Concealed carry isn’t just about putting a pistol in your waistband and walking out the door – it’s a mindset, a responsibility, and a commitment. For those new to everyday carry (EDC), the transition can feel overwhelming. What gun should you choose? How should you dress? How do you make sure you’re prepared without drawing attention to yourself? These are questions every new carrier asks, and the answers make all the difference.
The goal of concealed carry isn’t to become some action-movie hero or a tactical showpiece – it’s about personal protection, defending loved ones, and making sure you’re always ready for the unexpected. Done correctly, no one should even know you’re armed.
Choosing the Right Firearm for You
One of the first mistakes beginners make is assuming that smaller is always better. Yes, a tiny pocket pistol is easier to hide, but is it the right firearm for you? The best gun for concealed carry is the one you can shoot comfortably, confidently, and accurately. Some people carry full-sized handguns, like a 1911, in colder months when heavy clothing allows for better concealment. Others opt for compact pistols, such as a Glock 19, which balance firepower and concealability.
Whatever firearm you choose, it needs to be one that you’ve trained with extensively. If you’re not comfortable with how it feels, how it shoots, or how to clear a malfunction under stress, it’s not the right gun for you. Concealed carry isn’t just about having a gun – it’s about knowing how to use it effectively.
Holsters Matter More Than You Think
A bad holster can ruin your entire experience. If it’s uncomfortable, you’ll constantly adjust it – a dead giveaway that you’re carrying. If it doesn’t hold your firearm securely, you risk the gun shifting or even falling out. The best choice for most people is an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster that keeps the firearm snug against your body, properly retained, and easily accessible.
Avoid the temptation to use outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters and simply throw a jacket over them. Not only do they print more visibly, but a gust of wind or a simple stretch could expose your firearm to the world. If you’re serious about concealed carry, invest in a quality holster that fits your gun and your lifestyle.
The Backup Magazine Debate
Do you really need to carry extra ammunition? It depends. The average self-defense encounter lasts only a few seconds and involves just a handful of shots fired. However, magazines can fail, and malfunctions happen. If your firearm is a semi-automatic, carrying a spare magazine isn’t just about extra bullets – it’s about having a backup in case your primary magazine fails.
For revolver carriers, speed loaders or extra moon clips are the way to go. No matter what you carry, the key is to make sure reloads are accessible and on your non-dominant side so you can reach them easily under stress.
Dressing for Concealed Carry Without Looking Tactical
There’s no need to look like a Navy SEAL walking through the grocery store. The biggest mistake new carriers make is dressing in a way that screams “armed.” Cargo pants, tactical vests, and “Don’t Tread on Me” shirts aren’t doing you any favors. The point of concealed carry is to blend in.
Dress as you normally would, but with an awareness of how your firearm fits into your outfit. A well-fitted button-up shirt or a loose T-shirt can easily conceal a handgun. If you’re wearing tighter clothing, consider appendix carry for better concealment. The key is to look natural – no one should suspect you’re carrying.
The Art of Moving Naturally
Fidgeting, adjusting your holster, or constantly touching your firearm will draw attention faster than anything else. People generally don’t assume that someone around them is armed, but if you keep reaching toward the same spot, they’ll notice.
The trick is simple: set up your carry position correctly at the start of the day and leave it alone. If your holster and belt are properly fitted, you shouldn’t need to adjust anything. Walk naturally, bend at the knees instead of at the waist, and avoid unnecessary movements that could expose your firearm.
Mindset: Live Your Life, Don’t Seek Trouble
Carrying a firearm doesn’t mean you should change how you live. It doesn’t make you a police officer, a soldier, or a vigilante. Your goal is simple – go about your daily routine with the added confidence that you can protect yourself if necessary.
Avoid dangerous situations whenever possible. Don’t pick fights, don’t provoke conflicts, and don’t let your ego get in the way. Concealed carry is about responsibility. The best self-defense scenario is the one you never have to participate in.
Legal Considerations: Know the Laws in Your Area
Concealed carry laws vary widely from state to state. Some states have constitutional carry, meaning no permit is required. Others have strict regulations on where and how you can carry. Before you step out the door armed, know the laws.
Understand where you can and can’t carry – federal buildings, schools, and certain businesses may have restrictions. Know what’s required if you’re stopped by law enforcement. Some states require you to inform officers immediately, while others don’t. Ignorance of the law is never an excuse, so do your research.
Situational Awareness: Your Best Defensive Tool
Carrying a firearm doesn’t make you invincible. The best way to stay safe is to avoid dangerous situations in the first place. Keep your head up. Pay attention to your surroundings. Don’t walk through parking lots staring at your phone. If something feels off, trust your instincts and leave.
A gun is a last resort, not a first response. Good situational awareness can help you spot trouble before it happens, giving you the chance to escape or de-escalate rather than engage.
Training: Shooting at the Range Isn’t Enough
Many people get a concealed carry permit, shoot a few rounds at the range, and assume they’re ready for anything. The reality is far different. Defensive shooting is about more than just accuracy – it’s about reacting under pressure, shooting from unconventional positions, and knowing how to clear malfunctions quickly.
Take a defensive handgun course if possible. Practice drawing from concealment. Work on one-handed shooting in case your other hand is occupied or injured. Training shouldn’t end once you get your permit – it’s an ongoing process.
Confidence, Not Carelessness
The more comfortable you become with carrying, the easier it is to fall into bad habits. Some people get so used to their firearm that they stop taking safety seriously. Complacency can be just as dangerous as inexperience.
Always treat your firearm with respect. Follow the basic safety rules: keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, never point the muzzle at anything you’re not willing to destroy, and always be aware of what’s beyond your target.
Carry Every Day, Carry Responsibly
Concealed carry isn’t just about having a firearm – it’s about committing to a way of life. If you’ve decided that protecting yourself and your loved ones is a priority, then consistency is key. That means carrying every day, staying informed about the law, continuing to train, and maintaining a mindset of responsibility rather than aggression.
A gun is just a tool. The real weapon is your awareness, your preparation, and your ability to avoid danger before it ever reaches you. Carry wisely, stay sharp, and most importantly – live your life.
Ed spent his childhood in the backwoods of Maine, where harsh winters taught him the value of survival skills. With a background in bushcraft and off-grid living, Ed has honed his expertise in fire-making, hunting, and wild foraging. He writes from personal experience, sharing practical tips and hands-on techniques to thrive in any outdoor environment. Whether it’s primitive camping or full-scale survival, Ed’s advice is grounded in real-life challenges.