What Time Is It? Where Do You Carry?

Ever since I got my CPL (concealed pistol license) I have kept my gun on my hip at the three o’clock position. Why? That is where everyone keeps them right? No, it turns out I was wrong and hey I can admit that, and according to my wife, I am wrong most of the time.

I personally have noticed that the three o’clock seems the most comfortable for me and it allows me access to my strong-side draw, however when I’m in the car it can be a bit uncomfortable and nearly impossible to reach because of the seat belt buckle.

So I went out and spoke with around 30 people who carry, where and why. The responses varied to the point where I felt these conversations and conclusions would be worth while to put out in the public sphere.

While a majority of people like me prefer to carry at the three o’clock position, there was a large preference to the twelve-two o’clock position, as they felt they could draw faster from these location. They also felt that there was a smaller profile present from a concealed weapon in these positions. But on the flip side I did notice that the twelve-two makes it a pain to sit with for me, as I have mentioned in the past, I am not the skinniest of people (verified by my son and several other people). Another issue with this position, oh no here come the dick jokes, an accidental discharge may leave a burning sensation that no amount of penicillin will cure.

If you are looking for comfort, standing or sitting after 3 o’clock the five o’clock was generally agreed felt really good. The issues are that it is completely impossible to reach while sitting, and you will not only need to draw across your body but start from a point farther back from the saturation. This was also the general feeling on the six o’clock position, while great for concealment, not so great on drawing.

PRO-TIP: Right-handed? Carry between five and six o’clock? Use a left-handed holster.

OK, this is not the be all, end all discussion on how you should carry, many people feel their way is the best (even though they are wrong) The important thing is to do it comfortably and safely.