CONCEALED Carry VS. OPEN Carry

Published on November 18, 2017
Duration: 5:58

This video from Top Guns compares concealed carry versus open carry, detailing pros and cons for each. Instructor Steve highlights that while open carry offers comfort and easier access, it compromises the element of surprise, potentially making the carrier a first target. Concealed carry, though potentially slower to draw initially, retains the crucial element of surprise and offers better protection against firearm grabs and environmental elements. The instructor also demonstrates a technique for subtly preparing to draw a concealed firearm without escalating a situation.

Quick Summary

Concealed carry offers a significant tactical advantage by retaining the element of surprise, which is crucial in self-defense. While open carry provides comfort and easier access, it exposes the firearm to others and eliminates the element of surprise, potentially making the carrier a target. With practice, concealed carry draw times can rival open carry.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Concealed vs Open Carry
  2. 00:11Defining Concealed Carry
  3. 00:19Defining Open Carry
  4. 00:30Pros of Open Carry
  5. 00:56Cons of Open Carry
  6. 01:14Open Carry: Firearm Accessibility Risk
  7. 01:21Open Carry: Loss of Tactical Surprise
  8. 01:38Open Carry: Inconvenience and Law Enforcement
  9. 02:11Open Carry: Environmental Factors
  10. 02:27Pros of Concealed Carry
  11. 02:36Concealed Carry: Element of Surprise
  12. 03:04Concealed Carry Draw Speed vs Open Carry
  13. 03:13Inside-the-Waistband Holster Benefits
  14. 03:44Concealed Carry: Security and Surprise
  15. 03:56Concealed Carry: Tactical Advantage in Developing Threats
  16. 04:19Subtle Draw Preparation Technique
  17. 05:23Conclusion and Viewer Engagement

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main advantages of carrying a firearm openly?

Open carry proponents cite greater comfort, easier and quicker access to the firearm, and the ability to express their right to carry. Some also believe it can act as a deterrent to potential criminals.

What are the primary disadvantages of open carry?

The main drawbacks of open carry include increased risk of the firearm being accessed by others, loss of the tactical element of surprise, potential inconvenience from law enforcement interactions, and exposure of the firearm to environmental elements.

Why is the element of surprise important in self-defense?

The element of surprise is critical because it allows the concealed carrier to draw their firearm and address a threat before the aggressor is aware, significantly increasing the chances of a successful self-defense outcome. It's often considered more important than draw speed alone.

Can concealed carry be as fast as open carry for drawing a firearm?

Yes, with practice, concealed carry can be nearly as fast as open carry. Some individuals find inside-the-waistband holsters even faster due to less snagging on clothing compared to certain outside-the-waistband setups.

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