5 Things To Consider When Concealed Carrying

Accepting Responsibility in Concealed Carry

The discussion opens by framing concealed carry as a serious responsibility rather than a casual decision. Carrying a firearm is described as accepting the duty to preserve one’s own life and the lives of loved ones. Law enforcement is characterized as reactive, arriving after an incident begins, which makes personal responsibility for safety an important consideration. The video is positioned as the first part in a series, focusing on five initial points to think about before carrying. The speaker stresses that deciding to carry a concealed firearm is a significant step that should be approached thoughtfully, with an understanding that it involves legal, moral, and practical consequences if the gun is ever used.

Mindset, De-escalation, and Situational Awareness

The first major topic is mindset. A concealed carry firearm is described as a last resort, not something to be produced over insults, minor disputes, or hurt feelings. The desired mindset is calm, levelheaded, and focused on de-escalation rather than escalation. Avoiding alcohol and drugs while armed is emphasized, along with maintaining situational awareness instead of being distracted by a phone. The goal is to carry in a way that reduces the likelihood of ever needing to draw the gun. Using the firearm is acknowledged as a worst-case scenario that would make for a very bad day, so a mindset that prioritizes avoiding conflict and preventing the need to use the weapon is presented as critical.

Choosing the Right Concealed Carry Pistol

Next, the video addresses selecting a suitable concealed carry handgun. A SIG P238 in .380 ACP is shown as an example of a small pistol that might work well for some users, offering around seven rounds in a compact package, though it is noted to be relatively heavy for its size. The speaker contrasts this with a personal preference for the SIG P365X Macro, which provides a 17-round capacity, plus one in the chamber, and is equipped with a weapon light and a red dot sight. These accessories are acknowledged as optional and potentially unnecessary for some, but preferred by the speaker. Viewers are encouraged to determine what works for them rather than relying on internet opinions. Suggestions include renting and trying multiple pistols at a range and watching various videos, while remaining cautious about misinformation. The idea that carry choices may evolve over time as lifestyle, activity level, and experience change is highlighted.

Holsters, Materials, and Carry Position

The conversation then moves to gear, especially holsters. A Kydex holster from Alpha Omega Kydex with a sidecar-style spare magazine carrier is presented as a favored setup. The sidecar is connected with paracord so it can flex with the body, and the holster is praised for secure retention of both pistol and magazine while remaining comfortable. In contrast, a simple pocket clip mounted on the SIG P238 is criticized because it does not cover the trigger or trigger guard, which is described as a vital safety function. Different holster materials such as leather, Kydex, and hybrid designs are mentioned. Leather holsters are noted for potential wear that can cause the material to intrude into the trigger guard or fold over during reholstering, especially around the four o’clock position, creating safety concerns. Carry position is also discussed, with appendix inside-the-waistband favored for being within the user’s line of sight and easier to access in vehicles. Drawing from the hip or four o’clock position while seated with a seat belt is described as more cumbersome, though still possible. The speaker notes that comfort and preferred position often change over time as people carry more and refine their setups.

Training, Fundamentals, and Finding Good Instructors

Training is presented as one of the most important aspects of concealed carry. The video recommends seeking instruction from reputable trainers and cautions that, like online content, some information can be poor or even dangerous. Viewers are encouraged to research instructors and classes, including concealed carry courses and training focused on carrying in and around vehicles and the home. A basic pistol course is strongly recommended, even for experienced shooters, to revisit fundamentals such as trigger control, breath control, and basic firearm operation. The speaker notes having recently taken a basic pistol class despite regularly attending advanced courses, emphasizing the value of always remaining a student. It is also pointed out that prior military or law enforcement experience does not automatically make someone a competent firearms instructor. Some individuals may be excellent shooters but poor teachers, or the reverse, so finding an instructor with both solid skills and effective teaching ability is advised.