When you decide to carry concealed, it can be easy to focus primarily on the necessary gear. Yes, you have the right gun, a comfortable holster, and a sturdy gun belt. However, do you have the right kind of attitude to carry your firearm successfully? Let us explore five different traits and characteristics every gun owner needs to carry concealed safely and confidently.
5 Concealed Carry Traits Every Gun Owner Should Have
1 – Understanding the Responsibility of CCW
Carrying a firearm is a decision that should not be taken lightly. It can be easy to get caught up in the feeling of empowerment concealed carrying gives you. However, at the end of the day, it is important to recognize that carrying a firearm is a serious responsibility.
It is not a game, a toy, or a fashion accessory attached to your side. Instead, it needs to be seen as a tool designed and intended to be used in life-or-death situations.
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A person who carries concealed is someone who understands and obeys the law, has complete control of their firearm, and is mentally prepared to handle the psychological and legal consequences of using their weapon.
By understanding the obligations that are required to carry, you can demonstrate that you respect your firearm and value the safety of yourself and your community.
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2 – Emotionally Controlled
From choosing how you want to carry to knowing the right moment to draw your weapon, every decision you make can have lasting effects on yourself and those around you. This means that carrying concealed requires someone who does not let their anger or pride cloud their judgment.
Staying calm and collected, especially in stressful, life-or-death situations, prevents impulsive actions that lead to fatal mistakes and legal consequences.
3 – Low Profile Concealed Carry
When you decide to carry concealed, it is important that you keep it a secret. This means only you know that you are armed.
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If the whole world around you is aware that you are carrying, you lose the element of surprise. This type of unwanted attention can cause panic, hostile confrontations, and even legal trouble. Not to mention, potential threats will target you first.
The best way to keep a low profile is to wear the appropriate clothing. You do not want the shape of your firearm to become visible through the fabric of your clothing. This is called printing, and it is frowned upon in the firearm community.
Instead of wearing apparel that is tight, opt for clothing that is loose and made with thicker fabrics. The right clothing can not only help you blend in with your surroundings, but it can also help keep your firearm discreet.
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4 – Practicing Situation Awareness
Situational awareness is the ability to gather information, analyze it, and then anticipate what might happen next. It is a trait anyone who carries concealed must practice, as it helps you identify threats and avoid dangerous situations.
You do not want to be buried in your phone or walking around in public with your head down. You want to be the type of person who scans the world around you, absorbs vital information, and can create a plan on what to do next if things go wrong.
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This level of awareness is not paranoia but a survival skill everyone should adopt if they care about their safety.
5 – Staying Prepared
An essential step in carrying safely and confidently is to understand the importance of staying prepared. For many, being prepared means investing in the right materials, such as an excellent quality firearm, a comfortable holster, and a sturdy gun belt. However, CCW preparedness can also look like someone who continues their training on the range and at home.
Many people assume that your training stops the moment you obtain a carry permit. In reality, your shooting drills get more serious, your sessions are more in-depth, and your practice time is more demanding.
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Life moves fast, and its trials and tribulations can come at you even faster. You need to be ready for whatever life throws your way.
Final Thoughts
Overall, it takes a certain type of person to carry concealed. This person understands their responsibilities, does not let their emotions cloud their judgement, keeps a low profile, practices situational awareness, and stays prepared for the good and the bad.
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Next time you conceal your firearm, take a moment to ask yourself, “How can I carry safely and successfully today?”
