Many people think carrying a gun in a holster on your body is safer than concealing it in a purse. Before using any kind of holster, it's critical to be aware of the risks. Visit our blog for more information: Is concealed carry in a purse safe?

Risks associated with carrying a gun in your purse include:

• Someone could take your bag or gun if you set it down or become distracted

• Drawing from a purse takes longer than drawing from a holster on your person.

• If an attacker reaches for your purse, You will have to fight not only to defend yourself but also to maintain control of your bag.

Benefits associated with concealed carry in a purse

• Although it's a good idea to dress for concealed carry, if you find yourself unable to do so, carrying a concealed weapon in your purse is preferable to leaving it at home.

• An excellent secondary or backup holster is a purse with a concealed carry pocket. If you ever need to remove the gun from your body, the special purse pocket with a built-in holster will store the gun in a way you can still draw it for self-protection.

• It's useful to have a concealed carry purse on hand to use as a backup or second holster whenever you carry on your body in a holster. You never know when you might need to temporarily remove the gun from your body, perhaps in a dressing room or public restroom.

• When wearing the occasional outfit that doesn’t allow you to carry on your body.

• When you want to carry a larger gun than you’re able to conceal on your body.

• When carrying more than one firearm.

• When pregnancy, injury , or a medical device keeps you from carrying on your body.

One strategy is to use the biggest gun you can for purse carry because you don't need to conceal it on your body. I advise using the firearm with which you have the most experience and confidence.

• Keep the purse with you at all times

• Make sure your purse has the following features:

  • Separate pocket - The gun should be kept away from other items in the bag. This means storing it in a separate pocket all by itself.

  • Holster secured to the purse - The gun should be in a holster that covers the trigger and anchors it in place, so you know exactly where to reach for it every time.

• Learn How to safely draw your gun from a concealed carry purse.

• Train with your purse – Practice drawing the gun with an unloaded pistol at home, then take it to the range for some live fire practice.

For more, check out our blogs:

The one thing you must never do if you conceal carry in a purse.

4 ways to make purse concealed carry more secure.