Understanding the Challenges
Body Type Considerations
The struggle is real. For many of us, concealed carry isn’t as simple as tucking a pistol into a waistband and heading out the door. If you’re a larger individual, the challenges of finding a comfortable and discreet carry method can feel amplified. Printing, the dreaded bulge that gives away your secret, the constant discomfort, and the feeling that your firearm is digging into your side—these are common frustrations. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Appendix carry, or AIWB, can be a game-changer, even for bigger guys. This method, which involves positioning your firearm in front of your hip, offers surprising benefits for comfort, concealment, and accessibility.
This article is dedicated to the larger-framed individual seeking the perfect concealed carry setup. We’ll delve into the unique obstacles faced, explore the best gear choices, offer practical tips for comfortable and effective carrying, and emphasize the importance of safety and responsible gun ownership. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge to confidently and safely embrace appendix carry.
The physical realities of carrying concealed differ greatly based on body type. For bigger guys, certain considerations become especially important. A larger waist circumference, wider hips, and extra weight distribution create unique challenges when it comes to comfortable and discreet concealed carry.
One of the most significant issues is printing. When a firearm presses against your clothing, it creates an outline, a visible tell-tale sign that you’re carrying a gun. This becomes more likely when your waistline is larger, as the gun has a greater tendency to press against your clothes. Furthermore, with added bulk, the firearm may dig uncomfortably into the abdomen, creating pain and a strong incentive to abandon your carry method.
Body shape also influences comfort and concealment. An “apple-shaped” body, where the majority of weight is carried around the midsection, may make it more difficult to find a comfortable appendix carry position. A “pear-shaped” body, with weight concentrated in the hips and thighs, may also require careful holster and clothing choices to avoid printing.
Another important aspect to consider is the added pressure against your body. A poorly designed or ill-fitting holster can make appendix carry feel like a constant discomfort, leading to an unwillingness to carry consistently. Similarly, an improperly positioned gun, even with the right gear, can dig into the groin area, creating irritation.
Gear Selection: Your Foundation for Success
The right gear is paramount for successfully carrying concealed, particularly when you’re of larger stature. The choices you make here can significantly impact your comfort, concealment, and overall experience. Let’s break down the essentials.
Holster Choices
A quality holster is the cornerstone of your setup. It’s the component that safely secures your firearm and allows you to carry it comfortably and consistently. Look for a holster crafted from sturdy materials such as Kydex. Kydex holsters provide superior rigidity, ensuring the holster maintains its shape and protects the trigger guard, therefore preventing accidental discharges. A well-made Kydex holster is also less likely to collapse when you draw your firearm, making re-holstering a smoother, safer process. Leather holsters are another option, but ensure they have a reinforced mouth to ease reholstering. Hybrid holsters, which combine Kydex and leather, can offer a blend of comfort and security.
Pay close attention to the adjustability features. A holster with adjustable cant (the angle at which the gun sits) and ride height (how high or low it sits in your waistband) gives you the flexibility to fine-tune your carry position for optimal comfort and concealment. Cant adjustment lets you tilt the grip of the gun inward, helping to conceal the gun by tucking it closer to your body. Ride height adjustment allows you to position the gun higher or lower in your waistband, helping to balance comfort, accessibility, and concealment.
Don’t overlook the importance of the holster design. Look for features like a “wing” or “claw” that use the pressure of your belt to help pull the grip of the gun closer to your body. This significantly reduces printing. These accessories are small additions to the holster itself that can make a huge difference.
Gun Belt
No matter how great your holster is, it won’t perform effectively without a high-quality gun belt. A dedicated gun belt is a must-have, specifically designed to support the weight of your firearm. This belt is what you will thread through your pants, and the strength and rigidity of the belt is critical to distributing the weight of the firearm evenly. A regular belt is not strong enough to support the weight, the holster will sag, and the gun will print.
A good gun belt is typically made from sturdy materials like reinforced leather or heavy-duty nylon. Look for a belt that’s at least 1.5 inches wide, and ideally, 1.75 inches. This is the standard to fit most holsters. A rigid belt prevents the holster from sagging, which improves concealment and comfort. A good gun belt will fit snuggly, but not uncomfortably tight.
When selecting your gun belt, it’s crucial to get the correct size. Measure your waist circumference with your pants on and with the holster on, or use the size listed on the product to ensure the proper fit.
Concealed Carry Handguns
While the gun belt and holster are critical, the size and type of the handgun you choose also play a key role in comfort and concealment, especially for bigger guys. A full-size pistol may present more challenges than a smaller, more compact option. Consider the weight of the gun. A lighter gun is less likely to cause discomfort during prolonged carry.
Think about your needs and preferences. Compact or subcompact handguns like the Glock 43X, SIG Sauer P365, or Smith & Wesson Shield Plus, are very popular choices. These guns are generally easier to conceal, due to their smaller size, and many offer a good balance of concealability, shootability, and stopping power. Researching and renting a few different firearms at your local gun range may be a good idea.
Comfort and Concealment Techniques
Once you have your gear in place, the next step is to optimize your setup for comfort and concealment. Here are some techniques to help you achieve the best results.
Positioning the Holster
Finding the optimal holster position is critical for appendix carry. Experiment with moving the holster slightly forward or backward along your waistband. You may find that the best spot for you isn’t directly at the 1 o’clock position (or 12:30, depending on handedness) but slightly to the side. This can help to avoid pressure points and improve accessibility.
Start with your holster positioned in the middle, around the belt loop, in front of your hip. Try tilting it towards your body by moving it to the side and back, experimenting with a few degrees. Your comfort will tell you the most. Experiment with adjusting the cant and ride height until you find the most comfortable position. This is highly personal; it may require some trial and error to get it just right.
Proper Clothing Choices
Your clothing choices have a significant impact on your ability to conceal your firearm effectively. Consider these suggestions. For shirts, avoid overly tight or form-fitting styles. Opt for slightly looser shirts that drape over the holster without clinging to your body. A shirt with a pattern can help to break up the outline of the gun and make it less noticeable. Darker colors also tend to be more concealing than lighter ones. Look for shirts that have enough length to cover the butt of your gun, particularly when you’re moving or bending over.
For pants, choose styles that fit well, but aren’t excessively tight around your waist. Avoid low-rise pants, as they can make it more difficult to conceal your firearm and potentially cause discomfort.
Appendix Carry Comfort Techniques
Beyond specific gear considerations and clothing choices, there are techniques that significantly enhance the comfort of appendix carry. Adjusting the cant is critical. Start by experimenting with the angle of your gun. A small adjustment can have a big impact on both comfort and concealment. If your holster includes a wedge or claw attachment, make sure to use it.
Draw and reholstering practice is crucial, not only for safety but also for establishing muscle memory. Practice the draw stroke and reholstering slowly and deliberately at first, then gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable. Always keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire, and make sure the muzzle of the firearm is pointed in a safe direction. Practicing in front of a mirror can help you to see how the gun is printing and to identify any adjustments you need to make.
Training and Practice
Carrying a firearm is a serious responsibility, so it’s vital to prioritize training and practice. Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Keep your finger off the trigger until you are ready to fire. Never point the muzzle of the gun at anything you are not willing to destroy. Know what your target is, and what is beyond it.
Safe Gun Handling
Dry fire practice, with an unloaded gun, is an excellent way to develop your skills and to familiarize yourself with your carry setup. Ensure the gun is completely empty before starting dry fire practice. Practice your draw stroke, sight alignment, and trigger control, all while paying close attention to safety procedures. This can help to build muscle memory and improve your proficiency.
Training
If you’re new to carrying concealed, consider taking a concealed carry course with a certified instructor. A professional instructor can help you build a solid foundation of knowledge and skills.
Live Fire Drills
Live fire drills, at a shooting range, are essential. Begin by working on the draw stroke, reholstering, and target acquisition. Make sure you are comfortable with the draw and reholstering, and that your grip is proper. Then, advance to more complex drills, such as drawing and firing while moving or engaging multiple targets.
Safety and Legal Considerations
Before you begin to carry, you must familiarize yourself with the laws in your state, and local laws. These regulations govern where you can carry, what types of firearms are permitted, and other important requirements. It’s your responsibility to know these laws, and ignorance is not a defense.
Safe Gun Storage
Safe gun storage is paramount, especially if you have children or other individuals who may have access to your home. Store your firearm unloaded in a secure location, such as a gun safe or a lockbox. Store ammunition separately from the gun. Be sure to keep your firearm away from unauthorized access.
Responsible Gun Ownership
Responsible gun ownership is more than just knowing the laws. It’s about making smart decisions. It’s about respecting the firearm and the power it possesses. The concealed carry of a firearm is a privilege, and you must exercise that privilege responsibly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is purchasing gear without fully understanding your needs. Researching different holsters and gun belts can help to prevent buyers remorse. Seek recommendations from other people who carry, and don’t be afraid to spend a little more money on quality gear.
Another common mistake is failing to adapt to your body shape. Your body will change throughout time. You will need to consider how different clothing types work, based on your build. Finding what fits you well will be the ultimate goal in finding comfort and concealment.
A third mistake is a lack of practice. Proficiency with your firearm comes from consistent training and practice. Make time for dry fire and live fire drills, and continually strive to improve your skills.
Conclusion
Appendix carry can be an excellent option for those who struggle with traditional methods. For bigger guys, the ability to conceal a firearm comfortably and discreetly can be a game-changer. However, finding the perfect setup requires research, patience, and a willingness to experiment.
This article has covered a range of important topics. We explored the particular challenges faced by those of larger stature. We reviewed critical gear choices, from holsters and gun belts to firearms themselves. We provided tips for maximizing comfort, concealment, and accessibility, and we discussed the importance of training, safe gun handling, and legal compliance.
Find the right setup for your unique body type and preferences. Consider getting professional instruction. Never stop learning and improving your skills. With the right approach, you can confidently embrace appendix carry and take control of your personal safety. Your ability to protect yourself depends on it.
