Taniece Reed is a professional firearms instructor and licensed safety coach, with 15 plus certifications throughout those fields. Her credentials include items from NRA, USCCA and American Red Cross just to name a few. She teaches courses like stop the bleed, mass shooter training, kids courses, situational awareness, and other things of that sort.
Her main goal is to empower women in concealed carry, for it is a critical aspect of personal safety and protection. Regardless of your level of experience, carrying a firearm responsibly and effectively can be achieved through a combination of education, practice, and mindful choices. In this ultimate guide explained by Taniece, we’ll explore the most important factors for women considering concealed carry and we’ll provide valuable insights from her, as an experienced firearm instructor and safety coach.
In the realm of concealed carry, knowledge is power, and every woman should equip herself with the essential wisdom to navigate this domain effectively. There are eight key components that can empower you in your concealed carry journey. Remember, a firearm is the last resort, and the ultimate victory lies in avoiding conflicts altogether. Taking the time to plan for yourself and your home is paramount, and this is a process that demands patience and dedication, as there’s no room for half-measures.
1: Confidence is Key
Building confidence is the foundation of concealed carry for any woman.
Practice regularly, using dry fire exercises. This will help you build a solid comfort level while adding to your skill set.
Choose holsters and clothing that fit your body type.
Understand the responsibility that comes with carrying a firearm. This is a perishable skill and it has to be practiced consistently.
2: Holster Selection
The choice of holster is crucial and should align with your lifestyle.
Consider materials like kydex or leather. Base your choice on comfort and retention level.
Research different holsters and clips to find what suits you and your attire best.
Ensure your holster provides trigger guard protection for safety.
Consider that leather holsters can be more comfortable, particularly during your menstruation period.
Test all the options thoroughly, narrowing down your selection to just two that you can master for both efficiency and proficiency, designating one as your primary everyday choice and the other as a backup for any situation.
3: Clothing Choices
Darker colors, patterns, certain textures, and styles help with concealment and decreased printing.
Ensure your garments allow you to move freely in all directions.
Test your clothing by performing various movements before leaving the house. You want your clothes to be functional.
Avoid printing, by using loose garments. When in doubt, go up 1 pants size or wear high waisted pants when applicable.
When wearing layers, especially during cold weather, make sure the undershirt is tucked properly into your pants so it doesn’t interfere with your holster. Remember you never want to peel through multiple layers if you don’t have too.
4: Body Type and Lifestyle
Choose a concealed carry position between 12 and 3 o’clock for optimal comfort and access.
Understand how changes to your body, such as bloating or weight gain/loss, can affect your carry position.
Adjust holster placement and clothing accordingly to accommodate those body change needs.
Prioritize functionality, especially during physical activities.
5: Practice Drawing
Regularly dry fire practice drawing your firearm in various areas and positions (I.E- car, while walking)
Dry fire tools can help improve your drawing technique. Some great tools to use are the Mantis X10, dummy rounds and a dry fire magazine (self resetting).
Gradually progress through the three tiers of concealed carry. Starting with an unloaded firearm,then a loaded firearm with no bullet in the chamber, then carry with one in the chamber. Stay at one level until the maximum comfort level has been reached.
Understand the importance of readiness and responsibility when carrying a chambered round.
6: Training and Education
Seek reputable instructors with proper credentials.
Start with firearm nomenclature and safety basics, even as a beginner.
Understand the differences in handling smaller firearms versus mid or full-size models.
Develop a clear personal safety plan and involve your family in it.
7: Empowerment and Responsibility
Concealed carry is a life-changing and mental transformation process.
Make informed decisions about holsters, firearms, and usage before each purchase.
Make sure you know how your holster works. You should have 2 options of holsters: your to-go option and your back up one.
Remember that carrying a firearm is a great last resort but avoidance is the best strategy. The only fight in life that you are guaranteed to win is the one you avoid!!
Final Tips and Considerations
Always use a holster; bags and pockets are not safe options if your firearm is not holstered inside of them.
Invest in quality holsters and firearms, as safety should never be compromised.
Understand the full concept of your holster: What it can and can not do.
Practice your “clear-grip-drive” until it is smooth. Accuracy before speed.
Learn the laws in your area to help aid in what you can and can not do while carrying your firearm. It is your job to stay up to date on laws.
Before carrying a firearm outside your home, it’s crucial to assess the impact of any prescribed medications, including pain medications, on your physical and mental condition to ensure your safety.
The most important tip is for you to build your own confidence through a lot of practice. Add your own style without comprising the rules!
Conclusion:
Empowering women in concealed carry is about embracing responsibility, practicing regularly, and making informed choices regarding holsters, clothing, and firearms. Confidence is built through knowledge and repetition, ensuring that women can effectively protect themselves while going about their daily lives. By following the advice and insights provided in this ultimate guide, women can feel empowered and secure in their concealed carry journey.
