re: m1911 ROCK ISLAND COMMANDER

Question
Hi!  Just want to know if putting a beavertail on my GI model
can still consider as a concealed carry gun?
Can you give me some tips in concealing gun when travelling on
a public utility vehicle. thanks in advance

Answer
Rickie,

Putting a beavertail on your M1911 doesn't really affect whether it is a carry gun or not.  Depending on the physical size of the individual, concealed carry of a full size 1911 is certainly possible.  

If you carry in a quality holster that protects the trigger, concealed carry of a "cocked and locked" 1911 can be safe. I would not recommend carry of this type of weapons without a holster.  The likelihood of the safety disengaging and an AD could be pretty high.

As far as carrying in a 'public utility vehicle', there are two things I would check on first.  

One, is it against the company's policy to carry a firearm on the job?  I'm not saying that should affect your decision, but it should be an informed decision.  If you could lose your job if they find out you carry at work, you should know that up front.

Two, do you possess a valid concealed carry permit in your state of residence?  If the answer is "no", you are placing your self at risk of arrest and prosecution for violating firearms laws in your state.  Depending on where you live, this could be a very serious crime.

If you do have a concealed carry permit, then the concealment options are varied.  Personally, I don't like the idea of concealing the firearm in a vehicle if I am going to be away from the vehicle or if there are others around.  

I want complete control of my firearm at all times, therefore, I am an advocate of 'on body carry'.  My personal favorite is 'inside the waistband' carry in a proper holster at either the "5:00" position on my body or an appendix carry which would be at the "1:00" position.

There are certainly a variety of other possible locations on the truck, including the obvious map pocket and glovebox.  The key thing in your choice of concealment spots should be ease of access and security of the firearm.  You want to insure it is safe from both prying eyes and from bouncing around inside the vehicle if you have to brake quickly.

Hope this helps you out!

Regards,

Doug