Carrying a firearm discreetly, especially during hot summer months, requires strategy and attention to detail. As the weather gets warmer and the clothing lighter, concealed carriers often face challenges.
This article dives deep into effective ways to carry and conceal your firearm seamlessly during the summer.
Best Way to Conceal Carry in Summer – How to Feel Comfortable
Choosing the Right Holster
In the summer, it is important to choose a holster that offers ventilation and breathability.
Kydex holsters are an excellent choice, as they are lightweight, durable, and have excellent retention. They also provide a smooth draw and can easily be concealed under clothing.
Selecting Lightweight and Breathable Fabrics
Opting for lightweight and breathable fabrics is also essential for comfort during the summer.
Fabrics such as cotton and linen are great choices as they allow air to circulate and prevent excessive sweating.
Cargo shorts or lightweight pants made from these materials can provide comfort while helping to conceal your gun.
Optimizing Clothing Choices for Concealed Carry
When choosing summertime concealed carry clothing, it is important to consider loose-fitting shirts with patterns. These types of shirts help to break up the outline of the firearm, making it less noticeable.
Additionally, summer layer outerwear such as vests or open-front shirts can provide an extra layer of concealment while allowing for easy access to your firearm.
What are the Best Concealed Carry Methods for Summer?
Here’s a guide to the optimal concealed carry positions to help you navigate the hot weather while ensuring you can carry comfortably and effectively.
Inside the Waistband (IWB) Carry
Carrying inside the waistband is one of the most popular ways to concealed carry, and it is particularly well-suited for summertime carry.
It is recommended to keep the holster between 2-10 o’clock for optimal comfort and accessibility.
Appendix Carry
When it comes to summer carry, appendix carry is another effective option. Appendix holsters are placed in the front of the body, around the appendix area.
Many people find appendix carry holsters to be comfortable as it provide easy access to the firearm while maintaining concealment.
Pocket Carry
For those who want to concealed carry discreetly, pocket carry is an excellent option. With pocket carry, a small, compact firearm is placed in the front pocket of your pants or summer shorts.
These concealed carry holsters work great during the summer months when light clothing is more common. It is important to use a purpose-designed pocket holster to ensure the firearm stays in place and is properly protected.
Ankle Carry
While not the primary choice for many, ankle holsters can be ideal for summer if you opt for longer trousers.
If you want to carry a smaller secondary gun or just carry spare guns for backup, this carry system works with both shorts (for smaller guns) and pants.
Retrieving your firearm from an ankle holster is typically slower, and it might not be as comfortable for all-day wear.
Off-Body Carry
You can also opt for off-body carry and conceal your weapon in items, such as in a briefcase, backpack, or specially designed conceal carry purse.
Experiment with different holster types to find a holster that allows you to carry your firearm comfortably in when it gets hot and makes it easy to conceal and draw.
How to Choose the Best Concealed Carry Clothes and Shirt
Summer wear tends to be lighter and less structured. Less clothes can pose a challenge for those who choose to concealed carry in the summertime.
However, you can still carry comfortably and discreetly if you follow these tips on summer fashion and dressing for concealed carry.
Loose-Fitting Shirts with Patterns
Loose-fitting shirts with patterns are highly recommended for those who carry a larger firearm. These shirts help to break up the outline of the firearm, making it less noticeable.
They also provide excellent airflow and prevent printing, which is when the outline of the firearm becomes visible through the clothing.
Layering with Lightweight Outerwear
When it comes to concealed carry, layering with lightweight outerwear can be a game-changer. Vests or open-front shirts can help to conceal your firearm while still allowing for easy access. These lightweight options provide an additional layer of concealment without adding excessive bulk or discomfort in the summer heat.
Considering Concealed Carry Clothing Brands
Several brands specialize in concealed carry attire designed to be both stylish and functional. These brands offer shirts, pants, and jackets that have built-in holsters or special pockets for carrying firearms. Investing in clothing from these brands can provide added peace of mind and ensure that your concealed carry needs are met.
What is the Best Concealed Carry Summer Holster?
When it comes to concealed carry options for summer, the right holster helps to make concealed carry a lot more comfortable.
Here’s a breakdown of the best holster options to consider
Kydex Holster
A Kydex holster is a popular choice for concealed carry during the summer. These holsters are made from a durable and lightweight material that allows for comfortable all-day carry. They also offer excellent retention and a smooth draw, making them a reliable option for the summertime.
Shoulder Holster
If you prefer an alternative to traditional hip carry, a shoulder holster can be a great option for summer concealed carry. Shoulder holsters distribute the weight of the firearm across the upper body, providing comfort and ease of movement. They also offer quick access to the firearm and are easily concealed under a lightweight jacket or overshirt.
Ankle Holster
Ankle holsters are suitable for carrying smaller firearms discreetly during the hot months. They are commonly used as a backup carry or for those who need to wear more fitted clothing. Ankle holsters can be worn comfortably with shorts or pants, and they provide easy accessibility while keeping the firearm hidden from view.
What are the Best Options for Concealed Carry Guns in the Summer?
Smaller, more compact firearms are generally preferable for summer carry due to their ease of concealment.
Sub-compact semi-automatics or snub-nosed revolvers are both lightweight and discreet, making them less likely to print through summer clothing.
Consider firearms like the Glock 43, Smith & Wesson Shield, or Ruger LCP for this season.
Concealed Carry Outfits in Hot Weather: Tips for Women
Navigating concealed carry for women in the heat can be a challenge, but with the right approach, it’s entirely possible to look cute even in the summer while ensuring safety.
The key is selecting summer carry gear that is both stylish and functional. From chic concealment purses to lightweight vests, there are numerous options to make summer carry not just possible, but also a fashion statement.
Remember, concealed carry doesn’t mean compromising on style; with the right carry gear, women can stay both trendy and protected.
Final Thoughts about Summer Concealed Carry Options
Having a concealed carry lifestyle during the summer months may require a bit more strategic planning than other times of the year, but with the right combination of holster, placement, and summer clothing choices, you can ensure both comfort and safety.
With the strategies listed above, not only can you easily conceal your weapon but also experience comfort even in the scorching heat. Whether you’re a seasoned concealed carrier or a newbie, adapting to the summer wardrobe while ensuring safety is achievable with the right approach.
FAQs about conceal carry in the summer
What is the best position to conceal carry in the summer?
The right way to conceal carry in the summer often depends on personal comfort and the clothing worn.
However, the appendix carry (around 2-4 o’clock for right-handed individuals) is highly favored due to its balance between accessibility and concealment, especially with lighter and tighter summer outfits.
Where do you hide a gun in a dress?
When wearing a dress, many women opt for thigh holsters, which wrap around the upper leg and hold the firearm securely. Another type of holster to consider is a belly band holster worn around the waist under the dress.
If the dress design allows, an underarm or shoulder holster can also be effective.
What is the best place to conceal carry?
The optimal place to conceal carry varies based on individual preferences, body type, and attire.
Common options include inside the waistband (IWB) at the appendix (2-4 o’clock for right-handed individuals) or behind the hip (around 4-5 o’clock for right-handed).
Do you have to wear jeans to conceal carry?
With a suitable holster, you can effectively conceal carry with shorts, skirts, dresses, or slacks.