Introduction
Concealed carry is a serious responsibility. It’s a commitment to personal defense and a recognition of the need to protect yourself and your loved ones. But it’s not as simple as just strapping a firearm to your body. Concealed carry demands careful consideration of numerous factors, including comfort, concealment, accessibility, and, most importantly, safety. Selecting the *best concealed carry positions* involves understanding your body type, clothing choices, lifestyle, and the legal landscape in your area. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of various carry positions, emphasizing the pros, cons, and best applications of each, helping you make informed decisions to carry responsibly and effectively.
The challenges inherent in concealed carry are multifaceted. You need a position that allows for quick and easy access to your firearm in a defensive situation, while simultaneously maintaining a level of concealment that avoids drawing unwanted attention. Striking this delicate balance is a key element of successful concealed carry. Discomfort, a poorly chosen holster, or improper clothing can lead to printing – the telltale outline of a firearm under your clothing – potentially compromising your safety and attracting unwanted attention. Therefore, knowledge is power, and choosing the right concealed carry positions is the first step towards effective self-defense.
Core Positions: An In-Depth Look
Understanding the different available options is critical to making an educated decision. Let’s explore the primary concealed carry positions and their respective strengths and weaknesses.
The Strong Side (Three to Five O’Clock)
This traditional carry method involves positioning the firearm on the dominant side of your body, typically between the three and five o’clock positions on the belt line (imagine your body as a clock). This position is a popular choice for its accessibility and often offers a comfortable carry experience, particularly for those new to concealed carry.
Advantages of Strong Side Carry:
Easy Accessibility: The firearm is readily accessible with your dominant hand. This is particularly important in a high-stress situation where speed is paramount.
Comfort in Various Positions: Strong-side carry often provides a comfortable experience, even when seated. The holster’s positioning can be adjusted to prevent it from digging into your body.
Variety of Holster Options: The popularity of this method has led to a vast array of holsters tailored for this carry position, from IWB (Inside the Waistband) and OWB (Outside the Waistband) to hybrid designs, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your needs and preferences.
Disadvantages of Strong Side Carry:
Potential for Printing: One of the main drawbacks is the potential for the firearm to “print” through clothing, particularly with tighter-fitting shirts or thin materials. This can compromise concealment and signal your intentions to others, potentially becoming a safety concern.
Slower Draw in Restricted Positions: Depending on your body shape and the clothing you wear, drawing from this position can be slower if you are seated or in a restricted position. You may have to adjust your clothing or body posture for a clear and quick draw.
Best Suited For:
Individuals with a Larger Frame: This position is often a comfortable choice for those with a larger build, providing ample space for concealment.
Users of Loose-Fitting Clothing: Those who frequently wear jackets, oversized shirts, or other loose-fitting garments find that these clothing choices contribute to better concealment with strong-side carry.
Those Seeking Tradition: The familiar nature of this position makes it a comfortable starting point for those new to concealed carry.
Appendix Carry (AIWB – Appendix Inside the Waistband)
Appendix carry, situated at the front of your body, near the hip (the appendix), is another increasingly popular method. This position allows for deep concealment and potentially quick draw times.
Advantages of Appendix Carry:
Exceptional Concealment: When executed properly, with a well-designed holster and appropriate clothing, appendix carry offers excellent concealment, making it very difficult for others to discern that you’re carrying a firearm.
Swift Draw: The position allows for a rapid draw, which is crucial during a self-defense situation. The gun is readily accessible, and with sufficient training, a fast and accurate draw is achievable.
Protection of the Firearm: The placement of the firearm on your person protects it.
Disadvantages of Appendix Carry:
Holster Selection Is Critical: The choice of holster is particularly critical with this method. Proper holster design is a must for safety, making sure that the trigger is fully covered and that the holster doesn’t collapse when the firearm is drawn.
Adjustment Period: Some individuals may find appendix carry uncomfortable initially, requiring them to experiment with different holster designs, positions, and cant angles to achieve optimal comfort.
Safety Considerations: Due to the proximity of the firearm to vital organs, this position requires rigorous adherence to safe gun-handling practices. Accidental discharges in this position can have serious consequences.
Best Suited For:
Those Prioritizing Speed: Individuals who prioritize a quick draw and are willing to devote time to training and practice.
Responsible Gun Owners: Appendix carry demands the highest levels of gun safety.
Individuals Committed to Practice: Appendix carry requires training and experimentation to find the perfect position and holster for your body type and personal preferences.
Small of the Back (Six O’Clock)
This position involves carrying the firearm at the small of your back, around the six o’clock position. While offering excellent concealment when standing, this position comes with significant drawbacks.
Advantages of Small of the Back Carry:
Effective Concealment: The firearm can be effectively concealed, especially under a loose-fitting shirt or jacket, because it is out of sight.
Potentially Comfortable: Some individuals may find this position comfortable, especially when standing or walking.
Disadvantages of Small of the Back Carry:
Slow and Difficult Draw: Retrieving the firearm from this position is challenging and slow, especially when seated or in a confined space.
Significant Safety Risks: If you fall backward, there is a high probability of landing directly on the firearm, which could cause serious injury or accidental discharge.
Discomfort when Seated: The firearm’s placement can cause significant discomfort when sitting or leaning.
Best Suited For:
This carry position is generally *not* recommended due to its limitations and safety concerns. The drawbacks vastly outweigh the potential advantages. There are far safer and more efficient carry methods.
Crossdraw Carry (Strong Side, Opposite Hand)
With crossdraw carry, the firearm is positioned on your strong side, but drawn with your support hand, typically in front of the hip.
Advantages of Crossdraw Carry:
Convenient Draw While Seated: It offers easy access to the firearm while you are seated, making it a good option for those who spend a lot of time in a car.
Concealment Potential: The firearm can be concealed, especially under jackets or loose-fitting clothing.
Disadvantages of Crossdraw Carry:
Slow Draw on Foot: The draw can be slow and cumbersome while you are walking or standing.
May Be Difficult to Conceal: The firearm can be difficult to conceal in certain situations, such as in crowds or during warmer weather, depending on the clothing worn and the holster.
Best Suited For:
Those who Drive Frequently: People who spend a lot of time driving or sitting may find this carry position beneficial.
Those Seeking Different Options: It is an alternative for people who are looking for something different.
Off-Body Carry (Bags, etc.)
Off-body carry involves carrying your firearm in a bag, purse, or other container, rather than directly on your person.
Advantages of Off-Body Carry:
Comfort: Often, off-body carry is more comfortable, particularly during warm weather or in situations where traditional methods are difficult to employ.
Style and Clothing Flexibility: It offers more options in terms of clothing choices and allows you to carry without having to adjust your wardrobe to accommodate a holster.
Disadvantages of Off-Body Carry:
Slower Draw Time: The draw time can be significantly slower compared to on-body carry, as you have to reach into a bag.
Potential for Loss: There is a higher risk of losing the firearm or having it stolen if the bag or container is not closely monitored and well-secured.
Requires Constant Vigilance: Requires a great deal of awareness.
Best Suited For:
Physical Limitations: Individuals who might be unable to use other methods because of physical limitations may find it helpful.
Situations Where Printing Is a Major Concern: Offers a higher degree of concealment.
Holster Selection and Considerations
The holster is the linchpin of a safe and effective concealed carry setup. Its role extends far beyond simply holding your firearm; it is an integral part of safety, comfort, and draw speed.
Key Features to Prioritize:
Material: Holsters are constructed from a range of materials. Kydex offers excellent durability, retention, and molded fit. Leather offers a classic feel and molds to your body over time, but needs maintenance. Nylon is often more affordable but may not offer the same level of retention or durability. The best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Retention Level: Retention refers to how securely the holster holds the firearm. A good holster will offer a positive “click” when the firearm is holstered, providing a secure hold and preventing accidental dislodgement.
Comfort Features: Features such as sweat guards (to protect your body from the firearm) and adjustable cant (the angle at which the firearm sits) can significantly improve comfort and concealability.
Belt Compatibility: Your holster should be compatible with a high-quality belt designed for concealed carry. A sturdy belt distributes the weight of the firearm and holster, enhancing both comfort and security.
Practice Is Crucial:
Practice the draw! Spend ample time drawing and re-holstering your firearm. This trains your muscle memory and ensures a smooth, efficient draw.
Consider Professional Advice:
When in doubt, consult a qualified firearms instructor or a professional holster fitter. They can provide valuable insights and help you choose the right setup for your needs.
Clothing and Concealment Techniques
Choosing the appropriate clothing is critical. You can have the best holster in the world, but it’s useless if your clothing choice gives away your concealed weapon.
Smart Clothing Choices:
Loose-Fitting Shirts: These are essential for covering the firearm and minimizing printing.
Outerwear: Jackets, vests, and other outerwear can provide additional concealment and further reduce the likelihood of your firearm being visible.
Specialized Belts: Investing in a high-quality belt designed specifically for concealed carry is essential. A sturdy belt provides the necessary support and helps distribute the weight of the firearm.
Concealment Tips:
Proper Tucking: If you are carrying IWB, make sure that the shirt is tucked correctly.
Grip Concealment: Pay attention to the grip of your firearm.
Body Positioning: Be conscious of how you move and position your body.
Adapt to Activities: Adjust your position and clothing to ensure concealment during any situation.
Safety, Practice, and Legal Considerations
The safety of yourself and those around you is the highest priority. Responsible concealed carry demands an unwavering commitment to safety, continual practice, and a thorough understanding of the law.
Adhere to the Fundamentals:
Follow all established firearms safety rules.
Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
Never point a firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy.
Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to shoot.
Know your target and what is beyond it.
Practice, Practice, Practice:
Practice your draw regularly. Dry-fire drills are an excellent way to improve your draw speed and proficiency.
Participate in professional training courses to hone your skills.
Understand the Law:
Thoroughly understand the concealed carry laws in your state and local area.
Be aware of any restrictions on where you can legally carry a concealed firearm.
Always be prepared to provide the proper documentation if you are stopped by law enforcement.
Situational Awareness Is Key:
Develop situational awareness.
Pay attention to your surroundings.
Be aware of any potential threats.
Be prepared to make sound judgments.
Conclusion
Choosing the *best concealed carry positions* is a personal journey. There is no single solution that fits everyone. The ideal carry position depends on your body type, clothing preferences, lifestyle, and skill level. What works well for one person may not be the best choice for another. Experimentation, combined with diligent practice and safety, is key to finding the right fit. The purpose of this guide is to help you explore the options, understand the trade-offs, and choose the method that allows you to carry responsibly, effectively, and safely. Always remember to prioritize safety. Before you carry, seek guidance from a qualified firearms instructor to receive personalized instruction and advice. Responsible concealed carry can be a powerful tool for self-defense, but it demands a commitment to training, safety, and legal compliance. By investing the time and effort to learn and practice, you can significantly increase your safety and preparedness.
