5 Step Guide To Concealed Carry (2026)
Whether you’re new to firearms or have years of experience, figuring out where to start with concealed carry can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the essentials into a simple, step-by-step checklist to help you navigate the process with confidence and get started the right way.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission from purchases through links in this guide, at no additional cost to you.
Use this five-step checklist to organize your research. Verify eligibility, permit requirements and restrictions with the relevant government agencies before carrying. Buying equipment or completing this checklist does not establish legal eligibility or readiness.
Note: These are the basic steps to begin your concealed carry process. Some states still require a permit to carry, and many others offer it in addition to constitutional carry. Know the laws in your location, and if you need a permit to carry.
1. Choose a Concealed Carry Gun and Ammo
Concealed Carry Gun
Choosing your carry gun is a task that will be dependent on the individual. Each person is different, and, depending on their needs, their carry set up will be different as well.
While deciding on your options, I encourage you to try out some of your choices at local gun ranges. You can rent guns at certain ranges, or even bring a friend to try out their carry guns.
What To Look For In a Carry Gun
When selecting a concealed carry gun, several critical factors merit consideration. These elements play a pivotal role in determining the effectiveness and suitability of your firearm for personal defense.
Here, we outline the top three essential aspects to prioritize when choosing your ideal concealed carry companion:
- Reliability – A concealed carry gun must perform reliably, no matter the conditions. It should function flawlessly with various ammo types and under different environments. You don’t want to be caught with a malfunction when it matters most, so choosing a gun with a proven track record of dependability is key.
- Concealability – The best concealed carry gun for you should fit seamlessly into your daily routine. It needs to be easy to carry and conceal according to your body type, clothing choices, and preferred carry position. Lighter, thinner guns are generally easier to conceal, but make sure you find one that works for your comfort and lifestyle.
- Capacity vs. Size Balance – A concealed carry gun needs to offer a balance between firepower and ease of carry. While a higher magazine capacity can be advantageous, a gun that’s too large or heavy can make carrying it daily inconvenient. The goal is to find a gun that’s manageable and fits your needs, without sacrificing practicality for firepower.
Our Recommended Guns
Selecting the right concealed carry gun is a critical decision that affects your comfort, confidence, and effectiveness in a defensive situation. To help you find the best option, here are our top recommended firearms for concealed carry.
Top Recommended Carry Guns
Self Defense Ammo
Choosing the right self-defense ammo is crucial. Quality self-defense ammo offers reliable expansion, deep penetration, and sufficient stopping power. Remember, while your concealed carry gun matters, the ammo you choose can make all the difference when a critical situation arises.
It is extremely important to make sure and practice with your carry ammo. You want to make sure that it runs through your firearm reliably before you decide to use it daily.
Our Recommended Ammo
Choosing the right self-defense ammo is just as important as selecting your firearm. The right ammunition ensures reliability, effectiveness, and stopping power when it matters most. Here are our top recommended choices for concealed carry.
Top Recommended Self Defense Ammo
Any quality brand self defense ammo can work, but like we mentioned above, be sure to test it out. You can check out our article listed above to see our recommendations.
2. Choose a Concealed Carry Holster
A quality holster goes a long way in helping you carry safe as well as comfortable. The more comfortable the holster is, the more likely you are to carry. Follow the below guidelines to help you find the right holster for your needs.
What To Look For In A Carry Holster
When selecting a concealed carry holster, it’s important to consider a few key features that can greatly impact its effectiveness and your comfort. The right holster should enhance your ability to carry concealed while ensuring your safety and readiness in any situation.
Here are the top three factors to prioritize when choosing a holster for concealed carry:
- Retention & Safety – A good holster should securely hold your firearm in place, preventing accidental discharges or the gun from falling out during movement. Retention systems vary, but you want one that provides a solid hold while allowing quick access when needed. Ensure your holster includes safety features that prevent unintended releases, giving you peace of mind when carrying.
- Comfort & Concealment – Comfort is essential for daily carry. Look for a holster that fits your body and preferred carry position, whether that’s inside the waistband (IWB) or outside (OWB). The holster should also provide good concealment, ensuring that the firearm remains discreet, even when wearing different types of clothing. Choose materials and designs that minimize bulk and irritation, especially if you’ll be carrying for extended periods.
- Accessibility & Draw – Speed and ease of draw are critical in a defensive situation. Your holster should allow you to quickly and smoothly access your firearm when you need it most. The holster’s design and positioning should let you reach your gun without fumbling or having to adjust your grip. Ensure the holster allows for a natural, efficient draw so you’re prepared in any scenario.
Our Recommended Holsters
These are our picks for the best holster companies on the market. Feel free to click the links and browse through the holster options that are available to find your best fit. Some of these companies have given our readers a discount code that saves you money at checkout.
Top Recommended Holsters
- Tulster Holsters: Check current offers and exclusions at checkout
- We The People Holsters: Check current offers and exclusions at checkout
- CrossBreed Holsters: Check current offers and exclusions at checkout
3. Choose a Concealed Carry Belt
For a belt-mounted holster, compare the belt width and thickness with the holster attachment specifications. Follow the belt maker’s sizing instructions and account for the equipment worn inside the waistband. Comfort varies by person; this guide does not establish firsthand wear-test results.
What To Look For In A Concealed Carry Belt
When selecting a concealed carry belt, it’s crucial to find one that supports your firearm securely and comfortably throughout the day. The right belt will help ensure your gun stays in place, making it easier to conceal and access when needed.
Here are the top three factors to prioritize when choosing a concealed carry belt:
- Strength & Durability – A concealed carry belt needs to be strong enough to support the weight of your firearm and holster without sagging or losing its shape. Look for belts made from high-quality materials, such as reinforced leather or nylon, that can withstand daily wear and the added weight of your gear. Durability is key for long-term performance, ensuring your belt remains reliable over time.
- Support & Stability – A quality concealed carry belt provides the necessary support to keep your firearm in position, no matter how active you are throughout the day. The belt should offer enough rigidity to prevent your holster from shifting or sagging, which can affect comfort and draw speed. Make sure the belt has a solid core and a sturdy buckle to give your holster the stability it needs.
- Comfort & Adjustability – Comfort is essential for all-day carry. Your belt should fit snugly without pinching or digging into your waist. Look for a belt with an adjustable design, so you can fine-tune the fit to your exact needs. A comfortable belt should be versatile enough to accommodate different carry positions, while ensuring you don’t experience discomfort or irritation during extended wear.
Our Recommended Belts
These are our picks for the best options for concealed carry gun belts. If one of these three are not for you, be sure to check out our article listed below and see a few others we have reviewed.
Belt Options to Compare
- CrossBreed Gun Belts: Check current offers and exclusions at checkout
- KORE Essentials: Available on Amazon
- Relentless Tactical: Available on Amazon
4. Choose Your Insurance & Other Needs
Concealed Carry Insurance
Self-defense legal-service memberships and insurance-backed benefits vary by provider. Compare eligibility, covered incidents, exclusions, defense arrangements, limits, waiting periods and state availability. Benefits depend on the current agreement and policy terms; purchasing a plan does not guarantee that a particular incident will be covered.
Use the linked explainer and comparison as starting points, then read the provider’s current terms before joining. Direct questions about your circumstances to the provider and, where appropriate, a qualified attorney. A membership does not replace legal compliance or safe handling.
Our Recommended Concealed Carry Insurance
Cleaning Kit
If you are training and practicing like you should, a cleaning kit will be needed. While you can get some pretty elaborate kits, a basic kit is just fine.
Our Recommended Gun Cleaning Kit
Bedside Gun Safe
Plan secure firearm storage before bringing a firearm into your home. Project ChildSafe recommends locked storage inaccessible to children and other unauthorized people when firearms are not in use. Choose an appropriate storage device for your household and follow the firearm and storage-device manufacturers’ instructions. A bedside location or hidden placement alone is not secure storage.
Our Recommended Bedside Safe
- Vaultek Pro VE — buying link temporarily unavailable
5. Get Training and Know Your Laws
Concealed Carry Firearms Training
Proper training is essential for anyone carrying a firearm for self-defense. Knowing how to safely handle, draw, and shoot your gun under stress can make all the difference in a critical situation. Training builds confidence, improves accuracy, and reinforces responsible carry habits.
Online Training – Online courses offer convenience and accessibility, covering topics like firearm safety, self-defense laws, and shooting fundamentals. While they can’t replace hands-on practice, they’re a great way to supplement in-person training and stay informed on concealed carry best practices.
In-Person Training – Live training with a qualified instructor provides hands-on experience in drawing, shooting, and real-world defensive scenarios. Classes range from basic firearm handling to advanced defensive tactics. Regular in-person training ensures you build and maintain the skills necessary to respond effectively in a self-defense situation.
Know The Law
Understanding federal, state, and local gun laws is essential for every concealed carrier. With thousands of firearm regulations across the U.S., it’s impossible to memorize them all, but staying informed about the laws in your area is crucial.
Regularly reviewing legal updates ensures you carry responsibly and avoid unintended violations. Check your state government pages, or join your state gun rights organization to learn more information.
Also, we recommend joining national gun rights organizations like Gun Owners of America or even Firearms Policy Coalition to help make positive change.
Concealed Carry Tips
The following topics are general reminders for further learning. Use qualified instruction and official legal sources rather than treating an equipment checklist as proof of competence or lawful carry.
- Carry Daily: It is better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it
- De-escalate: Always try to de-escalate a situation or remove yourself if possible.
- Don’t Fiddle: This is tempting at first, but the desire to adjust will go away with time. Just get comfortable carry gear and it will help.
- Practice: While training is super important, be sure to have some fun and just go practice often.
- Situational Awareness: Learn and practice this skill, it goes hand in hand with concealed carry.
- Learn First Aid: Consider a recognized first-aid course as part of your general emergency preparation.
- No Brandishing: Always keep your firearm holstered in public unless it is needed for self defense. Your buddy can wait to see it when you are in private.
- Dress Appropriately: Your clothing plays a crucial role in how effectively you can conceal your firearm. Opt for attire that naturally complements your carry method, ensuring your firearm remains hidden while still easily accessible.
Conclusion
This checklist is a starting point for research. Verify legal requirements, arrange secure storage and seek appropriate instruction. Review the linked gear and coverage guides only after identifying your actual needs; no purchase guarantees safety or legal protection.
Before you go, use this checklist to make sure you have everything covered:
- Best Concealed Carry Guns
- Best Self Defense Ammo
- Best Concealed Carry Holsters
- Best Concealed Carry Belts
- Concealed Carry Insurance Compared
Taking the time to research and invest in the right tools and knowledge will make all the difference in your concealed carry journey. Stay informed, stay prepared, and carry with confidence.
To learn more about concealed carry just browse around our website or use the search function. We have a large amount of posts that cover everything related to concealed carry. But most importantly be sure to get some training and practice as much as possible.
Carry Safe, Carry Smart, and Carry Daily!
