How to Concealed Carry in the Summer
Tom McHale - 05/24/2019
Which of the following statements about summer concealed carry is true?
- Concealed carry in the summer requires a different approach to handgun and holster strategy.
- Concealed carry in the summer isn’t any different from other times of the year.
The answer? Both. And that’s what makes summer carry a topic unto its own. Sure, our wardrobe changes in the summer. We wear shorts and shirts while shoving the coats and jackets into attic storage. We also engage in different activities that might impact our choice of gun and carry method.
We often base decisions on convenience rather than necessity. Can you carry a normal compact or full-sized gun in the summer? Yes. I usually do. I wear shorts, T-shirts and flip-flops as much as the next guy. And with the right carry choices and commitment, I have no trouble concealing a “winter” gun in my summer attire.
With all that said, here are a few tips to consider when developing your
summer concealed carry equipment and strategy choices.
Prioritize Saving Your Life Over Convenience
A concealed carry gun is only as good as your ability to use it to positive effect while under stress. Simply having a gun means nothing if you don’t shoot it well. While much easier to carry, small guns are harder to shoot. Even the famous snubby revolver is now considered by many to be more of an “expert’s gun.” That short sight radius, light weight and associated recoil require practice to master. The problem is that easy-to-conceal tiny micro-weight pistols aren’t much fun to shoot on range day, so most owners don’t practice with them as much as they should. So, like at any other time of the year, choose your gun first based on your effectiveness with it, then architect your carry wardrobe around it — even in the summer.
Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) Carry Tips
Inside-the-waistband (IWB) carry offers a big concealment benefit right off the bat. At least half of your handgun is naturally hidden by your pants, shorts or skirt. That means all you really have to worry about hiding is the grip.
With the right holster, hiding the grip of even a full-sized handgun is easier than you might think. Some holsters, like the Clinger No Print Wonder, have specific features like a combination of fixed and flexible belt attachments that pull the grip in close to your body. That enables easy concealment, even when your covering garment is just a T-shirt.
Try a Belly Band for Concealed Carry
One summer carry challenge is that your clothing may not support traditional carry methods such as IWB carry. For example, if you’re wearing a bathing suit or workout attire, there’s not a heavy gun belt on which to hang a traditional holster. Fortunately, there are some alternative carry options to consider.
The Galco Underwraps Belly Band is an excellent summer gear supplement. By turning the whole band inside-out, you get all-new gun-cant choices. (Photo by Tom McHale)
A belly band is exceptionally versatile. As it requires no belt “anchor,” you can carry it with virtually any type of clothing. An additional benefit of a good belly band like the Galco Underwraps Belly Band is that it allows you to carry in a variety of configurations and at different ride heights. Angled gun pockets allow strong-side, appendix or cross-draw placement. By reversing the band inside-out, you expand your options for placement and cant angle of your handgun. Worn at waist level, it acts like an IWB holster with its own self-contained belt. In that configuration, it’s even tuckable. Worn higher, it’s a good solution for various outdoor activities.
Got Yoga Leggings?
Apparently, yoga leggings are the hot, new, general-purpose casual-wear option. To enable easy carry, enterprising holster companies like
Dene Adams have created yoga pants with a self-contained holster system. These leggings have multiple carry-position options and optional Kydex trigger guards or full Kydex holster inserts for extra gun security.
If yoga leggings are your thing, check out these from Dene Adams. (Photo used with permission from Dene Adams)
Underwear Carry (Compression Shorts for Concealed Carry)
Another ultimate flexibility alternative carry method is a pair of compression shorts. Available for men and women, these shorts have elastic holster pockets sewn into the hip area. If you’re wearing gym shorts or any other attire without a belt, this can be a good alternative. As with traditional IWB carry, you’ll still need a shirt to cover the handgun grip. Check out UnderTech UnderCover for options.