Hello folks, Happy Friday.
Just the other day, I picked up a nice, gently used Ruger LCP in .380. Haven't fired it yet, but it appears to be in great shape. A touch of cosmetic wear, but otherwise perfect.
One issue I would like to ask an expert opinion on. The pistol has an attached aftermarket belt clip. I like it, actually. If I put the pistol at 1:00, I can hide it even under just a t-shirt. (I'm a small guy--6' and 150--not much padding to hide anything).
However, the LCP does not have an external safety. And I was told by 3 separate people who I consider experts (one, an MP/Embassy guard from the Marine Corp--legit firearms expert) that a holster requires both retention, and at the very least, it needs to have the trigger covered. So that one can draw the weapon, with no chance of the trigger getting grabbed by either your finger or your clothing.
I'm sure I don't have to explain my concern here--a .380, pointed directly at my manhood, without a safety. It makes me nervous. With care, on the range, it would be one thing. On the street, in a stress/SD situation? I would HATE to draw, and BANG! Pulverize my frank and beans in the process. If not, drive one into my femoral artery. I'd be dead in 30 seconds from a wound like that.
What's the verdict here? Is a belt clip a safe CCW carry? Or lose it, and pick up a suitable holster?
Thanks for any words on it. I'm an avid shooter, but do not consider myself an expert in any way. Certainly not an expert in micro-pistols like this.