Where do you normally conceal carry? There are probably around 13 places on your body that you could actually conceal carry your firearm, with some of the most popular being the inside-the-waistband (IWB), outside-the-waistband (OWB), and appendix carry. There’s also backpacks, fanny packs, and handbags. It’s pretty amazing where you can actually conceal your weapon for self-defense.
With that being said, have you ever thought about ankle carry? This is a method of conceal carry that is mostly used for a secondary gun. Although, if you wanted to and found it comfortable enough, this could be your ideal method of conceal carry. You definitely have to make sure you are in good enough shape to bend down and draw it correctly, with knees and legs that can handle this motion. Let’s analyze some benefits and drawbacks of an ankle holster, so you can decide if it’s right for you.
The Benefits of Ankle Carry
To ankle carry, you’ll need the proper ankle holster. You’ll also need the right pants and shoes to go with it. The pants will need to be loose enough that you aren’t “printing” or showing the gun’s outline through your pant leg. Most shoes will work, but with boots you have to make sure that the holster fits comfortably with it.
The biggest benefit of an ankle holster is that it’s easy to access from a seated position. For example, if you are threatened in your car, the ability to reach your gun quickly is a nice factor.
Another benefit of using an ankle holster is the fact of having a backup weapon. You’ll need it if for some reason the primary gun you use attached to your belt fails. That way with ankle carry, you’ll always have another firearm to take charge of any dangerous situation.
Some people worry that ankle carry will feel too heavy or awkward, but with the technology advances in fabrics and styles, it’s easy to find the ultimate ankle holster that you’ll love to wear. For example, this one from Glaco Holsters is custom-molded steerhide leather and a neoprene ankle strap that is breathable and contains sheepskin padding for comfort. Every aspect of this ankle holder has been carefully considered, and you really can’t do any better for $135.
The Drawbacks of a Gun Around Your Ankle
One of the biggest drawbacks of having a holster and firearm around your ankle is that you tend to walk through more dirt, dust, and debris that can render your gun unable to fire if it gets too dirty. You have to be really careful about regular cleanings with ankle carrying your gun.
Ankle holsters are only suited to hold smaller guns. If you are used to carrying a certain style of gun, then transitioning to smaller one might not be the perfect fit or right for a large hand size.
A police officer was killed Stockton Ca. wwhile reaching for his ankle holster!
Dennis: He could just as easily been killed reaching for a CC gun on his belt. As a cop myself, I use to carry a revolver in an ankle carry holster years ago and it was fine as long as you had loose or baggy enough pants legs.