Concealed Carry In A Dress
I wrote one of my most popular blog posts in August of 2018, which was about concealed carry in a dress. A lot has changed since then, so it’s about time for an update! First, I’ve switched from carrying a Ruger LCP to the slightly larger SIG P365. Second, I’ve switched my primary thigh holster from the leg band made by Can Can Concealment to the spandex shorts with a built-in holster made by Dene Adams. I want to point out that both are viable options, I just decided the shorts are more comfortable for me.
In 2018 I was concerned about wearing the Can Can Concealment thigh holster tight enough that it wouldn’t fall down. As a result, it sometimes would pinch my skin and even cut off some circulation. I had to decide whether to wear it on the inside or outside of my leg but either way, the band chaffed my other leg when I walked. Plus, when I wore it on the outside, I occasionally ran the gun into furniture and made the sound of clinking metal. I considered these minor inconveniences and a normal part of concealed carry.
However, since switching to the Dene Adams thigh holster shorts, I really haven’t had these problems. The shorts fit snugly but they’re not too tight and they never pinch. I chose a pair with the holster pocket on the inside of the leg, which works for me even though I don’t have a thigh gap. My favorite feature is that both legs are covered by slippery material that glides and prevents chaffing.
The largest gun I’ve carried on my thigh is the Smith & Wesson, M & P Shield but the holster would allow for an even larger gun. Just as before, I can still cross my legs and, assuming the dress is long enough, the gun remains concealed.
I personally don’t feel comfortable using this method in a mini skirt, but if the skirt hits just above the knees or is longer, it provides adequate concealment. Plus, if the dress rides up, the shorts add a sense of modesty and people are likely to assume the garment is just shapewear.
A while back, someone on the news suggested that women can’t carry a gun because they wear dresses. Ridiculous. Let me address the doubters – at this point concealing in a dress is almost effortless for me and if I can learn how to do it, so can other women. I say this without minimizing the responsibility associated with carrying a gun.
As with any holster, I recommend practicing your draw with the various types dresses and skirts you wear. I have found subtle differences in pulling a gun from a pencil skirt, A-line skirt, maxi skirt, etc. For example, with the dress pictured above, I must lift two layers of material, while also making sure the ruffle doesn’t get in the way. Start by practicing with an unloaded gun or a rubber gun to make sure you can draw safely and get comfortable with the fundamentals of shooting before training with live ammo.
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