What is the Safest Concealed Carry Position?
Concealed carry allows for increased security and quick access to a weapon in emergencies. Different positions have advantages and disadvantages, so consider factors such as holster design and local laws. Be aware of potential safety issues and use proper techniques to avoid accidents.
Introduction
Time to read: 6 minutes
Date: 05/22/23
Carrying a concealed weapon can be a great way to protect yourself and your family, but it is of significant importance to choose the right concealed carry position. Failure to do so could have deadly consequences for oneself or others. Be sure to consider all the risks and relevant safety information before choosing this method of arming yourself.
In this blog post, we will discuss what concealed carry is, the different types of positions available, their advantages and disadvantages, factors to consider when choosing a position, common mistakes to avoid, and tips for safely carrying concealed.
What is Concealed Carry?
Concealed carry, also known as concealed weapons carry, is the practice of carrying a weapon in public in a concealed manner, either on one’s person or in close proximity. This might include a holster or concealed compartment in a bag, for example. In many nations and jurisdictions, it is against the law to carry a concealed weapon, and there are various limitations on who may do so, where they may carry them, and when they may do so.
In some jurisdictions, the practice of carrying a concealed weapon is illegal without a permit. In others, it is legal to carry a concealed weapon without a permit as long as it is done in accordance with local laws.
In the United States, most states allow citizens to carry concealed weapons if they have obtained a permit from their local law enforcement agency.
Types of Concealed Carry Positions
Inside the waistband (IWB): This involves wearing the holster inside the waistband of the pants or shorts, typically on the solid side of the body.
Outside the waistband (OWB): This involves wearing the holster outside the waistband of the pants or shorts, typically on the solid side of the body.
Pocket carry: This involves carrying a small firearm in the front pocket of pants or shorts, typically on the solid side of the body.
Thigh carry: This involves carrying the firearm in a holster on the thigh, typically on the weak side of the body.
Bra carry: This involves carrying the firearm in a holster attached to the inside of a bra, typically on the solid side of the body.
Belly band carry: This involves wearing a stretchy band around the waist with a holster attached to it. The firearm can be positioned anywhere around the waistline.
Appendix carry: placing the firearm in front of the hip bone, typically between the navel and the hip bone, on the solid side of the body.
Hip carry: placing the firearm on the dominant side of the body, just behind the hip bone.
Small of back carry: placing the firearm on the back of the body, in the center of the lower back.
Shoulder carry: placing the firearm in a holster attached to a shoulder harness, with the firearm positioned under the non-dominant arm.
Ankle carry: placing the firearm in an ankle holster on the inside of the ankle of the weak leg.
Benefits of Concealed Carry
Concealed carry is a popular method of carrying a handgun for self-defense. There are many benefits to concealed carry, such as increased security and peace of mind. Concealed carry also allows for quick access to a firearm in the event of an emergency.
Additionally, it can help deter potential criminals from targeting you since they won’t be able to tell if you are armed or not.
While IWB holsters can be used for concealed carry, it is important to take into account potential safety issues with this type of holster.
It is essential to regularly check equipment for potential safety issues when using an IWB holster and to use the proper re-holstering technique when drawing and re-holstering a handgun.
Additionally, it is important to use the right gear when engaging in competitive shooting, such as USPSA and IDPA belts, as well as tac pants from Propper and Truspec. Ultimately, concealed carry can provide many benefits for those who choose to use it responsibly.
Different Types of Concealed Carry Positions
When it comes to concealed carry, there are several different positions that can be used. IWB holsters are a popular choice. However, depending on the design of the holster and where it is placed on the belt, it can lead to a potential safety issue. It is vital to regularly check equipment for potential safety issues when using an IWB holster.
Additionally, belts designed for competition shooting, such as USPSA and IDPA belts, as well as newer “war belts,” like the Arbor Arms Salt Belt and 511 brand double loops, can provide extra stability and comfort when carrying a firearm.
AIWB carry is becoming increasingly popular due to its perceived safety benefits; however, re-holstering a gun in this position requires proper technique and practice in order to avoid any potential accidents. Some gun clubs have even banned AIWB carry altogether in order to avoid any potential accidents due to improper re-holstering techniques. It is useful to research your local laws and regulations regarding concealed carry before engaging in any activities with firearms.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Position
Each concealed carry position has its own advantages and disadvantages. IWB holsters are popular due to their concealability, but they can cause the muzzle of the gun to point at the user’s leg if not adequately secured with a longer screw.
Competition belts, such as USPSA and IDPA belts, are designed to hold multiple magazines as well as other gear like speedloaders and gloves. The Arbor Arms Salt Belt is a newer belt on the market and is more of a “war belt” than a competition belt; it features extra padding and is built to last. While AIWB can be safer when drawing and re-holstering a handgun, it can be difficult for range safety officers to see a shooter’s finger when they are drawing from this position.
Ultimately, it is valuable for shooters to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of each concealed carry position before making a decision.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Position
When choosing a concealed carry position, there are a few factors to consider. The first is the design of the holster; holsters that ride high on the belt have a greater chance of canting downward, which can cause the muzzle to point toward the user’s leg. It is very important to regularly check equipment for potential safety issues when using an IWB holster.
Additionally, belts designed for competition shooting provide extra padding and are built to last, and tac pants with gusseted crotches and grippy rubber IWB can help keep everything in place.
Finally, when using AIWB carry, make sure to practice proper re-holstering techniques in order to avoid any potential accidents. Some gun clubs have even banned AIWB carry altogether due to safety concerns, while others argue that this ruling is unsafe as it discourages shooters from using a position widely considered safer when drawing and re-holstering a handgun.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Carrying Concealed
When concealing a firearm, it’s paramount to think ahead about any threats you might face and plan accordingly. For example, when using an IWB holster, the gun’s muzzle could accidentally point at the user’s leg. Using a holster made for concealed carry or a longer screw to secure the holster to the belt will solve this problem.
Additionally, to maximize the benefits, be sure to use a belt specifically designed for concealed carry; popular competition shooting belts such as USPSA and IDPA belts are designed with extra padding and double loops for extra stability.
Finally, when re-holstering in an AIWB position, you should always make sure that your finger is off the trigger. This will help prevent any potential accidents due to improper re-holstering techniques.
Tips for Safely Carrying Concealed
Carrying a concealed weapon can be a tricky business that requires the utmost attention to safety and proper technique. When carrying in an IWB holster, it is vital to check the equipment for potential safety issues regularly.
This includes making sure that the cant (angle) of the holster does not cause the muzzle of the gun to point downwards towards the user’s leg. If necessary, use a longer screw to attach the holster to the belt, which will push it further away from the body and reduce the chance of canting.
Conclusion
When choosing a concealed carry position, it is vital to take a number of factors into consideration. It is also essential to be aware of common mistakes that can be made when carrying concealed and tips for safely doing so. Ultimately, the safest concealed carry position will depend on individual circumstances and preferences.
At GunAim.com, we believe that knowledge is power. Our mission is to empower gun owners and enthusiasts with the information they need to make informed purchasing decisions. We don't just tell you what to buy - we give you the facts and let you decide for yourself.
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