7 Common Concealed Carry Mistakes Many People Make
Common concealed carry mistakes can turn a safe practice into a potential risk, even for experienced carriers. In my experience, a few recurring errors—from using the wrong holster to skipping essential training—create unnecessary challenges that compromise both comfort and safety.
This post breaks down seven key pitfalls that many people overlook, providing clear advice and practical tips to refine your concealed carry routine. You’ll notice that mistake number seven is one almost everyone makes; its subtle nature often leads to significant issues if not addressed.
Read Our 5 Step Guide to Concealed Carry
Common Concealed Carry Mistakes
Even experienced carriers can make mistakes that impact safety and comfort. Small errors can lead to bigger issues. Below is a list of pitfalls with practical advice to improve your everyday carry setup.
1. Wrong Holster Choice
One of the most prevalent mistakes in concealed carry is selecting the wrong holster. This error can manifest in two major ways:
- Inadequate Trigger Guard Protection: A holster that doesn’t fully shield the trigger can lead to accidental discharges. If the trigger is exposed or easily accessible when the gun is holstered, you risk it catching on clothing or other objects.
- Mismatch with Carry Position: Not all holsters are suitable for every carry position. For instance, a holster designed for appendix carry might not work well if you switch to carrying at the small of your back, due to differences in comfort, accessibility, and concealment.
Choosing the right holster involves considering the type of firearm you’re carrying, your body type, the specific carry position, and your daily activities. A well-chosen holster not only enhances safety but also ensures comfort and effective concealment throughout your day. Remember, the holster can be as crucial as the firearm itself in a concealed carry setup.
Read: Best Holsters For Concealed Carry
2. Bad Carry Position
Choosing where to carry your firearm is as critical as selecting the right holster, and some carry positions are more problematic than others:
- Small of the Back: Carrying at the small of the back can be uncomfortable when sitting, and it poses a higher risk of injury if you fall backward. It’s also less accessible in an emergency.
- Ankle Carry: While it might be concealable, drawing from the ankle can be slow and awkward, especially if you’re seated or on the move. It’s less practical for quick access in most scenarios.
- Off-Body Carry: Storing your firearm in a purse, backpack, or other off-body solutions might seem convenient, but it significantly increases the risk of theft or misplacement. If you must carry off-body, ensure your firearm is in a dedicated, secure compartment with a holster that protects the trigger. While it’s better than not carrying at all, it’s far from ideal for quick, reliable access.
Even positions that are not outright “bad” might not be optimal for everyone. For example:
- Appendix Carry can be excellent for accessibility but might not suit all body types or lifestyles due to comfort issues or wardrobe constraints.
- Pocket Carry is discreet but can lead to slow draw times and might not work with all firearms or clothing choices.
The ideal carry position balances comfort, concealment, and accessibility, tailored to your daily routine, clothing, and personal physique.
Experimenting with different positions might be necessary to find what works best for you, keeping in mind that what feels right at home might not be as practical in your everyday environment.
Read: Guide to Concealed Carry Positions
3. Not Using a Concealed Carry Belt
Many people overlook the importance of using a proper concealed carry belt, opting instead for a regular belt or, in some cases, forgoing a belt altogether. However, this choice can significantly compromise your carry experience:
- Stability: A concealed carry belt is designed to support the weight of your firearm without sagging or twisting. Regular belts often lack the necessary rigidity, causing your holster and gun to shift, which can lead to discomfort and less concealment.
- Comfort: A dedicated carry belt distributes the weight of your firearm more evenly around your waist, reducing pressure points and making long-term carry more bearable. Without it, you might find yourself adjusting your holster frequently or dealing with an uncomfortable dig from the gun into your body.
- Concealment: The right belt helps maintain the gun’s position close to your body, minimizing printing (the outline of the gun showing through your clothes). A floppy or thin belt can’t keep the holster in place as effectively, leading to visible bulges or movement of the firearm.
- Daily Carry Consistency: Wearing a good concealed carry belt not only makes carrying more comfortable but also encourages consistent daily carry. When you know your setup is stable and comfortable, you’re more likely to carry every day rather than selectively based on comfort or occasion.
In essence, investing in a quality concealed carry belt can transform your concealed carry experience from an occasional hassle to a seamless part of your daily routine. It’s an often underappreciated component of the concealed carry setup, yet it plays a pivotal role in ensuring your gear stays where it should, both for safety and practicality.
Read: Best Concealed Carry Belts
4. Poor Gun and Ammo Choice
Selecting the right firearm and ammunition for concealed carry isn’t just about choosing a reputable brand; it’s about ensuring the gun fits your lifestyle, carry method, and personal needs:
- Gun Size and Fit:
- Too Small: Opting for the smallest gun possible might seem ideal for concealment, but it often comes with trade-offs like increased recoil, lower ammunition capacity, and potentially less reliability. These factors can make shooting less comfortable and effective, potentially deterring regular practice.
- Too Large: Conversely, carrying a gun that’s too large for your body or carry method can lead to poor concealment, discomfort, and might even discourage you from carrying at all. It’s vital to find a balance where the firearm is concealable, manageable in terms of recoil, and has adequate capacity for self-defense.
- Finding the Right Fit:
- Your carry gun should be something you can comfortably carry, conceal, and shoot well. This might require trying out different models and sizes to see which one works best with your chosen carry position (e.g., appendix, hip, etc.) and clothing style.
- Ammunition Selection:
- Self-Defense Ammo: For everyday carry, you should use ammunition specifically designed for self-defense. Hollow point rounds are typically recommended because they expand upon impact, increasing stopping power while reducing the risk of over-penetration. This consideration is crucial not only for the effectiveness of stopping a threat but also for minimizing collateral damage.
- Practice Ammo: Ball (FMJ – Full Metal Jacket) ammunition is excellent for range practice due to its lower cost. However, it’s not ideal for carry because of its tendency for over-penetration through targets, which could endanger bystanders.
For Gun Size Comparison:
| Gun Size | Recoil | Capacity | Concealment | Suitable Carry Positions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | High | Low | Excellent | Appendix, Pocket, Ankle |
| Medium | Moderate | Medium | Good | Hip, Appendix, IWB |
| Large | Low | High | Poor | OWB, Shoulder |
For Ammunition Types:
| Ammo Type | Cost | Stopping Power | Over-penetration Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Defense (Hollow Point) | High | High | Low |
| Practice (FMJ) | Low | Medium | High |
Choosing the right combination of firearm and ammunition can make a significant difference in both your comfort and confidence with concealed carry. It’s about finding what works for you in real-world scenarios, not just at the range.
Ensure your choice supports your ability to carry daily, shoot accurately, and respond effectively if the need arises, all while keeping safety paramount.
Read: Best Concealed Carry Guns
Read: Best Concealed Carry Ammo
5. Not Knowing Your State/Local Laws
It’s crucial to be well-versed in the concealed carry laws of your state and locality. Understanding these regulations is essential for making informed decisions while carrying:
- State Variability: Laws regarding concealed carry can vary dramatically from one state to another. Some states require permits, while others do not; some have reciprocity agreements with other states, and some have very specific restrictions on where you can carry.
- Local Regulations: Beyond state laws, cities or counties might have their own set of rules. For instance, certain buildings, public spaces, or events might be off-limits for concealed carry, even if general state law allows it.
- Staying Informed: Laws can change, and ignorance of the law is not a defense. Regularly checking with local law enforcement or legal resources, or participating in community forums, can help keep you updated on any changes or nuances in the law.
- Personal Responsibility: While you might not agree with every aspect of these laws, knowing them ensures you can navigate your daily life with the firearm safely and legally. This knowledge allows you to make choices that align with your personal ethics while weighing the legal ramifications.
Understanding the legal landscape where you live and travel helps you make informed decisions about carrying and using your firearm. Knowing the potential legal consequences of your actions allows you to navigate situations with confidence and responsibility, reducing the risk of unexpected legal issues.
6. Neglecting Training
Regular training is fundamental to being a responsible and effective concealed carrier, yet it’s often one of the most overlooked aspects:
- Shooting Practice: Regular range time is crucial. It’s not just about becoming proficient with your firearm but also about maintaining that proficiency. Your skills can degrade over time without practice, leading to hesitation or inaccuracy when it matters most.
- Concealed Carry Specific Training:
- Classes: There are numerous courses tailored specifically for concealed carry, covering topics like drawing from concealment, managing clothing, and situational awareness. These classes can simulate real-world scenarios you might face, providing practical skills beyond just shooting.
- Scenario-Based Training: Learning how to react in various situations, including stress and low-light conditions, can be invaluable. Many courses include force-on-force or simulation training to prepare you mentally and physically for the unexpected.
- Gear Familiarity:
- With Your Carry Gun: Each firearm has its own feel, trigger pull, and operation. Regularly training with the gun you carry ensures you’re as familiar with it as possible, reducing the chance of malfunctions or hesitation in use.
- Optics and Accessories: If you use red dots, night sights, or other accessories, practice with them. Red dots, for instance, require different aiming techniques compared to iron sights. You need to be adept at using whatever tools you’ve chosen for your setup.
- Holster and Draw Practice: Drawing from concealment is an art in itself. Training with your chosen holster system helps in mastering a smooth, quick, and safe draw under various conditions and clothing.
- Continual Learning: The landscape of self-defense, firearm technology, and legal considerations is always evolving. Staying educated through ongoing training, whether through formal classes, workshops, or even online resources, keeps your skills sharp and your knowledge current.
Neglecting training can lead to complacency and a false sense of security. It’s not just about the ability to hit a target; it’s about integrating your firearm into your life in a way that’s safe, effective, and responsible.
Remember, the goal of training is not just to be good at shooting but to be prepared for all aspects of concealed carry.
7. Not Carrying Every Day
This is a mistake almost everyone has made at some point: deciding to leave the gun at home for just one day. However, it’s critical to remember that the need for your firearm can arise unexpectedly, often on days when you least anticipate it:
- Unpredictability: Emergencies don’t schedule appointments. The day you choose not to carry might be the very day you encounter a situation where having your firearm could make a significant difference.
- Routine and Habit: Carrying daily helps in establishing a routine where your firearm becomes a natural part of your daily attire. This habit ensures you’re prepared even on days that seem innocuous.
- Consistency: Consistent carry means you’re always ready, reducing the chance of being caught off-guard. It’s about more than just physical readiness; it’s also about mental preparedness. When carrying is part of your everyday life, you’re more likely to maintain situational awareness.
- Our Motto: Carry Safe, Carry Smart, and Carry Daily – This isn’t just a catchy phrase; it’s a philosophy. Carrying safely and smartly involves understanding your gear, knowing the laws, and being trained. But carrying daily is the foundation that supports all these principles.
Daily carry isn’t just about self-defense; it’s about peace of mind, knowing you’re prepared for whatever might come your way. Adopting this as a daily practice can transform your approach to personal security, ensuring you’re always equipped to handle unexpected situations with the responsibility and preparedness they demand.
Conclusion
Mastering concealed carry involves more than just owning a firearm. It’s essential to avoid common pitfalls by selecting the appropriate gun and ammunition tailored to your lifestyle and carry method.
A proper holster and belt significantly enhance comfort and stability, making daily carry more practical. Understanding and adhering to your local laws is crucial for carrying responsibly and legally.
Regular training, including both shooting practice and scenario-based exercises, ensures you’re prepared and proficient. Finally, make carrying a daily habit to ensure you’re always ready for the unexpected. Remember our motto: Carry Safe, Carry Smart, and Carry Daily.
