5 Tips For New Concealed Carriers

The practice of carrying a concealed firearm doesn’t end with taking a course and becoming certified. Whether you’re new to conceal carrying or new to guns in general, here are five simple tips to set you up for success.

Know the law

The second amendment isn’t the end-all be-all for bearing arms. Before you even purchase your firearm, educate yourself on your state’s requirements. Most states require a Concealed Carry Weapons (CCW) permit or license which can normally be issued by either your state or county of residence. If you do need a permit, don’t forget it at home. The best practice is to keep it in your wallet with your ID. Due to the tumultuous nature of gun politics, state and national gun laws are constantly in flux, so make sure that you’re keeping yourself up to date.

Complacency kills – practice often

Buying the NRA’s most recommended self defense pistol doesn’t make you safe, just like that 8 hour CCW course to get your license doesn’t make you a gunslinging expert. Carrying concealed is a lifestyle choice that means constant education and practice. The best thing you can do for yourself is to practice your entire CCW draw at the range. Practice until clearing your cover, unholstering, aiming, and firing are all one clean movement you could do with your eyes closed. Then, do it again. Gun handling is a muscle that needs constant exercise so be sure that you’re making it to the range at least once a month. Being able to quickly and efficiently draw your weapon from muscle memory will ensure that you’ll be prepared for any adrenaline pumped, hand shaking, life-threatening situation.

Invest in a comfortable holster

That $15 holster you bought on sale might be a good deal, but odds are it’s bulky, doesn’t fit your clothing or your pistol, and chaffes your love handles. If carrying isn’t comfortable, you’re less likely to carry, and less likely to have your weapon when you need it. Investing in a quality holster that fits your lifestyle is paramount for daily wear. There’s no one-size-fits-all option for holsters. Inside the waistband holsters (IWB), ankle holsters, belly bands, and old-fashioned shoulder harnesses are all options for your CCW lifestyle. When choosing your perfect holster, consider where you want to carry on your body, taking into mind how efficiently you can draw if the need arises while also considering your clothing choices. Concealed carrying doesn’t condemn you to a life of tactical vests and baggy jeans. While layering clothing does help hide your gun, a trim holster design will go just as far. With so many options on the market, the choice is yours. Take your time and find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

Know where your gun is, but don’t touch it

The strength of carrying concealed is the element of surprise. Accidentally flashing the whole grocery store your SIG P365, and your backside, while bending over for the last box of your favorite cereal might scare the other shoppers, but, worse, it makes you the biggest threat and first target. Keep your concealed carry concealed. Know how your clothing fits with your sidearm and how your movement affects your setup. Be aware, but resist the urge to touch it. Constant shifting and adjusting of your CCW is suspicious and advertises that you’re hiding something. If you need to make an adjustment to your holster placement, do so in a private area.

Keep a healthy mindset

Knowing that you have the ability to protect yourself will make you feel safer and more confident, but always respect the lethal power of your gun. Just because you have it doesn’t mean you have to use it. You’re prepared to protect yourself and your family, but you’re also responsible to do everything in your power to avoid conflict. Don’t draw the weapon unless you’ve exhausted all other options. Do your best to de-escalate the situation or remove yourself from it in order to call the local authorities. I’m not a lawyer, but this mindset will do wonders to keep you above reproach should the worst case scenario occur.

All of the elements you need to consider before conceal carrying can be overwhelming, but taking time to develop good habits will set you up for success. You only improve with experience. Most conceal carriers never have to use a firearm in self-defense, but if you do, preparation and practice will keep you from being the victim.

Guest Author Bio:

Richard Douglas is a long-time shooter, outdoor enthusiast and technologist. He is the founder and editor of Scopes Field, and a columnist at The National Interest, Cheaper Than Dirt, Daily Caller and other publications.