Today it will not be primarily about holsters as such, but about bags, pouches or backpacks. Yes, bags, pouches or backpacks also fall into the styles of concealed carry. And as I already wrote in the previous articles, concealed carry is an extensive topic, seemingly endless discussions... There are many arguments for all styles of concealed carry. However, carrying a weapon in a bag, pouch or backpack is quite a specific topic. So let's break it down together, so that you can more easily decide Yes, or no?
Today we have the last article from our mini series "How to choose the right holster". In the previous articles we addressed the questions of how to choose the right holster, materials, holsters for inside-the-waistband carry and what to focus on before buying a weapon. Today it will not be primarily about holsters as such, but about bags, pouches or backpacks. Yes, bags, pouches or backpacks also fall into the styles of concealed carry. And as I already wrote in the previous articles, concealed carry is an extensive topic, seemingly endless discussions... There are many arguments for all styles of concealed carry. However, carrying a weapon in a bag, pouch or backpack is quite a specific topic. So let's break it down together, so that you can more easily decide Yes, or no?
BAGS, Pouches, or Backpacks for CONCEALED CARRY OF A WEAPON
There are proponents of the theory (I personally know several of them) that a weapon can be carried in any bag or pouch. Yes. Carrying it is not a problem, but in case of need you probably won't be able to use the weapon at all. That is why bags, pouches, backpacks or holster pouches for concealed carry were created, which are, from this point of view, much more effective, but you probably won't be able to draw from them effectively in a real situation either.
There are, however, specific situations where this is one of the options for having a weapon on you. Compared to ordinary bags or pouches, they have a dedicated special compartment with a platform (usually a combination of rubber and hook-and-loop fastener) for the weapon, where you have it "at hand" – you don't have to search for it. In addition, this compartment is usually designed with one of the quick-opening methods – tear-away zippers, etc.. Today there are several basic concepts - models on the market, which we could divide into categories – tactical, civilian, business and outdoor,...
The Biggest Advantages and Disadvantages of Bags
SO WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF CONCEALMENT BAGS?
- Comfort – if you carry your weapon in a bag or pouch, it won't "press" against you anywhere, or otherwise restrict your movement.
- Space – pouches provide plenty of additional space. In addition to standard items, they also provide space for additional EDC gear. Many bags are designed as business bags. So even in the office you can have everything at hand - a tablet, laptop, or diary along with your gear. Everything at hand and in "plain sight".
- Variability – Variability in bags can be understood from several essential perspectives:
- You can conceal any weapon
- Different material and cut depending on the purpose of the bag. This is also related to the way of carrying. MOLLE or loops for a belt or backpack, a single-strap bag, handbag, backpack, chest bags or lower-back bags. And these are just the most common methods.
- Most bags and pouches are designed to be reversible, suitable for both right-handed and left-handed users.
AND WHAT ABOUT THE DISADVANTAGES?
- Drawing – the biggest disadvantage of bags or various pouches is the draw. The speed of drawing is directly proportional to your training. The most commonly used is the so-called tear-away zipper system.
- Self-defense – if an attacker surprises you and the attack will be directed immediately at you, two things can happen. Either you will have your bag "at hand," or you will most likely end up on the ground during the confrontation and won't be able to reach your weapon at all. That's why I always explain that the basis of successful self-defense lies in anticipation - prevention.
- Theft – yes, pouches and bags have always been a target of thieves. A person usually carries everything in one place, which is great because it's always "at hand." The problem arises if that pouch with everything in it gets stolen from you.
- Visibility - anyone who knows a bit about the shooting environment can usually immediately identify which "bags" represent a threat to them, which they will want to eliminate first...
A solution can be found for every occasion
Berny's advice in conclusion
Not every bag intended "for concealed carry" is also effective. The important elements that ensure effectiveness are durable materials, reinforced load-bearing parts, and special tear-away zippers. Personally, I use a bag for everyday carry and a backpack. I do carry a weapon on my body, but I use a bag or pack as a secondary option for placing a weapon. You never know what situation life will bring you. In addition, a bag or backpack gives me enough space for my EDC accessories. I also sometimes use a pouch while hiking. It's not very comfortable to carry a weapon on a belt that is wrapped around the hip straps of a backpack. So for me, YES, a bag makes sense in this regard. And what about you?
Most shooters I know have at least one bag or pouch at home.
Berny
My goal is to sell knowledge and experience that a person needs not only while roaming in nature but also in everyday life. My task is to spread awareness about responsibility and safety, not just for ourselves, but also for those around us. My idea is that life is too short to do things we don't enjoy, and that's why I help people in today's fast-paced world find not only the charm and beauty of nature and our rich history, but also push their limits. You can learn more about me on my blog.
