Understanding Visibly Pocket Carrying: Is It Considered Concealed Carry?

No, visibly pocket carrying is not considered concealed carry. For a firearm to be classified as concealed carry, it must be fully hidden from view, with no part of it being visible to others.
No matter how small the firearm or how well it fits, if any part of it is visible, it does not meet the legal definition of concealed carry. Laws and regulations vary by jurisdiction, so it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific rules in your area.

Overview of Concealed Carry

Concealed carry involves carrying a firearm in such a way that it is not visible to others. This means that the firearm must be hidden completely from view. In some jurisdictions, a firearm that can be seen through clothing is not considered concealed carry. In other jurisdictions, the outline of a firearm being visible is sufficient to classify it as not concealed carry.

Legal Considerations

In some very strict states, the rules for concealed carry are even more stringent. Even if you have a Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) permit, visible carrying of a firearm can be illegal. It is important to check the specific laws in your state or local jurisdiction to ensure compliance with the law.

Understanding the Definition of Concealed Carry

To clarify, if you can see a firearm, it is not concealed. This applies to any part of the firearm being visible, such as the outline or even a portion sticking out of a pocket. The key is that the firearm must be completely hidden.

Visible Pocket Carry: Common Misunderstandings

There are a lot of misconceptions about visibly pocket carry and how it relates to concealed carry. Some people confuse it with the term ldquo;printingrdquo; which refers to the outline of a firearm being visible through clothing, not the firearm itself being visible. A common question is whether a firearm in a pocket holster is considered visible carry. Contrary to popular belief, a firearm in a pocket holster is still considered concealed carry if it is fully covered by the holster.

Practical Tips for Concealed Carry

One of the most effective ways to ensure your firearm is considered concealed carry is to use a pocket holster. A pocket holster allows you to carry a firearm in a small enough package that it is tucked away but still easily accessible if you need it. A properly fitted and styled pocket holster ensures that the firearm does not show through clothing and is easily concealable.

The Role of Intent in Legality

In legal terms, the intent behind carrying the firearm can also play a role in determining if it is considered concealed or open carry. If you are attempting to conceal the firearm and make it undetectable to others, then it would be classified as concealed carry. However, if you are carrying in a way that makes the firearm clearly visible, it would be considered open carry. The angle of your clothing, your body position, and how the firearm is held can also affect whether it is considered concealed or not.

Conclusion

Visibly pocket carrying is not considered concealed carry. To ensure compliance with the law, it is crucial to understand the specific laws in your jurisdiction and to use appropriate carry methods such as pocket holsters to make the firearm fully hidden.