Your Complete Guide to Concealed Carry – Shooting Skills, Gear, and More!

Carrying a concealed firearm is about more than just having the right equipment. It’s about mastering the skills and strategies that keep you safe, comfortable, and prepared. Whether you’re just starting your concealed carry journey or looking to fine-tune your setup, this guide covers everything you need to know, from essential gear and carry positions to shooting techniques and confidence-building practices.

What is concealed carry?

Concealed carry means keeping a firearm hidden on your person, ready for protection without drawing unwanted attention.

The rules around concealed carry vary depending on where you live, so it’s essential to be up to speed on local regulations, permits, and training requirements. 

Key Considerations for Beginners

Starting your concealed carry journey is about being smart, safe, and prepared.

• Choose the right gear: Experiment with different holsters, EDC belts, and carry positions to find what suits your lifestyle and offers both comfort and discretion.
• Prioritize comfort and discretion: Remember, this isn’t one-size-fits-all. The right setup is one that fits you perfectly, both physically and practically.
• Get proper training: Enroll in a comprehensive firearms course to build confidence and learn essential skills for real-world scenarios.
• Stay mindful of safety: Always prioritize safe handling and responsible carry, no matter where you are or what you’re doing.
• Know your local laws: Familiarize yourself with the concealed carry regulations in your area, including where you can carry and any restrictions that apply.

Choosing the Right Concealed Carry Gear

Essential gear includes holsters, EDC belts, and specialized clothing for firearms. When choosing your gear, prioritize comfort and accessibility. Your equipment should allow you to carry it confidently without restricting movement or drawing attention.

Definitely Need

1. Firearm: Your firearm is the foundation of your concealed carry setup. For most carriers, compact or subcompact handguns hit the sweet spot – big enough terminal ballistics but small enough to hide without printing under your clothes.
2. Holster: The next essential is a reliable holster. IWB (Inside-the-Waistband) holsters are the go-to for most carriers because they keep your firearm tucked securely against your body for maximum concealment. Prefer a little more space or wearing looser clothing? OWB (Outside-the-Waistband) holsters are still a solid choice if paired with the right clothing.
3. EDC Belt: A high-quality EDC belt, like the ones we offer at Blue Alpha, is the key to your setup. It keeps your holster from sagging, shifting, or moving out of place. Without a sturdy belt, even the best holster will feel uncomfortable.
4. Clothing: You don’t need a special tactical wardrobe, but what you wear makes a difference. Looser shirts, jackets, or pants help hide the shape of your firearm, especially when paired with your IWB holster. The key is finding clothing that blends comfort with discretion. 

Worried about being too hot in summer? Check out Mastering Summer EDC and Concealed Carry for tips on how to carry and stay cool.

Nice to Have

Once you’ve covered the basics, there are some extras that can take your setup to the next level.

1. Spare magazine: Whether you need more rounds or have to clear a jam, having an extra mag ready to go makes sure you’re not caught short.
2. Magazine carrier: You can toss an extra mag in your pocket, but a magazine carrier gives quick access and keeps things organized. 
3. Weapon light or laser: Whether you’re dealing with low-light environments or need faster target acquisition, a weapon light or laser can be a game changer. However, they can add some bulk to your setup, so it’s important to balance the trade-off between convenience and tactical advantage.
4. Medical Kit (IFAK): It might not seem like a direct part of concealed carry, but having an Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK) handy is smart.

Frequently Asked Questions About Concealed Carry Gear

What is the best gun for self-defense concealed carry?

The best gun for self-defense in concealed carry combines reliability, comfort, and ease of use. 

Popular choices include subcompact models like the Glock 43, Smith & Wesson Shield, and Sig Sauer P365. These firearms balance size, capacity, and manageable recoil, making them effective for quick access and accurate shots. 

Ultimately, the best gun is the one you feel most confident with and can carry comfortably throughout your day.

What is the most popular concealed carry firearm?

The Sig Sauer P365 has risen as one of the most popular concealed carry firearms due to its compact size, high capacity, and overall performance. 

Close competitors like the Glock 19 and Smith & Wesson Shield are also consistently favored by carriers for their reliability and ease of concealment. 

What holsters won’t scratch your gun?

Opt for Kydex or leather holsters lined with soft materials to avoid scratches. Kydex is a popular choice because it retains the firearm securely without causing wear and tear, while leather can mold to the shape of the gun to provide a snug fit without abrasiveness. 

Blue Alpha offers a variety of holster-friendly belts that work with both materials so your firearm stays secure and scratch-free while carrying concealed.

Concealed Carry Positions: Finding What Works for You

Finding the right position for concealed carry isn’t just about hiding your firearm – it’s about being comfortable, prepared, and able to access your weapon when it counts. 

Let’s break down the most common positions and why they might work for you.

Appendix Carry (AIWB)

Located in front of the hip around the 1 o’clock position (for right-handed shooters, 11 o’clock for left-handers), appendix carry is one of the fastest draw positions.

• Pros: Quick access, especially when standing; good concealment for many body types.
• Cons: Can be uncomfortable when sitting for extended periods and may feel risky for some due to position near the femoral artery.

Side of Hip

Positioned directly on the side of your hip (3 o’clock for right-handed shooters, 9 o’clock for left-handers), this position balances accessibility and concealment.

• Pros: Comfortable for those who sit frequently or drive a lot; provides decent concealment with the right clothing.
• Cons: More noticeable in tighter clothing or when bending.

Behind the Hip

Sitting just behind the hip, the 4 o’clock position (8 o’clock if left-handed) is another favorite for concealment. It provides good coverage without significantly sacrificing access.

• Pros: Excellent concealment, especially with looser clothing; feels natural for many carriers.
• Cons: Slightly slower draw compared to appendix carry, especially while seated.

Small of the Back (SOB)

This position is where the firearm rests directly on your lower back at 6 o’clock. While it offers high concealment, it comes with several drawbacks.

• Pros: Great concealment; less chance of printing.
• Cons: Slow draw and falling or landing on your back could result in injury from the gun; challenging to access when seated.

Cross-Draw

Cross-draw involves carrying your firearm on the opposite side of your dominant hand. Some people favor this position for seated carry, especially in vehicles.

• Pros: Comfortable for seated or driving positions; easy access from a sitting position.
• Cons: Slower to draw compared to strong-side positions; requires more training to avoid flagging your body during the draw.

Shoulder Holster

A shoulder holster places the firearm horizontally or vertically under your arm. While it’s less common for everyday carry, it can be effective when worn with the right cover garment, like a jacket.

• Pros: Convenient for carrying larger firearms; ideal for seated positions or long periods of driving.
• Cons: Requires a jacket or cover garment for concealment; slower draw and may not be as practical for day-to-day use.

Ankle Carry

Ankle carry is used for smaller backup guns rather than primary firearms. The gun is holstered around your ankle, usually on the inside of your non-dominant leg.

• Pros: Great for deep concealment, especially when other positions aren’t an option.
• Cons: Slow draw, especially when standing; difficult to access in high-stress situations.

Off-Body Carry

Off-body carry involves carrying your firearm in something other than your clothing, like a bag, backpack, or fanny pack. This method can be a practical option for those who find on-body carry uncomfortable or impractical in certain situations.

• Pros: Offers excellent concealment; ideal for those wearing clothing that doesn’t accommodate on-body holsters or in situations where carrying discreetly is key.
• Cons: Slower access to your firearm; must always be mindful of keeping your bag secure and within reach.

For more on positions, read Choosing the Best Way to Conceal Carry.

Shooting Skills for Concealed Carry

Carrying concealed isn’t just about having a firearm on you – it’s about having the skills to use it effectively and safely if the situation demands it. Let’s break down the key shooting skills that every concealed carrier needs to master for real-world self-defense.

Ready Positions

Your readiness to draw and fire could make all the difference in a defensive situation. Ready positions help you react quickly and accurately. 

Start by getting familiar with essential positions like low ready, high ready, and compressed ready. Each has its place, depending on your environment and the level of threat you’re facing.

Check out 5 Ready Positions You Need to Know for a deep dive into these techniques.

Shooting Stances

The right stance isn’t just about comfort – it’s your foundation for control and accuracy. Whether you’re a beginner or brushing up on the basics, learning these stances is key to improving your shooting.

Check out 3 Essential Stances Every Shooter Should Know for a closer look at the shooting stances that offer the stability you need to handle recoil and maintain accuracy.

Trigger Control and Grip

A solid grip helps you manage recoil, while disciplined trigger control prevents accidental shots and boosts accuracy. It’s about making every shot count, and that means building muscle memory through repetition.

Read How Trigger Control and Proper Grip Improve Your Shooting to refine these skills.

Drawing from Concealment

The ability to quickly and smoothly draw your firearm from concealment is one of the most critical skills for any concealed carrier. It’s not just about speed – it’s about doing it without fumbling or snagging on clothing. 

Practice drawing from various concealment methods (IWB, OWB, appendix, etc.) to efficiently access your firearm in different situations. Start slow, focus on fluidity, and gradually increase your speed. You want your draw to be second nature.

Read Dry Fire Training: Shoot Like a Pro for practice ideas.

Recoil Management

In high-pressure situations, one shot is unlikely to solve the problem. Learning to control your firearm’s recoil, reset your aim, and fire again is vital to staying in control of a defensive encounter.

Practice double-taps and controlled pairs to improve your ability to fire multiple accurate shots in quick succession. For a deeper dive into mastering this skill, read Recoil Management Tips and Drills.

Real-World Training

Skills on the range are one thing, but real-world scenarios are another. Scenario-based training prepares you for the unpredictable nature of self-defense situations. Practice drawing from concealment, firing from cover, reloading under stress, and moving while shooting. 

These exercises build the adaptability you need to stay confident and capable in any environment. For drills that provide training variety, check out 5 Low-Round Count Pistol Drills.

Train, Adapt, and Improve

No skill is mastered overnight. Continuous practice is what turns good habits into instinctive reactions. 

Whether you’re refining your ready positions, stances, or trigger control, regular drills are the glue that holds your concealed carry skills together. It’s not just about being prepared – it’s about staying prepared. And all of that is done with regular practice.

Tips for Carrying Comfortably and Confidently

Carrying a concealed firearm shouldn’t feel like a chore. It should integrate seamlessly into your everyday routine, giving you both security and comfort. Here’s how to do that.

Balance Comfort and Concealment

Finding the sweet spot between comfort and concealment requires some trial and error. Think about your daily activities – whether you’re sitting at a desk, moving around, or driving – and adjust your gear accordingly. Your setup should feel so natural that you forget you’re even carrying.

Start by choosing the right gear. Look for lightweight, breathable clothing that can easily conceal your firearm without sacrificing comfort. 

Holster choice is critical here too. Consider an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster for close concealment, especially if you spend a lot of time sitting.

Blue Alpha EDC Belts are perfect companions for IWB holsters. Their durable yet flexible design keeps your holster securely in place without digging into your waist, making them ideal for all-day carry.

For more about our EDC belts, check out:

• Why An EDC Belt is Better Than Your Average Belt
• Why an EDC Belt is Essential for Effective Concealed Carry
• The Blue Alpha Battle Belt Difference: What Sets Us Apart

Build Confidence Through Practice

Confidence is key when carrying concealed. The more familiar you are with your gear, the more comfortable you’ll be. Regular practice builds muscle memory and comfort so you can carry with confidence.

Remember, carrying a firearm isn’t just about having the right tools. It’s about knowing how to use them. Practicing regularly helps you stay prepared, comfortable, and in control.

Mindset and Situational Awareness

Being aware of your surroundings and maintaining a defensive mindset are critical aspects of concealed carry. Whether you’re at the grocery store or walking through a parking lot, situational awareness helps you stay one step ahead and ready to act if necessary.

Carry with Confidence

By choosing the right firearm, holster, and accessories, practicing essential shooting techniques, and developing situational awareness, you can carry with confidence and ease.