Concealed Carry: 7 Ways

 

According to Pew Pew Tactical there are 7 ways to carry a pistol. (“7 Ways to Carry Concealed for Every Type of Handgun” by Brandon Harville, December 14, 2017)

I think he is right.  I’d like to mention these 7 ways for you to consider.  Refer to Pew Pew Tactical for more details.  I just want to comment, from my opinion and experience, on each one. 

I started to carry in the 80’s.  I’ve tried just about every type of holster and am open to more ideas or technology.  In 1988 I experienced a combat situation.  I’ve been diagnosed with PTSD and experience hyper vigilance.  Sometimes, I worry that it will become paranoia.  But because of this hyper vigilance I’ve felt the need to carry a weapon everywhere I go.  So, I am interested in the 7 ways to conceal carry.

Inside the waistband holster. (IWB)

This of course is retaining the gun on a holster inside the waistband of pants.  I did this when I had a waist.  Since I’ve aged some, I need to work harder to keep a waistband.  This keeps your gun close for easy access.  This way also is easier in hot weather where you wear less clothing.

Outside the waistband (OWB)

I used to love this method because I could carry a full-size gun.  I like 1911’s but haven’t carried (or owned) one in some time.  This method challenges ways to conceal.

 

Bellyband (BB)

This is worn under a shirt next to the belly as the title suggests.  It is an extremely concealable method.  Access and versatility are all built into a band.  It carries your gun close to your body so a draw may be more difficult.  There are usually extra pockets for magazines or a flashlight or even a cellphone.  If you’re a runner this can be a good choice.  A belly band is very versatile.  You can put it in any position around your body.

 

Shoulder harness (SH)

If you watched TV-cop shows from the 70’s and 80’s you would be very aware of these holsters.  Every detective carried his gun this way.  This holster is great for bigger or full-sized guns.  Dirty Harry wore one of these holsters when he carried “a 44 Magnum and will blow your head clean off.”

Shoulder holsters come in three styles named after the way the gun rests in the holster:

• Angled – muzzle is angled upwards, making it relatively quick to draw.
• Horizontal – gun is drawn by pulling it straight across the body.  While it’s faster than the vertical, it works best with guns with short barrels.
• Vertical – muzzle is pointed down.  Generally, it is the slowest way to draw but is the most accommodating for large-sized guns.

Pouch Carry

How do you feel about fanny-packs?  That’s what these are.  You can carry a lot more than a gun and magazine, but you’ll have to deal with jerks like me teasing you! 

Alos, you are basically open carrying.  Most people would not think that you have a gun in your pouch, but there is always the chance.  Fanny-packs are just unusual enough to bring unwanted attention to you.  If you do use one of these make sure any holster or gun name is not visible  This is a giveaway.

Ankle carry

Lots of law enforcement carry a backup gun in an ankle holster.  It is very concealable. As long as you wear the right loose-fitting pants with a leg loose enough to lift quickly to get to the weapon.

 

Pocket carry

I like this mode of concealed carry.  It is not conducive to tight fitting clothing.  It is great for smaller calibers like .25, .32, or .380’s.  I do have a 9mm that is a sub-compact and fits into a pocket holster really well.  Make sure you use an actual holster.  Don’t just put it in your pocket.  It will move around enough to not be oriented to draw.  I also make it a point to only carry my pocket holster in that particular pocket and nothing else.

 

There are many options for concealed carry and these are a few.

Find a technique and holster that works for you.  Carry.  Carry everywhere you can legally carry.

 

Semper Paratus

Check 6

Burn