How To Open Carry Without A Holster: Is It Legal?

Here’s why:

Security: A holster keeps your firearm securely in place, preventing it from falling out or being easily accessible to unauthorized individuals.
Trigger Guard Protection: Holsters often have a feature that covers the trigger guard, preventing accidental discharges that could occur if the trigger gets snagged on clothing or other objects.
Concealment: Holsters help conceal your firearm, making it less noticeable to others, which is important for personal safety and legal compliance.

Think about it this way: A holster acts like a protective barrier for your firearm, just like a seatbelt protects you in a car. While you can drive without a seatbelt, it’s far more dangerous and increases the risk of serious injury.

In short, while carrying a firearm without a holster might seem convenient, the risks significantly outweigh any perceived benefits. Always prioritize safety and choose a holster designed for your specific firearm and carrying style.

Most gun owners who carry their handguns inside the waistband (IWB) use a holster, but there’s a technique called Mexican carry. Mexican carry refers to carrying a handgun inside the waistband without a holster, and it can be either open or concealed.

Mexican carry gets its name from the practice of carrying a firearm in a loose-fitting waistband, a common practice in Mexico. This method dates back to the days of the Wild West, when many cowboys carried their pistols in their waistbands for quick access.

While it may seem simple and convenient, Mexican carry is generally considered unsafe and irresponsible by experienced gun owners and law enforcement professionals. Here’s why:

Increased risk of accidental discharge: Without the secure retention of a holster, the gun is more likely to be dislodged or accidentally fired, especially during movement or physical activity.
Unintentional exposure: The lack of a holster makes the firearm more vulnerable to exposure, increasing the chances of an unauthorized person gaining access to it.
Reduced control and grip: Carrying a gun without a holster makes it harder to quickly draw and fire accurately, especially in a stressful situation.

Mexican carry is not recommended for anyone, especially those who are new to carrying firearms. A good holster provides essential safety features such as:

Secure retention: A holster helps keep the gun safely in place, preventing it from moving or falling out.
Accessibility: A good holster allows for a quick and easy draw, while still maintaining a secure hold.
Concealment: A well-designed holster can help conceal the gun, making it less obvious to others.

If you’re looking for a safe and responsible way to carry your firearm, invest in a quality holster that is specifically designed for your gun model. It’s a worthwhile investment in your safety and the safety of those around you.

Let’s break it down:

Trigger Protection: A holster keeps your trigger covered, making it much harder for anything to accidentally pull it. This is especially important in a pocket environment where keys, coins, or even your hand could potentially snag the trigger.
Added Security: A holster helps to keep your firearm in a fixed position within your pocket, preventing it from shifting around or potentially falling out. This makes it easier to draw quickly and safely when needed.
Concealment: Pocket holsters are designed to be discreet, helping to keep your firearm hidden from view.

Remember, the goal is to ensure your firearm is secure and easily accessible when you need it, but also safe when you don’t. Using a holster can help to achieve both of these goals.

There are many types of pocket holsters available, from simple kydex shells to more complex leather holsters with additional features. The best type for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It’s always a good idea to consult with a firearms expert or instructor to get personalized advice.

Furthermore, appendix carry makes it easier to defend your firearm than if it were carried at the hip. Why? Because a hip-carried firearm is susceptible to a grab from behind, which can be difficult to detect and counter. Appendix carry, on the other hand, places the gun closer to your body and in a position that is more easily accessible for a quick draw.

Appendix carry is not without its challenges. It requires a level of commitment to practice and proper fit to ensure comfort and safety. The weight of the firearm can be noticeable, especially if you are not accustomed to carrying daily. It’s important to select a holster that is designed for appendix carry and provides a secure, comfortable fit for your specific body type. Remember, safety is paramount, so familiarize yourself with your firearm, holster, and the law regarding concealed carry in your jurisdiction.

Here’s why a holster is so important:

Safety: A holster helps prevent accidental discharges. When a firearm is secured in a holster, it’s less likely to be jostled or bumped, reducing the risk of it going off unintentionally.
Accessibility: A holster allows you to quickly and easily draw your firearm if needed. This is crucial in a self-defense situation where every second counts.
Concealment: A well-designed holster can help conceal your firearm, making it less noticeable and reducing the risk of drawing unwanted attention.
Protection: A holster protects your firearm from the elements and from damage that could occur from being carried in your pocket or bag.

Choosing the Right Holster

There are many different types of holsters available, so it’s important to choose one that’s right for you and your needs.

Consider the type of firearm you own and the way you plan to carry it.
Think about your lifestyle and the activities you engage in. If you’re active, you’ll need a holster that’s comfortable and secure.
Look for a holster that’s made from high-quality materials and that fits your firearm snugly.

Investing in a quality holster is a wise decision. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in your safety and peace of mind.

The FBI cant is a popular holster cant, especially among law enforcement officers. It allows for a faster draw and a more comfortable carry position. The forward cant helps keep the gun out of the way of clothing and makes it easier to draw quickly.

The FBI cant is typically around 15 degrees. This angle allows for a good balance between speed and concealment. With a 15-degree cant, the gun is still relatively concealed, but it is easy to draw quickly.

Here’s why the FBI cant is a popular choice for law enforcement:

Faster draw: With the gun tilted forward, officers can draw the gun quickly and easily.
Better concealment: The FBI cant helps to conceal the gun better than a straight-drop holster.
More comfortable carry: The forward cant helps to distribute the weight of the gun more evenly, making it more comfortable to carry.
Improved access: With a forward cant, officers can easily access the gun while sitting or standing.

If you are considering purchasing a holster, it is important to choose a cant that is comfortable and allows you to draw quickly and easily. The FBI cant is a popular choice for many people, but it is not the only option. There are many different holsters on the market, so you can find one that fits your needs.