Choose A Carry Position

With so many holster and cover-garment options, deciding how to carry a firearm can be a daunting task for someone new to concealed carry. While much is open to interpretation, there are a few hard and fast rules. For instance, a "closed garment," such as a T-shirt, a button-up shirt or a zippered jacket, is required to conceal a firearm worn along the front of your waist. Closed garments also work best for firearms worn behind the hip because an "open garment," such as an unbuttoned shirt, could be swept away from your firearm, exposing it to a threat you haven't yet perceived.

Generally speaking, the farther back you wear your handgun, the harder it is to access. Then again, if a firearm worn along the front of your waist becomes exposed in close quarters, it's easier for an assailant in front of you to gain access. Inside the waistband (IWB) holsters are better at concealing, but they are more difficult to grip than a holster worn outside the waistband (OWB).

It's all about finding the right balance between concealment, comfort, accessibility and security. Keep in mind that much of it boils down to personal preference. Also, each of these factors vary depending on the dimensions of the firearm and your body type. Consider this a down and dirty visual representation of the various carry locations and cover-garment options.