wearing a bathing suit with a NAA Pug in .22 magnum inside a water proof pocket or insert. :)

Where did you get the waterproof insert?



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[Craigb]

I wear a sport coat or suit every day, but sitting down with a coat and holster stinks. OWB at 3 O'clock or shoulder holster seems the best option for me. Everything hides well under the jacket, especially if the jacket is a heavier wool.

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[Super J]

The simple route is to have a lcp in a front pocket and a G26 on an ankle

[DocGKR]

"sitting down with a coat and holster stinks"

Never had that problem.

[BillSWPA]

The simple route is to have a lcp in a front pocket and a G26 on an ankle

Not so simple, since most suit pants will not have sufficient length to keep the ankle holster hidden when sitting unless they are very specifically tailored for this purpose. Also, do you really want a 26 ounce gun on your ankle all day? Even with an Alessi ankle holster, that can get quite uncomfortable.



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[Leroy Suggs]

What's a suit? Something that goes in a suitcase?
Do I need to get one?

[Cool Breeze]

Not so simple, since most suit pants will not have sufficient length to keep the ankle holster hidden when sitting unless they are very specifically tailored for this purpose. Also, do you really want a 26 ounce gun on your ankle all day? Even with an Alessi ankle holster, that can get quite uncomfortable.



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I couldn't agree with this more. I carried a g26 for over a year and it got very uncomfortable. Additionally a g26 and normal suit pants does not conceal for me in the least (ymmv). I would have needed well over a full break to get full coverage when sitting down or the muzzle would be visible. I would have looked like a slob with that much cuff bunched up standing up. Also, normal suit pants today are a little slimmer. Even then though, normal width pants just fit over a g26.

[Cool Breeze]

I wear a sport coat or suit every day, but sitting down with a coat and holster stinks. OWB at 3 O'clock or shoulder holster seems the best option for me. Everything hides well under the jacket, especially if the jacket is a heavier wool.

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What stinks about it?

[Craigb]

What stinks about it?
Anywhere back 4 or 5 o'clock leaves a gun shaped Imprint on my spine. 3 o'clock works ok.

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[Cool Breeze]

Anywhere back 4 or 5 o'clock leaves a gun shaped Imprint on my spine. 3 o'clock works ok.

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Roger that. I can't carry that far back because it prints for me. Optimal for me strong side is 2:30 to 3:30 range. Usually with sweet spot just in front of hip bone.

[BillSWPA]

The most comfortable position I have found is 3:30. This is far enough back to hide with an open front jacket and to take advantage of a natural hollow in the hip, but not quite far enough back to be sitting on much of the gun. Too much farther back also causes printing when bending at the waist.


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[SAWBONES]

The most comfortable position I have found is 3:30. This is far enough back to hide with an open front jacket and to take advantage of a natural hollow in the hip, but not quite far enough back to be sitting on much of the gun. Too much farther back also causes printing when bending at the waist.

Right. Or 8:30 for us southpaws.

[Craigb]

The most comfortable position I have found is 3:30. This is far enough back to hide with an open front jacket and to take advantage of a natural hollow in the hip, but not quite far enough back to be sitting on much of the gun. Too much farther back also causes printing when bending at the waist.


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✓ this is a exactly me. I can carry 3:30 under a t shirt (with the right holster)

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[Cool Breeze]

Bill, Sawbones, Craig - what holsters are you using. Also, how much cant do you prefer in that position? Or straight drop?

[BillSWPA]

Bill, Sawbones, Craig - what holsters are you using. Also, how much cant do you prefer in that position? Or straight drop?

Depends on the gun. For a Glock 26 I prefer 0-5 degrees of cant. I am currently using a Sidearmor IWB holster with Blade Tach soft loops. For a Glock 19 or full size 1911, I prefer 10-15 degrees of cant. I currently have a Blade Tech IWB for both the G19 and 1911, as well as a Del Fatti IWB for the 1911. The Del Fatti holster has a modified portion in lieu of a sweat shield that fits under the thumb safety to hold it in the on safe position when using an ambi safety.

I find that more than 15 degrees adds nothing to concealment and just hinders my ability to get a good grip on the gun.


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[vcdgrips]

I think body type and holster/belt/gun itself mating issues really drive the train here. I am 6'2'', 200ish. I have a 34 w(typically buy 36s as I AIWB) / 44L coat and conceal a G35 appendix with a sportcoat/suitcoat nearly every day.
A purpose designed belt with a purpose designed holster goes a long way toward concealability and comfort. YMMV greatly.

DB

[DocGKR]

I've been attired in a suit every day this week with a full size M&P and 2 extra mags--no problems walking, standing, sitting, driving.

It helps to wear high quality, professionally tailored, adult clothing (ie. not hip hugger pants); refer back to post #110 in this thread...

Use a good holster.

If you carry at 3-5 o'clock, consider a sport coat or 2 piece suit; if you carry AIWB, then a 3-piece suit or double breasted suit are great choices.

[SAWBONES]

Bill, Sawbones, Craig - what holsters are you using. Also, how much cant do you prefer in that position? Or straight drop?

For G26: 10 degree cant, JMCK Version 2 or JMCK Hybrid. (The Hybrid has a slightly larger "volume" than the Version 2, which means it makes things feel just a bit "tighter" around the waist.)

For Colt .45 Auto CCO: 15 degree cant, Del Fatti ISP-SS w/sewn loop.

[DocGKR]

Here is a nice video discussing Gravati shoes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8TQ8o_W1_k

[Talionis]

The local club decided to throw an outlaw concealed carry match today, so I got to shoot the rare match in work clothes. The vest does a great job of concealing a VP9 and spare magazine comfortably in a JM George and appendix magazine pouch.16116

[YVK]

I dig the hat.

Very cool to have such opportunity.

[YVK]

This video about Bontoni shoes (very nice, as well as comfortable) was well done: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cmi0fZ45Q7I

Just saw this. Twelve bills a pair. And I thought my Mannina and Santoni were expensive...

[GJM]

The local club decided to throw an outlaw concealed carry match today, so I got to shoot the rare match in work clothes. The vest does a great job of concealing a VP9 and spare magazine comfortably in a JM George and appendix magazine pouch.16116

Zack, the short barrel on the current VP9 makes your ass look big.

[Talionis]

Zack, the short barrel on the current VP9 makes your ass look big.

It is, but that's the trend on instagram now anyway. I look forward to the long slide making everything look proportionate.

[DocGKR]

Gravati is about half the cost of Bontoni and equally comfortable--mine are ordered with the "Beverley" rubber soles.

[GJM]

The local club decided to throw an outlaw concealed carry match today, so I got to shoot the rare match in work clothes. The vest does a great job of concealing a VP9 and spare magazine comfortably in a JM George and appendix magazine pouch.16116

Now I see the resemblance:

16123

[Talionis]

Now I see the resemblance:


I was going more for this16127, but I don't think I can really pull off dual VP9 carry as well as Mr_White used to with G34's.

[Dismas316]

Unfortunately I have to wear a suite way more than I would like but been finding my set up with just the plain undertech belly band aiwb with my shield in 9mm has been working the best. Not a vest guy and really not practical in Texas and the south where I travel. I also recently went with the Raven pocket shield that has really be much better than I expected. Sometimes I may holster in the 4:00 position but again in Texas likely will find my jacket off in many situations.

Sorry for the crappy iphone pics and glare but wanted this with gray so it shows least concealable color I wear vs my traditional dark suites which totally conceal the raven pocket shield. Obviously my jacket completely conceals everything. Not the easiest thing in the world to draw from but it actually works relatively decent. Shield sports 8+1 w/maggut springs and 10 in the spare.

[DocGKR]

Looks good!

[Mobettadefense]

I wear suits and am in and out of courthouses on a very regular basis. I have to mount and dismount my handgun every time. I prefer something IWB both easy to take off and that can be worn behind the right hip or just in front etc. Something with a good clip that is sturdy yet simple to dismount from the belt. Something like this from http://www.littlebearcustomholsters.com/aegis.php is a great option.

16132

This is the Aegis Calypto in grey elephant for a VP9 using G-Code clips. Dave is excellent to work with and helped me design the mag carrier so that the clip can be ahead of the magazine. Very comfortable set up that meets my needs.

[OldRunner/CSAT Neighbor]

What Gary said Dismas, well done from a concealment standpoint & being a UT guy, do I see a burnt orange tie?

Just returned from church where I wear a suit or sport coat (lead usher @ Mass) & carry a Shield but IWB as the jacket is always on.

Was in a 2 day seminar last week wearing a sp. coat (minus tie) so went w/ a J pocket carried but still had OC, lite & edge, same as church but had the Shield in my folder which was ALWAYS arms distance.

[Drang]

So, is it better to resurrect a necro-thread when relevant material arises, or to start a new one? I usually go for resurrecting the old one, if I can find it, as that assembles the older material together, for the convenience of all.


Anyway. In today's Breach Bang Clear Twitter feed: Introducing Grayman & Company | Breach Bang Clear (http://www.breachbangclear.com/introducing-grayman/). Bespoke tailors for the Concealed Carry Market.

Grayman & Company (https://grayman.co/)


Grayman & Co. Tailoring | How does it work?

Happily, you do not have to visit a haberdashery.

Your measurements are put into an algorithm along with several pictures of you in various poses to ensure the tailor creates the best fitting suit possible. As they say,”Grayman and Company prides itself on being old-school tailors first.”

Their suits are all made-to-measure in a small ‘atelier’ with a staff of between five and eight. And only three of them will be sewing or cutting your suit. They send you a fitting garment first to ensure all those measurements on paper are the correct fit in real life and that everything hangs and drapes right where it should. Because so much detail is involved, proper tailoring is slow and careful and the entire process can take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks to perfect the details of a suit.

This isn’t an off the rack suit that is just being taken in to fit you. The suit is designed to fit you and move with the way you move while armed.

Jackets include a gusset at the shoulders, and they have some tricky buttons that are real buttons but can snap off if you're in a hurry. Videos at the link, watch them to see how they work.

[Larry T]

I wear a suit or sport jacket 1-3 times a week. I carry in a Raven Perun OWB at 3:00 no cant. A Glock 26 with an OEM +2 is easy, as is a standard G19. A G17's grip is just long enough to print a little. My jackets are "stock" with a little extra room at the waistline. The only limitation I have is I'm unable to really drive my arms out to full extension unless I want to bust the jacket (like Chris Farley in Tommy Boy). I'm not convinced it's worth $1300.

[Drang]

The only time I wear a suit anymore is when we go on a cruise, so it's not really an issue for me. I just saw the link, and thought it might be useful to others.

[TGS]

The only time I wear a suit anymore is when we go on a cruise, so it's not really an issue for me. I just saw the link, and thought it might be useful to others.

I'm probably going to order one just for the craic of it.

Might as well give it a go.

I've wanted to drop coin on a Cool Action Suit as well, but there is something sketchy about the company that makes me feel like my money would be in danger.

[ViniVidivici]

I pretty much only wear a suit to church these days, but have never had a problem concealing in one. Strong side behind the hip with a good 2 or 3 slot "pancake" style rig works for me.

Last Sunday it was G17 on the right in a BladeTech total eclipse, G23/9mm on the left in a Glock sport/combat. Spare mag behind each, BladeTech single carriers. Bianchi belt.

I'm average build, in shape FWIW.

[OldRunner/CSAT Neighbor]

Lead usher on Sundays @ my church w/ some 350-400 peeps in either a custom made Oxxford suit or sport coat, w/ a Shield IWB @ 3:30 (spare mag,knife,light,mini IFAK) but the medium size can of Sabre Red (thx. Chuck) in a pocket is my primary.

[TGS]

Figured I'd update the thread.

I recently purchased a few Suit Supply traveler suits. Unlike any other traveler-style suits I've ever had. They are completely unstructured and unpadded, yet can still pass muster as a business suit. They are also completely unlined with the exception of the sleeves...….the idea being that lining usually adds to overheating, as well as being a major obstacle in being wrinkle free without a press. It's constructed with a two-ply 100% wool that is pretty stretchy and very durable. It actually feels like a rough polyester.

These things are amazing. Not only does the Suit Supply off-the-rack fit far surpass most other OTR suits (relatively high armholes, for instance), but this thing is just insanely comfortable. It's very agile; I have no problem assuming a proper isosceles stance. I think it's a combination of the relatively proper fit/cut, as well as the unstructured shoulders and high twist wool.

If you hold the suit up to the light, you can actually see through it almost like a lightweight jersey. When you put it on, the two ply fabric lays flat and you can't tell....I even tried it on while wearing a bright yellow camp shirt, and I couldn't see the yellow fabric through the suit. A breeze goes right through the suit.

I also bought 3 of the Suit Supply traveler shirts on the spot, which are also very well fitted off the rack and also constructed similarly to the suit, but of cotton. It's an insanely comfortable and clean looking combination....I look better in these suits than everything except my MTM suit. What's really cool? The wrinkle-free claim is legit. You can basically just put it on, and within a few minutes it will naturally unwrinkle itself. I purchased 6 more of the shirts fitted for my body armor.

Highly recommended. The navy is a killer combo with the Allen Edmonds cap toe 5th Ave oxfords in dark chili that I've been breaking in and enjoying.

[Drang]

Figured I'd update the thread

I recently purchased a few Suit Supply traveler suits. Highly recommended. ..
These guys: https://us.suitsupply.com/en_US/home?

How about carry? That was the point of the thread, after all. Does the lack of a lining effect concealability?

Not that I wear a suit often enough to matter, let alone pay those prices...

The navy is a killer combo with the Allen Edmonds cap toe 5th Ave oxfords in dark chili that I've been breaking in and enjoying.[/QUOTE]

Oxfords. My feet hurt just thinking about wearing hard shoes again...

[TGS]

It's a very lightweight, unlined jacket....so it shows bumps more than a heavy wool. With that said, it isn't printing any worse than any other suit I own.

You get what you pay for in suits and shoes. $600 isn't a terribly expensive price for a suit, especially considering what you get compared to a $200 Jos A Bank/Men's Wearhouse or $1000 department store suit which are often Jos a bank/Wearhouse suits rebranded and sold under a not-so-upfront economy line of a popular name, like Ralph Lauren, or even a completely different company that bought rights to a name (Lauren Ralph Lauren).

As for oxfords, the Allen Edmonds were down right painful on the first day. Now that they're broken in, they are very comfortable. Some of the most comfortable shoes (overall out of all footwear) I've ever owned, and after a full day they're much more supportive (preventing fatigue) than any other dress shoe I've had. Not only that, it's nice to support a quintessential American company with such good support and business ethics. Considering the shoe will last a lifetime with very affordable factory resoles (everything by hand), you get more than you pay for compared to cheap shoes. Given the dainite sole, they're probably the best dress shoe you can get for a gun-carrying person. No slip, no slide, all the support you need.

Concealment isn't the only thing this thread is about. The qualities of these items would allow me to shoot a stress course and not be too far off efficiency wise compared to regular street clothes. That counts for a LOT compared to most business wear that is purpose built with cheap
fabrics and barely fit a wide range of people, meaning they're very restrictive.

[HeavyDuty]

It’s been many years since I carried in a suit, and it was a NPE (Chicago loop in the early 90s.) I usually carried a 640 in a Null SKR shoulder rig. It served the purpose; at that point in time in my industry, gentlemen did not remove their jackets in the office. Things changed very quickly, though and by the end of the decade work casual was the norm which made for much easier carry - thank you, pleated Dockers.

[DocGKR]

Best shirts I've found to date, made in America, in Texas: https://hamiltonshirts.com