5 Reasons Why NOW is an Excellent Time to Test your CCW Gear

Unless you work in an essential job (a shout-out and HUGE thank you to those who are), you’re likely working from home during the global pandemic. Though it’s wise to constantly consider your personal safety and how you can protect those you love, here are 5 reasons why right now is an excellent time to test your CCW gear when sheltering in place at home.

1. You can evaluate your wardrobe. In a recent post titled 16 Ideas to Help You Make the Most Out of Staying Home, I offered up ways you can stay productive that included going through your closet and drawers. With extra time on your hands, you can experiment with new outfit combinations, make notes of what works and what doesn’t, and create a list of what items you need to help you carry more effectively.
2. You can perform quick check-ins. Whether you’re wearing one of your tried and true CCW outfits or trying out a pair of jeans with a different cut or rise, being at home gives you the luxury of putting outfits to the test. You’ll also be able to check in at a mirror throughout the day to see if your clothing and gear are performing well and not printing.
3. You can try something new. Perhaps you have a new holster or belt you’ve been wanting to test. Now is an ideal time to evaluate whether it will work for you. Along the same lines, you can experiment with different modes of CCW or where you carry on your body. If you only carry a handgun but want to add a spare magazine, now is a perfect time to try it out!
4. You can ease into it. Whether you’re trying a new holster position or if you are new to carrying concealed altogether, being at home gives you time to adjust gradually. Carry for an hour or two and take note of what is working and what isn’t. Add an hour each day to “build up” to a full day of carrying your firearm.
5. You can practice. Instead of a traditional coffee or water cooler break at the office, while you’re at home you can practice accessing your firearm easily and safely throughout the day. Set up reminders for quick dry fire sessions without any ammunition around you. It’s not the same as going to the range but it will help you keep up your gun handling and shooting skills.

My current tried and true CCW setup is a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield in 9mm with Trijicon night sights, Federal Premium 147gr. HSTs. That doesn’t mean I’m not constantly on the lookout for options that work to make concealed carry easier or more comfortable. Whether you’re a new gun owner planning to carry concealed or a season protector, now is an ideal time to take advantage of being safer at home by evaluating and experimenting with your everyday concealed carry setup.