Carrying a firearm for self-defense is a profound responsibility. Yet, too often, individuals make training decisions that undermine their preparedness when it matters most. Whether you’re new to concealed carry or a seasoned carrier, avoiding certain mistakes in your training routine is essential. Here, we delve into common pitfalls and how to correct them to ensure your readiness and confidence.
1. The Myth of the Perfect Gun

Many focus excessively on finding the “perfect” firearm. While owning a high-quality, reliable gun is vital, the reality is that the best gun is the one you have with you when a critical moment arises. A concealed carry firearm should be small enough to carry daily but still large enough to control effectively. Training with your everyday carry gun is far more critical than obsessing over an idealized weapon.
2. Training With the Wrong Gear

It’s easy to be tempted to train with a full-size firearm because it’s easier to handle and shoot. However, the gun you carry daily is likely smaller, with a different grip, recoil, and capacity. If you aren’t training with the same firearm you carry, you’re setting yourself up for failure in a real-world scenario. Prioritize practice with your concealed carry weapon to develop familiarity and confidence.
3. Ignoring Practical Carry Realities

Toting a large tactical rifle or oversized handgun may seem appealing during practice sessions, but it doesn’t reflect the practical realities of daily concealed carry. Whether you’re at the movies, shopping, or attending a concert, your everyday carry (EDC) weapon needs to be something you can realistically conceal and access. Training with firearms or setups you wouldn’t carry daily is a disservice to your preparedness.
4. Mindset Over Machismo

Training isn’t about showing off or proving your toughness. It’s about building the skills and mindset necessary to protect yourself and your loved ones. Some people treat their firearm as a symbol of identity or bravado rather than a practical tool. A proper defensive mindset focuses on staying alert, prepared, and ready to de-escalate situations before they turn dangerous.
5. Neglecting the Basics

It’s tempting to jump into advanced drills and tactical maneuvers, but foundational skills remain paramount. Loading, unloading, drawing from concealment, and maintaining trigger discipline should be second nature. These fundamental skills ensure you’re prepared for high-pressure situations where every second counts.
6. Failure to Train Under Pressure

Shooting calmly at a stationary target on the range doesn’t replicate the stress of a defensive scenario. Incorporate drills that mimic real-life pressures, such as timed exercises, movement, or engaging multiple targets. Simulating stress can help you build the muscle memory needed to perform when adrenaline is pumping.
7. Skipping Situational Awareness

Carrying a firearm is only part of the equation. The ability to avoid a dangerous situation altogether is just as critical. Many overlook training in situational awareness, which involves observing your environment, identifying threats early, and planning escape routes. Developing this skill reduces the likelihood of needing to draw your weapon at all.
8. Overlooking Holster Skills

Holster selection and usage are often underestimated. A poorly chosen holster can hinder your ability to draw quickly and securely. Train extensively with the holster you intend to use, ensuring that your draw is smooth and consistent. Practice drawing from concealment in realistic scenarios, such as from beneath a jacket or shirt.
9. Lack of Realistic Scenarios

While static range practice is essential, it doesn’t prepare you for dynamic situations. Incorporate scenarios where you move, seek cover, or engage multiple targets. Learning to shoot while moving or dealing with malfunctions under stress can make a critical difference in a defensive encounter.
10. Forgetting Maintenance and Reliability

Your firearm should be as dependable as your training. Neglecting regular maintenance or failing to vet your ammunition for reliability can lead to malfunctions when you least expect them. Regularly clean and inspect your gun, and ensure you’re carrying reliable self-defense rounds.
11. Training Without Accountability

Whether you train alone or with a group, having someone assess your technique is invaluable. A qualified instructor or knowledgeable peer can help identify bad habits or areas for improvement. Video recording your training sessions is another effective way to critique your form and technique.
12. Choosing Entertainment Over Effectiveness

It’s easy to get caught up in flashy drills or Instagram-worthy shooting videos. While these might be fun, they don’t always translate to real-world effectiveness. Focus on drills and skills that enhance your ability to respond to threats, not just ones that look impressive.
Train Like Your Life Depends on It

Concealed carry training is about more than just shooting; it’s about developing a mindset, mastering your tools, and preparing for the unexpected. Avoiding these common mistakes ensures that when the time comes, you’ll be ready. Take the time to assess your current training routine and make adjustments as needed.

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.