The Problems With 4 O’clock Carry

Published on January 4, 2025
Duration: 8:10

This video explores the pros and cons of carrying a firearm in the 4 o'clock position, comparing it to appendix carry. The presenter details findings on concealment, comfort, draw speed, and safety, while also highlighting potential issues like printing, exposure, and accessibility challenges when seated or in a vehicle. The analysis is based on personal experience over two weeks of testing.

Quick Summary

The 4 o'clock firearm carry position, located behind the dominant hip, offers good concealment when standing and comfort during dynamic movements. However, it presents challenges with printing during bending, increased exposure to those behind you, and potential discomfort when seated. Draw speed can be comparable to appendix carry with practice, but accessibility in vehicles and safe reholstering require careful attention.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to 4 O'Clock Carry
  2. 01:08Pros of 4 O'Clock Carry
  3. 01:10Concealment in 4 O'Clock Carry
  4. 01:36Comfort in 4 O'Clock Carry
  5. 01:55Speed of Draw in 4 O'Clock Carry
  6. 02:31Low Profile Access
  7. 03:14Safety of 4 O'Clock Carry
  8. 03:45Cons of 4 O'Clock Carry
  9. 03:48Printing Issues
  10. 04:33Exposure Risk
  11. 05:08Comfort Issues When Seated
  12. 05:54Accessibility Challenges
  13. 06:32Reholstering Difficulties
  14. 07:32Final Thoughts on 4 O'Clock Carry

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main advantages of carrying a firearm in the 4 o'clock position?

The 4 o'clock position offers good concealment when standing, is comfortable for bending and kneeling, allows for a fast draw with practice, and provides a low-profile way to access your weapon. It's also perceived as safer as the firearm points away from vital areas.

What are the primary drawbacks of 4 o'clock firearm carry?

Key disadvantages include significant printing during movement, increased exposure to individuals behind the carrier, discomfort when seated due to pressure, and potential accessibility issues in vehicles or after a fall. Reholstering can also be challenging without visual confirmation.

How does 4 o'clock carry compare to appendix carry in terms of comfort and concealment?

4 o'clock carry is generally more comfortable than appendix carry when bending or kneeling, as the firearm is less likely to dig into the body. However, appendix carry often offers superior concealment, especially when seated or wearing tighter clothing, and avoids the exposure risk of the 4 o'clock position.

What safety considerations are important for 4 o'clock firearm carry?

While the firearm points away from vital areas, the main safety concerns involve potential printing, which can alert others, and the risk of exposure to individuals behind you. Safe reholstering is critical due to the lack of direct visual confirmation, requiring strong muscle memory to prevent negligent discharges.

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