Clothing plays a vital role when it comes to concealing a firearm. Solid dark colors help to hide any printing, while fabrics with a pattern or print distract the eye from the barrel. Perfect for nippy fall days, this bonded concealed carry vest has dual zipper concealment pockets that attach to velcro strips inside, allowing you to position the handgun holster where you want it based on your gun type and size.
Concealment
One of the most essential features of women concealed carry vest is that it covers your gun in a way that won’t reveal it to casual observation. This is a big reason that vests are preferred by plainclothes officers and by those who like to avoid exposing their firearms in public places.
A vest is also more concealing than a holster worn in the small of your back, which some police departments discourage for safety reasons (it’s possible to injure yourself by pulling a handgun from the holster too quickly while sitting). The best vests for concealed carry come with ambidextrous holster compartments so you can position them where they’re most convenient based on your dominant hand or how you like to cross-draw.
It would help if you also looked for a vest with a zipper closure faster than Velcro pockets large enough to hold a gun and EDC items like flashlights and extra magazines. It would help if you also chose a vest made from durable material that will resist stains and tears and be tough against the elements.
Comfort
The right concealed carry clothing should properly conceal a firearm, allow easy access, blend in with street clothes, and feel comfortable. Vests are ideal because they structure a garment that may otherwise bulge from extra ammunition or firearm accessories.
These garments typically feature a pocket holster that sits where the hand naturally falls, allowing quick and uninhibited firearm deployment. They also include ambidextrous CCW pockets for convenient, fast-access storage of self-defense weapons and EDC items such as a knife, multitool, or flashlight.
Some models even have an outer lining that prevents printing. This can be especially useful for those who don’t want to avoid drawing a gun in front of customers or coworkers. The added stiffness of canvas or flannel lining also provides additional stability for your firearm and prevents it from falling off your body during movement.
Convenience
A concealed carry vest provides convenient storage for firearm accessories, which can help you stay better prepared in an emergency. For example, some vests have additional pockets ideal for storing firearm cleaning supplies. Some even have holsters for concealed pistols, making it easier to access your weapon quickly.
These vests also look like regular clothing, making them an excellent choice for work or other events where you want to avoid drawing attention to yourself. They’re also a good choice for activities that require layers, such as hiking or camping.
Some vests have dual concealed carry pockets for quick sidearm access and can hold small, medium, or large guns. Others have plenty of storage space for everyday carry items like knives, multitools, and flashlights.
Style
Choosing a concealed carry vest with enough pockets and compartments can help you keep track of all your gear while on the go. Look for additional pockets to hold maps, water bottles, and other equipment and a rear cargo pocket for more oversized items. The number of holsters is another factor to consider when shopping for a concealed carry vest. A good choice is a vest that offers multiple ambidextrous holster positions so you can choose where to carry your weapon based on your dominant hand or if you prefer cross-draw.
Finally, look for a vest made from durable material that can withstand daily wear and tear while providing excellent protection for your gun. This can include canvas, denim, or ripstop nylon with solid stitching and rugged hardware.
Safety
For a long time, the standard for police officers and soldiers has been to carry their pistols behind their backs in a paddle holster worn at the belt line. This can be effective and relatively unobtrusive, but it does come with some safety concerns: Depending on your physical build and how you sit, firing a gun from the small of your back may cause back injuries if you are hit in this area.
To avoid these hazards, look for a concealed carry vest with dedicated holster pockets and pouches for your handgun and magazines. These pockets are often Velcro-sealed to keep your gun secure and prevent it from being accidentally revealed when you open your jacket. Also, look for a vest with pockets of varying sizes to accommodate different kinds of gear and ammo.