Any carry method is a matter of personal choice. But over my nearly 35 years of involvement in the law enforcement community I’ve seen very little said in favor of the cross draw method of carry. We’ll talk here about the belted carry and leave shoulder holsters for another time

Frequently, the author or lecturer puts down the cross draw as too dangerous, too easily accessed by an aggressor, taken away from the owner and used against him or her. Granted, retention of one’s own firearm should always be a concern, no matter what method of carry is employed. However, should the cross draw method be forgotten? I think not. In fact, it’s become one of my favorite methods of concealed carry.

Why might someone want to use a cross draw belt holster? It would seem to me to be strictly a matter of personal comfort. Any of us who have worn a gun daily, all day knows they are seldom comfortable. In fact, it’s been said, guns aren’t supposed to be comfortable, rather, comforting. Strong side hip holsters are the mainstay of the industry, but are they the only method to be considered?

I use the cross draw mode primarily because of lingering shoulder injuries that restrict my ability to reach high for a grip above my beltline on my strong side. I can still make it, but it’s never easy, never fast, and is sometimes downright painful. In addition, I spend a fair amount of time seated in my car. Have you ever tried to draw your gun from a strong side hip holster while seated in your car? No? You should, but please use a training gun. Never practice your draw stroke with a loaded gun. A plastic training gun is always the safest...