How Do I Best Conceal During Hot Weather?
A reported 40% of American adults own guns or live with someone who does. Many of these gun owners say protection is their primary reason for obtaining these weapons. Therefore, an essential part of Everyday Carry as a gun owner is having a legally concealed firearm on hand to be always prepared. The warmer months’ shorts and t-shirts aren’t as useful in covering guns as bulky winter clothes and jackets, necessitating that you learn some practical tips for concealing during hot weather. Below are some helpful suggestions you can rely on.
Carry A Smaller Gun
These days, many small, concealed carry guns are available on the market for concealed carry in the summer months. You can choose popular options like 380 calibers, .22s, and 9mms, as these are equally effective in stopping many attackers. Therefore, a practical tip to concealed carry in the summer months is switching from bulkier and more prominent guns to guns that are easier to hide and comfortable to carry.
Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing
Several experts agree that the baggy look is your go-to fashion statement for concealed carry during hot weather. Therefore, choose more oversized cargo shorts and more roomy t-shirts to help you better conceal. Loose-fitting clothing is useful in concealed carry because it gives more room for hiding a gun’s bulge as you move. Also, avoid tucking in your shirts if possible, as fitting clothes quickly expose your gun’s bulge, drawing unnecessary attention.
Switch to A Different Carry Method
There are several carrying methods you can adopt to conceal your firearms during hot weather. However, the most popular carry methods among these are Inside-the-Waistband, pocket carry, and ankle carry.
In-The- Waistband (IWB) – This method positions your weapon so that it doesn’t bulge at your waistline. When you wear your concealed carry gun IWB, t-shirts, pants, and shorts readily hide it.
Pocket Carry – With your baggy summer look, carrying a concealed firearm around in your pocket is possible. You can use a pocket carry holster to hold your concealed carry gun upright within your pockets. Multiple experts stress the importance of ensuring that your weapon quickly comes out of the holster when you draw, and not with the holster. Therefore, you may need some sticky or rubbery material within your pockets to sharpen your draw. Also, pocket carry typically necessitates more oversized pockets or smaller guns, so keep this in mind.
Ankle Carry – Ankle carry is an excellent option if you have to dress up a bit or if waistband carry is inconvenient. Many government operatives carry their side pieces in ankle holsters, as ankle carry effectively conceals weapons. However, ankle carry requires some getting used to because of the unfamiliar weight around your legs. Also, ankle carry can be slow to draw, but you can improve speed with constant practice.
Fanny Packs – You can use fanny packs as a summer fashion statement while effectively concealing your firearm. A fanny pack is ideal for concealed carry in the summer months because it hides guns effectively. Also, your fanny pack’s pockets allow you to carry other gear like extra magazines. However, your draw may be slow, and some gun owners claim fanny packs are too prominent.