What NOT TO DO When Carrying a Handgun (7 Critical Mistakes)

Published on April 16, 2026
Duration: 11:59

This guide details the critical steps for safely reholstering a handgun, emphasizing discipline and deliberate action over speed. It highlights common mistakes like rushing the process, which can lead to accidental discharges due to clothing or other obstructions entering the trigger guard. The technique focuses on clearing the garment, visually confirming the holster opening, and slowly guiding the firearm back into place.

Quick Summary

Seven critical mistakes can compromise handgun carry safety, often occurring during routine actions like drawing and reholstering. These include premature trigger finger engagement, rushing reholstering, using inadequate holsters, neglecting firearm retention, carrying with an empty chamber unnecessarily, failing to test ammunition, and ignoring legal restrictions. Prioritizing discipline and safety over speed is paramount.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: The Danger of Routine
  2. 00:36Mistake 1: Finger Inside Trigger Guard During Draw
  3. 02:03Mistake 2: Reholstering Too Fast
  4. 03:31Mistake 3: Carrying Without a Rigid Holster
  5. 05:09Mistake 4: Neglecting Retention & Printing
  6. 06:45Mistake 5: Carrying Without Chambering a Round
  7. 08:29Mistake 6: Unreliable Carry Ammo / No Testing
  8. 10:13Mistake 7: Ignoring Legal No-Carry Zones & Use of Force Laws

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common mistake made during handgun reholstering?

The most common mistake during handgun reholstering is doing it too fast. This haste can lead to clothing or other materials entering the trigger guard, causing an accidental discharge. Safe reholstering requires slowing down, clearing the holster opening, and visually confirming it's unobstructed before reinserting the firearm.

Why is trigger finger discipline crucial during a handgun draw?

Trigger finger discipline is crucial during a handgun draw because adrenaline can cause involuntary movements. If the finger drifts inside the trigger guard prematurely, it can lead to an accidental discharge before the sights are on target or a decision to fire is made. The finger should remain indexed along the frame until ready to shoot.

What type of holster is recommended for safe concealed carry?

A rigid holster, such as one made from Kydex or well-constructed leather, is recommended for safe concealed carry. Rigid holsters maintain their shape, ensuring the trigger guard remains fully covered and the holster mouth stays open, which is essential for safe reholstering and preventing accidental trigger engagement.

Why is it important to function test your carry ammunition?

Function testing your carry ammunition is vital because different firearms and magazines can react differently to various ammunition types. Even premium defensive loads need to be proven reliable in your specific gun and magazines to prevent critical malfunctions during a defensive encounter when time is of the essence.

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