Off-Body Carry Rules
Outside of safety, I avoid attaching hard and fast rules to concealed carry.
I’ve found a lot of it to be individualized. As long as the basic safety standard is met.
But off-body carry?
There are rules you need to follow every single time. Consider these additional safety rules. And make them non-negotiable if you’re going to carry off body.
Always use a Kydex Holster.
Concealed carry bags come with soft holsters. They do this because soft holsters can accommodate a wide variety of pistols. Throw them out and use a Kydex Holster instead.
I like the velcro-backed holster from Crossbreed because most quality CC bags will have a section for your pistol that’s velcro lined. This keeps your holster securely attached to the bag so you can get a clean draw.
Your bag needs to stay attached to your body at all times.
No, seriously.
You can’t set it down at a friend’s house (especially if they have kids) or hang it on the back of your chair at the restaurant. You’re responsible for that gun, and you need to have control over it at all times.
I have very few exceptions here. One is at the doctor’s office because I can’t carry on-body and am basically required to take off my bag.
Otherwise? Nope. It has to stay on, and honestly, this is one reason I rarely carry off-body.
Backpacks, slings, and crossbody bags are your best bet.
If I had to pick the best of the worst? A fanny pack worn crossbody. My signature look.
This puts the pistol in the best position for drawing as far as off-body goes.
Something around your body is less likely to be snatched off too. Notice, I said less likely, not impossible.
Choose a bag with a separate section for your gun.
And don’t put anything else in there.
Your purse junk doesn’t need to mingle around with your gun. It will be a problem when you go to draw and is a huge safety hazard.
Practice your draw.
A lot. In all the different bags you plan to carry. And in different situations.
The problem with off-body is that your bag shifts around, so you’re not going to the same exact spot to draw every single time. This is an issue and requires a ton of practice.
As you can tell, off-body carry has more rules than on-body and almost feels a bit like a pain. Personally, I only do it about 5x/year.
I also believe it’s an advanced skill reserved for those who have a lot of experience carrying on-body.
I can think of several instances where it’s the only option, though, so if you’re going to do it, be safe!
