Belly band holsters are dynamite for deep concealment and keep a handgun close to the body. When used in the appendix or 4-5 o’clock position, they’re less likely to print than hip carry and can be more comfortable for those with larger belly sizes.
They also fit a wide range of gun and leg sizes and have non-snag seams.
Holsters
A concealment gear like holsters can offer one of the most critical elements to staying under the radar. There are many different types to choose from, so it’s important to understand the features and drawbacks of each to make an informed decision.
For instance, a form-fitting holster that hugs the body where it will be worn can help conceal a gun. However, this may also hinder the ability to access the weapon easily if you need to respond to a threat quickly.
Shoulder holsters are popular as they can be tucked into a shirt or jacket without anyone knowing what you’re carrying. They can provide quick access, but they don’t sometimes beat metal detectors, so you might not want to use one at a concert or when you’re going through security at an airport. Bags, packs, and purses designed to hold a firearm can also be an effective option for concealed carry.
Clothing
There are many ways to fly under the radar, which is entirely up to the individual.
Another way is to use clothing that conceals a firearm, like a long- or short-sleeve shirt that’s unbuttoned or worn open. This provides cover, allows you to use an IWB or OWB holster, and looks presentable. Often, shirts designed with concealed carry in mind feature extra pockets and camouflage colors and patterns.
While concealment doesn’t stop bullets, it can help you gain an advantage over an attacker if you need to fight back. Just as boxers win fights with footwork, hiding behind cover can make it easier to exploit an attacker’s vulnerabilities and escape from them.
Shoes
In addition to clothing, shoes can help a person stay under the radar. It’s not unusual to find old shoes stuffed into walls in homes across the country and world, with some dating back centuries. While the exact reason for hiding shoes is unclear, it’s believed to be superstitious. People hid the shoes of loved ones in the belief that they retained their spirit and were a good luck charm. They also were thought to ward off evil influences and witches, which were seen as the most dangerous because they walked among people in human form.
Bags
Bags are common in most people’s carry collections, but not all bags are created equal. Some have extra security features to help a person stay under the radar.
For instance, some bags have zippers that can be locked or have holes in them so a lock can be added, and some also have slash-proof materials, which add an extra layer of protection to the bag by making it harder for someone to cut through it with scissors or a knife.
Another useful feature is a discreet pocket that can hide an emergency kit like an IFAK or tourniquet, which is important in case of an active shooter incident or other disaster. Some of these bags are designed for concealed carry and have built-in internal organizers, holster clips, and RFID-blocking features. For example, one company’s backpack offers a discreet shoulder pocket that can easily hold a firearm and other essentials.