Your firearm should have its own dedicated pocket and holster. Nothing else should be stored with it. When you reach for your firearm, it must be the only thing you can grab.
The triggerguard should always be covered to avoid foreign items such as keys, pens or lipstick tubes from getting into the triggerguard and causing an accidental discharge.
You must be in control of your weapon at all times. That means you don’t let anyone keep an eye on it or let it get out of arm’s reach. Yes, that means you take it with you when you use public restrooms. You must have access to your firearm at a moment’s notice and cannot rely on others to assume your responsibility.
If straps are available, make sure you carry cross-body to prevent someone from taking the gun off your shoulder.
Practice with your concealed-carry method. The ability to access your firearm and get it into the fight must be second nature. Having a concealed weapon is only useful if you can use it properly and get to it quickly.
Carrying concealed means other people cannot see your firearm. Be aware of flashing, which is unintentionally exposing your handgun. This can happen if your weapon is not properly concealed. Consider the possibilities while paying for something at a checkout counter if an uninformed clerk or another customer sees your handgun. Although you might be following the law, other people might believe they need to engage you or call the police. Either way, it will probably ruin your day.
Be responsible and discreet. Do not show your concealed weapon to others, and don’t tell others you’re carrying a concealed weapon. That goes against the purpose of carrying concealed. If the topic arises, and someone wants to know what you carry and how you carry it, invite them to the range, and share what you know.
The right to keep and bear arms is a freedom we treasure and enjoy. For those who want to exercise this right, it’s important to take the necessary steps to be a responsible gun owner. That might include carrying your weapon concealed. There are many reasons why someone might carry a concealed weapon, but you must decide how you’ll tote it. Deciding to carry concealed is a huge responsibility, and how you carry is a major part of that. There are two options for concealed carry: on-body or off-body. Carrying a concealed weapon on your body is obviously the most secure method, as the weapon never leaves your body. The off-body option means you stow the firearm in something that’s not a part of your body, so it requires additional considerations. If you choose off-body carry, please keep these seven considerations in the gallery above in mind.
