The 1911 pistol, a legendary firearm known for its accuracy and reliability, presents unique challenges for concealed carry. Its size and weight demand careful consideration of holster placement and design. The small-of-back (SOB) position, while offering a degree of concealment, requires significant training and awareness due to its inherent risks. This guide delves into the intricacies of 1911 SOB holsters, exploring their advantages, disadvantages, and crucial safety considerations.
Understanding the Small of Back Carry Position
The small-of-back carry method positions the firearm at the small of the back, just above the beltline and below the waistline. This placement aims to conceal the weapon beneath loose clothing, making it less visible than other carry methods such as appendix carry or outside-the-waistband (OWB) carry.
Advantages of SOB Carry with a 1911
- Concealment: For those with ample clothing coverage, SOB carry can offer good concealment, especially for larger firearms like the 1911.
- Accessibility: With proper training and a well-designed holster, drawing the weapon can be relatively quick.
- Balance: Distributing the weight of the 1911 across the lower back can, for some individuals, feel more balanced than other carry methods.
Disadvantages and Risks of SOB Carry with a 1911
The disadvantages of SOB carry, particularly with a 1911, significantly outweigh the advantages, emphasizing the need for extensive training and careful consideration:
- Accessibility Issues: Drawing from the SOB position can be challenging and significantly slower than other methods due to the awkward angle and reach. This is amplified by the size and weight of the 1911.
- Print: Even with careful clothing selection, the 1911’s size can still cause printing, or an outline of the firearm becoming visible through clothing.
- Discomfort: The weight and bulk of the 1911 can be uncomfortable, particularly during prolonged periods of wear.
- Safety Concerns: This is the most critical aspect. The risk of accidental discharge is significantly higher due to the proximity of the firearm to the body, potential for snagging on clothing, and the awkward draw. The firearm's position also restricts access to the trigger guard and can make clearing a malfunction challenging and dangerous.
- Limited Mobility: The firearm's position can hinder movement, particularly bending or sitting.
- Recoil Management: Managing recoil from a 1911 while drawing from this position is exceptionally difficult.
Choosing the Right 1911 Small of Back Holster
If, after careful consideration of the risks, you choose to carry a 1911 in an SOB holster, choosing the right holster is paramount. Essential features include:
- Retention: The holster must offer sufficient retention to prevent accidental discharge or dislodgement. Consider holsters with passive retention features like a snug fit or active retention features like a thumb break.
- Material: High-quality materials such as durable Kydex or leather are crucial for long-term use and reliability.
- Comfort: Although comfort is often sacrificed with SOB carry, a well-designed holster can minimize discomfort. Padding and breathability can make a difference.
- Concealment: The holster design should minimize printing and provide maximum concealment.
- Accessibility: While speed is sacrificed with this carry method, the holster shouldn’t make drawing even more difficult.
Training and Safety Considerations
Crucially, SOB carry requires extensive professional training. This isn't a carry method to approach casually. The risks are substantial, and proper training from a qualified firearms instructor is essential to mitigate these risks. This training should specifically address:
- Safe drawing techniques: Mastering a smooth, controlled draw from the SOB position is critical.
- Malfunction clearance: Learning to clear malfunctions while carrying SOB is especially important given the awkward position.
- Reholstering techniques: Safe reholstering from this position requires precise technique to avoid accidental discharge.
- Situational awareness: Increased awareness of your surroundings is vital when carrying in this position due to the increased risk of accidental contact with the firearm.
Conclusion: Weighing the Risks and Rewards
Carrying a 1911 in an SOB holster is a high-risk, low-reward method of concealed carry. While it offers a degree of concealment, the significant safety concerns, reduced accessibility, discomfort, and limited mobility should make individuals seriously reconsider this option. If you are considering SOB carry for a 1911, exhaustive training and careful consideration of alternative, safer carry methods are strongly recommended. Seek guidance from experienced firearms instructors and prioritize safety above all else. Alternative carry methods like appendix carry or IWB carry may offer comparable or superior levels of concealment and significantly improved safety and accessibility.
