For motorcyclists who carry a concealed weapon, it’s essential to plan your setup and stay prepared for any situation. Riding while armed has unique challenges compared to typical concealed carry. Here are 15 tips to help you stay safe, secure, and ready while riding with a concealed firearm.
1. Keep It Concealed, Even in the Wind
Motorcycles bring an extra layer of exposure, with wind easily blowing clothing out of place and exposing your firearm. Choose a holster position and cover garment that will withstand gusts of wind without showing your weapon.
2. Consider the Throttle and Dominant Hand
If you’re right-handed, remember that your right hand controls the throttle. In an emergency, you can’t maintain the throttle and draw your weapon simultaneously. Focus on situations where you’d only draw while stopped, not while moving.
3. Choose the Right Holster
Your usual holster might not work on a bike. Test a shoulder holster, chest rig, or belly band for comfort and accessibility. Each option has pros and cons, so find the one that lets you ride securely and draw comfortably.
4. Dress for Quick Access
Layers like jackets, vests, and gloves can complicate your draw. Practice reaching your weapon with all your gear on. Ensure you can move aside clothing and access your gun quickly in case of an emergency.
5. Use a Holster with Good Retention
Retention is critical on a motorcycle. A loose holster could send your firearm flying if you hit a bump or fall. Use a holster with reliable retention, ensuring your gun stays securely in place while riding.
6. Stay Away from Off-Body Carry
Avoid off-body options like backpacks or tank bags. If you go down, retrieving a gun from a backpack is challenging, and the impact could cause serious injury if you land on the gun. Keep your weapon on your body, where it’s safer and easier to access.
7. Watch Your Gloves
Gloves are essential for motorcycling, but not all gloves work with every firearm. Make sure your trigger guard accommodates your gloved finger without risking an accidental discharge. If needed, select a firearm with a larger trigger guard or a pair of slim-fit gloves.
8. Plan for Visibility in Low Light
If you ride with a tinted visor or in low-light conditions, ensure you can still see your sights. Opt for bright or night sights to ensure you can see clearly in all conditions, especially if you wear a helmet with tinted or darkened lenses.
9. Avoid the Saddlebags for Your Gun
While saddlebags might seem secure, they’re far easier to break into than a car trunk. Opportunistic thieves could easily spot and access a visible gun if it’s stored in a saddlebag. Keep your weapon on your person for better control.
10. Think About Emergency Medical Situations
If you’re in an accident, emergency personnel need to know about your firearm. Have a plan to inform them of its location and remind them that a holstered weapon is safe. This can prevent unnecessary risks during treatment.
11. Maintain Situational Awareness
Situational awareness is crucial, especially when carrying on a motorcycle. Be mindful of traffic patterns, road conditions, and other potential risks that could lead to confrontations or situations where you might need to defend yourself.
12. Use a Jacket or Vest with Concealed Pockets
Consider a jacket or vest with a built-in concealed carry pocket. Many vests include reinforced elastic holsters in inner pockets, keeping your firearm close while allowing quick access. Just make sure it provides enough trigger protection.
13. Practice Drawing on Your Bike
Your draw might look different sitting on a bike than standing. Practicing this safely can improve muscle memory, helping you prepare for an emergency. Take note of your bike’s specific positioning, and practice how you would draw if sitting on your motorcycle.
14. Evaluate a Shoulder Holster for Comfort and Weight Distribution
A shoulder holster can be an excellent option for motorcyclists. It balances the weight across your shoulders, reducing strain on your hips and back. Be sure to test if you can still reach the weapon quickly, especially when fully zipped up.
15. Check Local Laws Before Every Ride
Motorcycle routes often cross state lines. Be mindful of differing concealed carry laws, especially if you’re traveling through restricted areas. Know your rights, duties, and limitations as a rider to stay within legal boundaries.
Enjoying the Freedom of the Road
Each of these tips can help you become a safer, more prepared concealed-carry rider. With practice and planning, riding with a concealed weapon can be done securely, allowing you to enjoy the freedom of the road with peace of mind.
Mark grew up in the heart of Texas, where tornadoes and extreme weather were a part of life. His early experiences sparked a fascination with emergency preparedness and homesteading. A father of three, Mark is dedicated to teaching families how to be self-sufficient, with a focus on food storage, DIY projects, and energy independence. His writing empowers everyday people to take small steps toward greater self-reliance without feeling overwhelmed.