I Will NOT Use a Thumb Safety for Concealed Carry - TheFireArmGuy

Published on September 22, 2016
Duration: 3:34

This guide focuses on the technique of drawing and firing a concealed handgun that features a thumb safety. The core principle is to integrate the disengagement of the thumb safety seamlessly into the draw stroke, ideally as the firearm is coming to the line of aim or just before firing. The instructor emphasizes that under stress, relying on ingrained muscle memory from consistent training is paramount, and an additional manual step like disengaging a thumb safety can hinder effectiveness in a critical incident.

Quick Summary

For concealed carry, firearms instructors often recommend handguns without thumb safeties to ensure faster deployment under stress. The added step of disengaging a manual safety can be a critical delay in a defensive encounter, where reliance on ingrained muscle memory from extensive training is paramount.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Thumb Safety Choice
  2. 00:15Arguments For Thumb Safeties
  3. 00:28Inhibiting Productivity Under Stress
  4. 00:55Exception: 1911 Platform
  5. 01:06Modern Handguns & Thumb Safeties
  6. 01:22Draw, Disengage, Fire Challenge
  7. 02:03Personal Experience: Stressful Encounter
  8. 02:43Impact of Thumb Safety in Crisis
  9. 02:52Carrying Round in Chamber vs. Safety
  10. 03:06Conclusion: Thumb Safety Inhibits Defense
  11. 03:17Final Advice: Training & Mindset

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do firearms instructors often recommend against thumb safeties for concealed carry?

Instructors often advise against thumb safeties for concealed carry because they add an extra step during a defensive draw. In high-stress situations, this extra manipulation can slow down the shooter, potentially hindering their ability to effectively defend themselves when seconds count.

How does stress affect the use of a thumb safety during a firearm draw?

Under extreme stress, cognitive functions diminish, and individuals rely heavily on muscle memory. An additional manual step like disengaging a thumb safety can be forgotten or fumbled, leading to a failure to deploy the firearm effectively when needed.

Are there any exceptions to the rule of avoiding thumb safeties for concealed carry?

Yes, the 1911 pistol platform is a notable exception. It's designed to be carried 'cocked and locked,' meaning the thumb safety is an integral part of its operation and is intended to be disengaged during the draw stroke.

What is the recommended training approach for using a handgun with a thumb safety for self-defense?

If carrying a handgun with a thumb safety, extensive and consistent training is crucial. This training should focus on integrating the disengagement of the safety into the draw stroke, practicing draw-fire drills repeatedly to build reliable muscle memory under simulated stress.

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