Appendix carry for striker-fired pistols is insane!

Throughout my life, I’ve tried every possible  way to carry handguns, seeking a balance of accessibility, convenience, comfort, concealment, and, most importantly, safety. It can be a very challenging goal, especially when it comes to larger firearms.

When Glock popularized reliable striker-fired pistols, many manufacturers followed suit. These pistols, however, lack the traditional manual safety lever. Instead, they have a small trigger safety that must be depressed to fire the weapon.

Now, imagine pulling your gun in a high-stress situation. Recall the female Secret Service agent fumbling for her gun during the first attempt on Donald Trump’s life in Butler, Pennsylvania. If she had accidentally discharged the firearm, the risk of injury would have been minimal with a hip holster. Had she been using an appendix carry position, the consequences could have been much more serious.

Our bodies aren’t uniform. While some men might handle appendix carry without issue, the reality is that many have a bit of a belly, which makes safe appendix carry even more difficult. This method becomes particularly risky when reholstering under stress, such as after a physical altercation or while apprehending a criminal.

I strongly advocate for sticking to traditional hip or shoulder holsters. Appendix carry poses significant risks—self-inflicted injuries, including self-castration or severing the femoral artery, are real possibilities.

Most appendix carry holsters are cheap Kydex scabbards. If you’re looking for a holster, choose carefully from established manufacturers. Your life depends on it, so price should never be a concern. Personally, I’ve trusted Galco holsters for over 50 years. While they do offer some well-designed appendix models, their shoulder and hip holsters are the safest bet, providing protection without endangering the family jewels.