Let’s face it, some of you desperately need our help. You’re a gun guy or gal and you always get socks or a tie for Christmas. It’s demoralizing.
Let’s get transparent. Your significant other may not read content from The Arms Guide, Loadout Room, SofRep or other such meaningful literary locations. We’re going to help you out, but you may have to help yourself a bit too. Leave the screen open to this article or even print it out and lay it in the Christmas ads. You do you.
On the flip side, some of you are actually searching for what your significant other will appreciate. God bless you for your labor of love— you, my friend, are a rare individual.
Most people tell themselves that they know their loved ones rather than actually taking the time to get to know them well enough to purchase a meaningful gift. Sadly, even when they do make a legit attempt, there’s a bit of a learning curve. I don’t want you to have to weather the look of shattered dreams that happens when you get all the way to the goal line but unwittingly fumble the ball.
I can see it now. Your husband comes to Christmas morning focused on the kids. After all the presents are distributed, he notices one more and sees his name on it. He sees the little smirk on your face and he thinks, could it be. It’s the right size. You hand him the package and he thinks, it’s the right weight. He pulls off some wrapping paper and yes, it is, in fact, a handgun box. He can’t wait to remove all the wrapping paper so he simply rips the box open. There staring him in the face is a Taurus. His look of elation transitions as he attempts to fake happiness once again. He thanks you, realizing you didn’t know that you went to the right store and picked the right item but the wrong brand. So he’s grateful but let down nonetheless.
Today, I want to suggest three modestly priced back up guns that are perfect for ankle carry or IWB.
Here are my 3 best ankle guns!
You may think, he’ll never carry two guns, and he may not, but almost everyone that carries a gun has a use for a smaller-than-standard, extra concealable gun. These are three of the very best options that won’t break the bank.
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The Smith & Wesson Shield
Depending on how the Shield that you select is configured, the price will vary but options start in the low 300s. This small gun has the shooting characteristics of a much larger gun. I recommend that you get the Shield in 9mm to retain these advantageous character traits. The three major categories for this handgun are standard, the new 2.0 version, and performance center. In both the standard and 2.0 models, you will have options with an external safety and standard or night sights. Simply take a look or show an interest in his current carry gun. Does it have an external thumb safety? If so, select the thumb safety option and get the night sight version if it fits the budget. If not, get the no external safety option. This is the option I prefer (and perhaps the largest percentage of gun guys and gals agree); select either the 2.0 or standard version with no external safety and night sights included. When he or she opens that box you will see glee twinkle in his or her eyes.
Maybe your significant other already has a Shield (or three); if that’s the case, the next two options are excellent choices.
2. Ruger LCR
The Ruger LCR is available in multiple calibers. The three most popular are .38 spl, .357 mag, and 9mm. The .357 is slightly larger but shoots both .357s and .38s so if you’ve got an I like options significant other, that may be your best bet. However, in general, these guns are popular for their small size and excellent shoot-ability. The .38 is the standard and arguably maximizes the platform. Many modern shooters don’t own revolvers and most of us are hesitant to add more calibers to need to keep a running supply. I would absolutely recommend the 9mm version to you for the widest number of shooters. The usefulness and shooting characteristics are similar to the .38 and most people already have at least one 9mm handgun. If you aren’t certain, feign interest in his handguns and listen long enough to hear calibers before your eyes glaze over. I betcha you’ll hear 9mm. Also, there’s a bit of a novelty factor to owning a polymer framed lightweight revolver that’s chambered in 9mm with moon clips. It’s like having the newest technology or buying one of the new muscle cars that have lines inspired by their classic namesakes. It’s a turn on… your gun loving loved one will get it!
3. Smith & Wesson 442 Pro
This gun is a classic. Maybe you’ve got a loved one that is change-averse or maybe they just like nice classic things. If so, the 442 Pro chambered in .38 spl is the ticket. Granted, (to my feel) the triggers aren’t quite as smooth as the LCRs or the older Smiths, but the guns are still quite good. The pro, in particular, has the feel of quality about it.
If you make this selection, you simply must pair it with some VZ grips. In fact, if you like to accessorize, the 442 will be fun for you. My wife often calls mine—pretty. She enjoys shooting it as well.
If you pick the Shield, don’t forget to put a couple Mag Guts kits in his stocking. More ammo is just better.
A great stocking stuffer for any of these three amazing backup guns would be an Ankle Glove or Ankle Lite from Galco. The Ankle Glove is phenomenal, but both are great. If you follow these instructions, I guarantee a childlike look of glee on your gun-toting loved one’s face.
They will in that moment feel understood, loved, and appreciated. They may even say something like “you get me,” or “you’re the best ever.” No matter what they say to you, I promise you they’ll be singing your praise to their buddies at the first opportunity.
Congrats, you just became a high-value individual and all for less than $500.
Be well!
