Getting your concealed carry license is a big deal. It comes with a responsibility to carry your firearm in public the right way. If you don’t, there can be some serious consequences.
This advice is geared towards the beginner who is new to concealed carry, but it doesn’t hurt to brush up on some common mistakes, even if you have been carrying for a long time. Here are five mistakes you don’t want to make if you are just starting to carry your gun (mostly) wherever you go.
Mistake #1: Not Getting Enough Training
Of course, you can do the absolute minimum amount of training you need that is required by your state laws to get your concealed carry license, but you should do more. Make sure you have a trainer who goes the extra mile to prepare you for a variety of circumstances you may get into. Don’t be satisfied with the basics. Take the advanced courses at a great shooting range in your area with an instructor who truly wants to send you out into the world well-trained.
Mistake #2: Touching or Adjusting Your Firearm in Public
This is a big no-no. Plus, touching or adjusting your firearm in public when it becomes uncomfortable or moves in the wrong direction on your body is the sign of an amateur. Don’t be that person. Find a private place to fix how you are carrying your gun. A locked bathroom is your best bet for this adjustment — or your car.
Mistake #3: The Wrong Clothing
Too tight clothing that shows you are carrying your weapon is called “printing.” You don’t want to expose to those around you in public that you have a firearm. Just take that extra second before you leave your house to look in a full length mirror from different angles. That way you can be sure you aren’t seeing the outline of your firearm through your clothing.
Mistake #4: Not Knowing Where You Are Allowed to Carry
This requires a little research per your state laws. Also, look into local and federal law as well, so you have all your bases covered. Most places that don’t allow guns or any type or a concealed weapon will have a little sign on their door. If you have your weapon on you, don’t go into that place. It’s as easy as that.
Mistake #5: Carrying Sporadically
It takes practice and skill to comfortably carry a concealed firearm. Don’t carry infrequently. If you are going to commit to carrying a concealed weapon, do it all the time. You’ll get used to it, become skilled at carrying, and will always be aware that you have your firearm with you. You don’t have to question it. That security and responsibility will always be with you.
It’s a sad fact that anywhere you go could potentially be a situation where you need to use your weapon in self-defense. Having your concealed carry license is going to allow you piece of mind and hopefully the training to be correctly prepared for any dangerous situation you encounter.
