Our I Carry video series gives you an opportunity to see what’s out there in the world of concealable defensive pistols. I Carry isn’t just about guns, however, as there’s more to the concealed-carry lifestyle than just a pistol. You need some way to have your sidearm near you when you need it, which is why we also highlight holsters that are well-suited to carrying your firearm of choice, as well has other useful gear like red-dot optics, knives, hand-held lights and other tools.
Here's the most-popular combinations of pistol, holster and other gear from this year’s crop of I Carry videos:
5. Colt Viper .357 Mag. Revolver, Dark Star Gear Holster, CRKT PSD II Knife
Revolvers figure prominently in this year’s most-watched list, which is another indication that there has been a resurgence of interest in the concealed-carry wheelgun. The Colt Viper is a prime example of a .357 Mag. fighting revolver, and a Dark Star Gear Apollo holster makes it easy to have on you when you need it the most.
A terrific trigger and legendary accuracy are just two of the reasons why a 1911 is still a viable carry gun after more than 100 years on the scene. Combine that with the increased capacity of the 9mm round in this Springfield Armory Garrison model and the fit and style of a top-notch leather holster, and you have a classic carry rig that performs at the highest level
3. Colt Python .357 Mag. Revolver, Wright Leather Works Holster, CRKT LCK + Knife
In many ways, the Colt Python revolver epitomizes the “revolver renaissance.” With it’s classic good looks and sterling reputation, the Python has stayed at top of the charts since it’s re-introduction in 2020. Add in a leather OWB holster, and you have another “retro” carry setup that’s right at home in today’s world.
2. Heritage Manufacturing Roscoe Revolver, Galco Holster, CRKT Cinco Knife
Heritage Manufacturing is known for making high-quality reproductions of the guns of The Old West. The Roscoe, on the other hand, harkens back to a different moment of history, when tough guys battled it out with tough gangsters. It’s not all hazy flashbacks with this gun, though, as it still delivers for the armed citizen of today.
And the #1 I Carry video for 2024 is…
Smith & Wesson Model 43C Revolver, ANR Design Holster, Nebo Mycro Flashlight
Think “concealed carry revolver, and chances are, you’re thinking of a small, snub-nosed .38 Spl revolver. The Smith & Wesson 43c, however, is chambered .22LR, not .38 Spl, which means its recoil is very gentle and it has three more rounds in the cylinder compared with most centerfire cartridges. .22LR might not be our first choice for a defensive cartridge, but with the right ammo (and good shot placement), it’s capable of doing the job and, as always, having a gun on you, ready for defense, is vastly better than not having one when you need it most.
