Methods of Carry

[CalCCW03]

Materials used:
Leather is probably the most popular material for holsters. One of the reasons for this is the history. The first time anyone ever strapped a gun on the holster was made of leather. Recently other materials (such as Kydex) have been gaining in popularity. Kydex holsters are relatively easy to make and can be quite durable.


IWB (Inside the waist band):
One of the more popular methods of concealed carry. Comfort of carrying in this style will depend on your body type. The holster sits in between your body and the waist band of your pants, hiding the barrel of your gun. There are also tuckable IWB holsters that allow you to tuck a shirt into your pants hiding the entire weapon.

Pros: Very concealable.
Cons: A bit slower to draw, must clear the covering garment prior to drawing your weapon. Comfort may vary depending on body type.


OWB (Outside the waistband):
The holster attaches to your belt and sits on your hip on the outside of your waistband. You must be very concious of what you are earing to ensure maximimum concealability; if you bend over or raise your arms above your head you run the risk of exposing your weapon. This tye of holster does offer improved drawing speed.

Pros: Improved draw speed
Cons: Not quite as concealble as an IWB holster



Crossdraw:
A variation of the OWB holster; it sits on your weak side (left if you are right handed) requiring you to reach across your body to access your weapon. Some would say that it is a bit more concealable than a typical OWB because of the cant. Might be considered dangerous because your barrel sweeps across when acquiring your target rather than being able to draw and immediately engage target from a strong side holster. It also takes more time at engage target because of the added movement required.


SOB (Small of back):
Another variation of an OWB holster, this one sits at the base of your spine. Can be uncomfortable if you are sitting or driving for long periods of time. Can be a good option if you are on your feet for extended periods. You fall into the same issues as you do with a crossdraw holster in that more movements are required to draw your weapon and you may sweep non-targets with your barrel while engaging your intended target.


Holsterless Carry:
Immediately makes you a candidate for the Darwin Award. You place your weapon in your waistband without a holster. Your weapon is not secure and runs the risk of droping. Also is dangerous because there is nothing covering the trigger, you run the risk of a Negligent Discharge while drawing your handgun.


Shoulder Holster:
You wear a harness, the weapon hangs either vertically or horizontally underneath your weak arm. You reach across your chest to draw. Popularized by TV shows such as Miami Vice, but not a very common way to conceal carry as you need to wear a jacket or coat at all times to keep nyour weapon concealed.

Ankle Holster:
The holster is attached to your ankle via a velcro strap. You are usually limited to smaller guns such as sub-compacts. Your speed to draw is severly compromised. Many people use an ankle holster for their BUG (Back Up Gun)


Fanny Pack:
Many people think this method of carry screams "GUN!!!". Not easy to draw from and could make you look pretty silly if you are wearing business attire. May be suitable if you are engaging in some sort of sporting activity such as hiking or cycling.


Purses:
A popular method of carry for women who may find it difficult to conceal a weapon in the traditional method (IWB, OWB)


Other:
There are other methods of carry such as the use of a belly band or chest harness.