The Pros and Cons of Carrying On-Body vs Off-Body
The decision to carry a firearm is a serious one. If you haven't already, please check out our article about it here. Once that decision is made the next decision is how to carry. There are basically two considerations, on-body or off-body. On-body being in a holster on your body. Off-body being in a holster in a bag, purse, or pack. You can check out our choosing a holster article here.
The pros and cons listed below do not all rise to the same level of importance. For example, safety should never be sacrificed for comfort. My personal opinion is that one should always carry on-body when possible. However, that isn't always possible, and when that is the situation, your bag, purse, etc. that is carrying your firearm should ALWAYS be in your possession and under your control. That being said, let's get into the pros and cons of each.
On-Body Carry:
Pros:
Quick Access: Firearms or other items are more easily and quickly accessible, allowing for faster response times in critical situations.
Better Control: Firearms are always within your reach, reducing the risk of someone else coming into contact with your firearm.
Hands-Free: You don't need to carry a bag or other accessories, leaving your hands free for other tasks.
Retention: With proper holsters or pouches, firearms are more securely held and less likely to be misplaced or lost.
Cons:
Comfort: Carrying a firearm on your body can be uncomfortable, especially for long periods or when sitting.
Limited Capacity: You’re limited to carrying only what you can fit on your body, which may restrict the size or number of items like spare magazines.
Clothing Requirements: On-body carry often requires specific clothing, such as a jacket or belt, which may not be ideal in all situations or climates.
Printing Risk: The shape of the firearm might show through clothing (printing), potentially revealing its presence to others.
Physical Interference: Firearms can get in the way during physical activities or movement, making certain tasks awkward or difficult.
Off-Body Carry:
Pros:
Comfort: Off-body carry, such as in a bag or purse, can be more comfortable, especially when carrying larger or heavier items.
Capacity: You can carry more or larger items since you're not restricted by the size of your body.
Versatility: You have more flexibility in choosing what to carry.
Less Impact on Clothing: There are fewer restrictions on clothing choices since you don't need to conceal the firearm on your body.
Reduced Physical Interference: Off-body carry items don’t interfere with your movements, making it easier to engage in various physical activities.
Cons:
Slower Access: Retrieving items from a bag or purse can take longer, which may be critical in emergency situations.
Less Control: Off-body carry increases the risk of theft, loss, or misplacement, especially if the bag is left unattended.
Accessibility: Items may be less accessible if the bag is in an awkward position.
Risk of Separation: It’s easier to become separated from your bag or purse; someone could potentially take your firearm by taking your purse or bag.
However you decide to carry, make sure you are continuously training and practicing a safe and consistent drawstroke from concealment. And finally, If you decide to carry off-body, always carry in a bag that has a dedicated pocket with a holster that covers the trigger. And never put anything else in that pocket.
Stay safe and train often
Allen
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