Hot Weather CCW Tips (for Texans and others)

In warmer climates, those people who carry concealed are restricted to only a few methods of concealing their weapon. (If you're in Texas, for example, make sure you have your CHL before doing this. You will need to make sure you have taken a concealed carry class in Texas, so check it out.)

With higher temperatures come less clothing, which essentially means far fewer places to hide a gun. If you attempt to get away with a heavier set of clothing, you will not only be incredibly warm, sweaty and uncomfortable, but you'll raise suspicion - possibly identifying yourself as carrying concealed, which could be game over for you.

With fewer options, what is a person to do? You don't very well want to stop carrying just given that it's scorching. You will have to adjust.

There are a couple of methods of deep concealment for hot weather, but we'll save those for later. For now, the most standard thing you should do is to wear a long, baggy fitting shirt. This can be either a t-shirt or a button down shirt.

This is among the very best approaches if you carry outside-the-waistband (OWB), because you can still get away with it, provided that the top will not print and isn't too short. Just keep your shirt untucked, of course! As such, this won't work if you find yourself in a more professional setting.

If you need to tuck your shirt in, still ensure it is big and loose enough not to print, even if you tuck it in and are carrying inside-the-waistband (IWB). Normally, this is a great method to conceal your firearm, as the shirt will be a little loose around the belt-line, disguising any tiny piece of your gun that sticks above the band.

If you're sporting shorts, just ensure your belt and holster are really strong, because you will need to have a good anchor from which to extract your firearm if necessary. Shorts may be a little more floppy than jeans or business slacks, so take this into account.

There are other ways to carry concealed if it's hot.

For men, there are different methods like the holster shirt, a fitted undershirt with elastic openings below the arms to keep your gun close to you and accessible.

You can also try Smart Carry, which seems like an inside-the-waistband fanny pack. A little bit unnerving, to be sure. Many men won't be comfortable with a loaded gun pointing at their crotch.

Speaking of fanny pack, it may be a terrific way to carry concealed when it is warm. The same goes for a woman's handbag, although that is a lot more off-the-body, and is not as recommended.

For females, there are different methods of carrying inside the bra. Not only should this (usually) be ultra-concealed, but it is a great element of surprise when you need to draw your weapon.

Women can additionally use the thigh-holster when it is scorching, since it is quite easily obtainable and disguised when worn under a dress or skirt.

So, although you might not have as many choices to conceal your firearm in a warmer climate, it can still be done by following these basic tips. Just choose something which is totally concealed, easily obtainable, and comfortable. If you can easily encompass those several things, you'll have wonderful success carrying concealed, even when it get's warm.