Thanks, Blues
I think you're probably right about carrying the light or laser all the time. Maybe I should just get used to carrying the gun first. I use the same gun for home defense so I'd like to get a light/laser for home use. Maybe I'll just have to talk my wife into another gun....
Hey, no problem. And another gun is always a good solution to almost any dilemma! :smile:
I am not personally familiar with the light/laser you said you were looking at, but I have a Streamlight TLR-2 attached to my S&W 4563TSW that I pretty much use for the same purpose you want yours for, at night and easily and quickly reached at or near bedside.
I do sometimes carry my .45, and when I do, I take the light off. The TLR-2 (and 1 also) has a spring-loaded quick release after just a quarter or half turn of the locking screw. The slot on the screw is cut so that a coin suffices as a screwdriver, so it's easy to take off and put back on. They're expensive as rail-mounted light/laser accessories go, but they're built to last, are easy to learn how to incorporate into your muscle-memory drills, the warranty is outstanding and quick (my light stopped working a few months ago and I sent it in and had it back within 10 days - no charge - and the light is at least 5 years old), and chances are they're not nearly as expensive as buying another weapon.
Anyway, you're on the right track. I wish I had a resource like this forum to seek advice from when I started carrying. I wouldn't have a drawer full of holsters, some pretty expensive, that I never use for one reason or another. Even with advice though, trial and error will still be necessary. But you can reduce the amount needed by continuing to ask questions before spending your money.
Good luck and keep us posted how it's going for ya.
Blues