Are you thinking about conceal carrying a handgun? You're not the only one.
In fact, millions of Americans are choosing to conceal carry as the crime rates are skyrocketing all across the U.S.
You may be left feeling uncertain about your safety and security as the crime rates increase, but don't worry you not the only one.
Click on this link to read more about Why Concealed Carry Permits are Skyrocketing in the U.S...
So, you've now decided to conceal carry a handgun and you're ready to buy your first concealed carry holster.
In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about concealed carry holsters before you buy.
Concealed Carry Laws & Permits
Before we begin a detailed discussion about concealed carry holsters, you must first understand that conceal carrying a firearm in most U.S. States requires a concealed carry permit.
To find out if you're State requires a concealed carry permit click on this link...
What is Conceal Carrying?
Generally speaking, conceal carrying a firearm in most U.S. States is defined as concealing any part of your firearm on your person.
To be consider open carry, a firearm must be located on the outer most part of your body, clearly visible and not obstructed.
Carrying a firearm in a holsters on the most outer part of your body that is clearly visible and not obstructed does not violate concealed carry laws, even though some parts of the firearm may be concealed by the holster.
In most States, vehicles are also included in concealed carry laws.
Most states consider possession of a firearm inside of a motor vehicle in any manner that gives you quick access to it concealed carrying.
Click on the link to learn about the best ways to conceal carry a gun inside the car...
Concealed carry laws vary state to state so the above definition may not apply to your State.
Always be sure to know your State's concealed carry laws as penalties for violating them are often pretty severe.
Concealed Carry Holsters
Buying your first concealed carry holster can be pretty easy, but finding the right holster is process.
As you begin your journey to find the holsters, you'll find that there is so many concealed carry holsters out there.
To help you in your search to find the right holster, we're going to try to simplify the process for you.
Types of Holsters
The 2 most common types of concealed carry holsters are: outside of the waistband or (OWB) and inside the waistband holsters or (IWB) holsters.
In simple terms, OWB holsters are worn on the outside of the waistline carried on the belt and IWB holsters are tucked inside of the waistline using a clip with or without a belt.
Generally speaking, OWB holster requires a belt and IWB does not, but it's highly recommended.
Read more about the most important qualities of an EDC belt...
OWB Holster Example
IWB Holster Example
Using OWB and IWB holsters to conceal carry is the most common way to conceal carry, but these are not the only types of concealed carry holsters.
Other Less Common Types of Concealed Carry Holsters
The listed holsters are not as common as the OWB and IWB holsters, but are great in certain situations.
Best ways to conceal carry without a belt...
Carry Position
There are a few basic carry positions, which you'll need to understand before choosing a holster. Some holsters may only be designed for a specific carry position.
The listed position will vary from OWB to IWB holsters.
Other Important Things to Consider
Safety: whenever we deal with firearms, safety is always the most important thing to consider. Always follow the firearms safety rules.
Does the trigger guard sufficiently protect the trigger so that you can avoid any accidental discharges. Does the holsters have good stability and retention. Practice using the holster!!!
Comfort: this will be the difference between choosing to take your firearm with you or leaving it at home. Find a holster that is comfortable to wear. Everyone has different tolerance levels.
Different materials can can have an impact on comfort.
Read more about the most common materials holsters are made of...
Concealment: does the holster conceal well on your person? Does it print too much? Can you attach a holster claw or wedge to reduce printing?
Click on the link to read more about holster Printing and how to eliminate it...
Accessibility: is your gun easy to access in your holster so that in case of an emergency, you can quickly draw your weapon to protect yourself.