As a local, veteran-owned business with a stellar reputation, Patriot Training and Consulting is here to provide you with valuable information on carrying a concealed gun while driving. Whether you’re a daily commuter or someone who spends a significant amount of time behind the wheel, it’s essential to find comfortable and effective ways to carry a defensive handgun.

When it comes to choosing a holster, many of us make the decision while standing in front of a mirror, without considering the unique challenges posed by being in a vehicle. However, given the prevalence of carjacking and the need to protect ourselves and our loved ones while driving, it’s crucial to explore alternative carry methods.

Let’s start by addressing the limitations of the most common carry positions—specifically, the three- to nine o’clock locations on your waistline. Whether you prefer inside or outside the waistband holsters, carrying in these positions can interfere with your seatbelt or be pressed against a door or armrest, making your firearm inaccessible in an emergency. In contrast, a more viable option is situating your gun in front of you, as it allows for easy reach without compromising your safety.

One popular carry position that comes to mind is appendix carry. If your gun sits high enough, the waist strap of your seatbelt should not interfere with accessing your firearm. However, appendix carry may not be the most comfortable option for individuals with a bit of mid-section mass or those carrying a full-sized pistol, as it can cause discomfort due to the barrel pressing against your body.

While we generally discourage off-body carry, it does offer some utility while driving. Placing your handgun in a dedicated concealed carry bag solves many of the problems associated with carrying in a vehicle, regardless of your body type or vehicle design. To prevent separation from your pack, consider keeping a strap slung over your shoulder. A properly adjusted strap will be barely noticeable, ensuring your firearm remains secure even if you suddenly brake.

Moving on, let’s discuss shoulder holsters. These holsters provide exceptional comfort when seated, but concealment typically requires wearing a jacket or overcoat. In warmer weather, you may need to keep the air conditioning on to remain comfortable with the extra layer. While many states don’t mandate covering your gun when inside your vehicle, we recommend doing so to avoid any potential issues during routine traffic stops.

Additionally, it’s crucial to ensure that your seatbelt’s cross-body portion doesn’t obstruct your access to your pistol. While conventional wisdom suggests that left-side carry may be incompatible with a seatbelt, the compatibility will ultimately depend on your specific seatbelt and holster combination.

On the other hand, going lower with thigh holsters, also known as drop holsters, can be an effective solution. These holsters keep your gun away from belts or armrests, ensuring it doesn’t bother you while driving. However, they do come with a downside: when you reach your destination, you may draw unwanted attention if you continue wearing a drop holster. Therefore, unless you’re heading to the range or a hunting ground, it’s not the most inconspicuous option for everyday activities. Keep in mind that it’s not practical to put on and take off a drop holster at each stop, so plan accordingly.

Taking concealment as low as possible brings us to ankle holsters. Often overlooked, ankle holsters can be the unsung heroes of vehicular carry and deserve a closer look. Strapping a gun to your leg doesn’t require any change in dress and allows for effortless access while seated. Being positioned so low, ankle holsters avoid any waist-height obstructions, even accommodating those extra tacos you had last weekend.

However, it’s important to note that this carry location has its limitations. Remember that your right foot controls the gas and brake pedals, making right-side ankle carry impractical. Additionally, if you drive a manual transmission, both legs are disqualified as you won’t be able to operate the clutch. Therefore, ankle holsters are a suitable option for those driving automatic vehicles in a world where convenience is key.

Before you leave your house, it’s essential to consider not only your destination and planned stops but also the means of transportation. Each individual, vehicle, and firearm combination calls for a different solution, so there are no one-size-fits-all answers or definitive statements that will guarantee your success. Just like when you first purchased your handgun, it’s crucial to explore multiple options, put them to the test, and never hesitate to adapt or abandon a particular system if it doesn’t meet your needs. Remember, the best gun to save your life is the one that you have with you at all times.

At Patriot Training and Consulting, we understand the importance of personal safety and responsible gun ownership. As a locally owned and veteran-owned business, we pride ourselves on providing expert guidance and training to individuals seeking to enhance their defensive skills. Visit our website at www.PatriotTAC.com to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in becoming a prepared and confident protector. Connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/patriottrainingandconsulting/  and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriot-training-and-consulting-b4512749/ . You can also reach us directly at (910) 545-7761.

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