When you first start into the world of carrying a concealed firearm, there’s a bunch of considerations you’ll be forced to make that you wouldn’t have to before. We’re going to go over a few of those adjustments – like wearing a tactical belt – and go over why those things are necessary.
If you spot something we missed – please DO tell us about it in the comments section below.
Wearing A Tactical Belt
A tactical belt doesn’t have to be some high-speed, low drag expensive thing. All “tactical” means, in this case, is a thick, sturdy belt made of leather, canvas, or a suitably durable material that is approximately 2-2.5″ longer than the belt you would normally wear. Why 2-2.5″ inches? That’s to accommodate your concealed carry firearm inside an inside the waistband concealed carry holster.
Why is it called “tactical”? That term gets tossed around. In a word, “tactical” doesn’t mean a damn thing. The term is meant to apply in context of a concealed carrier responding to a life threatening situation.
The belt you wear to hold your inside the waistband concealed carry holster will need to be bigger than your average belt – both thicker and longer by 2-2.5″. It needs to be sturdy and keep your waistline at a steady level. The material, construction, etc., is largely up to you but we recommend a thicker multi-layer leather or alternative material.
Inside The Waistband Concealed Carry Holster
If you’re going to carry concealed – it needs to be safe, secure, and accessible only to you. Nothing has supplanted the inside the waistband platform in this avenue. Now, not all inside the waistband holsters were created equal. When looking for an IWB concealed carry holster, ask yourself the following questions:
- Does the firearm move around in the holster?
- Does the barrel of the firearm remain pointed in a safe direction?
- Can you wear this holster comfortably in your vehicle?
- Does the holster conceal well within the waistline?
- Is your firearm and holster seated comfortably while you are walking?
- Can your holster be configured to different carry positions? (appendix, 4 o’clock, 10 o’clock, etc.)
- Is the firearm accessible at all times?
These are some considerations. And not every holster will perform the same. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different holsters and configurations. If possible, take those holsters to the range with you when you practice – it’s the only way you’ll be able to see if they accommodate your shooting style.
Getting In The Practice Of Everyday Carry
It’s important to be a daily carrier because there is no set timeline on when bad situations occur. And there’s nothing worse than seeing a situation unfold before you and being powerless to act.
The crucial steps necessary to avoid this is by becoming a daily carrier. And this means that you’ll have to find a concealed carry firearm and situation that works for you.
Not everyone is going to need to carry a full size pistol. Maybe your lifestyle fits more in sync with a micro 9mm like the Springfield XD Mod 2 or .32 caliber Walther PPK. Step 1 is finding the pistol that melds best with your daily activities and then finding the best way to wear it in a safe, reliable manner.
If you do decide to go the micro compact pistol or revolver route – consider using a pocket holster. Never put a loaded firearm in your pocket without some form of holster that keeps it in place, and keeps things away from the trigger.
Scale of BAD (1-5, 5 being worst)
- Getting spotted with a pistol hanging out of your pocket. 3
- Pistol falling out of your pocket. 4+
- Pistol getting left behind BECAUSE it fell out of your pocket. 5
- Pistol being taken straight out of your pocket while you’re not looking. 5
- Pistol negligently discharging in your pocket because you didn’t protect it. 5
- Negligently discharging your pistol when trying to fish it out of your pocket. 5
If you’re going to pocket carry – use a pocket holster.
Don’t Let Bad Habits Slide
If you get in the habit of leaving your concealed carry firearm in your purse, bag, or anywhere where it’s not directly in your possession, you’re going to keep doing it. Don’t get into that habit. That’s a habit that leads to losing control of your firearm – something unacceptable in the CCW community.
If you have a concealed carry firearm – it needs to stay on your person until you decide to lock it up. Don’t start leaning on bad habits. Carry concealed every day.