Positions for Carrying Your Firearm

Close up of black handgun


If you’re new to firearms or are just taking a class on how to use one, there are many different positions to carry a gun. If you find the ideal position to carry your gun,  it means the difference between having it each day or choosing to leave your firearm at home because of discomfort. Many firearms owners choose a “concealed carry” option. Here are some concealed carry positions to consider when it comes to carrying your firearms. 


Appendix

One of the most popular carry positions is having the position right against your appendix. If your waist were a clock, it would mean the weapon is at the 1 o’clock to 2 o’clock position. Left-handed people use 10 to 11 o’clock.


While the position is quick to draw, it requires a lot of precision. A quality holster with an appendix position is very comfortable, even while sitting. Those that use this position find carrying a little extra weight can be more challenging. 


Inside the Waistband (IWB)

Inside the waistband is a favored position with firearm owners. Returning to the analogy of your waist being a clock, “inside the waistband” means at the 4 o'clock position (8 o'clock for you leftie). It is easy to conceal, and it offers a natural draw. There aren’t many drawbacks of IWB, which is why it is popular. One downside is the challenge to access the gun if you are sitting down, as when you are driving.


Outside the Waistband (OWB)

Back to the clock, this position marks your weapon at the 3 o’clock position, outside the waistband. Owners have the flexibility to put the gun in a natural draw position. If you’re considering OWB carry, you want to ensure that your barrel doesn't poke below your shirt line, especially when sitting down. You may need an add-on to your outfit with an outer garment like a jacket or a vest if it does. Depending on where you go, you will need to keep your jacket on if you are inside a store. Hot weather can make the OWB challenging. 


Small of Back (SOB)

With more cons than pros, small of back carry is usually the least used position. At the same time, this is a comfortable position if you stand all day or sit leaning forward. However, if you spend much of your day driving, chances are you’re going to feel the pistol digging into your back. 


These are four of the most popular carry positions. Other positions include off-body carry, shoulder rigs, and ankle holster. 


Carrying your gun is a personal choice, often dictated by your lifestyle and line of work. It is also decided based on how you dress, your body style, and your daily activity level.


USCCA Concealed Carry and Home Defense Course is a 16-hour course and meets the Illinois State Police requirements for the Illinois Concealed Carry Permit. Upon completing the course, students will receive a required certificate when renewing their Illinois Concealed Carry Permit. Visit Northern Illinois Carry LLC online to learn more, or call us at 815-501-9421 with any questions.

Sources:

https://www.nrafamily.org/articles/2021/2/3/4-best-concealed-carry-positions-pros-vs-cons

https://gunnewsdaily.com/best-ccw-positions/

https://concealedcarrysociety.com/concealed-carry-positions/

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