The Pros and Cons of Pocket Carry

Most people carry their concealed firearm in a holster that's strapped outside of their clothes (shoulder holster, belt slide), or clipped to the belt for support but arranged so the pants will help conceal the gun (down the pants holster). This not only allows the gun to be held firmly in a comfortable spot, but it also provides protection to both the gun's finish and sights. For this reason many people spend a great deal of time and not a little money trying to find the perfect holster for their own particular needs.

This is a good idea, and I always spend some time with my students discussing the options available. But I also think that there's a place for using a pocket as a place to carry an effective self-defense firearm. One place that might demand pocket carry is when wearing formal or business clothes in a hot climate where a jacket would be a burden.

Another thing to consider is the tactical aspect in situations where you notice a potential threat that hasn't developed to the point where action is required. If carrying in a front pocket it's very easy to have your hand on your gun, ready for instant use, while still projecting a calm and unthreatening appearance. (This works particularly well for people like myself, who usually go about our daily affairs with our hands in our pockets anyway.)

But before I go on to discuss the details, I'd like to clarify what I think someone should carry for defense.

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