Three Crucial Mistakes to Avoid When Carrying a Concealed Firearm
Everybody has their own cardinal rules for what they’re going to do when they’re carrying a gun. But right now, I’m going to give you three things that you must never do when you’re carrying your concealed firearm. Stick around to the end because we have a gun giveaway you can enter for free that ends really soon.
I am Gary Parks, Owner of Conceal Carry Academy. If you’re new to this channel, you need to know that we help prepare you for everything you’ll encounter before, during, and after a deadly force incident. Now, let’s get into the three things you should never do when you’re carrying your concealed carry firearm.
1. Never Carry Without a Holster
First of all, this is my everyday carry gun. Let’s pull it out, show you that it is clear. Action is open. No magazine. There is nothing in the chamber. I have visually and physically inspected to make sure there’s nothing in the chamber. I’m just going to set this aside because you know what? We’re not talking about this gun right now. We’re talking about the holster.
The first thing you should never do is never carry your gun without a holster. Understand that the holster protects the firearm. The holster keeps the firearm in a ready position and provides you immediate access to that firearm. It is also a safety mechanism. The holster should always cover the trigger of the firearm to make sure that nothing gets in there and messes with your trigger. Not only could it pull the trigger, but it could also actuate the trigger and cause the gun to fire. Something could get caught up in the trigger and prevent the gun from firing when you really need it.
That’s rule number one that you should never do. There’s a reason why we call a gun tucked in the belt felony carry. Don’t do it. Carry that gun in a holster. Even if you’re doing an off-body carry kind of thing, like a concealed carry purse, bag, or satchel, put that gun in a holster and affix it into its own compartment in that off-body carry option. Never carry your gun without a holster.
Carrying a firearm responsibly is a critical aspect of gun ownership, and one of the most fundamental principles is ensuring that your gun is always housed in a proper holster. This might seem like a minor detail, but neglecting this could have significant consequences. Here, we delve into why using a holster is non-negotiable for safe and effective everyday carry.
Why a Holster is Essential for Safe Gun Carry
1. Protects the Firearm: A holster acts as a protective barrier for your firearm, shielding it from external elements that could cause damage or malfunction. Dust, moisture, and accidental impacts can all compromise the integrity of your gun if not properly housed.
2. Ensures Readiness and Accessibility: Holsters are designed to keep your firearm in a consistent, ready position. This means that when you need to draw your weapon, it’s always in the same place, reducing reaction time in high-pressure situations. The right holster allows you to access your firearm quickly and efficiently.
3. Functions as a Safety Mechanism: One of the critical safety features of a holster is its ability to cover the trigger guard. This prevents any accidental discharge that could occur if something were to come into contact with the trigger. By securing the trigger, the holster ensures that the firearm cannot be fired unintentionally, which is crucial for preventing accidents.
Avoiding the Risks of “Felony Carry” Carrying a gun without a holster, often referred to as “felony carry,” poses numerous risks. Not only does it increase the likelihood of accidental discharge, but it also makes your firearm more vulnerable to theft or loss. Here’s why you should avoid this practice at all costs:
– Trigger Vulnerability: Without a holster, the trigger is exposed to objects or clothing that could accidentally engage it.
– Inconsistency: A firearm tucked into a waistband or pocket can shift, making it difficult to draw smoothly.
– Legal Implications: Carrying a gun without a proper holster can sometimes be seen as negligent or even illegal, depending on local laws.
Off-Body Carry: Still Use a Holster: Even in off-body carry scenarios, such as using a concealed carry purse or bag, a holster is essential. Ensure that your firearm is secured in a dedicated compartment and affixed in a way that maintains its position.
Holsters are an integral part of responsible firearm carry. They provide protection, ensure readiness, and most importantly, enhance safety by covering the trigger. Whether carrying on-body or off-body, never underestimate the importance of using a holster. As a responsible gun owner, safeguarding your firearm with a holster is not just recommended—it’s essential.
2. Don’t Brag About Carrying a Gun
Rule number two, don’t be bragging and boasting about the fact that you’re carrying a gun. Concealed carry is just that—concealed carry. A long time ago, when I took one of my very first concealed carry classes with an operator friend, he said, “Concealed carry provides criminals the ultimate opportunity to make a fatal error in the victim selection process.” That’s why we conceal the gun; it gives us the tactical advantage.
If people know that you’re carrying a gun, they can develop a plan and figure out how to take that gun from you. I was at a bar and some guy was lifting up his shirt showing me, “Yeah, I got my gun, I’m carrying it.” You know what? Don’t want to hear it. Don’t brag. Don’t boast. Just be the gray man. Just disappear. People don’t need to know that you’re carrying a gun. It’s a personal thing. It is for self-defense. That means you’re defending yourself. Nobody else needs to know that you have it until you need it. So don’t brag about it. That’s item number two.
Understanding the Essence of Concealed Carry
Carrying a concealed firearm is a significant responsibility. The primary purpose is self-defense, and the element of surprise is crucial in maintaining a tactical advantage. In this context, discretion is paramount. As my early experiences in concealed carry training taught me, it’s not just about having a weapon—it’s about how you manage that responsibility.
Why Concealed Means Concealed
When you carry a concealed weapon, the key is to remain undetected. Revealing that you are armed can jeopardize your safety by giving potential threats the opportunity to devise a strategy against you. As one instructor wisely put it, “Concealed carry provides criminals the ultimate opportunity to make a fatal error in the victim selection process.” Staying invisible is your first defense.
The Dangers of Bragging and Boasting
Boasting about carrying a firearm negates the very principle of concealment. I’ve encountered individuals who, perhaps due to excitement or bravado, reveal their weapon to others. This is not only unsafe but also contrary to the ethos of responsible gun ownership. When Wisconsin first introduced its concealed carry law in 2011, I witnessed a person in a bar showing off his firearm. Such actions compromise your security and the security of those around you.
The Gray Man Philosophy
Adopting the “gray man” approach means blending in and drawing no attention to yourself. This philosophy is particularly relevant in concealed carry. By remaining unnoticed, you maintain the upper hand. Concealed carry is a personal matter, meant for self-defense, and should remain private unless absolutely necessary.
Responsibility and Restraint
Carrying a concealed weapon is not about power or bravado—it’s about being prepared to protect yourself discreetly. By adhering to the principle of concealment and resisting the urge to boast, you uphold the integrity and safety of concealed carry. Remember, discretion is your greatest ally. Stay prepared, stay concealed, and stay safe.
3. Don’t Go Looking for a Fight
Item number three that you should never do: Don’t go looking for a fight. This is very important and all-encompassing. First, we tell people if you wouldn’t go someplace without your gun, don’t go there with your gun. The gun is used for emergencies. It is a piece of emergency lifesaving gear. It is used for an emergency.
Also, consider how you’re going to act when you’re carrying your gun. I had a really good story at a recent concealed carry class that I was giving. One of the people said, “Yeah, one of my county board supervisors is going to court because of what he did.” What the county board supervisor did was chase somebody down in traffic, a road rage incident. Someone cut off this county board supervisor. He chased them in his truck. When they stopped, he got out of the truck, yelling and screaming, waving his finger at ’em. The person in the vehicle noticed that this county board supervisor was carrying a silver Smith & Wesson pistol on his hip. So this guy gets on the phone and calls the police and says, “Yep, this guy just chased me down in traffic and he pulled out a silver Smith & Wesson pistol and pointed it at me.” Now it becomes a he said, he said. We don’t know what’s true.
But all of that could have been avoided if you don’t go looking for a fight. So when you’re carrying your gun, remember, remain polite. Don’t go looking for a fight. Don’t go places with your gun just because you got it and you think you’re going to be okay. Everyone thinks they’re going to win the gunfight. You might not. You might end up getting shot if you have to pull out your gun and defend yourself. So avoid danger. Don’t go looking for a fight.
The Importance of Avoiding Conflict
Carrying a firearm is a significant responsibility that demands a high level of maturity and self-control. As a responsible gun owner, understanding the gravity of this responsibility can make the difference between life and death, both for you and those around you. One critical rule to live by is: never go looking for a fight. Here’s why this principle is essential and how it ties into responsible gun ownership.
1. Respect the Purpose of Your Firearm
Your gun is a tool designed for emergencies—a piece of lifesaving gear that should be used only when absolutely necessary. A firearm is not a means to assert dominance or resolve petty disputes. If you find yourself in a situation that could escalate into violence, it’s crucial to remember that your gun is there to protect life, not to endanger it.
2. Avoid Dangerous Situations
A fundamental rule in self-defense training is to avoid situations where you feel you might need a gun. If you wouldn’t go to a place without your firearm, don’t go there with it. This mindset helps prevent unnecessary risks and keeps you from being in potentially volatile environments.
3. Control Your Reactions
When carrying a firearm, how you react to provocations matters immensely. Take, for example, a story shared during a concealed carry class about a county board supervisor who let road rage get the better of him. After being cut off in traffic, he chased down the other driver and confronted them aggressively. Although he didn’t draw his weapon, his visible holstered gun escalated the situation, leading to legal troubles and potential danger.
4. The Consequences of Escalation
The incident above highlights how quickly situations can spiral out of control. In the heat of the moment, what started as a minor traffic issue turned into a legal nightmare. The presence of a firearm, even if not used, can lead to misunderstandings and severe consequences. It’s a stark reminder that once a gun is involved, the stakes are invariably higher.
5. The Importance of Remaining Polite
Politeness and composure are your best allies when carrying a firearm. By remaining calm and respectful, you reduce the likelihood of confrontations. Remember, every confrontation avoided is a potential tragedy averted. The goal is to de-escalate, not provoke.
Adopt a Safety-First Mindset
In summary, responsible gun ownership is about adopting a safety-first mindset. By intentionally avoiding fights and potential altercations, you not only protect yourself but also uphold the integrity and reputation of all responsible gun owners. Always remember, the best way to win a gunfight is to avoid it altogether.
By adhering to these principles, you ensure that you are prepared to use your firearm responsibly, safeguarding yourself and those around you while upholding the values of responsible gun ownership.
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