I was browsing through gun publications and noticed that one of the common themes was what people actually carried daily. So, since we’re all locked down – and with a little bit of irony – I thought why not cover my “possibles” that are on me every day.
These days, when I’m not teaching, I’m carrying revolvers. I’m a big fan of the modern defensive ammo in .38 Special and .357 Magnum. They do a great job of stopping danger. Revolvers are easy to use with right or left hand. For close quarters, where most defensive situations occur, revolvers have fewer malfunctions than semi autos. The revolver can be jammed against the threat’s body and still fire. Plus, wheel guns are not recoil operated so “limp-wristing” isn’t a problem.
I normally carry two. One on the strong side hip, and another either on the support side or in an ankle holster. Extra ammo, which will fit both revolvers is usually carried in a 3x2 pouch on the front of my support side where I can get to it with either hand.
A flashlight is mandatory for carry. Most conflicts take place in low-light environments. The light can be used as a communication device – one of the oldest methods of long-distance communication was light from fires. It can be used as an impact weapon. Concentrating all your power into a small, hard surface is much better that striking with flesh and bone. It’s needed to navigate unfamiliar terrain, and of course locate, I.D. and -- if needed -- engage a threat. A bright light flashed in the eyes of a threat – maybe even before you’ve determined they represent danger – can buy you a little time to formulate a response. Light on, off then move. They won’t be able to tell where you are. Plus, once you start carrying a light you’ll wonder how you ever did without; you’ll find yourself using it for all kinds of reasons.
I carry a Streamlight Pro Tac 2L in my left rear pocket. My wallet keeps it indexed on the outboard side of the pocket, and I can get to the rear pocket pretty much regardless of what position my body is in. I’m also a big fan of the Streamlight Stylus, the AAA battery model. This is good for admin tasks, and if necessary puts out enough light to navigate, locate, identify and if necessary engage a threat.
Clipped in my right front pocket I carry a Spyderco Delica. A pocket knife is mandatory. In most areas you can carry one legally, although there are length restrictions. It doesn’t have to be a “tactical” blade, but I consider a locking blade mandatory. I also carry a small “old man’s knife” in my left side pocket.
Sure, I usually have a carbine in my truck. Most often it’s a lever gun so I’ve got commonality of ammo between my handguns and the carbine. But, as they say, “When trouble comes, whatever you have on you is what you’ll use.” So, I don’t count it as carry gear.
Throw in my old flip phone and you’ve got my daily carry gear. (I also travel with a little “emergency” cash, just in case something pops up where it’s needed.) It doesn’t matter where I am – home, work or play – if I’m wearing pants I’ve got my carry gear.
My kit is constantly evolving. I began with a .38 Special, then a Hi Power. For most of life it was a 1911 every day as a primary. Now, I’m back to revolvers. If you haven’t got your everyday carry sorted out now is a good time to nail it down. Someday, the “stay at home” thing will be done, so make sure you’re ready.
Tiger McKee is director of Shootrite Firearms Academy, which is celebrating its twenty-fifth anniversary. He is the author of The Book of Two Guns, AR-15 Skills and Drills, has a regular column in American Handgunner and makes some cool knives and custom revolvers. Visit Shootrite’s Facebook page for other details.
