How you carrying could save your life

Today’s global environment has become more violent than just a decade ago. The majority of attacks have been on civilians in atmospheres where few, if any, of the victims, are expected to be armed and able to defend themselves. However, hindsight reports from law enforcement personnel admit that if more private citizens were armed, the number of lethal crimes would most likely decrease. This is because criminals won’t know who, or how many individuals are armed and ready to protect themselves and their loved ones.

As a firearm owner, you’ll need a Concealed Carry Permit and to know the applicable firearm laws and regulations before arming yourself. As the permit name implies, the weapon must be concealed somewhere on your person. Where and how you carry a weapon is a personal choice, but ideally, it’ll be in a convenient position where you have quick access to it and therefore, have the ability to save your life or the life of a loved one. Here are the most popular tried-and-true concealed carry body locations and whether they are good or not for quick access:

Outside the Waistband (OTW) Position: Positioned on the outside of your pants at your hip area, OTW offers quick access but it’s considered an open carry weapon. You can conceal the weapon with a jacket, sweater, or a shirt worn on the outside.

Inside the Waistband (ITW) Position: Placed in the same position as the OTW for quick access but inside your clothing.

Shoulder Position: You wear a shoulder strap under your clothing that rests just below your armpit for quick access to your weapon.

Small of the Back Position: The weapon is holstered inside your waistband in the middle of your back, just above your backside, for quick access.

Ankle Position: Strapped around the top of your ankle, the weapon’s easily covered by a pants leg. A drawback to this position is that access to your weapon may not be quick enough if an armed criminal is already facing you.

Appendix Carry Position: Placed slightly to one side of the front of the waistband, your weapon is concealed and offers quick access.

Thigh Position: Worn mostly by women, the weapon is strapped around the upper thigh and is concealed with a skirt, dress, or baggy pants. This position may not be reached conveniently when faced with an armed attacker. Men may wear thigh holsters undershorts.

Bra Position: A specifically designed holster fits inside the center front of the bra, and it offers quick access to the weapon.

Practice is the key to a smooth, quick draw. Both hands need to be in motion when drawing your weapon; one hand to withdraw the weapon and the other hand to immediately support your gun hand. You’ll want to practice moving aside any clothing that conceals your weapon. For example, practice the motion of quickly pushing your jacket or shirt away from your holster. Finally, never overestimate your abilities, continuously practice your carry and quick access skills, and then you just may be able to save a life.