CARRYOPTIONS Sammy Reese From CLassICs to CuttING eDGe IN CarrY metHoDs RancheR Carrying a Big one MagnuM caRRy W hen I arrived at Thunder Ranch it was just about dark. I’m glad I wasn’t a few minutes later or I would have had a hard time finding the place. Lake View, Oregon is a lot more remote than downtown San Diego. After being greeted by Clint, Heidi, Roo and Boo the wonder dog, Clint handed me two revolvers and admonished me. “When going outdoors, especially with the dogs, go armed.” The puzzled look on my face caused Clint to go a step further. “It’s not for bad guys, it’s for big mean critters.” Clint and Heidi find mountain lion kills (mule deer) on the property quite frequently and didn’t want to add me to the list of carcasses found. I’m no tenderfoot, but the news put me into a different state of mind when I was walking the property. I’m used to looking for bad guys in my daily travels — lions were a whole new threat for me. I felt much better toting a big bore revolver and a rifle. C lint solved my problem of toting the S&W Model 29 by providing me with the use of his very well worn Rancher Magnum Carry Holster. Once adjusted, the rig fit over my jacket, didn’t get in the way and made access to the big boomer a piece of cake. When the skies opened up I was able to adjust the rig to fit under my raincoat. Concealed, it was slower to draw from, but it kept the rig and gun from getting soaked, and since the gear belonged to Clint there was no way I was going to damage it in any way. What I noticed about carrying a large frame revolver concealed in the Rancher rig was with the right cover garment — it could be done. And it could be done quite comfortably. I don’t think I could pull it off in my San Diego attire of shorts, t-shirt and flip flops, but if you live where it gets cold, it can be done. The Rancher Magnum Carry holster really shines when you need to have a big bore revolver with you at all times, and it has to be accessible. My . Mag 44 hen a 4" Model 29 made its way into my safe, I immediately called Jerry at Haugen Gun Leather and ordered a Rancher Magnum Carry. This system is perfect for toting my Model 29 when I go hog hunting or when my travels take me into bear or snake country. The .44, when loaded with hard cast boomers or shot shells — is what I call a problem solver. The holster is better described as a system of carry. Don’t get me wrong, this isn’t one of those inside/outside, cross draw, ankle rig combos. It’s a shoulder carry rig capable of being adjusted to your body and style of carry. For me the holster works best horizontally across my chest. Although for some people, the more vertical adjustment may be more comfortable or appropriate. At first glance the holster looks confusing, but after a quick familiarization, it makes sense and is easily adjusted. The around-the-body strap holds it close to the chest and keeps it from flapping around. The materials are robust because they have to be for carrying large pistols and revolvers. The leather is flawless and of the highest quality. The hinges, retention strap and snap, as well as the extra ammo holder are designed to outlast the user. My Rancher Magnum Carry holster is on its way to being as well-worn as Clint’s, and that, as they say, is the fun part. W * For more info: www.haugenhandgunleather.com. 70 WWW.AMERICANHANDGUNNER.COM • MAY/JUNE 2009
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