Tactical jackets are a must-have in the minds of many people who carry a firearm for personal protection, but there is a school of thought that is skeptical about them, and for good reason. A lot of jackets built to accommodate a pistol are obvious as such, even if they keep the firearm out of view. It’s fair to say that if you’re wearing something that was obviously designed to help you carry, people will know you carry. This skepticism is often used too broadly, though, because today’s versatile selection of possibilities includes true stealth gear, including options for a tactical CCW jacket designed to keep your profile low.
What To Look For in a Tactical Carry Jacket
The first thing you want is gear that looks like an everyday spring or fall jacket you’d find at any store, but with the interior compartments you need to secure a firearm safely without compromising your access to it if it’s needed. There are a lot of options for this, so you should be able to shop around and find something that fits your personal style. It’s a good idea to avoid anything that looks paramilitary or militia-oriented if you’re trying for maximal concealment. Even an aggressive or overly dramatic look could call attention you don’t want or need. Instead, think about what would blend into a crowd and keep you from standing out, because that is the ideal look when you want to keep your head down and your business to yourself.
Shop for Your Carry
While there’s a definite upper end for productive concealed carry weapons, there are still a lot of variations on size, weight, and balance out there. The best match of firearm, holster, and jacket could take a little trial and error, so don’t be afraid to diversify your gear. If you rotate the firearm you carry, it will help you stay comfortable every time you’re out.