On the cusp of the dreadful shootings in Colorado and the circus generated by the media and politicians pushing for more gun control (again...and right before an election of course). The buzz for most second amendment lovers is: where in tar nation were all the concealed weapon people? Surely if one had been present then the story could have had a different twist. Course had there been, it may not have even made the mainstream news as they usually don't like to report stories about responsible armed citizens protecting themselves and others. The headline just doesn't carry the political weight and manipulation.

This recent story hits close to home for those who do carry with personal relevance for individual and societal protection. One of my own dilemmas since we live in the country isn't so much about intruders or being attacked in movie theaters, but protection from animals (leash laws are rather gray outside city limits) and being alone on long/empty country roads on exercise jaunts. Being torn between physical comfort and protection are seemingly at constant odds.

Biking is rather easy as I can use my Camelbak. Although the weapon is definitely tough to reach when in the rear within a zipped pocket! The weapon being for those deadly encounters not routine pest deterrents. I use a squirt bottle with vinegar in the drink rack for that.

However, on runs the equation gets a little more quirky. As weapon + friction = major ouch! I still haven't found anything that I think would remotely work. Pepper spray, a growing appealing option. Except how far would pepper spray get you when you are on the umpteenth mile with tired legs? Better carry that cell phone too! See the dilemma?

For smaller weapons such as revolvers, .380s and .22s that are light and compact there's not much of an issue. They can easily be worn in a fanny pack without too much bouncing around, but a .9mm or .45 would weigh you down and create a lot of friction. Solution? Below is an interesting article about the woes of running with weaponry and how this guy manages. Course he's only going two miles, so I could argue that the belly band wouldn't hold up for anything longer. Who knows. Something to try.

http://www.usacarry.com/running-with-your-gun/

Running With Your Gun

by Jason Hanson on JUNE 26, 2012 in ARTICLES, CONCEALED CARRY

When I was with the Agency I was probably in the best shape of my life. However, these days I still run over 2 miles every morning, but that’s about it. I don’t lift weights or do any other exercises.

The truth is, I don’t even like running. I know some folks who are all into running and sign up for marathons and the whole nine yards, but not me. I only run because I feel like it gives me energy for the rest of my day and helps me be more productive.

Of course, when it comes to running one of the most common questions I get asked is what do I do with my gun? Well, for running, I believe there are two really good options. The first option is the fanny pack. My wife likes the fanny pack, however I do not use this option and don’t plan to anytime soon. But if that’s the only way you can carry a gun when you’re exercising, by all means do it.

The Belly Band…

When I’m running my 2 miles every morning I use a Belly Band. If you’re not familiar with the Belly Band it’s basically a long elastic band that you put around your waist. It has a space for your gun and a space for your magazine.

The Belly Band goes underneath your shirt, so you need to make sure to wear a loose fitting shirt so the gun won’t print through. In other words, the super tight spandex shirts won’t cut it if you’re wearing a Belly Band.

Also, when it comes to the location of where to actually wear the band I’ve seen people wear it a million different ways and it’s all up to you. Some folks wear the band around their hips right at the waistline and prefer to carry the gun in the “appendix” position.

I don’t like to do this…

Because I don’t think it’s a good idea to have the gun pointing at my body and legs. Other people like to carry the gun at their waistline in the 3 o’ clock traditional position. This is more where I prefer to carry it.

One of the most important factors you need to consider when choosing a position is how easily can you access the gun? If I were you, I would put on the Belly Band and with a safe and empty weapon, practice your draw a few times. If you’re having trouble getting the gun out, you need to try something different.

Also, if you choose to use the Belly Band, you don’t want to let the world know you’re carrying a gun. I’ve known people who like to touch the gun every two seconds just to make sure it’s there. This is a dead giveaway you’re carrying a gun, so resist the temptation. (Resist this temptation no matter where you’re carrying the gun.)

Lastly, I’ve attached a picture to show you what the Belly Band looks like with the Ruger LCP that I run with. I’ve put the band on over my shirt and a little higher on my body just to make things easier.

Stay safe while exercising.

About Jason Hanson

Jason Hanson is a former CIA officer. He’s also an NRA Certified Instructor, a Utah Concealed Firearms Permit Instructor and an Eagle Scout. Jason believes there are few things in life as important as being able to protect yourself and your loved ones. That’s why he’s giving away a free report titled, “Insider Secrets of Buying Your First Concealed Carry Firearm” atConcealed Carry Academy. You can also follow him on Google+ and Twitter.