Carrying a firearm for personal protection is a significant responsibility, requiring knowledge, practice, and careful consideration. Unfortunately, even experienced carriers can fall into habits that may compromise their safety, effectiveness, or compliance with the law. Here are 10 common but dangerous mistakes concealed carriers make – and how to avoid them.
1. Failing to Understand Local, State, and Federal Laws

Gun laws vary widely depending on your location. It’s essential to know the rules governing concealed carry in your state, county, and city. A practice that’s legal in one area could land you in serious legal trouble in another. Always research and stay updated on the regulations in your area, particularly if you travel frequently.
2. Skipping Safety Checks

It’s astonishing how many accidental discharges happen because of neglected safety checks. Always ensure your firearm is unloaded before cleaning or handling it in non-emergency situations. Eject the magazine, lock the slide back, and visually and physically confirm that the chamber is clear. This simple step can prevent devastating accidents.
3. Using a Subpar Holster

Your holster is just as important as your firearm. A poor-quality holster can compromise both comfort and safety. Choose a holster that securely retains your firearm, covers the trigger guard, and allows for a smooth draw. Don’t hesitate to try multiple options until you find one that works perfectly for you.
4. Overlooking Training

Owning a gun isn’t enough – you need to know how to use it effectively. Regular practice at the range is essential, but so is professional training. Take classes that teach shooting techniques, firearm safety, and defensive tactics. Even experienced shooters can benefit from expert guidance, as it reinforces good habits and corrects mistakes.
5. Ignoring the Importance of Awareness

When carrying a firearm, situational awareness is not optional. You need to constantly monitor your surroundings, identifying potential threats and ensuring your safety. Pay attention to who is nearby, what they’re doing, and how close they are to you. Awareness not only keeps you prepared but also helps you avoid dangerous situations altogether.
6. Mishandling Your Firearm in Public

Constantly adjusting your firearm or holster in public is a rookie mistake. Not only does it draw unwanted attention, but it can also make others uncomfortable. Once your firearm is secure in its holster, leave it alone. If you’re concerned about comfort or concealment, address those issues privately or with a better holster.
7. Failing to Educate Others in Your Household

If you live with family members or roommates, they need to be educated about firearm safety. Children, in particular, should be taught to respect firearms and understand that they’re not toys. Open communication and proper training reduce the risk of curiosity leading to accidents.
8. Poor Trigger Discipline

Keeping your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot is a fundamental rule of firearm safety. Unfortunately, some people develop the habit of resting their finger on the trigger while handling their gun. Instead, practice “indexing” by placing your finger along the side of the firearm, outside the trigger guard, until you’re prepared to fire.
9. Pointing in Unsafe Directions

The direction in which you point your firearm matters – always. Even if you’ve performed a safety check, the muzzle should never be aimed at anything you’re not prepared to destroy. This rule applies whether you’re at home, at the range, or showing someone your firearm. The ground is typically the safest direction to point your gun.
10. Neglecting Firearm Storage

One of the most critical aspects of responsible gun ownership is proper storage. Your firearm should never be left unsecured. It should either be on your person, in a holster, or locked in a safe. For those with children or guests in the home, this becomes even more essential. A small handgun safe is an inexpensive solution that can prevent tragic accidents.
A Serious Responsibility

Carrying a concealed firearm is a serious responsibility that requires constant vigilance, ongoing training, and adherence to safety protocols. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that you’re not only protecting yourself but also those around you. Are there any of these mistakes you’ve caught yourself making? Or do you have tips to share? Let us know your thoughts below.
Keeping Your Firearm Knowledge Up-to-date

How do you ensure that your training and firearm knowledge remain up-to-date in an ever-changing legal and societal landscape? What steps have you taken to educate those in your household about firearm safety, and how can this be improved further? Have you tested multiple holster options to find the one that provides the best balance of comfort, security, and accessibility for your needs?

A former park ranger and wildlife conservationist, Lisa’s passion for survival started with her deep connection to nature. Raised on a small farm in northern Wisconsin, she learned how to grow her own food, raise livestock, and live off the land. Lisa writes about homesteading, natural remedies, and survival strategies. Whether it’s canning vegetables or setting up a rainwater harvesting system, Lisa’s goal is to help others live more sustainably and prepare for the unexpected.