With recent gun laws, concealed carry is booming in the firearms/personal protection world. Individuals finding ways to include that aspect within their Western wear — a combination of function and fashion — would probably be very important for somebody who liked Westerns for their ‘rugged chic’. The trend brings together practicality with great functionality into traditional old cowboy aesthetic appeals; here, an individual ensures one’s safety but sustains an aura around the charm of the American West.
A concealable firearm within Western-inspired clothing art is all in how one balances form with functionality. Hiding a weapon works, but not when that technique jeopardizes the naturalness and authenticity of traditional cowboy equipment. This article considers many different techniques and a large selection of clothing designs by which gun owners are enabled to easily hide guns on their persons as well as wear their most desirable Western outfits.
Mastering the Fundamentals of Concealed Carry
Before getting into any specifics about concealed carry Western wear, it’s essential to go over the basic principles of concealment of a firearm. In a nutshell, one wants the weapon to be out of sight yet quickly and easily accessible in an emergency. This means making some very deliberate choices regarding your clothing and accessories to allow for a holster or other carrying method without sacrificing comfort or revealing the presence of a firearm.
When choosing concealed carry options for Western wear, consider the size and weight of your firearm, your body type, and the specific activities you’ll be engaging in while carrying. It’s also important to familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations regarding concealed carry, as requirements can vary significantly between jurisdictions.
Classic Western Shirts for Concealed Carry
The Versatile Button-Up Shirt
The button-up shirt is perhaps one of the most iconic elements of Western wear. These shirts tend to be looser-fitting and more durable, making them a great candidate for concealed carry. Look for shirts made from heavier materials, such as denim or heavy cotton, to better conceal the outline of your firearm. Styles with double chest pockets can be especially useful, offering extra concealment options for smaller firearms or spare magazines.
To maximize concealment, choose shirts that have patterns or prints of some sort to help break up the silhouette of your weapon. Plaids, checks, and western-inspired embroidery can all serve this purpose while maintaining an authentic cowboy look.
The Practical Snap-Front Shirt
Snap-front western shirts offer a unique advantage for concealed carry. The quick-release snaps allow for faster access to your firearm compared to traditional buttons. This feature can be particularly useful in situations where rapid deployment of your weapon is necessary. Additionally, the sturdy construction of snap-front shirts provides excellent support for inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters.
When choosing a snap-front shirt for concealed carry, take note of the placement of the snaps. Shirts whose snaps go further down the torso can do a better job of covering your holster and firearm.
Western Jackets and Vests for Discreet Carry
The Timeless Denim Jacket
Denim jackets have been a staple of Western wear for generations, and they offer excellent opportunities for concealed carry. The sturdy fabric and structured design of denim jackets provide ample concealment for various holster types. Look for jackets with interior pockets that can accommodate a holster or serve as an additional carrying option for smaller firearms.
A good alternative would be a denim jacket with a sherpa lining; the added bulk of this design would not only add warmth but also mask a concealed weapon nicely.
The Functional Leather Vest
Of course, leather vests form the other mainstay of Western-style concealing options. These range from mere carrying in a traditionally styled holster to more dedicated on-the-body concealment pockets and pouches.
When selecting a leather vest for CCW, also consider those with reinforced armholes and a slightly looser fit: this will enable easy access to your gun and provide better covering for inside-the-waistband holsters.
Pants and Belts for Secure Concealment
High-Waisted Western Jeans
High-waisted jeans, more classically considered western in style, might be an excellent choice for those who concealed carry. The higher waistline gives better coverage of IWB holsters and helps to distribute the weight of the firearm better. Look for jeans that have a relaxed fit through the seat and thighs so your holster can be accommodated without obvious bulges.
Some manufacturers now offer jeans designed especially for concealed carry, featuring reinforced waistbands and strategically placed pockets to facilitate carrying.
One may argue that a quality gun belt is the most crucial element of any concealed carry arrangement; Western-style belts are no exceptions in this regard. Look for heavy leather construction that will keep up with the weight of the gun without sagging or twisting. Many Western gun belts offer some form of decorative tooling or conchos to allow you to look great while still providing the correct support for your weapon.
Consider a steel or Kydex core belt for maximum rigidity and durability. These reinforced belts offer better support for heavier firearms and prevent the belt from collapsing when drawing your weapon.
Accessories for Enhanced Concealment
Western Hats and Concealment
While not traditionally thought of as part of a concealed carry setup, western hats can sometimes play a part in your overall concealment strategy. A wide-brimmed hat can help break up your silhouette and distract from your waistline or other areas where you might be carrying a firearm. Some specialized hat designs also feature hidden compartments that can accommodate small backup weapons or other self-defense tools.
Bolo Ties and Holster Clips
A very nice and discreet option for a western carry could be the addition of the bolo tie holster. Custom-designed to be indistinguishable from an actual western-style bolo tie while housing a diminutive handgun, these sorts of unique holsters don’t let larger weapons in but add extra protection and versatility to a concealed setup.
Selecting an Appropriate Western Wear Holster
IWB Holsters for Maximum Concealment
Inside-the-waistband holsters are often the go-to for concealed carry and work well with many Western wear. When choosing an inside-the-waistband holster to use with Western attire, find models that offer adjustable cant and ride height. You will be able to make fine adjustments in positioning for your firearm to achieve maximum concealment and comfort.
Consider those made of leather or a hybrid leather-kydex construction as those are normally more comfortable for extended wear and can blend quite well with the aesthetic of western clothes.
OWB Holsters for Ease of Access
OWB holsters could still be effective for western wear concealed carry, mainly if worn with longer jackets or vests. Look for low-profile OWB designs that keep the gun close to your body to avoid printing. Flattened, so-called pancake holsters can work quite well while being concealed under Western outerwear.
Training and Practice for Effective Concealed Carry
Regardless of the specific western wear options you choose for concealed carry, it’s essential to invest time in training and practice. Some states, including Maryland, require a certain level of accuracy to obtain a concealed carry permit.
Make sure you take the time to practice drawing your weapon from concealment in whatever Western attire you’ll be wearing. This will make sure that you can identify any possible snags or access problems you might have and adjust your method of carrying appropriately. Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations concerning concealed carry and any training or certification requirements for your area.
Final Thoughts
Adding concealed carry into your Western wear requires a deep thoughtfulness of style and function. Choosing appropriate clothing, accessories, and holsters will allow for effective concealment of the firearm while maintaining the classical look of cowboy attire. Always remember that concealed carry is a huge responsibility, and always prioritize safety, training, and compliance with local laws.
Do not be afraid to experiment with the various options for concealed carry that exist in your Western wear and various combinations of clothing and holster styles that will work best for you and your body type. Done properly, you should be able to carry with confidence, looking great in your Western wear.
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