Practical Style Tips for Carrying a Concealed Gun (VIDEO)

Dressing around a handgun is a part of carrying a concealed weapon for self-defense. But it takes planning to find an outfit that makes the pistol accessible yet concealed. With a little thought and a bit of experimentation, you can find clothes that keep your gun hidden and you looking fashionable.

Different people have different clothing needs and tastes, just like they have different needs and tastes in firearms. Even though clothing options vary depending on geography, popular fashions and the weather, there are a few solid guidelines when it comes to choosing clothes to cover your pistol. 

First, try to pick clothing that is just a bit looser than normal. For example if you wear a 34 waist you may want to move up to 35 or 36 to accommodate the extra width of your pistol. The same generally goes for shirts, moving a size up can help reduce how much your pistol stands out or “prints” against your shirt. Fabric type and pattern can also help — or hurt — your concealment efforts. Heavier low sheen fabrics tend to reduce printing and patterns, such as plaid or stripes, and help to break up the outline of your pistol. Try to avoid tighter “athletic” fit shirts as they are designed to stay tight to your body and that makes it very difficult to keep the profile of a pistol hidden.