Carrying a concealed firearm is about more than gear—it’s a mindset. It’s a commitment to protect yourself and those you love, balanced with the responsibility of doing it safely, legally, and effectively. At Black Swamp Leather Company LLC, we’ve seen too many good folks fall into common concealed carry mistakes that can compromise safety, blow their cover, or slow their draw when it matters most.
Whether you're new to carrying or a seasoned defender, these are five pitfalls every carrier should avoid—and how to fix them with practical, no-nonsense solutions.
1. Poor Holster Choice
The Mistake:
Choosing a cheap, universal-fit, or floppy holster. These often fail to protect the trigger guard, don’t offer solid retention, and can shift or collapse during wear—making reholstering dangerous.
Why It Matters:
A poorly designed holster increases the risk of accidental discharge and slows down your draw. It can also shift unexpectedly, exposing your firearm or making it difficult to access when seconds count.
How to Avoid It:
Invest in a high-quality, handmade holster that’s molded specifically for your firearm. Look for:
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Full trigger guard protection
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Proper retention without needing adjustment
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Reinforced structure for consistent reholstering
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Comfortable fit for all-day wear
Every holster we craft at Black Swamp Leather Company LLC is designed with these features in mind—because your gear should never be a liability.
2. Printing or Exposing the Firearm
The Mistake:
Wearing clothing that’s too tight, adjusting your holster in public, or frequently touching your firearm (“checking” it) while carrying.
Why It Matters:
Printing (where the outline of your firearm is visible through clothing) or exposing your weapon can draw unwanted attention, make others uneasy, or even violate local laws in certain jurisdictions.
How to Avoid It:
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Choose clothing that’s slightly looser or patterned to break up outlines
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Position your holster in a spot that conforms naturally to your body shape
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Get comfortable with your setup at home to avoid unnecessary fidgeting
Remember: concealed means concealed. Confidence comes from preparation and gear you trust to stay in place.
3. Inconsistent Carry Habits
The Mistake:
Only carrying “when it feels necessary” or changing holsters, positions, or guns too often.
Why It Matters:
Carrying inconsistently builds poor muscle memory. In a crisis, hesitation or confusion can cost you. Your draw should be second nature—not something you have to think through under pressure.
How to Avoid It:
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Commit to carrying daily
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Choose one primary carry setup and stick with it
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Practice dry draws regularly from the holster you wear most
Consistency builds confidence—and confidence is key in a defensive encounter.
4. Neglecting Mindset and Situational Awareness
The Mistake:
Thinking the gun is the solution to every threat. Becoming complacent or letting your guard down once you’re armed.
Why It Matters:
Your firearm is a last resort. Awareness, de-escalation, and avoidance are your first lines of defense. A gun doesn’t make you untouchable—it makes you responsible.
How to Avoid It:
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Stay alert in public: scan your surroundings, entrances, exits, and body language of others
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Keep a calm and confident presence—don’t be reactive
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Take training seriously: mindset, legal education, and scenario planning matter as much as marksmanship
Carry like a protector, not a cowboy.
5. Not Training With Your Carry Setup
The Mistake:
Going to the range with a full-size gun but carrying a compact. Practicing from a bench but never from concealment. Or worse—never training at all.
Why It Matters:
Real-world situations don’t happen under perfect conditions. You need to train how you carry, under stress, and with real concealment gear.
How to Avoid It:
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Practice drawing from your actual EDC holster and clothing
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Run dry fire drills at home (with a cleared firearm) to build speed and control
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Take a defensive shooting course that focuses on concealed carry tactics
Owning a firearm is just the beginning. Training with your tools is where real preparedness starts.
Final Thoughts: Carry with Confidence, Not Complacency
Concealed carry is a lifestyle—not just a box to check. The goal isn’t to just have a gun on you, but to be fully prepared to use it safely, legally, and effectively if that moment ever comes. At Black Swamp Leather Company LLC, we stand behind those who carry with purpose and integrity—and we build gear you can count on when the stakes are high.
Ready to Upgrade Your Carry?
Explore our line of handmade leather holsters built for concealed carriers who demand comfort, reliability, and craftsmanship—all made right here in Northwest Ohio.
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