Our country is so divided these days politically and morally and one of the biggest dividing conversations you can potentially have is over your firearm. Even amongst my family, there’s a huge division on this topic and yes, unfortunately it tends to be the leftest policies and propaganda fueling this division. I’m assuming if you’re reading this article it is because you are a believer in the 2nd amendment and either chose to conceal carry or are seriously considering it.
It doesn’t take much in review of crime stats to understand why more and more people of all backgrounds are choosing to be able to defend themselves verses becoming a victim. (I am not going to debate the pros and cons of open carry and will focus on why we chose to conceal carry.) Remember, choosing to conceal carry does not mean you don’t care about the 2nd amendment but are choosing to keep your firearm private.
It really is nobody’s business but your own if you have your gun on you or not. Do not feel guilty one bit for choosing to carry it hidden thus avoiding potentially heated discussions and discrimination. It is an unfortunate reality that depending on where you live, you could be a targeted victim of swatting or online shaming because of your choice to exercise your 2nd amendment rights and protect yourself.
Most people are too caught up in their own world and cell phone to notice if you are properly concealing your firearm but there are definitely some dead giveaways to avoid (pun intended.) Pulling, scratching, or readjusting your firearm is a big giveaway and draws attention right to the area you do not want anyone to notice. If you need to readjust your holster, it’s best to do this in the privacy of a bathroom stall or in a discreet area away from prying eyes and cameras.
People of ill intent are looking for others with potential weapons for various reasons and the last thing we want to do is draw attention to the fact that we have a firearm. Drawing attention to yourself drastically reduces your ability to stay concealed and act quickly from a surprise position.
Second, and probably most important, wear a properly fitted and comfortable holster. All holsters are not made equally and this is one area not to skimp on. Having the right holster will help hold your gun in properly and securely thus reducing the need to readjust and pull on it. Ladies, we have a lot of options for properly concealing – everything from belly bands, running belts, sports bras and clothing with built in holsters, there is no reason to wear something that won’t work.
Every body type is different and you will have to consider your outfits more carefully than most men, but it’s certainly doable. I have both an inside and outside the waistband holster, belly band and a running belt that I regularly rotate through not including two different conceal carry purses. At the gym today I was able to conceal my firearm while running without anyone being the wiser.
Your body type will dictate how easily you can hide a larger pistol – I have to carry a compact size pistol (think Glock 43X or Shadow Systems CR920) in order to keep it from printing while my husband can carry something full size. I buy clothing specifically to accommodate these choices. Your gun choice is also super imperative to get right.
Too small and it doesn’t provide the protection you might need, harder to manipulate but super easy to conceal. Too large and it’s bulky, heavy and uncomfortable all the while printing which gives away the concealment. Spend some time at the gun range and find the biggest gun you can comfortably conceal while still being accurate. There are plenty of online ladies forums that will give you some good leads on potential guns to try but do not let anyone bully you into one brand or another. (I have my favorites and am always happy to share why) Find one that fits budget, security need and then go train with it and buy the appropriate holsters and gear.
Finally, don’t engage in discussions with those in public who are aggressively opposed to the 2nd amendment. The last thing I want to do is discuss what I’m carrying and where on me to someone who doesn’t hold the same values or in conversations that can be overheard. I do not mind discussing our 2A rights, policies and local laws but I will not engage in specifics of if I am currently carrying.
Never show how you currently concealing even when directly asked. This could be considered a sign of aggression, especially by a bystander who might not be privy to the ins and outs of the conversation. (A dear friend of mine asked me to show her how I was carrying while we were out in the grocery store parking lot and I politely refused and explained why.) Your biggest voice will be your vote. Please stay informed on all the 2A legislation and vote accordingly. Of course, engage in meaningful discussions and online posts but do so with discretion. Train regularly and always be prepared. Your mindset is key to your survival and those you are protecting. Do not be ashamed or timid with your choice to conceal carry but keep your head up high, be alert and ready. See you in the voting booth and at the gun range ladies!
Timberline Security Solutions 