Two is one; one is none. That’s why we all carry a backup gun, right? Honestly, sometimes I can’t even convince myself to carry a spare magazine—so would I really need a spare gun?
In this article, we’ll discuss the idea behind backup guns, their pros and cons, and real-world situations where having one made a difference — or could have.
Backup Guns in The Real World
Before researching this article, I would have guessed there were only a few recorded instances of backup guns saving lives. Little did I know I’d find a dozen cases where a police officer and even an armed civilian switched to their backup gun and saved lives.
One that stood out involved a state trooper ambushed by two thugs. They disarmed him of his primary weapon and held him hostage. When the opportunity presented itself, he drew a revolver from his pocket, took one criminal as a human shield, and was able to get both to surrender.
And there are several more examples. Famed Stakeout Cop Jim Cirillo often carried multiple firearms. One NYPD Stakeout member once fired all his rounds from an Ithaca 37 and a 1911 before finally drawing a third revolver to finish the fight.
In the Miami Shoout, two of the five agents had backup guns, and both drew and used them. One FBI Agent emptied his shotgun, then drew his duty revolver to finish the fight.
Rolex dealer Lance Thomas became a famed gunfighter after winning multiple gunfights against armed robbers. After his first gunfight, he decided to purchase three more guns and conveniently place them around his work area. In one gunfight, he took on three robbers and used three of his handguns. Lance got into two more gunfights. In both, his main gun went dry, and he reached for a spare to finish the fight.
What Ifs
Looking back at armed encounters, there are several famed gunfights where a backup gun could have been beneficial. In the Newhall Incident, CHP Trooper Pence was slowly reloading his revolver when the bad guy murdered him. A spare revolver would have been faster to draw and easier to use than reloading.
While two of the five FBI agents in the Miami Shootout had backup guns, would the fight have ended faster if the other three had spare guns as well? Two of them certainly could have used one—one agent emptied his primary revolver, and another’s S&W 459 was rendered inoperable. That took two guns out of the fight, giving the rifle-armed bad guy the upper hand.
Clearly, backup guns can be beneficial.
What’s a Backup Gun?
The backup gun is your spare rod to accompany your main gun. There are plenty of reasons to carry a backup gun, but the biggest is reliability — if your primary gun breaks or malfunctions, a backup keeps you in the fight. You might also carry a spare to arm a loved one, or because drawing a second gun can sometimes be faster than reloading.
That’s the general idea behind the backup gun. It’s a spare that accompanies your main gun. Typically, a backup gun is smaller than your main gun. This is especially true with armed professionals. A cop carrying a Glock 17 might pack a Glock 26 as a backup.
For concealed carriers already using a compact firearm, a backup might be the same size or slightly smaller. If you’re carrying a J-Frame, then a second J-Frame makes a lot of sense.
It’s usually a smart idea to carry a backup gun that matches your main gun in some way. Carrying a Glock 26 beside a Glock 17 makes sense — they are remarkably similar and can share magazines.
Although many folks like a J-frame as a backup for its small size, it has mighty punch potential. Plus, revolvers are simple and easy to operate — if you’re reaching for your backup, things have gotten terrible.
Pros Of a Backup Gun
The first rule of a gunfight is to have a gun. If your primary gun runs dry, breaks, malfunctions, or fails in any other way, you are breaking rule #1. A backup weapon helps satisfy rule #1 when the main gun goes down.
Depending on how you carry it, swapping to your spare gun can be faster than reloading your main gun.
Additionally, you may find yourself in a situation where you can’t reach your main gun. A second gun may be more accessible, especially if carried somewhere off the waistline.
A backup gun can allow you to employ multiple tactics. An appendix-carry gun can be drawn quickly and easily in an emergency, while a pocket gun allows for a covert grip if your spider-sense is tingling.
Cons Of a Backup Gun
Two guns mean twice the training. You need to be proficient not just with both firearms, but also with two holsters, two types of draws, and potentially two types of reloads.
Cost is also a big factor. Guns and quality holsters are expensive, and now you’re doubling up. That’s a lot of money for a tool that you may never use.
Last but not least, concealed carriers should also check their local laws to ensure they can carry two guns. As an example, the State of New Mexico only allows you to carry one gun.
Is it A Necessity?
Is a backup gun a necessity? I don’t think so. It can be a best practice, especially for armed professionals. If your job is to carry a gun and defend the public, having a spare gun is a good idea. You’re openly armed, and your job is to confront threats, so being prepared for all situations seems wise. If I was a police officer and I could, I would carry a backup gun.
For the average Joe, it’s less necessary but not totally off the table. For a short time — earning less than $10 an hour — I transported cash and valuables in a marked van. It was no armored car, but having five grand and a lot of electronics makes you a target.
I carried a backup gun.
If your job puts you at higher risk — whether from criminals or working in a high-crime area — I can see the argument for carrying a spare. But for most people, one gun is enough.
Your Backup
Carrying a backup gun doesn’t mean you’re paranoid. It means you’re prepared. But if you’re going to go through the hassle of carrying a backup gun, then go through the hassle of being well-trained with it.
Ultimately, it’s a personal decision. Weigh the pros and cons and consider your lifestyle to see if it makes sense for you.
