The Most Comfortable Alternate Carry Options for Concealed Guns

Concealed carry is a complex and personal decision, influenced significantly by the type of firearm, the intended use, and the comfort and convenience you seek. While carrying a gun on the belt is the most common method, there are other options that offer unique advantages, such as shoulder holsters and pocket holsters. Each has its own perks, and I will explore these alternatives in detail to help you choose the best option for you.

Shoulder Holsters for Compact and Larger Pistols

For compact-sized pistols or larger, a shoulder holster can be a great alternative to belt carry. I personally use a shoulder holster for my Canik Mete SFT and a CYA IWB (Inside the Waistband) holster for a larger Sig. P365. The Sig. P365 is comfortable to carry in cargo shorts and pants, and you can easily drop it into the pocket holster.

The Shoulder Holster's Appeal

For those who prefer not to carry on the belt, a shoulder holster is a viable option. It also offers the classic look reminiscent of Officer Elliot Ness from the TV series The Untouchables, where Robert Stack was the iconic character. Even though I am not a huge fan of the TV show, the aesthetic of carrying a gun on the shoulder is elegant and practical.

Pocket Holsters for Compact Pistols

For smaller sub-compact pistols, a pocket holster can be incredibly discreet and comfortable. For example, I carry a small .380 in a pocket holster that "prints" exactly like a wallet in my right rear pocket. This allows me to have my hand on my weapon and be ready to draw it without attracting undue attention from civilians or, in my fictional scenario, goblins.

Choosing the Right Pocket Holster

The best pocket holster is the one that you don't even know you have. I use a holster made by Hedley Holsters, which is both comfortable and concealable. When you grasp your pistol, it retains the weapon well, covers the trigger guard completely, and stays put when you draw it. This makes it the perfect choice for those who want a blend of comfort and concealment.

CyA IWB Holsters for Larger Guns

For guns larger than the Sig. P365, a COTY IWB holster ( Concealed Carry Outside the Waistband) is a safe and comfortable option. I find that this type of holster is particularly useful when you need to carry a full-size 1911 or a Browning Hi-Power. The Bianchi/Safariland leather shoulder holster, which I have used since the 1980s, is a highly recommendable option. It is not only comfortable but also lightning-fast to draw from, even with a bit of practice. These holsters are also durable and made from high-quality materials.

Why Stay Away from Ballistic Nylon/Synthetic Holsters?

While synthetic shoulder holsters are cheap, they come with significant drawbacks. They are hard to adjust for a proper fit, and maintaining that fit is even more challenging. Moreover, they are not comfortable and become annoying after just a couple of hours. They are also much harder to conceal compared to quality leather holsters. Despite the claims of manufacturers, synthetic holsters are not as durable as they claim. Both my son and a brother-in-law have worn out their holsters and decided never to buy another one.

Why Ankle Holsters Aren't a Good Choice

Ankle holsters are not recommended for concealed carry. Regardless of the gun and the type of pants, the gun is simply too awkward and clumsy to access. Ankle holsters also do not provide much concealment. These holsters are comfortable, but their effectiveness in terms of ease and speed of draw is inferior to that of shoulder or IWB holsters.

Conclusion

When choosing a holster for concealed carry, consider the type of handgun, the intended use, and your personal comfort and concealment needs. Shoulder holsters and IWB holsters offer unique advantages over belt carry, and a high-quality pocket holster can be the perfect solution for small firearms.

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