The GMW Concealed Carry Gun Pack. Now available now on Amazon.com. BUY NOW
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Getting a concealed carry permit for the first time means that you’ll be more prepared in case you are attacked. However, if it’s your first concealed carrying, you’re probably feeling nervous. Trust us, it’s completely normal to feel nervous. Every first-time gun owner we know has experienced the same feeling. It’s best to harness this nervousness. That way you can be on your toes and avoid mistakes that many first-timers make when concealed carrying.
In this article, we shall guide you through the different concealed carry do’s and don’ts and make sure that not only will you be carrying completely legally and without problems, but also that you’ll be ready to face a threat when the time comes.
Common Mistakes of First-Time Gun Owners
Everyone attempting a concealed carry has goofed. Maybe they accidentally revealed their firearm while bending over. Maybe they weren’t aware until too late that the outline of their weapon was visible through their shirt. As a firearm carrier it is your responsibility to be aware of the things you need to avoid while concealed carrying. Let’s take a look at some common mistakes.
Not Knowing Concealed Carrying Laws
You simply must not go out in public without knowing your state’s laws concerning the carrying of firearms. Every state has its own laws about where you can and cannot carry, how you can carry, and whether you need a license or a permit to carry. Federal laws prohibit carrying firearms into federal buildings such as post offices, courthouses, polling stations, law enforcement offices, and jails. Federal laws apply to all states. You should avoid carrying your gun on your first day of concealed carry and instead take the time to familiarize yourself with these restrictions. There are sometimes many, many rules. For example, in some states it’s illegal to carry a gun in establishments that sell alcohol. In other states it’s even more nuanced. In Texas, for example, it’s illegal to carry a gun into an establishment that makes 51% or more of its revenue through alcohol sales. Don’t worry, in Texas these businesses are required to post signage.
How to Concealed Carry
If this is your first time concealed carrying, you’ll want to make sure that you are wearing comfortable clothing, that you can access your firearm quickly, and that your firearm is concealed properly. In some states it is prohibited for a gun to be visible. This means even an imprint of a gun is prohibited. An imprint is when the outline of your gun can be seen underneath your clothing. The key is to make sure that your firearm is covered properly and completely. You will need to be aware of how tight your clothing is to avoid “printing.” Not following this rule will get you into trouble.
In order to pull off a concealed carry, many veterans recommend smaller guns and pocket holsters to new carriers. “It is better to have something than nothing,” the saying goes. Even the smallest caliber of firearm is better than nothing. Note that holster style is an important consideration. How do you find the perfect holster? It all comes down to three things:
The holster allows quick, consistent, and safe drawing of your firearm. This means that your gun is always going to be held exactly where you expect it to be, regardless of your activity.
The holster protects the trigger. The best holster ensures that foreign objects such as your own fingers will not get caught up in the trigger and cause a negligent discharge by accident.
The holster ensures that your gun stays in your possession and that it will never fall or bounce out when you engage in physical activity.
Not Carrying Extra Rounds in the Chamber
One of the concealed carry do’s and don’ts you should keep in mind is to never forget to load the chamber with extra rounds. This is one of the biggest mistakes that first-timers make. Yes, there is a chance that something could go wrong and a loaded gun could go off. If a loaded gun does go off, that is because the gun owner was not practicing gun safety or was not prepared to be carrying. Carrying extra rounds in your gun’s chamber is for your own good. In an actual dangerous situation, checking if your gun is ready and loaded could mean the difference between life and death. Rather than dwelling on the fear of an accidental discharge, actively practice and learn gun safety and the proper operation of your handgun to avoid this situation at all costs. Always be prepared.
Touching Your Concealed Carry Handgun
One of the common mistakes during a first time concealed carry is touching your concealed firearm. No one else should know that you are carrying a weapon so please refrain from touching it. If you are concealing your firearm properly, the only way anyone will know you are carrying is if they catch you touching your firearm or adjusting your holster. When you are out in public carrying for the first time, the weight of the firearm on your body can be distracting. You will probably want to readjust the holster. Stop yourself from doing so. You are a legal carrier. The only thing you need to be concerned about is accidentally revealing your firearm. That’s a big no-no for a concealed carry and might even be illegal in some states.
To keep yourself from being fidgety, invest in a quality holster. This will help ensure that your gun will remain where you want it. Controlling your hands may not be easy at first but you need to practice and break the habit.
Committing to Carrying Even If You Don’t Feel Like It
On your first day of concealed carry, you won’t be used to it. The truth of the matter is that you can only start to feel comfortable by continually carrying your firearm and gaining experience. If the idea of concealed carrying in public does not yet sit well with you, start with carrying your firearm around the house or apartment. This is a first step in making the CCW experience fit into your daily activities. Get comfortable inside before going outside, just like when you get a new pair of shoes.
Carrying a Concealed Handgun Off-Body
Purses, briefcases, and bags are generally not a good way to carry a concealed weapon. Although the choice is left up to the concealed carrier, we do not recommend it. If this is your first time with concealed carry and you want to keep your weapon in a purse, briefcase, or backpack, look for one that is specifically designed for carrying handguns. The reason that carrying your firearm on your body is recommended is that you will always have some control as to what happens to what’s on your body. The main reason we discourage storing loaded guns in bags is because of the possibility of accidental discharge or theft. Bags or purses can be stolen and once they are, there goes your self-defense weapon. Carrying your firearm on your body tends to be the preferred method for concealed carrying.
Worrying About Having to Use Your Gun
Chances are you will rarely if ever need to draw to defend yourself, but still, that is the reason you are carrying a gun. Most of the time, you will be using the fact that you are carrying your firearm as part of your situational awareness. As a first-time concealed carrier, you should take note of your surroundings. When there is a need to draw your firearm, don’t hesitate. In a road rage incident, for instance, things can get heated quickly. If someone cuts you off while on the road, you should call the cops. However, if that person gets out of his car and draws a handgun, be prepared and be ready.
Buying a Holster Without Testing It
One of the things to avoid while concealed carrying is buying a holster without testing it first. This is a big no-no because it can hurt you physically and financially. You want to carry your gun in a holster you are comfortable with. You can check out online reviews for different holsters but nothing beats trying them out in person. The key to finding the right holster is to first find out which style of carry you are most comfortable using, whether it be a waistband, shoulder, ankle, or some other type of carry.
Using Ordinary Belts to Carry your Firearm
The belts you buy in department stores are designed for style but not for concealed carrying. Using a normal everyday belt can cause your weapon to sag or fall forward, and this can leave your gun exposed and unsecured. Your best option is to spend the money on a tactical belt so that your gun will be properly holstered.
Using an Unsafe Holster
Testing holsters for comfort and ease of draw is one thing, but it is also extremely important to consider the safety and reliability of the holster you will be using. When buying a holster for a first-time concealed carry, look for one that will completely cover and protect the trigger. A properly guarded trigger will help prevent accidental discharge of your weapon. Make sure the holster material is not too thin to properly carry out this function. When buying a holster consider the quality of its make and its materials. Also consider your ease of access to your firearm.
Adjusting Your Holster in Public
If you need to adjust your holster always do so in a private area such as a bathroom stall. If you do so in public you could cause a panic or be liable for open carrying in states where that is not legal. Never reveal a concealed weapon until it is time to do so.
FIRST TIME CONCEALED CARRIER’S CHECKLIST
Part of your concealed carry do’s and don’ts will be orienting yourself with the different things you will need to safely and successfully carry a firearm. A gun alone will not suffice. Once you have secured a permit to carry you’ll need to start thinking about the rest of your gear. Here is a checklist of the items that you’ll need for an effective concealed carry.
Your Carry Weapon
No two concealed carriers are alike. There are many different types of people and so there are many different varieties of guns to choose from. Your choice of firearm will depend on your daily carry needs and tolerance level for recoil. You might want a gun that is slim, compact, and lightweight for daily use. You’ll also probably be looking for a weapon which has a smooth, clean trigger for accurate shot placement. You will also need to take into account your style of clothing, body type, holster style, and many other factors.
Extra Magazines or Reloading Devices
One rule you need to remember for a first-time concealed carry is to make sure that you have enough ammo for reloading your weapon. Some gun owners carry one spare magazine, some carry two, and others even carry three. You might need to be flexible on how much ammo you carry depending on your activity or your ability to carry extra magazines on your body. Still, sufficient ammunition is definitely something to keep in mind.
Holsters and Magazine Carriers
Holsters are important for a first-time concealed carry because they keep your gun where you need it to be and in the proper orientation for drawing. They also protect your gun from dirt and damage. Magazine carriers are similar to holsters and are a good addition to your gear. Other accessories worth investing in are speed strips and loaders. Talk with someone at your local gun shop about these options and test out carrying them around if you can.
Secure Storage
From your very first day carrying, never forget to treat all guns as if they are loaded. For this reason, you need to make sure that your carry gun is safely secured either in your holster or in a secure storage device. Gun safes, locked cabinets, or bags and purses specifically designed for concealed carrying are good options when you are not actively carrying your gun on your body.
On-Hand Ammunition and Storage
The amount of ammunition that should be kept on hand is a hotly debated issue among shooting enthusiasts. Some say that keeping a 50-round box around is already too much while others say that you need to keep at least 3,000 rounds available for every gun. To give a general rule, our recommended number is to have at least 200 rounds of practice loads and enough defensive hollow points to fill your daily-carry magazines at least three times.
Cleaning Supplies
We all know how dirt and dust can impact the reliability of your firearm. Concealed carry firearms that are carried on a daily basis can accumulate dirt very quickly, especially if the gun is carried in your pocket. Lubrication can also wear off very quickly. Chances are your firearm may operate reliably if you are not actively keeping it clean.. For a first time concealed carry, you do not have to spend a fortune on firearm maintenance. The only tools you really need are a cleaning rod, a brush, and a barrel jag – which often sold together as a kit. CLP” compounds are also sold. These types of cleaners advertise that they “clean, lubricate, and protect” your firearm and might be of use to you. Always know your gun and do your research.
Additional Daily-Carry Tools
Defending yourself doesn’t always have to involve a gun. A handgun should be just one part of your self-defense plan. You can also carry other self-defense items such as folding knives or handheld flashlights.
First-time concealed carry can be overwhelming. Don’t worry. Here at Gun Magnet we always say “all it takes is a little practice.” Follow these tips and watch yourself become a competent concealed carrier in no time!
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First-Time Concealed Carry: Concealed Carry Do’s and Don’ts
The GMW Concealed Carry Gun Pack. Now available now on Amazon.com.
BUY NOW
BUY NOW
Getting a concealed carry permit for the first time means that you’ll be more prepared in case you are attacked. However, if it’s your first concealed carrying, you’re probably feeling nervous. Trust us, it’s completely normal to feel nervous. Every first-time gun owner we know has experienced the same feeling. It’s best to harness this nervousness. That way you can be on your toes and avoid mistakes that many first-timers make when concealed carrying.
In this article, we shall guide you through the different concealed carry do’s and don’ts and make sure that not only will you be carrying completely legally and without problems, but also that you’ll be ready to face a threat when the time comes.
Common Mistakes of First-Time Gun Owners
Everyone attempting a concealed carry has goofed. Maybe they accidentally revealed their firearm while bending over. Maybe they weren’t aware until too late that the outline of their weapon was visible through their shirt. As a firearm carrier it is your responsibility to be aware of the things you need to avoid while concealed carrying. Let’s take a look at some common mistakes.
Not Knowing Concealed Carrying Laws
You simply must not go out in public without knowing your state’s laws concerning the carrying of firearms. Every state has its own laws about where you can and cannot carry, how you can carry, and whether you need a license or a permit to carry. Federal laws prohibit carrying firearms into federal buildings such as post offices, courthouses, polling stations, law enforcement offices, and jails. Federal laws apply to all states. You should avoid carrying your gun on your first day of concealed carry and instead take the time to familiarize yourself with these restrictions. There are sometimes many, many rules. For example, in some states it’s illegal to carry a gun in establishments that sell alcohol. In other states it’s even more nuanced. In Texas, for example, it’s illegal to carry a gun into an establishment that makes 51% or more of its revenue through alcohol sales. Don’t worry, in Texas these businesses are required to post signage.
How to Concealed Carry
If this is your first time concealed carrying, you’ll want to make sure that you are wearing comfortable clothing, that you can access your firearm quickly, and that your firearm is concealed properly. In some states it is prohibited for a gun to be visible. This means even an imprint of a gun is prohibited. An imprint is when the outline of your gun can be seen underneath your clothing. The key is to make sure that your firearm is covered properly and completely. You will need to be aware of how tight your clothing is to avoid “printing.” Not following this rule will get you into trouble.
In order to pull off a concealed carry, many veterans recommend smaller guns and pocket holsters to new carriers. “It is better to have something than nothing,” the saying goes. Even the smallest caliber of firearm is better than nothing. Note that holster style is an important consideration. How do you find the perfect holster? It all comes down to three things:
Not Carrying Extra Rounds in the Chamber
One of the concealed carry do’s and don’ts you should keep in mind is to never forget to load the chamber with extra rounds. This is one of the biggest mistakes that first-timers make. Yes, there is a chance that something could go wrong and a loaded gun could go off. If a loaded gun does go off, that is because the gun owner was not practicing gun safety or was not prepared to be carrying. Carrying extra rounds in your gun’s chamber is for your own good. In an actual dangerous situation, checking if your gun is ready and loaded could mean the difference between life and death. Rather than dwelling on the fear of an accidental discharge, actively practice and learn gun safety and the proper operation of your handgun to avoid this situation at all costs. Always be prepared.
Touching Your Concealed Carry Handgun
One of the common mistakes during a first time concealed carry is touching your concealed firearm. No one else should know that you are carrying a weapon so please refrain from touching it. If you are concealing your firearm properly, the only way anyone will know you are carrying is if they catch you touching your firearm or adjusting your holster. When you are out in public carrying for the first time, the weight of the firearm on your body can be distracting. You will probably want to readjust the holster. Stop yourself from doing so. You are a legal carrier. The only thing you need to be concerned about is accidentally revealing your firearm. That’s a big no-no for a concealed carry and might even be illegal in some states.
To keep yourself from being fidgety, invest in a quality holster. This will help ensure that your gun will remain where you want it. Controlling your hands may not be easy at first but you need to practice and break the habit.
Committing to Carrying Even If You Don’t Feel Like It
On your first day of concealed carry, you won’t be used to it. The truth of the matter is that you can only start to feel comfortable by continually carrying your firearm and gaining experience. If the idea of concealed carrying in public does not yet sit well with you, start with carrying your firearm around the house or apartment. This is a first step in making the CCW experience fit into your daily activities. Get comfortable inside before going outside, just like when you get a new pair of shoes.
Carrying a Concealed Handgun Off-Body
Purses, briefcases, and bags are generally not a good way to carry a concealed weapon. Although the choice is left up to the concealed carrier, we do not recommend it. If this is your first time with concealed carry and you want to keep your weapon in a purse, briefcase, or backpack, look for one that is specifically designed for carrying handguns. The reason that carrying your firearm on your body is recommended is that you will always have some control as to what happens to what’s on your body. The main reason we discourage storing loaded guns in bags is because of the possibility of accidental discharge or theft. Bags or purses can be stolen and once they are, there goes your self-defense weapon. Carrying your firearm on your body tends to be the preferred method for concealed carrying.
Worrying About Having to Use Your Gun
Chances are you will rarely if ever need to draw to defend yourself, but still, that is the reason you are carrying a gun. Most of the time, you will be using the fact that you are carrying your firearm as part of your situational awareness. As a first-time concealed carrier, you should take note of your surroundings. When there is a need to draw your firearm, don’t hesitate. In a road rage incident, for instance, things can get heated quickly. If someone cuts you off while on the road, you should call the cops. However, if that person gets out of his car and draws a handgun, be prepared and be ready.
Buying a Holster Without Testing It
One of the things to avoid while concealed carrying is buying a holster without testing it first. This is a big no-no because it can hurt you physically and financially. You want to carry your gun in a holster you are comfortable with. You can check out online reviews for different holsters but nothing beats trying them out in person. The key to finding the right holster is to first find out which style of carry you are most comfortable using, whether it be a waistband, shoulder, ankle, or some other type of carry.
Using Ordinary Belts to Carry your Firearm
The belts you buy in department stores are designed for style but not for concealed carrying. Using a normal everyday belt can cause your weapon to sag or fall forward, and this can leave your gun exposed and unsecured. Your best option is to spend the money on a tactical belt so that your gun will be properly holstered.
Using an Unsafe Holster
Testing holsters for comfort and ease of draw is one thing, but it is also extremely important to consider the safety and reliability of the holster you will be using. When buying a holster for a first-time concealed carry, look for one that will completely cover and protect the trigger. A properly guarded trigger will help prevent accidental discharge of your weapon. Make sure the holster material is not too thin to properly carry out this function. When buying a holster consider the quality of its make and its materials. Also consider your ease of access to your firearm.
Adjusting Your Holster in Public
If you need to adjust your holster always do so in a private area such as a bathroom stall. If you do so in public you could cause a panic or be liable for open carrying in states where that is not legal. Never reveal a concealed weapon until it is time to do so.
FIRST TIME CONCEALED CARRIER’S CHECKLIST
Part of your concealed carry do’s and don’ts will be orienting yourself with the different things you will need to safely and successfully carry a firearm. A gun alone will not suffice. Once you have secured a permit to carry you’ll need to start thinking about the rest of your gear. Here is a checklist of the items that you’ll need for an effective concealed carry.
Your Carry Weapon
No two concealed carriers are alike. There are many different types of people and so there are many different varieties of guns to choose from. Your choice of firearm will depend on your daily carry needs and tolerance level for recoil. You might want a gun that is slim, compact, and lightweight for daily use. You’ll also probably be looking for a weapon which has a smooth, clean trigger for accurate shot placement. You will also need to take into account your style of clothing, body type, holster style, and many other factors.
Extra Magazines or Reloading Devices
One rule you need to remember for a first-time concealed carry is to make sure that you have enough ammo for reloading your weapon. Some gun owners carry one spare magazine, some carry two, and others even carry three. You might need to be flexible on how much ammo you carry depending on your activity or your ability to carry extra magazines on your body. Still, sufficient ammunition is definitely something to keep in mind.
Holsters and Magazine Carriers
Holsters are important for a first-time concealed carry because they keep your gun where you need it to be and in the proper orientation for drawing. They also protect your gun from dirt and damage. Magazine carriers are similar to holsters and are a good addition to your gear. Other accessories worth investing in are speed strips and loaders. Talk with someone at your local gun shop about these options and test out carrying them around if you can.
Secure Storage
From your very first day carrying, never forget to treat all guns as if they are loaded. For this reason, you need to make sure that your carry gun is safely secured either in your holster or in a secure storage device. Gun safes, locked cabinets, or bags and purses specifically designed for concealed carrying are good options when you are not actively carrying your gun on your body.
On-Hand Ammunition and Storage
The amount of ammunition that should be kept on hand is a hotly debated issue among shooting enthusiasts. Some say that keeping a 50-round box around is already too much while others say that you need to keep at least 3,000 rounds available for every gun. To give a general rule, our recommended number is to have at least 200 rounds of practice loads and enough defensive hollow points to fill your daily-carry magazines at least three times.
Cleaning Supplies
We all know how dirt and dust can impact the reliability of your firearm. Concealed carry firearms that are carried on a daily basis can accumulate dirt very quickly, especially if the gun is carried in your pocket. Lubrication can also wear off very quickly. Chances are your firearm may operate reliably if you are not actively keeping it clean.. For a first time concealed carry, you do not have to spend a fortune on firearm maintenance. The only tools you really need are a cleaning rod, a brush, and a barrel jag – which often sold together as a kit. CLP” compounds are also sold. These types of cleaners advertise that they “clean, lubricate, and protect” your firearm and might be of use to you. Always know your gun and do your research.
Additional Daily-Carry Tools
Defending yourself doesn’t always have to involve a gun. A handgun should be just one part of your self-defense plan. You can also carry other self-defense items such as folding knives or handheld flashlights.
First-time concealed carry can be overwhelming. Don’t worry. Here at Gun Magnet we always say “all it takes is a little practice.” Follow these tips and watch yourself become a competent concealed carrier in no time!