NRA Gun Gear of the Week: Rob Leatham on Carry Guns

Published on July 13, 2018
Duration: 6:42

Rob Leatham, a renowned pistol shooter, discusses key considerations for choosing a carry gun. He emphasizes that the most important factor is actually carrying the firearm, meaning it must be small and light enough for the user's lifestyle. Leatham also stresses the balance between effective stopping power and shootability, advocating for a gun that the user is comfortable practicing with. He highlights reliability and the importance of the first few shots, suggesting that while smaller calibers like .380 ACP are suitable for pocket carry, larger calibers like .45 ACP in a more substantial platform offer greater confidence for those willing to carry them in a holster.

Quick Summary

Rob Leatham emphasizes that the most critical aspect of a carry gun is its carryability – it must be small and light enough for you to consistently carry it. He also highlights the importance of balancing stopping power with shootability, ensuring you can reliably hit your target. Reliability and the effectiveness of the first few shots are paramount, with single-stack designs offering concealment advantages.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction with Rob Leatham
  2. 00:21Most Important Consideration for Carry Guns
  3. 00:26Carryability vs. Firearm Size
  4. 00:54Balancing Size, Weight, and Power
  5. 01:01Stopping Power vs. Shootability
  6. 01:15The 911 380 as a Pocket Gun
  7. 01:29Holster Carry for More Power
  8. 01:45Springfield Armory 1911 DS 45 ACP
  9. 02:06Magazine Capacity vs. Effectiveness
  10. 02:17The .45 ACP Caliber Discussion
  11. 02:23Data on Defensive Handgun Use
  12. 02:37Importance of First Shots
  13. 02:49Bullet Diameter Matters
  14. 02:59Carry as Much Gun as You're Comfortable Shooting
  15. 03:14The Ultimate Carry Gun Criteria: Reliability
  16. 03:25Single Stack Magazine Advantages
  17. 03:52Thin Frame and Concealment
  18. 04:01Caliber Choice for Smaller Guns
  19. 04:13The Sweet Spot of Size and Package
  20. 04:17Learn to Shoot and Practice
  21. 04:35Concealing a .45 ACP
  22. 05:01The First Rule of a Gunfight: Have a Gun
  23. 05:10Debunking Urban Myths in Firearms Training
  24. 05:20Three Essential Elements of a Gunfight
  25. 05:38Lt. Col. Wigger on 'Only Hits Count'
  26. 06:03The Impact of Misses in Shooting
  27. 06:16Shootability and Willingness to Practice
  28. 06:26Springfield Armory and American Rifleman Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important factor when choosing a concealed carry gun?

According to Rob Leatham, the most crucial factor is that the gun must be small and light enough for you to be willing to carry it consistently. If you don't have it with you, it cannot be used for self-defense, making its other features irrelevant.

How does stopping power relate to a carry gun's shootability?

There's a balance to be struck between a firearm's stopping power and its shootability. You need a gun that is effective but also comfortable enough for you to practice with and reliably hit your targets under stress.

What are the advantages of single-stack magazines for concealed carry?

Single-stack magazines allow for a flatter and thinner firearm profile, which significantly aids in concealment. This design is particularly beneficial for larger calibers like .45 ACP, making them easier to carry discreetly.

What is Rob Leatham's philosophy on magazine capacity for carry guns?

Rob Leatham believes that while capacity is a factor, the reliability of the first few shots is more critical in most defensive encounters. Data suggests that the average defensive handgun use doesn't deplete a full magazine, making the effectiveness of the initial rounds paramount.

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