Concealed Carry Methods

So, just how do you hide your weapon?

Keep in mind: Allowing your weapon to be seen is called "brandishing", and depending on your area, is most likely unlawful. When you carry a concealed weapon, you must make certain you take all safety measures so that you can conveniently conceal your weapon without risking it being seen.

There are numerous means to carry a concealed weapon. Just how you conceal your weapon is up to you and will be based upon a number of aspects, such as clothing, temperature, work circumstance, simplicity of access, etc.

Conventional Belt Holster

Conventional Belt Holsters are among the most widely suggested methods of hiding your weapon.

Inside-the-pants holsters, external holsters, shoulder holsters and small of the back holsters are all suggested at different times.

Pros

Easy
Functional
Easily concealed under a jacket or loose piece of clothing
Ideal for a fast draw

Cons

Can not usually be used with a t-shirt or other tight fitting clothing because it will more easily print
Easily exposed if jacket or loose piece of clothing removed
Can be uncomfortable when sitting

Fanny Pack

There are large and small fanny packs particularly designed to hold a hidden gun. It is normal for concealed carry fanny packs to come with multiple compartments for additional magazines, flashlights, etc

Pros
Does not interfere in daily tasks
Completely independent of clothes (you do not have to use a jacket or loose piece of clothing to hide it)
Easy to use and remember, as it is connected to your person
Blend in with others who carry fanny packs for personal usage

Cons

Does not go with formal dress (suit, dress, etc.)
People carrying concealed weapons, educated civilians, or police officers could recognize your concealed carry fanny pack for just what it is

Day Pack/Back Pack

If you desire to carry and conceal a bigger weapon, or just wish the added storage space, a day pack or back pack is yet another choice to carry your concealed weapon.

Pros

Extra storage
Easy to carry
Very discreet

Cons

Poor access
Must take it off to sit down or carry out some tasks
Purse and Shoulder Bag/Briefcase

Women can easily carry concealed weapons in their purses, and every person can easily conceal a weapon in a shoulder bag or briefcase. Specific concealed carry models are offered.

Pros

Can be used with formal dress (suit, dress, etc.)
Discreet
Extra storage space

Cons

Target for crooks (purses especially)
Can be placed down and forgotten

Thigh Holster (Women)

When using a dress or skirt, women might opt for a thigh holster.

Pros

Very discreet
Can be used with formal dress

Cons

Must be aware of the height of your hem when sitting down so it does not ride up
Take care when sitting to keep legs securely together

Ankle Holster

For small concealed carry weapons, an ankle holster could be used, especially with boots.

Pros

Very discreet with boots or loose pants
Light and out of the way

Cons

Awkward access
Can not use with tight pants or short pants

Photographer's Vest

A really functional piece with lots of storage space, a photographer's vest can easily be worn for concealed carry.

Pros

Large, safe pockets
Lots of storage space
Lightweight

Cons

Does not go with formal dress (suit, dress, etc.)
People carrying concealed weapons, knowledgeable civilians, or police officers may recognize your concealed carry photographer's vest for exactly what it is

Holster Shirt

Holster your compact handgun in your shirt with a holster shirt.

Pros

Lightweight
Easy to wear
Very discreet

Cons

Poor access (must unbutton or open your top/outer shirt to access your firearm)

Pocket

If your weapon is small enough, you might be able to fit it inside of your pocket. It is easier to fit inside of a coat pocket, however you could also be able to use a cargo pant pocket or something comparable.

Pros

Easily obtainable
Can be discreet

Cons

If you are utilizing a jacket pocket, you can easily leave it behind
Can only fit relatively compact weapons in an average pocket
May be unbalanced unless you carry additional magazines in an additional pocket

Other/Unconventional

There are lots of other means to hide your weapon, however you should bear in mind that the leading goal is to keep your weapon out of sight and concealed. Below are some non-traditional concealed carry answers, mostly for really little weapons.

Change purse
Specialty add-ons (belt buckles, pocketbooks, holster grips)
Belt pouch
Hollowed out book
Paper bag
Cigarette case
Camera case
Package
Bra

Remember, you'll need to find out whether or not you need to take a concealed carry class or course before you get your license or permit. Check out www.concealedcarryclass.net in order to find out whether your state requires you to take these steps.