Concealed carrying a gun in public is about more than exercising your rights — it requires a lot of responsibility, restraint, and consideration. Choosing to arm yourself means being aware, level-headed, in control, and ready for any situation. If you’re unsure whether to carry concealed or open, explore which is right for you here.
Whether you’re carrying a gun to protect yourself from a known threat or you’re looking to be prepared for unforeseeable situations, being a responsible gun owner is key for the safety of you and the people around you.
Here are our tips for concealed carry in public spaces — and how to carry a gun responsibly.
1. Take Your Ego Out of It
Always be aware of your surroundings when you’re carrying — and when you’re not. Keep an eye on your surroundings and know what’s happening. Burying your face in your phone may make you a target for violence. Staying aware and acknowledging the people around you are likely to defer any targets off of you. Smile, be friendly, and make eye contact with people.
But if a confrontation arises, don’t put yourself on a pedestal.
“Get your ego out of it,” said John McClain from the Armscor team, who carries his gun with him regularly. “If you’re going to carry a firearm, you need to have a very cool temper.”
Remember that you’re carrying for your own defense — avoid going on the offense at all costs. This will protect you from being considered the aggressor legally.
“When you carry a firearm, your first goal should be to de-escalate,” explained John.
Keep a minimum of an arms-length distance between you and other patrons. This gives you the space to react if needed. If someone approaches you in an aggressive manner or their behavior escalates, your first thought should be to walk away. Remove yourself from the situation the best you can. If they are insulting you or verbally assaulting you, avoid engaging or matching their energy. Be agreeable, and walk away.
John explained, “I’ve walked away from so many arguments with people by just saying, ‘Yeah. You’re right. I’m the worst.’”
No matter what they say to you, do not play their games. Don’t approach them or chase them. Put as much distance between you and them as possible. If needed, leave the location or contact security if that’s available to you.
2. Choose the Right Weapon & Location
Everyone’s situation is different. Some people will benefit from carrying a larger weapon, while others will do fine with a more compact option. Choosing the right concealed carry gun is key.
If you choose to carry a smaller gun, that often comes with a smaller caliber and fewer rounds carried at once. The big benefits of a smaller gun are that it’s easier to conceal, it’s more comfortable and recoil is easier to manage. On the other side of the coin, a smaller gun allows less penetration when firing and fewer chances to engage before a reload.
If you choose to carry a larger gun, it may be bulkier and heavier, meaning the options of how to carry are limited. The benefits of a larger weapon are increased magazine capacity and ease of grip.
Your attire and where you choose to carry are just as important as the gun you select. For example, if you’re in a hot and humid location, a smaller gun that won’t weigh down your lighter clothing may be the best option. But if you’re in a colder place, it is easier to carry and conceal a heavier, bulkier weapon.
Your style and your body type also drive where you choose to carry your gun on your person. Position on the body also affects how easily you can access your weapon in emergency situations as well as your comfort.
“It is way more comfortable to have a gun at 4 o’clock than it is in your appendix. I'm sitting down right now, which means I've got a gun digging into me. Whereas if it's 4 o’clock, it's completely out of the way,” said John.
An appendix carry in the front of your waistband easy to draw but harder to conceal in form-fitting clothing. Alternatively, carrying at a 4 o’clock position may be ideal for comfort but less accessible.
No matter where you choose to position your weapon, it’s also important to practice accessing it.
“Just because you’re carrying a gun doesn’t mean you know how to use it or draw,” said John. “There’s so much that can go wrong when it comes to drawing your firearm that you may never account for.”
Prioritize mastering the draw in any position you may carry your weapon in.
3. Know Your State's Concealed Carry Law
Before you decide to conceal carry, you have to know the laws and regulations around it in your state.
See if there are any permits required to conceal carry in your state. Some states require a permit, while others allow you to carry without a permit. Be sure you have the proper documentation if you need it.
Consider looking into any “no carry” zones. There may be places where you are not allowed to carry at all. This may include schools, government buildings, private businesses, and more.
If you’re traveling, research the requirements of that state, including if they have reciprocity agreements, allowing you to use your concealed carry permit from your home state in theirs. Not all states allow this, so be sure to do your own research before traveling.
Most importantly, always stay up to date on the laws — they can change frequently. Don’t forget to check in from time to time to see if anything has changed. Valuable resources include USA Carry, USCCA, and CCW.
Check Your Ego & Stay Safe
Concealed carry is just one aspect of responsible gun ownership, but it’s a big one. It all comes down to being prepared and educating yourself. Stay humble, be willing to set your ego aside, and strive to de-escalate. These are just a few tips to start you off. The more you research and prepare, the safer you and those around you will be.
