The Importance of Carry Position: Train How You Carry

When it comes to concealed carry, gear and licensing are only part of the equation. One of the most overlooked but mission-critical elements is your carry position—where and how you actually carry your firearm on your body. Whether you're new to concealed carry or a seasoned professional, consistent training from your carry position can be the difference between hesitation and effective action.

🎯 Train How You Carry

It’s easy to get comfortable training at the range in ideal conditions: open holster, perfect stance, no cover garment. But real-life threats won’t wait for you to unzip your jacket or remove your sweatshirt. You need to practice drawing exactly how you carry—whether that’s inside the waistband (IWB), appendix (AIWB), or small of back.

✅ Practice your draw stroke from under your everyday clothing✅ Reholster with safety and awareness of angles✅ Run dry-fire drills that include garment clearing

Consistency breeds confidence. Confidence builds speed. Speed, with control, saves lives.

👕 Dress for Success—Without Printing

Dressing around your gun is not just a fashion suggestion—it’s a responsibility. Concealed carry means concealed. Printing—the visible outline of your firearm through clothing—is not only a tactical disadvantage, it can also cause unnecessary concern in public or even legal issues in stricter jurisdictions.

Tips to stay low-profile:

• Choose darker, patterned shirts to break up outlines

• Use proper holsters with cant and retention to reduce bulges

• Test your outfits in mirrors and different lighting

Your goal is comfort, concealment, and access—all three.

🧠 Stay Situationally Aware

Your carry position and concealment mean nothing if you're not paying attention. Situational awareness is your first line of defense. That doesn’t mean paranoia—it means presence.

Be alert for:

• Individuals acting outside of normal patterns

• Hands (what are they doing, where are they going?)

• Exits and barriers in every environment

• Your own behavior—don’t fidget with your firearm or cover garment

Remember: you are your own first responder. Awareness can prevent a situation before it starts—or give you a vital second to act.

💬 Final Thoughts

Concealed carry isn’t just about having a firearm—it’s about training, preparation, and mindset. Carrying in a way that’s comfortable, concealed, and accessible is essential. Practice from your chosen carry position, dress to conceal without compromise, and stay alert.

The gun is the tool. You are the weapon.