National Carry Academy
Concealed Carry: It’ Not Just About Your Gun
June 16, 2020
When thinking about concealed carry a large percentage of new concealed firearms carriers focus almost solely on their weapon. One survey pegged the gun focus at 75% of new concealed carry weapons owners. When novice concealed carry weapons owners expend all their energy and interest on their guns, they are literally failing to see the big picture of concealed carry.
They get caught up in the debate over which is the ideal weapon for them. When confronted with a stunning array of weapons choices one can certainly understand why new gun purchasers are so dazed by and confused about what to buy.
It’s easy to focus on one specific item rather than the overall big picture. It’s important to look at different aspects as a bigger picture rather than only worrying about just what knife you carry or what type of gun is best for you any given day. There’s a number of things everyone should at least consider carrying when they leave their house with a firearm. Now everyone may have different opinions on the matter, and that’s totally fine but just keep in mind this can be a flexible list depending on your preferences and needs for daily carry. Let’s dive into some of the most important things you can carry when concealing a firearm.
Your Weapon
Over 70% of those who purchase concealed carry weapons do so for self-defense. Of course, when you think of the most effective way to defend yourself and your property—all things being equal–the most crucial tool is your gun.The value of knowing how to use your weapon cannot be ignored Studies have proven that having a firearm and knowing how to use it is invaluable.
Which Gun?
Ask any ten experienced concealed carriers and you will likely get ten different answers. Choice of best handgun is very personal. No one weapon suits everyone. According to an Urban Survivalist survey, these are the top five guns perceived to be the best self-defense and property protection handguns.
1. Mossberg 500/590
This one is a perennial favorite among concealed carriers. It’s a twelve-gauge pump action shotgun. It is a lot of gun. However, it I reliable. Loaded with either slugs or buckshot, this weapon can blow a hole in any assailant or intruder. Even the sound of the pump action will freeze a perpetrator in his tracks. While shotguns may seem pretty substantial both the weapon and its ammunition are comparably inexpensive. Thus, you can get in lots of range practice without breaking the bank.
Even if you’re not a big person, this weapon doesn’t have much recoil. It you are looking at alternatives in pump action shotguns look at both the Mossberg 500/590 and the Remington 870. Both are relatively inexpensive. They are rugged, low maintenance, reliable, and easy to shoot.
Here’s another plus: These weapons have lots of accessories. You can have fun customizing your weapon. It should be noted that the Mossberg has easier-to-manage control. The safety on the 870 is on the rear of the trigger guard. The Mossberg is also ambidextrous. The slide release is another issue. On the Mossberg, it is located behind the trigger guard. This makes it much easier to reach than the 870’s slide release which is in front of the guard.
2. Glock 17/19
This quality mid to full-size 9mm is made for self and home-defense. Both the Glock 17 and 19 have lots of rounds. These weapons have moderately low recoil. The guns are relatively inexpensive and their ammunition is cheap—making it feasible for ample target practice.
If you want to compare, try out these other affordable 9 mm handguns: the Beretta, HK, Kahr, Ruger, Smith & Wesson, Springfield, Taurus, and Walther. They are all user friendly and dependable.
Glocks aren’t pretty. They are also not the most comfortable to hold. However, they are simple to use. They are easy to take apart and clean. You can learn to field strip one in under two minutes—with some practice. Glocks also hardly ever misfire. You can buy spare magazines and accessories easily and pretty cheaply. Glocks also make great backup weapons.
3. AR-15
A disturbing trend in home invasions is a shift from single and double to multiple intruders. In a case like that, a handgun or even a shotgun is no match. You can’t do better than a semi-automatic rifle like the AR15. Why not a shotgun like the Mossberg? Shotguns are too low capacity. With a handgun, you can be outgunned by armed intruders. The AR-15 is a semi-automatic carbine. It gives you greater range, bigger capacity, longer range, and more velocity. While you are looking at semi-auto carbines, check out AK-47s, Ruger Mini-14s and IWI Tavor. AR-15 is affordable and has more accessories.
4. Ruger GP100/Smith & Wesson 686
Revolvers aren’t as effective as other firearms. They don’t have the capacity of a semi-auto. Reloading them takes longer.
However, revolvers like the Ruger and the Smith & Wesson have advantages too. you need to take into account. The .357 double action revolver with its four-inch barrel is a good home defense choice. Revolvers are simpler, and more reliable than semi-auto pistols. If you are inexperienced the revolver is less complicated than the semi-automatic. It’s a good novice choice.
The revolver is a better choice when it comes to handguns. It is powerful. Full size revolver like the Ruger GP100 or the Smith & Wesson 686 absorb the recoil better. They also hold six rather than five rounds. The .357 Magnum revolver chambers .38 Specials. These are cheaper, making range practice more affordable.
5. Taurus Judge/Smith & Wesson Governor
Taurus was the first company to create a “shotgun pistol”. This home defense weapon is economical. It chambers .410 Bore and .45 Long Colt. Smith & Wesson released its answer to the Taurus Judge calling it the Governor model. Granted .410 buckshot doesn’t have the power of 12 or even 20 gauge. However intruders will know they’ve been hit. If you want more power try .45 LC hollow points. They are more expensive but have greater knockdown power than the .410s. The Governor holds one more round than the Judge. The Governor can also chamber .45 ACP. This makes it more versatile. However, the Judge has a more ergonomic grip. It is also cheaper
No matter which gun you choose be sure it’s not “too much gun” for your frame, your age, your strength, and your purpose.
Option B: Knife
Having a reliable, fold-open, pocket knife may be considered a backup weapon. But, it is so much more. Sure, it’s comforting to have if your weapon malfunctions, gets lost, or is taken from you; but a good pocket knife is also a great tool on its own merit. Your knife lets you cut open boxes and packages. Knives make life easier. They speed up job completion. This gives you time for other pursuits.
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a useful, high-end knife.
Kershaw knives take a licking but keep right on working. You can also get a good, inexpensive Smith & Wesson knife as a backup weapon and a useful tool.
Other alternatives highly rated by concealed carry people include:
The Buck 110: It’s a good practical knife. It’s not new but it is dependable.
The Case 02758 Pocket Worn Lockback: This is a good working person’s practical durable folding knife.
Spyderco Civilian or the Paramilitary 2: Both these knives by Spyderco provide good service at a reasonable cost.
SOG Flash II: This is a full-size pocket knife with a great steel blade. With assisted opening, this knife offers good reliable functioning at an attractive price.
If you get into tight quarters where drawing your handgun isn’t feasible, then your knife gives you the power to inflict some damage on your assailant. It might even give you a chance to escape or time to get to your concealed carry.
Cell Phone
There are so many people walking around glued to their cell phones that it is hard to imagine anyone without one. But there are actually people who concealed carry and don’t have a cell phone. Why should a cell phone be as vital as a weapon? The two aren’t mutually exclusive. Having a cell phone ready gives you the option of calling police faster. Cell phones can also be used to take photos. These could really help in a criminal or civil case going forward.
Spare Magazines
Typically, experienced concealed carriers carry a spare magazine on their gun belt or in their pocket. You may never need it but it is always wise to have a spare magazine. It’s critical to have in place a Plan B. If you don’t carry a spare magazine, what happens if your magazine fails. Like the Boy Scouts, always be prepared. It’s the sign of someone who is ready to protect himself and others if a threat arises.
A Flashlight
Why carry a flashlight? Won’t the light on my cell phone suffice? I have a light on my weapon. What if your cell phone battery runs down? A handheld flashlight lets you identify people and objects quickly. It is also a safer option than the light on your weapon light. You don’t want that weapon light to scream to an assailant, “Here I am. Come and get me!”
Besides, like the spare magazine, having a secondary light source is a great Plan B. Don’t forget to check the batteries on your handheld flashlight. Having a separate light to use is far less threatening than using the one attached to your weapon. A weapons light could get you killed by an assailant or by law enforcement or even another concealed carrier ramped up by adrenaline in a tense situation. Use your flashlight to check out the situation and/or to signal your location to rescuers.
Your Concealed Carry Permit
New weapons owners are often confused about whether to purchase a permit for their new handgun. Sixteen states are now “permitless” or constitutional carry states. This means you don’t have to purchase a concealed carry permit to carry legally in those states.
In spite of an increase in constitutional carry states, concealed carry permits are on the rise. According to a report released recently by the Crime Prevention Research Center, nearly nineteen million Americans have permits to carry a concealed handgun as noted by Fox News. This is almost a million and a half more people who purchased permits in the past year.
The latest figures state that nearly thirteen million Americans have been issued permits to carry concealed handguns. That is triple the number from nine years ago. Statisticians say that number is low. Not every state reports their concealed carry permit figures.
Even in permitless states, many gun owners have taken out a concealed carry permit. One of the biggest reasons for opting to get a permit is because they can carry in other states that have reciprocity agreements with their state.
New online concealed carry permits like those offered by National Carry Academy have made it quicker, less expensive, and easier for weapons owners to obtain a concealed carry weapons permit no matter where they live in USA. All they need is a tablet, smartphone, laptop, or computer and access to Wi-Fi.
Conclusion
As Robert Farago, director of the Texas Firearms Festival notes, “I’m not saying that being armed is gonna save your life, but at least you have an effective tool to mount some kind of defense.”
What you carry besides your weapon will largely depend on what you read, how you think, and what you deem to be important.
However, concealed carry isn’t just about your weapon. How you choose to carry it and where you position it are important decisions. These are unique to each carrier. When considering what you will carry every day, consistency is critical. Carry the same things in the same spots every day. That new concealed carry weapon won’t do you much good if it’s in a locked gun safe at home.
Concealed Carry: It’ Not Just About Your Gun
June 16, 2020
When thinking about concealed carry a large percentage of new concealed firearms carriers focus almost solely on their weapon. One survey pegged the gun focus at 75% of new concealed carry weapons owners. When novice concealed carry weapons owners expend all their energy and interest on their guns, they are literally failing to see the big picture of concealed carry.
They get caught up in the debate over which is the ideal weapon for them. When confronted with a stunning array of weapons choices one can certainly understand why new gun purchasers are so dazed by and confused about what to buy.
It’s easy to focus on one specific item rather than the overall big picture. It’s important to look at different aspects as a bigger picture rather than only worrying about just what knife you carry or what type of gun is best for you any given day. There’s a number of things everyone should at least consider carrying when they leave their house with a firearm. Now everyone may have different opinions on the matter, and that’s totally fine but just keep in mind this can be a flexible list depending on your preferences and needs for daily carry. Let’s dive into some of the most important things you can carry when concealing a firearm.
Your Weapon
Over 70% of those who purchase concealed carry weapons do so for self-defense. Of course, when you think of the most effective way to defend yourself and your property—all things being equal–the most crucial tool is your gun.The value of knowing how to use your weapon cannot be ignored Studies have proven that having a firearm and knowing how to use it is invaluable.
Which Gun?
Ask any ten experienced concealed carriers and you will likely get ten different answers. Choice of best handgun is very personal. No one weapon suits everyone. According to an Urban Survivalist survey, these are the top five guns perceived to be the best self-defense and property protection handguns.
1. Mossberg 500/590
This one is a perennial favorite among concealed carriers. It’s a twelve-gauge pump action shotgun. It is a lot of gun. However, it I reliable. Loaded with either slugs or buckshot, this weapon can blow a hole in any assailant or intruder. Even the sound of the pump action will freeze a perpetrator in his tracks. While shotguns may seem pretty substantial both the weapon and its ammunition are comparably inexpensive. Thus, you can get in lots of range practice without breaking the bank.
Even if you’re not a big person, this weapon doesn’t have much recoil. It you are looking at alternatives in pump action shotguns look at both the Mossberg 500/590 and the Remington 870. Both are relatively inexpensive. They are rugged, low maintenance, reliable, and easy to shoot.
Here’s another plus: These weapons have lots of accessories. You can have fun customizing your weapon. It should be noted that the Mossberg has easier-to-manage control. The safety on the 870 is on the rear of the trigger guard. The Mossberg is also ambidextrous. The slide release is another issue. On the Mossberg, it is located behind the trigger guard. This makes it much easier to reach than the 870’s slide release which is in front of the guard.
2. Glock 17/19
This quality mid to full-size 9mm is made for self and home-defense. Both the Glock 17 and 19 have lots of rounds. These weapons have moderately low recoil. The guns are relatively inexpensive and their ammunition is cheap—making it feasible for ample target practice.
If you want to compare, try out these other affordable 9 mm handguns: the Beretta, HK, Kahr, Ruger, Smith & Wesson, Springfield, Taurus, and Walther. They are all user friendly and dependable.
Glocks aren’t pretty. They are also not the most comfortable to hold. However, they are simple to use. They are easy to take apart and clean. You can learn to field strip one in under two minutes—with some practice. Glocks also hardly ever misfire. You can buy spare magazines and accessories easily and pretty cheaply. Glocks also make great backup weapons.
3. AR-15
A disturbing trend in home invasions is a shift from single and double to multiple intruders. In a case like that, a handgun or even a shotgun is no match. You can’t do better than a semi-automatic rifle like the AR15. Why not a shotgun like the Mossberg? Shotguns are too low capacity. With a handgun, you can be outgunned by armed intruders. The AR-15 is a semi-automatic carbine. It gives you greater range, bigger capacity, longer range, and more velocity. While you are looking at semi-auto carbines, check out AK-47s, Ruger Mini-14s and IWI Tavor. AR-15 is affordable and has more accessories.
4. Ruger GP100/Smith & Wesson 686
Revolvers aren’t as effective as other firearms. They don’t have the capacity of a semi-auto. Reloading them takes longer.
However, revolvers like the Ruger and the Smith & Wesson have advantages too. you need to take into account. The .357 double action revolver with its four-inch barrel is a good home defense choice. Revolvers are simpler, and more reliable than semi-auto pistols. If you are inexperienced the revolver is less complicated than the semi-automatic. It’s a good novice choice.
The revolver is a better choice when it comes to handguns. It is powerful. Full size revolver like the Ruger GP100 or the Smith & Wesson 686 absorb the recoil better. They also hold six rather than five rounds. The .357 Magnum revolver chambers .38 Specials. These are cheaper, making range practice more affordable.
5. Taurus Judge/Smith & Wesson Governor
Taurus was the first company to create a “shotgun pistol”. This home defense weapon is economical. It chambers .410 Bore and .45 Long Colt. Smith & Wesson released its answer to the Taurus Judge calling it the Governor model. Granted .410 buckshot doesn’t have the power of 12 or even 20 gauge. However intruders will know they’ve been hit. If you want more power try .45 LC hollow points. They are more expensive but have greater knockdown power than the .410s. The Governor holds one more round than the Judge. The Governor can also chamber .45 ACP. This makes it more versatile. However, the Judge has a more ergonomic grip. It is also cheaper
No matter which gun you choose be sure it’s not “too much gun” for your frame, your age, your strength, and your purpose.
Option B: Knife
Having a reliable, fold-open, pocket knife may be considered a backup weapon. But, it is so much more. Sure, it’s comforting to have if your weapon malfunctions, gets lost, or is taken from you; but a good pocket knife is also a great tool on its own merit. Your knife lets you cut open boxes and packages. Knives make life easier. They speed up job completion. This gives you time for other pursuits.
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a useful, high-end knife.
Kershaw knives take a licking but keep right on working. You can also get a good, inexpensive Smith & Wesson knife as a backup weapon and a useful tool.
Other alternatives highly rated by concealed carry people include:
The Buck 110: It’s a good practical knife. It’s not new but it is dependable.
The Case 02758 Pocket Worn Lockback: This is a good working person’s practical durable folding knife.
Spyderco Civilian or the Paramilitary 2: Both these knives by Spyderco provide good service at a reasonable cost.
SOG Flash II: This is a full-size pocket knife with a great steel blade. With assisted opening, this knife offers good reliable functioning at an attractive price.
If you get into tight quarters where drawing your handgun isn’t feasible, then your knife gives you the power to inflict some damage on your assailant. It might even give you a chance to escape or time to get to your concealed carry.
Cell Phone
There are so many people walking around glued to their cell phones that it is hard to imagine anyone without one. But there are actually people who concealed carry and don’t have a cell phone. Why should a cell phone be as vital as a weapon? The two aren’t mutually exclusive. Having a cell phone ready gives you the option of calling police faster. Cell phones can also be used to take photos. These could really help in a criminal or civil case going forward.
Spare Magazines
Typically, experienced concealed carriers carry a spare magazine on their gun belt or in their pocket. You may never need it but it is always wise to have a spare magazine. It’s critical to have in place a Plan B. If you don’t carry a spare magazine, what happens if your magazine fails. Like the Boy Scouts, always be prepared. It’s the sign of someone who is ready to protect himself and others if a threat arises.
A Flashlight
Why carry a flashlight? Won’t the light on my cell phone suffice? I have a light on my weapon. What if your cell phone battery runs down? A handheld flashlight lets you identify people and objects quickly. It is also a safer option than the light on your weapon light. You don’t want that weapon light to scream to an assailant, “Here I am. Come and get me!”
Besides, like the spare magazine, having a secondary light source is a great Plan B. Don’t forget to check the batteries on your handheld flashlight. Having a separate light to use is far less threatening than using the one attached to your weapon. A weapons light could get you killed by an assailant or by law enforcement or even another concealed carrier ramped up by adrenaline in a tense situation. Use your flashlight to check out the situation and/or to signal your location to rescuers.
Your Concealed Carry Permit
New weapons owners are often confused about whether to purchase a permit for their new handgun. Sixteen states are now “permitless” or constitutional carry states. This means you don’t have to purchase a concealed carry permit to carry legally in those states.
In spite of an increase in constitutional carry states, concealed carry permits are on the rise. According to a report released recently by the Crime Prevention Research Center, nearly nineteen million Americans have permits to carry a concealed handgun as noted by Fox News. This is almost a million and a half more people who purchased permits in the past year.
The latest figures state that nearly thirteen million Americans have been issued permits to carry concealed handguns. That is triple the number from nine years ago. Statisticians say that number is low. Not every state reports their concealed carry permit figures.
Even in permitless states, many gun owners have taken out a concealed carry permit. One of the biggest reasons for opting to get a permit is because they can carry in other states that have reciprocity agreements with their state.
New online concealed carry permits like those offered by National Carry Academy have made it quicker, less expensive, and easier for weapons owners to obtain a concealed carry weapons permit no matter where they live in USA. All they need is a tablet, smartphone, laptop, or computer and access to Wi-Fi.
Conclusion
As Robert Farago, director of the Texas Firearms Festival notes, “I’m not saying that being armed is gonna save your life, but at least you have an effective tool to mount some kind of defense.”
What you carry besides your weapon will largely depend on what you read, how you think, and what you deem to be important.
However, concealed carry isn’t just about your weapon. How you choose to carry it and where you position it are important decisions. These are unique to each carrier. When considering what you will carry every day, consistency is critical. Carry the same things in the same spots every day. That new concealed carry weapon won’t do you much good if it’s in a locked gun safe at home.