If you have been granted a concealed carry permit, you will need to find a proper way to secure your pistol when you wear it. Your holster can either increase or impede your ability to defend yourself. Therefore, it is just as important to choose the right holster as it is to choose the right weapon.

Fully Conceal the Weapon

Your weapon should be completely concealed beneath your clothing. If someone can see that you are carrying a firearm, it may become a danger to you or others. Your attacker needs to be surprised that you are carrying, and you don’t want the public to call law enforcement because they have seen your gun. Therefore, your holster should be in a position that is undetectable. For example, a belly band holster holds your firearm in front of you and on your belly. It should lay in a position that is naturally concealed by your clothing. Other holsters fit inside your waistband, under a woman’s breasts or under pant legs.

Make Sure It Is Comfortable

Choose a holster and carry method that does not impede your movement. For example, if you sit for long periods of time, you may not choose a method that puts pressure on your waist or hips when you sit. In addition, you want the weapon to feel secure. It shouldn’t jiggle or move when you move. Then, choose a holster material that breathes and feels comfortable. You are more likely to carry your firearm if your holster and carrying position are comfortable.

Test Your Drawing Ability

Your holster is only as good as your ability to draw your weapon from it. Therefore, test your drawing ability from multiple positions, such as sitting and standing, and with both hands. Are you able to get a full, tight grip on your firearm before pulling it from your holster? Can you quickly and easily release any retention devices while pulling your weapon? Test your draw stroke. Is it clunky and jerky, or is it smooth? Can you draw in a straight line and quickly point your weapon at a target? Make sure your weapon is easy to get to and draw.

Choose the holster that conceals and fits your weapon, is comfortable and allows you to easily and efficiently draw your weapon.