Critical Carry Theory

Concealed handgun carry is becoming more common. Despite politicians pushing for stricter gun control, citizens and state governments are supporting concealed handgun carrying. 21 states have Constitutional Carry. This means that concealed carry of firearms is permitted in all 50 states. This means that many people can legally conceal carry, even though they may not have any firearms training. Anyone who intends to carry a firearm for personal defense should, on their own initiative, get as much training as they can. Basic and more advanced instruction in concealed carry and self defense are not provided for free. The problem is that basic and more complex instruction on concealed carry and self-defense are not available for free. This means that those who have realized they are their first responders must pay for training, purchase videos, or read periodicals such as Gun Digest. Safety Concerns SimplifiedFirearms don’t pose a danger. They don’t mysteriously “bang” and injure, or kill. Humans can be dangerous. They have committed atrocious acts throughout history, and often do foolish things using firearms. A quick internet search will yield anywhere from four to twelve firearm safety rules. Jeff Cooper provided us with the top four firearm safety rules. With all due respect, firearm safety is not complicated. In fact, there is only one rule that can simplify it: Never allow a firearm’s pointer to aim at anything you don’t want to shoot or destroy. Handgun ChoiceThis is a highly debated topic in self-defense. Modern humans are driven by their gear, not their skill or application. Handgun safety can be simplified. You should choose the most reliable, powerful, concealed handgun that you can carry, and that you can fire with speed and accuracy. You will find the answer to your question is different for everyone. This is because the most important aspect to a handgun for personal protection is not its cost, caliber, or potential interaction with a danger. Its interface with the user is the most important aspect. A Smith & Wesson 44 Magnum would work well for shooting someone intent on killing you. But most people can’t conceal a revolver this large or deal with the intense recoil of a handgun. What type of handgun can you conceal with your body type and clothing? What type of handgun can you use? What level of recoil are you able to tolerate? What type of handgun is most comfortable to grip? What are your eyes like? Do you prefer big, bold sights or a quick reflex sight? There are many options. There are many ways to conceal a handgun. Although the strongest option, inside the waistband (IWB), carry is the most popular, this method is not for everyone. Ankle carry, pocket carry and the use of a shoulder-holster are not options. Humans come in many sizes and they also move in many social settings. Further complicating matters is the fact that not all humans live in one environment. While you may be wearing a suit and tie to work, you may prefer to conceal your carry by using appendix carry. Appendix carry is not for everyone. However, all should practice trigger discipline. They may also require different firearms. You won’t be allowed to carry a Glock 17 if you are a runner. Your shoulder holster for the 5-inch 1911 will not work if you are vacationing in 100+ degree temperatures. I have found that I can conceal a Browning Hi Power, Wilson Combat EDC X9 in an IWB holster almost all year here in West Virginia. There are times when I may need a smaller gun. There is no one right answer. That depends on a lot of things, and the answer isn’t the same for everyone.AccessoriesI’ve read some gun writers who insist you carry a handgun with two extra reloads, pepper spray, an impact weapon, a fighting knife and even restraint devices everywhere you go. You need to be prepared. But logic and common sense must also be applied. You don’t need a fire extinguisher for every room. And you only need one spare in your car. You don’t have to carry that much stuff every day if you don’t want to. You might also consider buying a Sherman tank to transport your stuff around. I’ve been in places where a fully loaded Batman belt wouldn’t have been able to support enough gear to keep my safety. Avoiding bad places is the best way to avoid feeling that way. If your lifestyle demands you frequent bad locations, equip yourself accordingly or maybe reconsider your life choices. I can tell you from personal experience that most people cannot live comfortably with so much stuff. Your lifestyle should reflect the tools you use to protect yourself. Be realistic in your choices and practice with the tools you carry. Skill LevelConcealed carry can have a wide range of skill levels. Not only with shooting, but also with firearms manipulation. Most people want to know how competent they must be to defend themselves against a murderous attack. You can’t be competent enough to answer that question. Because you don’t know what the details of a potentially life-threatening situation might be, this is unacceptable. From a training standpoint your only logical approach is to attempt to always improve at every aspect of concealed carry, personal protection and self-defense.Concealed carry simplified: Choose the most reliable and most powerful handgun you can comfortably carry concealed, and that you can shoot with speed and accuracy.I recently read on social media where a firearms trainer/gun writer suggested practicing reloading drills was a waste of time because most self-defense shootings are sorted out well before a magazine or cylinder of ammunition has been expended. This is a ridiculous way of determining your training. Although it can vary depending on many factors, the same logic dictates that you don’t have to carry because there is very little chance of you being a victim to a violent crime. You should be able draw your handgun quickly and efficiently from concealment. You must be able place shots at a distance of approximately 15 yards with speed and accuracy. You must be able to control your handgun to effectively reload, clear stops and keep it in fight. While doing all these things, you need to be able to use cover and concealment. You must continue to improve your ability to do all of these things. A shoulder holster is a great option. Sure, they’re great, but they require a jacket or cover garment at all times.JustificationFinally, we get to the most critical aspect of the use of force in a self-defense situation: justification. What justification will you use to stop an attack with a firearm? The truth is that neither you, nor I, know the answer. The jury of your peers will decide what constitutes justification. It’s not a checklist that guarantees your freedom from prison or civil liability. Fortunately, the answer to this complex question is very simple. It doesn’t give you any guarantees, but it does provide some logical guidance. Your freedom will depend on how the jury interprets the evidence. Your actions will also depend on how you perceive the situation. You won’t have the time to think about what the jury will see. In a split second, you must decide that shooting is the only way to avoid death or serious bodily harm. You may still be found guilty for manslaughter and homicide, even if this is your perception. But, unless you have that perception, lethal force cannot be justified. Storm Tactical’s impressive target pack includes62 printable targets for rifle and handgun range usage. Target grids and bullseye sizes can be downloaded in MOA. This is a great option for long-range shooting. Enter your email address below.