Cocked and locked carry for 1911s - I have seen all sorts

by sjcollins , SW Missouri, Tuesday, August 28, 2018, 10:08 (2280 days ago) @ stonewalrus

I've carried a 1911 for a long time, and have never felt unsafe carrying cocked and locked, or felt the need for a safety strap. I've carried them in leather and kydex, but always fully loaded, hammer back, safety on. Anyone who tells you you'll have time to rack the slide and put one in the chamber, under stress, is a fool.

There is a learning curve to them, so I do recommend spending a good deal of time getting used to the operation of one before carrying it. If you can swing it, a trip to Gunsite, either the ranch itself or hitting up one of the traveling classes, would serve you well. Rob Leahy at Simply Rugged can set you up with good carry and training gear.

My only other piece of advice is on magazines. Don't skimp on them! Wilson Combat or Chip McCormick are the best. Get at least 6 of them, along with some dummy rounds to practice loading, unloading and malfunction drills.