Let's Talk Holsters and how to choose one!!

The choice of holster is a crucial step in your concealed carry journey and should align with your lifestyle. Research different holsters properly to find what suits you and your needs the best. Below we'll talk about a few things that can help make this decision easier and less daunting.

Body type

• Choose a concealed carry position between 12 and 3 o’clock for optimal comfort and access.

• Understand how changes to your body, such as bloating or weight gain/loss, can affect your carry position.

• Adjust holster placement and clothing accordingly to accommodate those body change needs.

• Prioritize functionality, especially during physical activities.

• I live by the phrase "Is it a fupa or a pistol". Let your stomach work with you and not against you.

Clothing Choices

• Darker colors, patterns, certain textures, and styles help with concealment and decreased printing. 

• Ensure your garments allow you to move freely in all directions.

• Test your clothing by performing various movements before leaving the house. You want your clothes to be functional.

• Avoid printing, by using loose garments. When in doubt, go up 1 pants size or wear high waisted pants when applicable. 

• When wearing layers, especially during cold weather, make sure the undershirt is tucked properly into your pants so it doesn’t interfere with your holster. Remember you never want to peel through multiple layers if you don’t have too. 

• Adding a concealment wing to your holsters can also help decrease printing of your firearm through your clothes.

Holster Selection

• The choice of holster is crucial and should align with your lifestyle.

• Consider materials like kydex or leather. Base your choice on comfort, body type, intended use and retention level.

• Research different holsters and clips to find what suits you and your attire best.

• Ensure your holster provides trigger protection for safety.

• Consider that leather holsters can be more comfortable, particularly during your menstruation period if you are wearing an IWB holster. 

• Test all the options thoroughly, narrowing down your selection to just two that you can master for both efficiency and proficiency, designating one as your primary everyday choice and the other as a backup for any situation.

• Every holster clip will specify how it should be used. Belt or no belt, IWB (in waistband), OWB (out of waistband) etc.

Practice Regularly

• Regularly practice drawing your firearm in various areas and positions (I.E- car, while walking)

• Dry fire tools can help improve your drawing technique. Some great tools to use are the Mantis X10, dummy rounds and a dry fire magazine (self resetting).

• Gradually progress through the three tiers of concealed carry in public. Starting with an unloaded firearm, then a loaded firearm with no bullet in the chamber, then carry with one in the chamber. Stay at one level until the maximum comfort level has been reached. 

• Understand the importance of readiness and responsibility when carrying a chambered round.

Training & Education

• Seek reputable instructors with proper credentials.

• Start with firearm nomenclature and safety basics, even as a beginner.

• Understand the differences in handling smaller firearms versus mid or full-size models. 

• Develop a clear personal safety plan and involve your family in it.

Responsibility and Empowerment

• Concealed carry is a life-changing and mental transformation process.

• Prioritize safety and responsibility in all aspects of carrying. Remember the 4 rules of safe gun handling.

• Make informed decisions about holsters, firearms, and usage before each purchase. What works for you may not work for someone else and vice versa.

• Make sure you know how your holster works. You should have 2 options of holsters: your to-go option and your back up one. Read the info that comes with your holster if applicable.

• Remember that carrying a firearm is a great last resort but avoidance is the best strategy. The only fight in life that you are guaranteed to win is the one you avoid!!

Additional Tips & Considerations

• Always use a holster; bags and pockets are not safe options if your firearm is not holstered inside of them.

• Invest in quality holsters and firearms, as safety should never be compromised.

• Understand the full concept of your holster: What it can and can not do.

• Practice your “clear-grip-drive” until it is smooth. Accuracy before speed. 

• Learn the laws in your area to help aid in what you can and can not do while carrying your firearm. It is your job to stay up to date on laws. 

• Before carrying a firearm outside your home, it’s crucial to assess the impact of any prescribed medications, including pain medications, on your physical and mental condition to ensure your safety.

• The most important tip is for you to build your own confidence through a lot of practice. Add your own style without comprising the rules!

Conclusion

Empowerment in concealed carry is about embracing responsibility, practicing regularly, and making informed choices regarding holsters, clothing, firearms and laws. Confidence is built through knowledge and repetition, ensuring that you can effectively protect yourself while going about your daily routine. By following the advice and insights provided above, it is possible to feel empowered and secure in your concealed carry journey.