You don’t hear the term “belly gun” very often anymore. It used to be a phrase describing short-barreled defensive weapons, like the classic short barrel revolver. The name came from the fact that they lacked accuracy at range, instead designed for ease of concealment and “belly-to-belly” engagements.
With the advent of new CCW guns that boast accuracy beyond a few yards, the idea of belly guns was seen as outmoded. But they still have proponents, and there are valid reasons to carry one.
But since they’re no longer the standard, finding the right belly gun holster can be a challenge. So to find the right way to carry one, let’s take a closer look at belly guns, starting with why you should consider using one.
Why Carry a Belly Gun?
So why would you pick a defensive weapon that has reduced range? Well, one good reason is that most defensive shootings take three yards away or less.
Many full-power handguns are accurate at a hundred yards or more. So in short, carrying a full-powered pistol for self-defense is overkill. Especially when you consider that all that power makes a shot more likely to over-penetrate, passing through an assailant and hitting whatever is behind them.
And the range issue is only one point in the belly gun’s favor. You can learn more about the specific benefits carrying one for defense has, particularly if you’re not a professional shooter.
Which Belly Gun Holster Is Right for You?
For concealed carry, there are three main properties that you want to look for: security, access, and concealment.
Security refers to the ability of a holster to hold a weapon in place. No matter if you’re running, hanging upside-down, or getting in and out of a vehicle, your gun should stay holstered.
Access refers to your ability to draw your weapon in a hurry, even if you find yourself in a compromised position. You want to be able to reach your gun even if you’re buckled into a car seat or if an altercation goes to the ground.
And last, many municipalities that issue concealed carry permits mandate that a weapon not be visible on your person in any way. This means that not only is the gun obscured, but it leaves no prints on your clothing.
For a short barrel handgun, this is simple to accomplish. Waist, shoulder, and even belly holsters for your belly gun are all workable solutions. Which one is best for you depends on your model of firearm, your build, and your outfit.
Where it gets more complicated is finding a way to holster longer belly guns.
Yes, although we’ve only talked about handguns thus far, a short barrel shotgun or even a short barrel rifle can count as a belly gun. You’ll need a special ATF tax stamp to own one legally, but people can and do carry them. In these cases, shoulder-holsters and long jackets are often the only viable option.
Being Prepared for Close Encounters
There’s a tendency to think that having more of everything is better. In this case, more power, more range, and so on for your defensive firearm.
But that’s not necessarily true, as the belly gun and its applications show. Carried with a proper holster, it can be a great defensive choice that forces you to think carefully about how and when you use it.
But carrying a gun for self-defense is all about keeping you safe on the go. To learn how you can be secure in your home, be sure to follow all our latest household tips and guides.