The best concealed carry position is ultimately anything that’s comfortable for you. However, there are certain positions that tend to be more popular among gun owners in Texas who wish or need to conceal handguns in public areas. The firearms safety and training experts from Online Texas LTC, your premier choice for Texas concealed carry online training, offer this rundown of the concealed carrying positions generally considered to be among the most convenient and practical options.
3 O’Clock/Classic Carry
This is the side-of-the-body/hip position that’s considered the standard or classic concealed carry position. Concealed carriers often appreciate this position because a pistol or other preferred handgun can be nestled in a holster and covered by an untucked shirt or other loose-fitting top or jacket while still being within reach.
Tip: Opt for a holster with a hammer guard to avoid being uncomfortable when sitting down while carrying in this position.
2 O’Clock/Appendix Carry
Appendix carry has become increasingly popular in recent years because it allows for an easy cross or side draw. With this position, a handgun and its holster are situated between the two front pockets within the abdominal area. However, this position isn’t all that conducive to effective concealment and personal comfort with a larger handgun, especially when sitting. This concealed carry position may also be somewhat uncomfortable if you’re also carrying some extra body weight in the front.
Tip: This position works best for sleek, slim, and compact pistols.
4–5 O’Clock/Kidney Carry
With this concealed carry position, you’ll be carrying between your hip and the small of your back. Concealment is still easy with this position, as is access to your handgun. If your objective is to make your gun completely unnoticeable, printing can be avoided with this position by tucking a shirt over the holster or just leaving the shirt untucked.
Tip: Smaller or lighter handguns tend to work better with this position as well, especially if there’s a need to draw from a seated position.
Small-of-the-Back Carry
Your handgun will pretty much be resting along your lower back area with this position. It makes concealment easier, even with larger handguns. However, drawing tends to be a bit more awkward, but it’s still manageable with a bit of practice. Drawing while seated can also be especially challenging with this position.
Tip: Some small-of-the-back holsters will keep your handgun in a fixed and more convenient position.
Belly Band Carry
If comfort while you conceal carry is your main priority, consider what’s often referred to as belly band carry. It’s so named because it’s done with an adjustable band that wraps around your midsection. It’s a versatile position that pretty much eliminates issues with drawing from a seated position.
Tip: Opt for a belly band that allows for easy adjustment upward or downward for more flexibility with position.
Other Concealed Carry Positions
In addition to what’s already been discussed, there are some other concealed carry positions worth considering. These include:
• Shoulder/upper chest carry
• Ankle carry
• Thigh/upper leg carry
No matter which concealed carry position you choose, safety should always be your top priority. If you’d like to learn more about gun safety, taking a Texas concealed carry online class, or any other aspect of firearms ownership, reach out to the experts at Online Texas LTC today at 512-675-2124.
