Ankle Carry gun/holster combo that you like?

[Cool Breeze]

Was looking for opinions on ankle carry for backup. I carry a g19/g26 as primary but was thinking if I could carry a backup comfortably (hopefully like it wasn't even there) then why not? I at one point carried a g26 in a galco ankle glove and absolutely hated it. It was heavy and thick (printed all of the time),bounced around while walking, and dug into my ankle bone. No thank you. Any pistols (semi or revolver) and holster combos that you all just love? Attire would be jeans/slacks with dress/casual shoes (NO BOOTS). It is a long shot but I thought I would ask. Thanks.

[NCmtnman]

Do you have any specific parameters that you want to stay within for a carry weapon?

For me, once I go below the 10 round capacity for a carry gun, the options become limited. Ankle carry would be my last preferred method of carry and I would most likely take pocket carry over the ankle. That said, a barely there ankle gun and a pocket gun will be similar. As for a shooter, have you thought about a Walther PPS in an ankle rig? It's better than my other options which would be a Kahr PM or Ruger LC9. Never fired the PPS but others can certainly chime in on it that have. A revolver is quite concealable for an ankle platform but now we are skirting the five rounds mark and getting back to possibly being uncomfortable. Will you wear it if it's not comfortable?

[Cool Breeze]

No parameters. I would prefer staying in 9mm but I don't know if anyone has any gun/holster combos that are truly comfortable that are 9mm as 9mm guns (even the new single stacks) are heavier than .380s. I am open to a small revolver or .380. Basically I am looking for someone that has experience carrying on ankle and if that experience was truly comfortable - what was the combo of gun/holster. I don't think I would carry a second gun unless it was comfortable to do so as there would be a super small chance of needing it.

[NCmtnman]

My ankle or leg carry was short lived with a J-Frame. I decided that I could not get the weapon out fast enough, consistently enough, and without adjusting my dress around the weapon. For reference, I'm 6' 170 and wear a 30-31 waist. Drawing a weapon from some nice fitting slacks or jeans was an eye opener for me. My revolver was carried in an older neoprene calf sleeve that mounted the weapon about 3 inches above my ankle. I just didn't have the room in my pants to make a clean draw. If I did it again then I would carry a G42 or G43.

[OnionsAndDragons]

My ankle or leg carry was short lived with a J-Frame. I decided that I could not get the weapon out fast enough, consistently enough, and without adjusting my dress around the weapon. For reference, I'm 6' 170 and wear a 30-31 waist. Drawing a weapon from some nice fitting slacks or jeans was an eye opener for me. My revolver was carried in an older neoprene calf sleeve that mounted the weapon about 3 inches above my ankle. I just didn't have the room in my pants to make a clean draw. If I did it again then I would carry a G42 or G43.

This was my experience in trying out ankle carry. In my opinion it requires a good bit of dedicated training to get a consistent draw, and it just have better uses of my training time.

I found that if I want a second gun, the pocket shield with a snubby or subcom auto is a good choice, or just weak side behind the hip out of the way of an extra mag or flashlight that might live on that side.

As to the size and comfort, that will be different based on ankle/calf sizes. I have thick, fairly flat ankles, so the PPS rode pretty comfy.

I think it can work if you dedicate time to the draw. Seeing Givens go to his backup from the ankle is pretty impressive, so it's definitely workable. I'll still use it if I'm going to be in mostly sitting tasks, as I find the draw much easier and more natural from a seated position.


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[LSP972]

Carrying a pistol concealed, primary or back-up, is an art. Too many folks try to make science out of it. Only the individual can determine what works for him/her.

I carried a J frame on my ankle, both on and off duty, for many years. When we started wearing vests, I moved it up there; and still carried another J frame (3rd gun) on the ankle when in New Orleans or other likely crime areas.

The problem with ankle carry is that most "ankle" holsters aren't worth a crap. I dunno if the old guy is still alive, much less working, but Ken Null made what is, in my opinion, the ne plus ultra ankle holster. I still have the first one he did for me in 1982, and while just about worn out it is still serviceable. I bought another one in 2002. I have run, jumped fences and fought with both of them, and the only time I ever had the J frame come out of it unintentionally was doing some kicks during a defensive tactics retrainer where I forgot I had the damn thing on. Null used/uses a firm, thick felt backer on the part that fastens round the ankle, and very shortly it conforms itself to the contours of your body there. Most other offerings use that dreaded "sheep's wool" junk, or a nylon-covered foam pad, or something equally unsuitable.

At any rate, comfortable ankle carry is an acquired taste, so to speak. The first rule is, of course, don't try carrying a belt gun (as in, size and weight) down there... guaranteed grief. Some folks can do it without complaint, but we're back to that art vs science paradigm. As noted earlier, guys like Tom who have been doing it for a while, and keep their hand in at it, so to speak, can surprise you with how quickly and efficiently they can present... from any realistic position.

The revolver vs auto question writes an entire new chapter when the subject is back-up/secondary handguns, but we have discussed that numerous times here before, so I won't re-hash it now.

.

[El Cid]

Every day on/off duty there is a G19 on my hip and a G26 on my ankle. Unless I'm in shorts of course. Been using the Alessi ankle holster since about 2007 and love it! I do keep a tourniquet and spare 17rd mag on my other ankle as a counterweight. The baby Glock is heavy enough that my lower back reminded me I be as there until I out something on the other side. With an airweight snub that wasn't a concern.

[L-2]

I too don't like carrying my Glock 26 on the ankle for the same reasons as the original post.

I have three guns from which to choose for ankle carry.
Smith & Wesson 442 & 642 (http://www.smith-wesson.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Category4_750001_750051_757768_-1_757767_757751_image). There are several variations. I have the no-lock versions and no other frills. These are 5-shot .38 Special revolvers. I use an Uncle Mike's ankle holster (http://unclemikes.com/holsters/concealed-carry-holsters/ankle-holsters) when carrying either of these on my ankle.

Glock 43 (http://singlestack9.com). This is a 6+1 capacity 9mm. The ankle holster I'm normally using is a DeSantis Apache (http://www.desantisholster.com/APACHE-ANKLE-RIG). I had to modify the holster a bit as its thumb-break tends to dig into my calf. I bent it a bit and put some moleskin padding on it.

I also have an Uncle Mike's ankle holster (http://unclemikes.com/holsters/concealed-carry-holsters/ankle-holsters) for this gun, but it tends to pivot outward a bit.

I'll also alternately carry the 442, 642, or G43 in the pocket or strapped onto my body armor vest with an appropriate holster.

[Crusader8207]

Tom Givins just released Rangemaster's January News Letter addresses ankle carry. After attending the HiTS class last month, I started carrying a S&W 340 M&P in a Skip Ritchie holster. I carry it as a BUG for my VP9.

The Ritchie holster is a copy of the Alessi (of whom Skip worked for prior to Lou's death) and is incredibly comfortable to wear. Top Gun Supply has them in stock for various guns. I work in a very strict NPE and have found that cutting off the foot part of a second sock that I wear over the holster gives an additional level of concealment as there is no shiny leather or parts of the gun sticking out. It is also very accessible.

[Cookie Monster]

Been trying to work out ankle carry. I can do a Glock 26 while wearing boots, although I have thought many a times about weight on the other ankle. If I cannot strap the holster done hard on a boot, it slides down and wiggles.

During an Urban Rifle Class at Thunder Ranch, I worn Heidi's Smith 5 shot leather holster for a Glock 19 for a day and forgot at times I had it on but had it over tall leather boots.

I am waiting on an ankle holster for a Glock 42 from 5-Shot Leather.

I see real advantages to ankle carry when driving compared to my pocket carry.

[Clay]

S&W 442 in a Galco Ankle Glove. The Renegade holster was great, but they're out of business, I believe.

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[41magfan]

Carrying a pistol concealed, primary or back-up, is an art. Too many folks try to make science out of it. Only the individual can determine what works for him/her.

I carried a J frame on my ankle, both on and off duty, for many years. When we started wearing vests, I moved it up there; and still carried another J frame (3rd gun) on the ankle when in New Orleans or other likely crime areas.

The problem with ankle carry is that most "ankle" holsters aren't worth a crap. I dunno if the old guy is still alive, much less working, but Ken Null made what is, in my opinion, the ne plus ultra ankle holster. I still have the first one he did for me in 1982, and while just about worn out it is still serviceable. I bought another one in 2002. I have run, jumped fences and fought with both of them, and the only time I ever had the J frame come out of it unintentionally was doing some kicks during a defensive tactics retrainer where I forgot I had the damn thing on. Null used/uses a firm, thick felt backer on the part that fastens round the ankle, and very shortly it conforms itself to the contours of your body there. Most other offerings use that dreaded "sheep's wool" junk, or a nylon-covered foam pad, or something equally unsuitable.

At any rate, comfortable ankle carry is an acquired taste, so to speak. The first rule is, of course, don't try carrying a belt gun (as in, size and weight) down there... guaranteed grief. Some folks can do it without complaint, but we're back to that art vs science paradigm. As noted earlier, guys like Tom who have been doing it for a while, and keep their hand in at it, so to speak, can surprise you with how quickly and efficiently they can present... from any realistic position.

The revolver vs auto question writes an entire new chapter when the subject is back-up/secondary handguns, but we have discussed that numerous times here before, so I won't re-hash it now.

.

^^^^^ This ^^^^^

Alessi and Null make the best ankle rigs and anything that weighs over a pound (loaded) will get old pretty quickly for most folks.

ETA: The most secure leg rig I ever used (probably 25+ years ago) was a neoprene leg sleeve made by Safariland, IIRC. You could NOT dislodge any reasonably sized gun from that thing but it was hot as the devil and it carried the gun well above ankle, making it only usable with full cut pant legs.

[41magfan]

S&W 442 in a Galco Ankle Glove. The Renegade holster was great, but they're out of business, I believe.

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Wilderness is making the Renegade product now.

http://www.thewilderness.com/ankle-holsters/the-wilderness-renegade-ankle-holster/

[Clay]

Thanks for the heads up. Looks like they changed it some, and jacked the price up too.

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[60167]

Glock 42 in a Blackhawk! ankle rig. The Glock is the smallest/lightest pistol I can actually shoot. The blackhawk rig is lightweight. I have a shield and a glock 43, but those options strike me as too big. I had a shield down there for a while, didn't like it.

Size and weight are big factors to me. If I put too much weight on my ankle, my knee starts to hurt after a while.

[SLG]

Timely thread. I've played with ankle carry a small bit over the years, and it has just never worked for me for a variety of reasons. I'm currently wearing a 5 shot rig to give it a more serious try. So far, I hate it. Not the holster, as it is John's usual high quality work. Its that I may just be too small to use the Deagle as a BUG. I figured, since Arnold could do it, so could I. I've always known that you need to give it a few weeks, but I don't know if I'll last that long. I'm only wearing it in the house right now, since I don't want to risk scuffing my gold plated dino-roller. I may have to switch to the Elmer light, AKA the 4" Mtn gun. Seems like a cop-out though. :-)

Is anyone here on the shorter/lighter side successfully carrying a BUG on their ankle? As in comfortably and concealed? Can you really run with it? Not the fat cop hustle, but a real run? I have pretty big calves, and a tapered ankle (no cankles here!), but find it hard to really conceal to my standard.

Any ideas would be appreciated.

[LSP972]

Is anyone here on the shorter/lighter side successfully carrying a BUG on their ankle? As in comfortably and concealed? Can you really run with it? Not the fat cop hustle, but a real run?

I could/did... comfortably concealed, and really run with it. I'm 5'4", stayed around 150# until my heart meds blew me up.

A good point about a counterweight on the opposite ankle. I had Null make me one that carried a "boot knife" in a sheath, and a pouch for a Speed Strip. The knife was on the "inside", the Speed Strip pouch on the "outside". When we began issuing P220s, I had a local saddlemaker cut the Speed Strip pouch off and sew on an open top pouch for another P220 magazine. It is still in that configuration, and a loaded Speed Strip just happens to fit in there perfectly.

.

[LSP972]

SLG, studying your query a bit more, I should add that all of my ankle carrying was done wearing low-quarter shoes; usually RockPorts. Boots really complicate leg/ankle carry; especially if you have heavy/thick calves. You can just about forget a revolver for that- the cylinder bulge will do a number on that big nerve that runs down the inside of your leg. Of course, you can strap the holster to the OUTSIDE of the boot... but there goes your concealment.

Again... its an art, and a series of compromises.

.

[Cool Breeze]

Timely thread. I've played with ankle carry a small bit over the years, and it has just never worked for me for a variety of reasons. I'm currently wearing a 5 shot rig to give it a more serious try. So far, I hate it. Not the holster, as it is John's usual high quality work. Its that I may just be too small to use the Deagle as a BUG. I figured, since Arnold could do it, so could I. I've always known that you need to give it a few weeks, but I don't know if I'll last that long. I'm only wearing it in the house right now, since I don't want to risk scuffing my gold plated dino-roller. I may have to switch to the Elmer light, AKA the 4" Mtn gun. Seems like a cop-out though. :-)

Is anyone here on the shorter/lighter side successfully carrying a BUG on their ankle? As in comfortably and concealed? Can you really run with it? Not the fat cop hustle, but a real run? I have pretty big calves, and a tapered ankle (no cankles here!), but find it hard to really conceal to my standard.

Any ideas would be appreciated.

I'm confused...what do you carry on your ankle in the 5 Shot rig?

[SLG]

I'm confused...what do you carry on your ankle in the 5 Shot rig?

Same as everyone else. The biggest, most powerful gun I can carry and conceal. :-)

[SLG]

I could/did... comfortably concealed, and really run with it. I'm 5'4", stayed around 150# until my heart meds blew me up.

A good point about a counterweight on the opposite ankle. I had Null make me one that carried a "boot knife" in a sheath, and a pouch for a Speed Strip. The knife was on the "inside", the Speed Strip pouch on the "outside". When we began issuing P220s, I had a local saddlemaker cut the Speed Strip pouch off and sew on an open top pouch for another P220 magazine. It is still in that configuration, and a loaded Speed Strip just happens to fit in there perfectly.

.

I think the Null and the 5-Shot are almost identical so maybe there's hope. Did the knife/mag on the other side not weigh you down even more? I get the balance aspect though.

If I had realized you were 5'4", I would not have given you nearly as much grief over the Katana as I did. Sorry.;-)

[Rex G]

An SP101 in an Alessi Ankle Holster served me well for years, until it failed the stomp test. It would still retain the gun while running, hard, but a hard stomp could dislodge the gun; simple inertia, as I stomped downward, the heavy SP101 tends to stay in place, so the holster is pulled downward off the weapon. I have continued to use it on occasion, as a "driving holster," but not while at work. I have considered trying to craft a retention device.

I acquired a pre-owned Alessi for my new G26, for a test run, as I have moved to mostly using G17 & G19 pistols for most purposes. If successful, and it seems OK thus far, I may ask Null, Ritchie, or 5-Shot to make one with a retention device.

I may add more later; time to suit-up and gear-up for a 12-hour night.

[SLG]

An SP101 in an Alessi Ankle Holster served me well for years, until it failed the stomp test. It would still retain the gun while running, hard, but a hard stomp could dislodge the gun; simple inertia, as I stomped downward, the heavy SP101 tends to stay in place, so the holster is pulled downward off the weapon. I have continued to use it on occasion, as a "driving holster," but not while at work. I have considered trying to craft a retention device.

I acquired a pre-owned Alessi for my new G26, for a test run, as I have moved to mostly using G17 & G19 pistols for most purposes. If successful, and it seems OK thus far, I may ask Null, Ritchie, or 5-Shot to make one with a retention device.

I may add more later; time to suit-up and gear-up for a 12-hour night.

5 Shot does a G26 rig with a thumb break.

[LSP972]

Did the knife/mag on the other side not weigh you down even more?



Neither ever "weighed me down". Again, its an acquired taste. But, like all acquired tastes, you have to give it an honest chance.

I got hired six months out of the army. I was working part time at a gun store owned by four local troopers, all of whom prodded me to apply. I really didn't WANT to be a cop, and figured they'd never hire me anyway, because almost every trooper I'd ever seen was at least six feet tall. But that's another story… my point here is, I was around a lot of cops just prior to coming on the job, and most all of them were of the brass balls variety. Saps and back-up guns (usually some variant of J frame) were part of the uniform, as was at least two reloads for the service revolver. So I was inculcated from a very early age, so to speak, to carry a BUG. And in those days, ankle holsters were the method of choice.

When I received notification, to my great surprise, of an Academy report date, my bosses made me sweet brother-in-law deals on a nickle 4" M-19 and a lightly used M-37 flat latch. Troopers had to provide their own pistols in those days; these guys didn't know the HQ plan to make my class the first one that was issued a duty sidearm. I still have the M-37, now wearing Black T and in a safe place. They told me that I would be provided with a full complement of leather gear (Don Hume Sam Browne belt- minus the saber strap-, Hume Jordan River holster, cuff case and dump pouch for extra ammo) for the "magnum", but that I would have to buy my own ankle holster. I don't recall what brand it was, but it was all leather, with dual buckled straps, and did the job.

Of course, I didn't get to wear it until after graduation, so I had no clue what was entailed. But I showed up at the troop that first day of duty with it strapped my left ankle, and wore it or the various other ones I eventually tried every day I put on the uniform, until I switched to a vest holster when we got issued those. I learned quickly to be careful how I sat, to keep it hidden… IOW, to keep my pants cuff from riding up and exposing it. The extra weight on my ankle never bothered me per se; but it did take some getting used. By the time I discovered Mr. Null and his fabulous wares, I actually felt semi-naked without it. Truth, because I walked out of my home more than once having forgotten to strap it on, realized it before I got to the unit, went back and got it.

The knife/extra burrets accessory holder on the right ankle came along in the late 80s. Interesting story as to why, but that's not germane here so I won't add to this rambling post any more than I have to. Again, after a brief "adjustment period", no issues or concerns… or bother. I continued to wear it and the ankle J frame (by this time, an M-642) until the day I retired; even in plain clothes. It is certainly a viable method to carry a BUG.

Here's something to think about, however. Sometime in the 80s, it became fashionable for wanna-be po-lice and other "gunwriters" to pen lofty articles on how cops carried their stuff… those "Dressed For Peace: Armed For Trouble" articles of mental masturbation laid bare our 'secrets', if you will. I remember, like it was yesterday, standing by a magazine rack at a K&B drug store late one night on dog shift. Daughter #3 was fresh out of the valley, wife had forgotten to fill a scrip and buy some Pedialyte, so there I was, waiting on a lethargic slug disguised as a pharmacist.

About five feet away stood a real roach; greasy, stringy hair, grubby jeans, and dirty hightop felony flyers that were all the rage then amongst the "hip" college crowd… well, as hip as one can be in Monroe, Louisiana. Said roach was perusing a Guns and Gear for Armchair Commandos, or some such rag; it had a garish cover. Suddenly, I noticed he was looking intently at my feet. WTF???

Then, HE suddenly realized that he had my full and complete attention. He put the magazine down on the rack, still open to what he had been reading, and beat feet out the door. I followed him, and watched him get into his beat-up Toyota Tercel roach-mobile and drive off... hurriedly. I went back to see what he had been reading, and there was a full three page article, with photos, by a certain felony wanna-be cop, on ankle holsters and how to use them. "Thanks a lot, shitbird", I thought to myself. "Nothing like putting our business on the street."

Sorry for the novella, but there's a point to it; while ankle carry is indeed viable, I'd have a Plan C… if you get my drift.

.

[LSP552]

I have carried a gun on my ankle almost every day, for longer than I can remember. Usually it was a spare, very rarely a primary. For the last 25 years or so, it's been a J-frame in a Ken Null holster. I finally wore the holster out and ordered another last year. Ken was still working then, but had been dealing with some medical issues. He apologized for a two week delivery time! I ordered a replacement for the 642 and one for a Glock 42. The felt backing is really the way to go because it adds padding without being overly hot here in the deep South.

I would have loved to have been able to carry a Glock 26 as backup to my G34 or G17, and tried. Unfortunately, the weight was more than I could deal with. The 642/442 is very comfortable in the Null and reasonably secure. The airweights really are perfect ankle guns! I found, for me, a steel J-frame became a bother by the end of the day. I don't even notice the 642/442. The G42 is also comfortable and very secure due to the fit a semi-auto allows in tightly molded leather.

The rounded boot grip of the revolver is somewhat easier to keep covered depending on the pants you wear. If your slacks are cuffed, they tend to hide a ankle holster a bit better when you sit and stand repeatedly. The square shape of the semi tends to catch the pants and prevent them from sliding over the grip when you stand. I have to pay significantly more attention when wearing the G42 and non-cuffed pants to make sure it's not showing when I stand with normal dress slacks. I little extra length is also a good thing.

[SLG]

The knife/extra burrets accessory holder on the right ankle came along in the late 80s. Interesting story as to why, but that's not germane here so I won't add to this rambling post any more than I have to.

.

I'm interested to hear it.

[Cool Breeze]

Same as everyone else. The biggest, most powerful gun I can carry and conceal. :-)

I hear you but a lot of the folks hear like that style of holster (5 Shot, Alessi, Null) which all seem to be extremely similar. I am sure the quality of construction is great but if you don't like it, I'm assuming it has something to do with either the style of the holster that doesn't fit your ankle or the gun that is why I am curious of the gun.

[JR1572]

I currently use a 26/Alessi combo.

I used a 442/Ken Null combo for a little bit and I was very impressed. LSP972 is spot on, the Null holsters are nice.

JR1572

[xmanhockey7]

I typically carry a G26 in a Galco ankle glove. If that's not on my ankle I'll opt for a S&W 442. The more I wear the 26 on my ankle the more comfortable it gets. J-frame I hardly even know is there.

[Cool Breeze]

I have carried a gun on my ankle almost every day, for longer than I can remember. Usually it was a spare, very rarely a primary. For the last 25 years or so, it's been a J-frame in a Ken Null holster. I finally wore the holster out and ordered another last year. Ken was still working then, but had been dealing with some medical issues. He apologized for a two week delivery time! I ordered a replacement for the 642 and one for a Glock 42. The felt backing is really the way to go because it adds padding without being overly hot here in the deep South.

I would have loved to have been able to carry a Glock 26 as backup to my G34 or G17, and tried. Unfortunately, the weight was more than I could deal with. The 642/442 is very comfortable in the Null and reasonably secure. The airweights really are perfect ankle guns! I found, for me, a steel J-frame became a bother by the end of the day. I don't even notice the 642/442. The G42 is also comfortable and very secure due to the fit a semi-auto allows in tightly molded leather.

The rounded boot grip of the revolver is somewhat easier to keep covered depending on the pants you wear. If your slacks are cuffed, they tend to hide a ankle holster a bit better when you sit and stand repeatedly. The square shape of the semi tends to catch the pants and prevent them from sliding over the grip when you stand. I have to pay significantly more attention when wearing the G42 and non-cuffed pants to make sure it's not showing when I stand with normal dress slacks. I little extra length is also a good thing.

Great point and something I forgot happened when I ankle carried a g26. I probably forgot because of all the problems I had with it, that was the least and comfort was the biggest. Almost every time I stood up, I had to slightly lift my pant leg a little to readjust it so the pant would slip over the grip/slide portion.

[Cool Breeze]

I currently use a 26/Alessi combo.

I used a 442/Ken Null combo for a little bit and I was very impressed. LSP972 is spot on, the Null holsters are nice.

JR1572

Since you have both - What is the difference btw the null and alessi? they look virtually the same.

[JR1572]

Since you have both - What is the difference btw the null and alessi? they look virtually the same.

The strap on the Alessi goes through a metal loop and doubles back secured by Velcro. The Null doesn't have a metal loop.

Let me see if I have pictures.

JR1572

[Trooper224]

A Kahr K9 in an Alessi ankle holster has worked well for me for twenty years.

[Chuck Haggard]

Over the decades I've carried a lot of different ankle guns, started with a Cobra, went to e Detective Special, then a S&W 6906, along the way also played with a 640, 3913, 940, Glock 27 and Glock 26. Now I am using either a 340M$P or one of my trusty 642s.

Tom Givens and I have talked about this at length. We agree that an ankle gun should be no more than one pound in weight. I'm starting to be convinced that the long term damage to my left knee is due to heavy assed ankle guns being work for so many years.

My current, and best ever, ankle holster for Centennial style guns is a modified Uncle Mikes ankle rig. I use the size 16, made for "medium semi-auto pistols" and do some specific sewing to make the holster fit a J frame perfectly. This holster has held my 642 in during foot chases, ground fights, combatives training, etc. It plain works.

5067

[LSP972]

I'm interested to hear it.

Okay. The year is 1986. The de rigeur "cop knife" is a Buck 110, carried in a .45 magazine pouch on the duty belt. The Spyderco pocket folder revolution was just around the corner, but hadn't arrived yet. The problem, of course, was that the knife was basically inaccessible when seated in the unit.

I had just gotten a brand new '86 Crown Vic issued to me. I received word that a PPC shooting acquaintance out in Kalifornia had died, after being rear-ended by a truck at an accident scene. His unit- an '86 Crown Vic- caught fire and was immediately engulfed in flames. The last thing his comrades saw was him struggling to get his seat belt free; to no avail. He died about as horribly as one can die. Subsequent investigation revealed that the latch mechanism on his belt had jammed; probably due to the impact.

Two nights later, I'm parked in Docking Manuever 12 with a local sheriiff's deputy pal, catching up on local news. He too has a new '86 Crown Vic, and casually mentions that his seat belt latch got stuck earlier that evening and he had to fiddle with it for a minute to get it free. And I suddenly realize, what am _I_ gonna do if that happens to me? I damn sure won't be able to access my knife, which is in the middle of my back at waist level. And that's assuming I could even fumble it open under stress.

The next day, I called Null, explained my concern, and he said no problem. I had a small A.G. Russell "boot knife", with no scales, that I had picked up somewhere and never used; small, thin, razor sharp, perfect for tasking as an easily-accessible seat belt cutter. I sent Null the blade and a loaded Speed Strip, and a few weeks later I got back the perfect rig for the purpose. Still got it; I'll try to remember to dig it out and post a photo or two this evening.

.

[NCmtnman]

Over the decades I've carried a lot of different ankle guns, started with a Cobra, went to e Detective Special, then a S&W 6906, along the way also played with a 640, 3913, 940, Glock 27 and Glock 26. Now I am using either a 340M$P or one of my trusty 642s.

Tom Givens and I have talked about this at length. We agree that an ankle gun should be no more than one pound in weight. I'm starting to be convinced that the long term damage to my left knee is due to heavy assed ankle guns being work for so many years.

My current, and best ever, ankle holster for Centennial style guns is a modified Uncle Mikes ankle rig. I use the size 16, made for "medium semi-auto pistols" and do some specific sewing to make the holster fit a J frame perfectly. This holster has held my 642 in during foot chases, ground fights, combatives training, etc. It plain works.



My biggest issue is that the ankle rigs hang out of the bottom of my pants where as my old Safariland Neoprene glove sat up higher. Regardless, I couldn't access the darn thing. I would like it to work for me but sitting down is essentially open carry in my case.

As you stated, once you break a pound, it becomes less enjoyable.

[Chuck Haggard]

My biggest issue is that the ankle rigs hang out of the bottom of my pants where as my old Safariland Neoprene glove sat up higher. Regardless, I couldn't access the darn thing. I would like it to work for me but sitting down is essentially open carry in my case.

As you stated, once you break a pound, it becomes less enjoyable.

I made sure my pants were a bit longer than normal when I was in uniform to compensate for this. In jeans it doesn't seem to matter at all.

At work my black nylon ankle rig road over black nylon boots, so there was a significant camouflage effect as well.

[Dropkick]

It seems like a thumb break is a prudent measure for ankle holsters given the chances the pistol could get knocked loose.

However, I notice that all the recommended (Ritchie, Null, 5 Shot, Alessi, Bob Macs, etc.) felt backed ankle holsters don't seem to have them.

Am I missing something here?

Edit: And I'm super excited about the promised pictures from everyone...

[BobM]

Okay. The year is 1986. The de rigeur "cop knife" is a Buck 110, carried in a .45 magazine pouch on the duty belt. The Spyderco pocket folder revolution was just around the corner, but hadn't arrived yet. The problem, of course, was that the knife was basically inaccessible when seated in the unit.

I had just gotten a brand new '86 Crown Vic issued to me. I received word that a PPC shooting acquaintance out in Kalifornia had died, after being rear-ended by a truck at an accident scene. His unit- an '86 Crown Vic- caught fire and was immediately engulfed in flames. The last thing his comrades saw was him struggling to get his seat belt free; to no avail. He died about as horribly as one can die. Subsequent investigation revealed that the latch mechanism on his belt had jammed; probably due to the impact.

Two nights later, I'm parked in Docking Manuever 12 with a local sheriiff's deputy pal, catching up on local news. He too has a new '86 Crown Vic, and casually mentions that his seat belt latch got stuck earlier that evening and he had to fiddle with it for a minute to get it free. And I suddenly realize, what am _I_ gonna do if that happens to me? I damn sure won't be able to access my knife, which is in the middle of my back at waist level. And that's assuming I could even fumble it open under stress.

.

.

That's partly why I've carried a small Spyderco in my uniform shirt pocket for years.

I have on of the Galco ankle holsters for the M&P compact but I can't see using it much. I have worn it in the house so I could have a reasonably serious pistol on while wearing sweatpants or pajama pants. The only rig I've been able to tolerate for long is a Renegade with an Airweight S&W


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[El Cid]

I have a Null ankle holster as well as an Alessi. In my opinion, the Alessi is better quality. They are also similar, but not the same. The Null has a Velcro strap that is not sewn to leather. It also doesn’t use a buckle like the Alessi. With the Alessi as soon as I find the sweet spot, the buckle will create a bend in the strap that allows me to reproduce it every day. With the Null (and most other holsters) I have to pull it around and guess how tight or loose I want it. It also has an open section in the front that allows the veclro to irritate your skin if you wear thin or no socks under it. The Velcro also destroys your socks in that spot over time.

Don’t get me wrong – the Null isn’t a bad holster, and I find it superior to the neoprene/nylon stuff put out by Galco and similar. But the Alessi is a cut above in my experience. I don’t know who was first, but the 5 Shot and Ritchie ankle holsters appear to be exactly like the Alessi (even using the felt instead of the sheepskin). My understand is Ritchie worked with the late Lou Alessi. I’ll try to take side by side pics of the Null and Alessi when I get home.

Oh, and I tried the stomp test with my Alessi and a fully loaded G26. The holster has been worn almost every day since early 2007 and it retained the weapon. Obviously that is a sample of one.

[LSP552]

It seems like a thumb break is a prudent measure for ankle holsters given the chances the pistol could get knocked loose.

However, I notice that all the recommended (Ritchie, Null, 5 Shot, Alessi, Bob Macs, etc.) felt backed ankle holsters don't seem to have them.

Am I missing something here?

Edit: And I'm super excited about the promised pictures from everyone...

My personal opinion is the strap would be a good thing on J-frame holsters and not really needed on small autos. You have more molded retention potential with the smal auto, based on my small sample of 642/442 and G26 and G42.

[LSP972]

The Null has a Velcro strap that is not sewn to leather. It also has an open section in the front that allows the veclro to irritate your skin if you wear thin or no socks under it. The Velcro also destroys your socks in that spot over time.



Both of mine are sewn to the leather. But you're right about that exposed velcro trashing your socks. What I did was, after finding the "sweet spot" on the part that mated up with the "female" velcro on the back side, I put some "female" velcro on that exposed section... the back of which is smooth. Problem solved.

Lou Alessi was a contemporary of Ken Null and Paris Theodore in their salad days. Good question; who came up with the idea of fitted horsehide first? I have no idea.

.

[LSP972]

My personal opinion is the strap would be a good thing on J-frame holsters and not really needed on small autos. You have more molded retention potential with the smal auto, based on my small sample of 642/442 and G26 and G42.

Dunno, both of mine come well past the back edge of the cylinder, and hold the J frame quite firmly.

.

[SLG]

My personal opinion is the strap would be a good thing on J-frame holsters and not really needed on small autos. You have more molded retention potential with the smal auto, based on my small sample of 642/442 and G26 and G42.

I would say just the opposite, though YMMV.

A revolver (especially a 442) has the bulk of its weight from the recoil shield forward, or down, in this case. That lets it sit very securely in a well made holster. An auto, all auto's, are much more equally balanced, which puts about half of their weight down in the holster, and the other half up above it, making it's CoG much higher compared to most small revolvers.

John Ralston advises customers to go with a thumb break for duty use, especially on the autos. Much less less important with the revolvers.

[LSP552]

I would say just the opposite, though YMMV.

A revolver (especially a 442) has the bulk of its weight from the recoil shield forward, or down, in this case. That lets it sit very securely in a well made holster. An auto, all auto's, are much more equally balanced, which puts about half of their weight down in the holster, and the other half up above it, making it's CoG much higher compared to most small revolvers.

John Ralston advises customers to go with a thumb break for duty use, especially on the autos. Much less less important with the revolvers.

On my Nulls, the 642 holster is much less secure than the G42. Perhaps this is just that brand, which is where most of my experience is. I "think" it has to do with being able to mold the semi-auto deeper and tighter than the revolver, maybe not so much the weight distribution? Looking at both now, the molding for the revolver doesn't reach the frame directly behind the cylinder, so it's not as tight of fit. My 25 year old Null was the same, and it eventually got to where I could shake the revolver out holding it upside down, which down checked and caused me to order another. The G42 is very tightly molded and set deeper.

Good discussion. If I had to do it again, I'd order a strap on the revolver, but leave the G42 as is. If I was ordering from John Ralston, I'd definitely follow his advise about his holsters.

I will try and take some pictures after dinner.

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[LSP972]

More grist for the mill. Here's my original; as you can see, its been rode hard and put up wet. But the darn thing still works/holds the gun. It could stand some new velcro, but if I had to use it tomorrow, I wouldn't hesitate to strap it on.

I couldn't find the newer one; gotta look for it.

[LSP972]

Here's the right-side knife/spare ammo/flashlight carrier. I began carrying the SureFire Aviator on it after Katrina (note the notch for the light's clip, cut into the top edge of the sheath); prior to that epic event, I'd never carried a flashlight in plain clothes on a regular basis. We live and learn. FWIW, the knife's handle was not paracord wrapped back when I carried it. That was done by a gifted pal at the lab a few years ago when he was learning the skill. The open-top pouch holding the Speed Strip was originally a snap-fastened covered pouch; what you see here was added (after cutting off the first iteration) to hold a P220 magazine. It just so happens to hold a Speed Strip perfectly, as well. Who knew?

[Buckshot]

I've used ankle rigs for 25 years & everyone else has already covered what works for me: Alessi, Galco, Null & Wilderness. Actually, the best, most comfortable ankle rig I have was made for me by Milt Sparks around '90, but good luck getting one of those!
Little off the OP's question, but what is the prevailing opinion around here on revolver vs auto on the ankle? I'm pretty firmly in the Revolvers only camp for day-in, day-out ankle duty due to what I've seen come out of the inside of a j frame after a few months down there at street level! Also, I'd emphasize that any type of ankle gun ought to get frequent maintenance attention (as in taking off the sideplate / detail stripped type cleaning) than a hip worn gun.

[LSP552]

I've used ankle rigs for 25 years & everyone else has already covered what works for me: Alessi, Galco, Null & Wilderness. Actually, the best, most comfortable ankle rig I have was made for me by Milt Sparks around '90, but good luck getting one of those!

Little off the OP's question, but what is the prevailing opinion around here on revolver vs auto on the ankle? I'm pretty firmly in the Revolvers only camp for day-in, day-out ankle duty due to what I've seen come out of the inside of a j frame after a few months down there at street level! Also, I'd emphasize that any type of ankle gun ought to get frequent maintenance attention (as in taking off the sideplate / detail stripped type cleaning) than a hip worn gun.

If you look at the wear on the holsters above, you will see my short answer. Both the 442/642 holster and the G42 holster were received at the same time about a year ago. I really wanted to like the G42 as an ankle gun, but rarely use it in that role now. With the crud an ankle gun accommodates, I found myself cleaning the G42 much more frequently than I wanted to. I also fund the revolver also carried a bit more comfortably on MY ankle. Then you get the entire .38 spl vs .380 thing going. I shoot the G42 much better than the J-frames but don't think the juice is worth the squeeze. IMO, the airweigth J-frames are the ultimate ankle guns.

[SLG]

552,

From your pics, it looks to me like the revolver molding hits the right points, i.e. covers the recoil shield. On the auto, I can see why it might hold better, as it appears that you cannot get a proper firing grip on the gun in the holster. The leather comes up way higher than on some other, similar models.


eta: I would want the leather on the revolver to come up and cover the back of the trigger guard too. That should make it quite a bit better.

[LSP552]

552,

From your pics, it looks to me like the revolver molding hits the right points, i.e. covers the recoil shield. On the auto, I can see why it might hold better, as it appears that you cannot get a proper firing grip on the gun in the holster. The leather comes up way higher than on some other, similar models.


eta: I would want the leather on the revolver to come up and cover the back of the trigger guard too. That should make it quite a bit better.

Good observations SLG. To be perfect, the revolver would have a bit more leather and the G42 a bit less.

[Chuck Haggard]

Personally I would never carry an ankle gun in a rig without a thumb break and good passive retention. Even with a molded holster if you catch the butt of the gun on something, like the floor lip of a Crown Vic while bailing out of a car, it will eject.

[SLG]

Personally I would never carry an ankle gun in a rig without a thumb break and good passive retention. Even with a molded holster if you catch the butt of the gun on something, like the floor lip of a Crown Vic while bailing out of a car, it will eject.

Which one do you prefer?

[psalms144.1]

As stated many times, I've had great and continuing success with the Galco Ankle Glove - for J-frames, PM9, and G26. I wear mine with the bottom edge resting on the "lip" of my hiking boots, though, so I'm sure this adds to my "comfort" with this combination. I do wear the G26 most often, and, in fact, I'm wearing it in the ankle glove under my PJ pants right now with slippers, and it's not miserable.

Please note, I'm a plain clothes Federal guy, and NOT a hard-charging, thug-running-down street machine...

[Chuck Haggard]

Which one do you prefer?

For a J frame that modified Uncle Mike's rig I've been using for a few years now.

[JodyH]

442 in a Galco Ankle Glove for me, although ankle carry is a rarity unless I'm on a long road trip.

[Chuck Whitlock]

Personally I would never carry an ankle gun in a rig without a thumb break and good passive retention. Even with a molded holster if you catch the butt of the gun on something, like the floor lip of a Crown Vic while bailing out of a car, it will eject.

QFT. I had that exact thing happen with a G27 in a Fobus ankle rig once. Won't ever use one without a thumb break, although one that incorporated the ALS or GLS locking mechanism might be interesting.

[treiz]

I carried my M&P 9c in a galco ankle lite for several years at work. Slacks and dress socks every day, no issue, even when frequently having to squat or get things off the ground. In 4 years no one ever noticed it, not even the other gun guys that I worked with. It wasn't very comfortable at first, but after a month or so I didn't even notice it was there. I love the Galco holster, lasted far longer than I expected. I still have it in fact.

[Super J]

I have Galco ankle gloves for a G26 and a Sig 230/232. The Sig is more comfortable and seems to print a little less

[CSW]

I carry the 26 on occasion in the Galco Ankle Glove.
While a bit bulky, I have not had any issues, and it does not print under my carhartts, which is what I primarily wear all the time.
Jean print a bit, but I often wonder if it's me seeing it, and the rest of the oblivious public would never notice.

[Medusa]

Not to necropost, but demonstrating I ran a search.

Does anyone have experience with the alien gear setup using a kydex shell and a sort of brace to keep it from sliding down the ankle, or similar?

http://aliengearholsters.com/ankle-holster.html

If one gets the Galco, I see the calf strap is extra cost, and wonder if it’s worth it over time.

Edit - I was gonna try to see if my sig 365 is viable in this role.

[Cool Breeze]

Not to necropost, but demonstrating I ran a search.

Does anyone have experience with the alien gear setup using a kydex shell and a sort of brace to keep it from sliding down the ankle, or similar?

http://aliengearholsters.com/ankle-holster.html

If one gets the Galco, I see the calf strap is extra cost, and wonder if it’s worth it over time.

Edit - I was gonna try to see if my sig 365 is viable in this role.Can't speak to the alien gear but can speak to the Galco calf strap. I carried a Glock 26 in an ankle rig for some time and the calf strap did help it from sliding down which not only aided in concealability but also comfort. The padding on the Galco was terrible and the rubbing of the rig on my ankle bone was awful. If I had to do it over I would have gotten an ankle holster from 5 shot leather and used a sub 14 ounce gun.

[Squib308]

Ruger LCR 38. Boot grip. Galco ankle lite. I forget it’s there. I also run it on inside of R ankle w grip forward. This allows me to draw either hand and conceals better. The strap for me was not necessary. Unfortunately I’m not convinced ankle carry is a legit defensive option but that’s my mileage yours may be different.

Agreed w above weight of the rig is critical. A light snub compared to fully loaded G26 is significant. I would not go much above a G42 for ankle.

[rathos]

If any part of the gun was resting on your ankle bone you had it positioned incorrectly. Took a while for me to figure his out. I haven't used a 5 shot or similar rig as the price is a bit much without being able to try one first. I have tried a walther ppk, j frame (442), LCR, glock 26 and a LW officers 1911 on the ankle. The glock and 1911 were both horrible because of the weight. I am not a fan of the LCR as the only speed loaders that work are the HKS, the walther was pretty heavy for what it was, I would rather carry the 26. So that left the 442. I used to wear more of a shoe type booth, so the ankle holsters were a bit easier to wear. However I can tuck the 442 into the top of my zip up danners which helps to protect it against any grabs if I get tangled up with a perp. The 442 also disappears under regular pants, suit pants or jeans so it can be carried off duty as well. I also use the galco ankle lite.


Can't speak to the alien gear but can speak to the Galco calf strap. I carried a Glock 26 in an ankle rig for some time and the calf strap did help it from sliding down which not only aided in concealability but also comfort. The padding on the Galco was terrible and the rubbing of the rig on my ankle bone was awful. If I had to do it over I would have gotten an ankle holster from 5 shot leather and used a sub 14 ounce gun.

[CSW]

I've employed the Galco Ankle Glove.
Specifically designed for the G26, I've carried the G26, a Walther PPS, and the M&P9c in the same holster.[at different times.:p]
All day comfort and security.

[MDFA]

Glock 43 or a 642 in the Alessi Ankle Holster. As others have said, you really need to make a concerted effort to get used to ankle carry. Once you do you'll feel naked without it. Not necessarily the fastest mode of carry, but it beats not having a backup if you need it.

[BillSWPA]

Ankle carry is terrible for a primary gun, but much better for a small backup gun. I want the absolute smallest, lightest gun possible for this mode of carry. Currently for me that is a Kel-Tec P3AT with a Crimson Trace LaserGuard in a Galco Ankle Lite. I have never found calf straps to be helpful or comfortable.



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[Medusa]

I ordered a Desantis Die Hard for my 365 and appreciate the collective p-f wisdom on this type of holster. I hope it works ok for the limited application I have for it. We will see.

[Blades]

Anyone ever tried the Bugbite ankle holster (https://bugbiteholsters.com/the-bugbite-holster/)?

[L-2]

I ordered a Desantis Die Hard for my 365 and appreciate the collective p-f wisdom on this type of holster. I hope it works ok for the limited application I have for it. We will see.

I've ankle carried a few different (backup) guns over the years in a few different ankle holsters. I never particularly liked it.

The annoying considerations were: keeping the gun behind my ankle bone; dealing with irritating Velcro; having particular pants with the leg bottoms wide enough (with my large calves); any thumbsnaps abrading the skin of my calves; trying the stabilizing upper straps just further aggravating the Velcro annoyance.

Guns I've ankle carried are a Glock 27, S&W 642, Glock 43, S&W 640. The 642 worked the best.
Body-armor carry seemed to work the best for me (when I carried a backup on-duty.)

I PARTICULARLY LOOK FOWARD TO A REVIEW OF Rapid Butterfly's experience in the near future, hopefully.

[JodyH]

... and used a sub 14 ounce gun.

^ This ^ is all you need to know about ankle carry, no matter the holster.

[BobM]

^ This ^ is all you need to know about ankle carry, no matter the holster.

That’s true. I first tried a S&W 60 steel frame and couldn’t make it through a whole shift. I bought a 642 when they came out and it was much more comfortable.

[blues]

I carried a Glock 26 in a Galco Ankle Glove for years and lived to tell the tale.

(It's been a long time since I've worn an ankle holster now. Originally, I carried a S&W 36 on the ankle for several years before trading it toward the 36 in the mid 90's.)

[Medusa]

I’m gonna try with a 17.8 oz (claimed) firearm I already own rather than a 14 oz weapon I don’t and would have to buy. It isn’t a carry mode I expect to use often, and I’m not expecting amazing comfort.

[blues]

I carried a Glock 26 in a Galco Ankle Glove for years and lived to tell the tale.

(It's been a long time since I've worn an ankle holster now. Originally, I carried a S&W 36 on the ankle for several years before trading it toward the 36 in the mid 90's.)

I mean to say trading it toward the G26.

[Screwball]

I have a Galco Ankle Glove... which I sent to JEA Customs to have the holster changed out. He did one to fit my S&W 642-1 with LaserMax Weapon Light. Very happy with the end result, especially that he kept the loop for the calf strap.

Favorite carry gun, which was redone in NP3 Plus and converted to 9mm.

[Medusa]

The De Santis die hard I ordered less than a week ago arrived today. I had it on all day in the house and walked about 4 miles with my dog, carrying my 365. I also got their ankle wallet to carry a reload and identification and some other small stuff. Early days but it’s fine so far. I think it’ll do fine for my limited purposes. If that changes I’ll post back.

[Yung]

Early days but it’s fine so far. I think it’ll do fine for my limited purposes. If that changes I’ll post back.

How's that setup been for you?

[Medusa]

I like it a lot for the very rare situations where I can’t or choose not to belt carry a 92 variant; so far those have been on long days on my feet and moving a lot, in and out of lots of cars, and I think it’s quite practical and useful.