I had to renew my license to carry this year. Texas issues such licenses for five years, and it didn’t dawn on me immediately that I’ve been carrying for five years. I decided to share some of my thoughts on concealed carry now that I have been doing it for a while.

License not required

Before I get going, I will address the Constitutional Carry laws which Texas has now. Strictly speaking, I didn’t have to renew my license. In Texas currently, if you can legally buy a handgun, you can legally carry a handgun. Permits are not required. Felons cannot legally buy a gun, so they cannot legally carry one, not that criminals worry about obeying the law. I can legally buy and carry without a permit, but because I frequently travel out of state, and in many places concealed carry reciprocity only applies to people who are licensed, renewal was necessary.

Wild West

A friend of mine from a deep blue state told me that concealed carry was going to send us back to the days of the wild west. I got a big kick out of it, but over the years I have heard so many people make the same comment. It didn’t happen, but that was the typical reaction.

One thing that happened when I started carrying, I found myself able to identify who around me was also carrying. It can be surprising at times to realize just how many people are carrying. And yet, we are not seeing the return of gunfights in the streets. Can you imagine? People just wanted to take control of their personal safety. No gunfights, just people carrying guns and smiling.

Buy a good holster

The first holster I bought was a cheap five buck canvas and velcro number. I never used it because the belt clip was attached via velcro and came off easily.

You want something that conceals well, and keeps the trigger covered. Pictured above are some good examples from Alien Gear and Crossbreed. Spend a little money, and get a good, comfortable holster.

Always Carry

If you are licensed to carry, there is no need to consider not carrying. The reason for carrying is to be prepared to defend yourself and your loved ones should the need arise. Aside from when you are going somewhere that prohibits concealed carry, you should carry.

Anyway, those are some random thoughts from a Saturday spent in my truck.