Gunundrum...

Ah, Summer. Time for tank tops, shorts, flip-flops, and... .38s & .380s. Time for smaller guns that are easier to conceal; guns that slip into the pocket of your bermuda shorts without feeling like you've hoisted anchor. As we shed the heavy outer garments of winter, one of the negative aspects of the warmer weather becomes apparent: There's a lot less concealment for your concealed carry. That compact, high-capacity .40S&W semi-auto that disappeared under a sweater creates odd bulges in the oversized T-shirt as you play frisbee.

We need to be aware of two congruent effects of more tropical climes. First of all, as previously mentioned, is lack of cover. That fleece vest that hid all trace of your 1911 through the fall and winter will look as out of place in July as a straight man at a Barbara Streisand concert. Second is the activity level - when the sky is blue, the air is clear, and temps are moderate to warm, we're more likely to be out and about and moving more than in winter. We're likely to place a game of catch in the park, ride a bicycle on a trail, or simply go for a walk at this time, so security of one's sidearm is of supreme importance (as it is always, of course).

This is the time of year where the G30 sees less carry time and the J-frames or P3AT really shine. The super-light Snubbie from Hell™ fits easily in a larger pocket (like cargo shorts from LL Bean) or in a tuckable holster under a large T-shirt, polo, or other untucked shirt (Mexican wedding shirt, Hawaiian shirt, etc). The P3AT fits into just about any pocket out there, being extremely thin and very light so as not to challenge even drawstring shorts. For more active times, I've found shorts with an inner, zipper-closed pocket that is a little harder to access, but prevents the gun from unauthorized egress from the pocket...

As always, practice drawing from concealment more when changing methods. The motions involved in drawing from an IWB holster at 4 o'clock that's covered by a shirttail or vest are quite different than the motions needed to access a pocket holster and draw safely and quickly from a tight pocket. Different muscle memory, different positionings; all have to be re-learned if you're changing methods to suit your manner of carry. Some quality time with a gun loaded with snap caps is certainly in order; it's also a great time to practice drawing and dry-firing in one fluid motion (making triply sure to use ONLY inert ammunition, of course).

Don't let the change in the weather catch you off guard - practice, practice, and practice some more...

That is all.