I Am Afraid to Start Concealed Carrying
Concealed carry can be an intimidating decision for many women, as it requires taking responsibility for one’s own protection and that of loved ones. This weighty responsibility involves knowing the laws, training to draw and use a firearm in a self-defense situation, and making gear choices that suit your lifestyle. It is normal to feel concerned and even afraid when taking on such significant responsibilities, as it demonstrates the seriousness with which you are approaching this decision.
As a new concealed carrier, you may be experiencing common fears related to this lifestyle change. Fear often stems from the belief that something is dangerous. However, gaining knowledge and understanding can bring confidence and help overcome these fears. While it may seem scary at first, with practice and proper training, carrying a concealed firearm can become second nature and an important tool for personal protection.
So, what are some common fears and how do you conquer them?
I am afraid I won’t be able to use it. Could I really pull the trigger on another person if I had to?
This is a question of great depth and significance. It is essential that you answer it with a resounding “yes” if you intend to carry a concealed firearm. In my opinion, you should carefully consider your answer to this question before you even think about purchasing a gun.
I am afraid of what my friends will think.
The topic of guns is highly controversial and can create a divide among people who either support or oppose gun ownership. It’s common to have friends who hold different views on this issue, and the fear of being judged or treated differently due to your decision to carry a concealed gun can be a real concern.
Unfortunately, friendships have been known to end over this topic. The decision to carry a gun is a highly personal one that involves protecting oneself from violence or even death. It’s not a decision that should be made based on the opinions of others or what they think is cool or not cool.
It’s perfectly fine to keep your decision to carry a concealed weapon private. While it may feel natural to share everything with friends, this is not a requirement of friendship. Concealed carry is just that – concealed. You have the right to keep your decision and practice of concealed carry to yourself, and it’s important to remember that your personal safety is your top priority.
Would I be able to get it out fast enough to use it?
The reason we train is to make these skills second nature. Like anything else in life, the more familiar we become with a task, the more skilled we are and the less fearful we feel. Training is a critical component of your new role as a “self-protector”. A mind and body that are eager to learn and improve are healthy and growing. This is also an essential characteristic of a responsible concealed carrier. If you ever think you’ve mastered everything and there’s nothing left to learn, you’ve lost the most important element of your armed self-defense: a responsible concealed carry mindset. Seek out professional instruction and training courses that cover all aspects of self-defense with a firearm.
I am afraid my gun will go off while I am carrying it.
A gun placed in a secure holster with engaged safety features and an untouched trigger is incapable of firing. Any incidents where a gun discharged were caused by someone’s negligence. Therefore, it is crucial to carry your gun in a high-quality, appropriately used concealed carry holster and never handle it carelessly or allow anything, including your finger, to touch the trigger. You must seek holsters that offer essential features to safeguard your trigger to prevent any unintentional discharges.
It’s crucial to avoid touching, adjusting, or unholstering your gun unless it’s absolutely necessary. Furthermore, every time you handle, adjust, or touch your firearm, you must adhere to and practice the gun safety guidelines to ensure responsible gun handling.
It is going to be uncomfortable!
Clint Smith’s quote, “Carrying a gun isn’t supposed to be comfortable, it’s supposed to be a comfort,” highlights the fact that concealed carry for women may require some adjustments and sacrifices. It may be inconvenient or uncomfortable at times, but it is a necessary measure for self-protection.
The gun is a lethal tool that carries a tremendous responsibility to be used safely and responsibly. It is important for us to be aware of this responsibility at all times. We must feel the weight of the responsibility and the comfort of knowing that we have the best tool within reach in case of an attack.
Carrying a gun is not meant to be comfortable, but rather it is meant to provide comfort in the knowledge that we are prepared to defend ourselves. However, there are ways to make carrying more comfortable. There are many options of concealed carry holsters available that can help make carrying a gun more comfortable.
I am afraid people will be able to see my gun while I am carrying it!
Printing is a common concern among those who carry concealed firearms. This refers to the visible outline or shape of the gun when pressed against clothing. To address this issue, there are five areas that can be adjusted, which I refer to as the “5Cs”:
> Carry Position
> Clothing
> Cant
> Compact
> Comfort
There are several techniques you can use to minimize or eliminate the visibility of your concealed gun, such as adjusting your carry position, clothing, cant, compactness, and comfort. One of the simplest ways to reduce printing is to visually inspect yourself in the mirror when dressing and holstering your firearm. However, the biggest adjustment you need to make is in your mindset. Once you become more confident in carrying your gun, your fear of printing will naturally dissipate. It is essential to recognize that most people who are not carrying a gun are not actively looking for one on your body, unlike concealed carriers. Thus, the visible bulge caused by your gun may not be as noticeable to others as it is to you.
You Can and Will Conquer Your Concealed Carry Fears!
Concealed carrying can be intimidating, but with practice and experience, it is possible to overcome your fears. You can start by practicing at home. Wear your holster and gun while walking around the house to build your confidence. This can help you get comfortable with the feeling of carrying your gun.
As you begin to feel more confident, you can venture out in public. It’s normal to feel self-conscious at first, but with time, it becomes easier. Remember that you can carry your gun safely and confidently, while still being responsible for your safety everywhere you go.
Facing your fears and gaining knowledge about concealed carrying can help you realize that you have the ability to carry your gun without anyone knowing it. Don’t let fear hold you back from being prepared and protected.
