Carrying a concealed firearm is a responsibility that requires careful attention to detail, awareness, and practice. Yet, many people make simple but dangerous mistakes when carrying concealed, and the consequences can be severe. Whether you’re a seasoned carrier or new to the world of concealed carry, these five fails are ones you simply can’t afford to make.
1. Neglecting Proper Training

One of the biggest fails many new carriers commit is not training enough. Carrying a firearm is not a “set it and forget it” situation. The moment you strap that holster to your side, you’re accepting a level of responsibility that requires consistent training and practice. Many people go to the range a couple of times and feel that they’re ready for anything, but as Reddit user u/Jits_Guy pointed out, “If you ever do a real stress shoot you’ll realize how comically unprepared you are.”
Training isn’t just about shooting; it’s about developing muscle memory for drawing, aiming, and firing under stress. Dry fire exercises, malfunction drills, and practicing with a purpose at the range are essential for being ready to defend yourself.
2. Wearing the Wrong Clothing

Another common mistake is wearing the wrong type of clothing for concealed carry. Tight clothing, in particular, is a dead giveaway that you’re carrying a firearm. Printing – when the outline of your gun is visible through your clothes – can attract unwanted attention. A looser, more layered wardrobe can help keep your firearm out of sight and ensure smoother movement when drawing.
In addition to choosing the right clothes, it’s crucial to practice with the clothing you plan to wear. As u/playingtherole advised, “Make sure you have a decent holster with a good clip that doesn’t move around on your belt so you’re not constantly touching and adjusting it.” Fidgeting with your shirt or holster is a clear sign you’re carrying, and it can give away your tactical advantage.
3. Using Inadequate Gear

Not all holsters are created equal, and carrying your firearm in the wrong holster is a fail that could cost you precious seconds in a critical moment. Many new carriers fall into the trap of buying cheap holsters or ones that don’t properly fit their firearm. This can lead to problems with retention, accessibility, or the gun not being properly secured. u/bigjerm616 summed it up perfectly: “Buying a crappy holster off Amazon or eBay (guilty). Skipping a good gun belt (also guilty).”
Investing in a high-quality holster and a solid gun belt is essential for both comfort and safety. Remember, your holster should hold your gun securely while allowing you to draw it quickly and efficiently.
4. Failing to Carry With a Round in the Chamber

One of the most debated topics in the concealed carry world is whether or not to carry with a round in the chamber. For some, the fear of an accidental discharge makes them reluctant to carry this way, but in a life-or-death situation, those extra seconds could mean everything. If you’re carrying a firearm for self-defense, it needs to be ready for immediate use.
Consider this scenario: an attacker approaches, and you need to draw your weapon. If there’s no round in the chamber, you’ll need to rack the slide – an action that requires both hands and adds critical time to your response. Training with your firearm regularly can build confidence and familiarity, which may ease the discomfort of carrying with a loaded chamber. Remember, the goal is to protect yourself as quickly as possible.
5. Lacking Situational Awareness

Situational awareness is one of the most important aspects of carrying a firearm. If you’re not paying attention to your surroundings, you’re setting yourself up for failure. Being aware of potential threats, exits, and the behavior of those around you can help you avoid dangerous situations altogether. The firearm should be a last resort.
u/Jits_Guy offered solid advice: “Thinking people will notice your weapon through your clothes while it’s in a proper holster… you’ll get used to it, and eventually leaving the house without it will feel like leaving the house without your wallet.” Part of that situational awareness includes getting comfortable with carrying your gun and learning to trust that no one is watching you closely enough to notice.
The Importance of Preplanning

Part of concealed carry is knowing the laws and regulations wherever you go. Some places, such as military bases or government buildings, have strict rules against carrying firearms. As u/negdischargestory learned the hard way, entering restricted areas with a firearm can lead to serious consequences. It’s critical to know the rules before you leave the house, and always have a plan in place for where your firearm can legally be stored if needed.
Don’t Overlook Your Mindset

Carrying a firearm is a mental game as much as it is a physical one. If you’re not mentally prepared to carry a gun, it’s better not to carry at all. Having the right mindset means understanding the gravity of using lethal force and being ready to make quick decisions in high-stress situations. A responsible carrier is someone who avoids conflict when possible but is prepared to protect themselves or others if necessary.
Don’t Ignore Firearm Maintenance

A common fail that many carriers overlook is the maintenance of their firearm. Carrying a gun daily exposes it to sweat, dirt, and other elements that can affect its functionality. As u/Liquid_machine81 mentioned, “Make sure you fire your gun often. And regularly clean and lubricate it, especially if you carry it often in different elements.” A neglected firearm can malfunction at the worst possible moment, so regular cleaning and lubrication are critical to ensure it operates smoothly when you need it most. Developing a routine to inspect your gun, check for any issues, and ensure it’s in working order is just as important as training.
Understand the Value of Comfort and Confidence

When it comes to concealed carry, comfort and confidence are key. If you’re constantly fidgeting with your holster or doubting your choice of firearm, it will affect your ability to carry effectively. u/Apache_Solutions_DDB brought up a great point: “Not seeking validated, current information” can lead to mistakes in how you carry or train. Finding the right holster, belt, and clothing combo will not only make carrying more comfortable but will also allow you to focus on your surroundings rather than worrying about your gear. Over time, carrying will become second nature, and the confidence you build in your setup will help you stay prepared for any situation.
Continuous Improvement is Key

As u/LolfWarsen wisely shared, “The realization that those mistakes could contribute to my death changed my methods.” The key takeaway is that carrying a concealed firearm isn’t a one-time decision – it’s an ongoing commitment to training, improvement, and maintaining the right attitude. Whether it’s practicing at the range, refining your draw speed, or improving your situational awareness, there’s always room to grow.
The bottom line is simple: concealed carry is about being safe, prepared, and responsible. Learn from the mistakes of others, invest in the right gear, and always keep improving your skills and mindset. Your safety – and the safety of those around you – depends on it.

Raised in a small Arizona town, Kevin grew up surrounded by rugged desert landscapes and a family of hunters. His background in competitive shooting and firearms training has made him an authority on self-defense and gun safety. A certified firearms instructor, Kevin teaches others how to properly handle and maintain their weapons, whether for hunting, home defense, or survival situations. His writing focuses on responsible gun ownership, marksmanship, and the role of firearms in personal preparedness.