Today, let's take a look at a few things we ladies must ask ourselves and answer when we make the decision to carry our gun. Everything from whether you wish to carry open (where allowed by law), or concealed, body type and shape, carry position and holster options are all things to consider.
SAFETY NOTE!!! Please, when holstering or drawing, KEEP YOUR FINGER OFF THE TRIGGER! Make SURE there is NOTHING- your shirt, a fold from a softer holster, or your finger- anywhere NEAR the trigger or inside the trigger guard, Neglecting this step will result in a negligent discharge. This is NOT an accident- this is NEGLIGENCE ON YOUR PART. Be smart, be safe, and keep everything out of the trigger guard!
First- does your state allow you to decide between carrying your gun openly? (***In Georgia, the gun owner can choose whether to open carry (OC) or conceal carry (CC). Make sure you know your state law!)
After you have answered that question- ask yourself (if your state allows) what do YOU prefer? This is not a decision anyone can make for you. This is a very personal decision based entirely on your comfort levels.
Next, understand your body shape and type. If you are built with a short waist and wider hips like I am, you may face a bit more of a challenge than those ladies who have a longer waist and narrower hips. We ladies have curves, and curves make things interesting when it comes to carrying a gun.
Think about your wardrobe for a moment. Are you a shorts and t-shirt girl? Skirts and dresses? Professional pant suits, or jeans and button downs? Our clothing tends to be cut a bit differently than the men in our lives, in order to showcase our body styles. How you tend to dress does make a difference in how you will carry. You may need different holsters for different styles of dress. Also, understand that you will need to make an addition to your wardrobe- that of a proper belt.
Carry Positions:
Appendix carry: The fastest position to draw your firearm from. Generally an in waist band (or concealed) option, your gun will sit in the front of your pants. Your shape, arm length and pant style will help determine exact placement for you. Make sure you can easily reach your gun, and draw smoothly and quickly.
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| Appendix position- image from Google |
Hip: Typically where most people will open carry. The gun will rest on their hip, snugly against the body, left or right side depending on which hand is dominant.
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| OC Hip Carry- Thank you Andrew! |
Belly Band Carry: Another good option that allows you to place the gun comfortably where you can reach it quickly. When choosing your belly band, keep an eye on construction and width. Narrower bands tend to roll and need more attention and adjustment. Wider bands tend to be more secure, with less movement.
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| Bodyband by Telor Tactical |
Thigh Carry: This is a good option for your dress or skirt days, as there are some excellent holsters available for just this purpose. I suggest the Telor Tactical Thigh Holster, as it does not slip, it will support a wide variety of guns, is machine washable, and it also allows your skin to breath. You do not need to wear a garter style attachment to keep this holster in place and it fits all sizes of thighs.
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| Telor Tactical Thigh Holster |
Small of the Back: The gun will sit exactly where the name says- in the small of your back. Be advised- this is not the safest way to carry. Your access may be limited, and drawing can be quite dangerous (FINGER!! OFF!! THE!! TRIGGER!!)
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| Image Courtesy of Google |
Bra Carry: There are holsters designed to attach to your bra. While being aware of muzzle direction is critical at all times, it is even more so with bra carry. If you have been blessed with above average sized chesticles, this probably will not be an option for you.
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| Flashbang Holster- image from Google |
Ankle Carry: There are many holsters available for safe ankle carry. Be aware, you will need pants/ jeans with a wider leg opening for ease of access. Find out if you can bend and twist easily in order to reach your ankle.
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| T-Fit by Telor Tactical- image from Telor Tactical |
Shoulder Holsters: Not something we see much of today, as there are more comfortable options available that allow for faster and safer drawing.
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| Should Holster- image from Google |
Pocket Carry: If your pants have deep enough pockets, pocket carry with a good quality holster and a smaller gun is a good option. It may take a bit extra practice to master your draw from a pocket in a safe manner.
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| Pocket Holster- image from Google |
Off Body Carry or Purse Carry: Be wary of the person who shrugs you off by simply suggesting your "drop your gun in your purse." Off body carry may be the ONLY option we have from time to time, but be very aware that it comes with it's own set of concerns and responsibilities. It is much easier to become separated from your gun with off body carry than it is if it's tucked snugly into a well designed, comfortably placed holster. There are many purses available that have a specific compartment for your gun. There are also many purse snatching crimes. Answer this question and be very honest with yourself- Can you stop a determined purse snatcher? If no, are you comfortable with arming the Bad Guy?
If you DO need to carry in your purse, please consider the following:
- Ease of access. How quickly can you get to your gun? Can you draw it without snagging?
- Use a proper holster that covers the trigger guard.
- Where is your purse? Can anyone else access it? (Such as a child? Or the creeper in the grocery store as you turn your back to get a loaf of bread?)
- Are you going somewhere that purses and bags are going to be checked? (Such as a movie theater?)
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| Carry Purse- Image from Google |
Materials that make up holster construction are almost as numerous as gun types. When you choose yours, examine them closely. Don't go with the least expensive option until you get hands on. A soft nylon holster may be a good option for storing your gun, but not the best to carry in (no retention, and folds can slip inside the trigger guard and depress the trigger. See above about negligent discharges.) Leather is beautiful but will wear and fold. Be sure to examine the holster often and replace as needed.
Much like finding your perfect carry gun, there is no one answer. Finding the right holster for you, and choosing your carry option(s) is going to take investigation on your part, ladies.
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| Leather with wear- note fold resting on trigger. | Image from Google |
***A quick word on concealed carry VS open carry. As stated above, there are states that allow the gun owner to choose which option they prefer. In the shooting community, this is a very hot button topic, that triggers a very passionate response from many. My advice? Make your own decision.
Look for more on holsters in the next post, ladies. In the meantime, continue your practice at the range, and above all else- BE SAFE!
~Shannon
912-355-0205
Patrick's Indoor Gun Range
2307 Highway 80
Garden City GA
www.PatricksUniforms.com
Nice post and very valuable information for all.Here we have the best concealed carry holsters on the planet! (IWB) In waistband, ankle and pocket holsters. Thigh holster
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