Appendix, AIWB, 1-2 o’clock, no matter what you call it, you’ve heard of this popular concealed carry position. But what exactly does it mean to carry appendix, and is it a tactic you should consider?

Appendix carry is typically concealed inside the waistband in the 1-2 o’clock position – or right in front of your hip. The carry method has gained popularity over the years for being comfortable and easy to access, though it is not without its share of controversy.

As with all concealed carry locations, so long as you train consistently, carry the right holster, and adjust it properly, carrying AIWB is just as safe and effective as anything else.

We have a lot to cover, so, without further ado, let’s dive into the ins and outs of this common concealed carry method.

What is Appendix Carry?

Before we get into the drama, let’s talk about what carrying appendix means exactly.

Appendix carry, or the 1-2 o’clock position (10-11 o’clock for lefties), means carrying your pistol on your dominant side in the space between your belly button and hip bone, or that space between your pant button and front pocket. Its location is (vaguely) in the region where your appendix is, hence the name.

Because this position is almost always carried inside the waistband, it is also often referred to as AIWB carry.

People have been carrying appendix for as long as we’ve been carrying pistols, according to an article by the National Rifle Association. If you think about most mobsters in the movies, you can probably picture them carrying a revolver in the front of their trousers, essentially what we now call appendix carry. At the time, it just made the most sense.

“It’s a perfectly logical place to put a weapon, because our arms naturally hang in that region and it allows quick access to whatever object you’re carrying at that position,” the NRA article reads.

For a time, modern trainers and influencers discouraged AIWB, recommending the 3-4 o’clock position instead. It wasn’t until renowned firearms trainer Todd Louis Green began advocating for and teaching about safe appendix carry that it became more popular again.

Though Green is often credited with bringing about the resurgence of AIWB carry, the rise of the internet also played a part in spreading the message on how to carry in the appendix position responsibly, which led to the recent boost in people using this carry method.

But even though many people today carry appendix and love it, a large number refuse to do so either because they find it uncomfortable or due to safety concerns.

In fact, the fear of accidentally shooting yourself in the groin and losing certain *ahem* appendages is the driving force behind the controversy surrounding AIWB carry. This fear has become so widespread that some internet dwellers have even referred to it as “junk carry” for this very reason.

So, let’s address this issue right off the bat. Is carrying appendix safe?

Is Appendix Carry Safe?

You’ve probably heard that AIWB carry is unsafe since your gun is essentially pointed at your crotch all day. So, let’s address the age-old question: If you carry appendix, will you shoot your junk off?

The short answer to this question is that it depends. As with anything firearms-related, without the proper techniques and training, there is always a chance of getting hurt. But the good news is that appendix carry is not necessarily any more or less dangerous than any other carry position.

As to whether you could actually shoot off your manly bits, we suppose you could if you tried hard enough, but as long as you have quality equipment and practice safe habits, it’s highly unlikely. In fact, with the right gun and holster combo, the muzzle shouldn’t be pointed at your groin at all.

That being said, your pistol probably is pointing right at your femoral artery when carrying AIWB. In case you don’t know, this is one of the last parts of your body you’d want in the way of a negligent discharge, as severing it can be deadly.

While this may sound scary, and it is, you can also minimize the risk of such a tragedy to almost zero with the right equipment, training, and awareness.

The vast majority of personal injuries that occur as a result of negligent or accidental discharge while concealed carrying AIWB happen during re-holstering.

If you fail to clear your garment completely or hold your gun incorrectly, your finger or clothing may accidentally get caught on the trigger and cause the weapon to fire. If this were to happen during AIWB carry, you risk shooting your femoral artery.

Luckily, there are specific techniques you can use to avoid pointing the barrel at yourself while holstering AIWB that can help you avoid this issue altogether (which we’ll get into more detail about later on). This, of course, requires regular training to make a habit.

“Appendix carry, in and of itself, is no more dangerous than any other carry technique when one is properly trained and armed with a handgun that lends itself to this method. It is up to each of us to be properly informed and educated,” an article from the NRA reads.

So, as long as you know the techniques for drawing and carrying, AIWB is perfectly safe. In fact, there are many benefits to carrying appendix. Let’s talk about some of the pros and cons of this method next.

Pros and Cons of Appendix Carry

As with most controversial issues, there is a positive and a negative side to carrying in the 1-2 o’clock position.

Appendix Carry Pros

Concealable: First, carrying in this position is incredibly easy to conceal. Paired with the right holster, even a light T-shirt should do the trick.

An adjustable holster can make or break your AIWB experience as it will allow you to play with the placement of your weapon until it disappears under your clothes.

This method is also nice in that you don’t have to worry about your gun being exposed when you bend over. And, as long as you know how to dress for appendix carry (more on that later), reaching and twisting shouldn’t be much of an issue either.

Easy to Access: Accessibility is key when it comes to concealed carry, and the 1-2 o’clock position is by far one of the best in this regard.

The handgun’s location at the front of your body allows you to see what you’re doing as you go to draw, making it easier to fully clear your cover garments and access your pistol.

The only downside to this is that your attacker can also see you’re drawing a weapon, which reduces the element of surprise. Luckily, appendix is also the quickest position to draw from, so it kind of works itself out.

“The natural arm position makes accessing the gun much quicker from the AIWB position than it is when reaching back and behind you. … Extremely talented shooters can achieve draws inside of 1 second using appendix carry while still getting accurate hits on target,” the NRA writes.

Not only that, but this ease of draw offers a tactical advantage in the event of a defensive situation. Self-defense is rarely cut and dried, and the odds are good that you could be cornered, forced to the ground, or wind up in a physical, close-contact fight.

In any of these scenarios, if your gun is on your hip or behind it, it could be next to impossible to access. Whereas if you are carrying appendix, your pistol will always be within reach.

Easier to Retain: When carrying a firearm, it’s your responsibility to use it safely and keep it out of the wrong hands. IWB carry is one of the best ways to do this, as it makes it harder for any would-be snatchers to disarm you. AIWB takes it even a step further by placing the weapon inside your waistband and at the front of your body, so it’s one of the easiest positions to defend.

Appendix Carry Cons

Uncomfortable to Sit: By far, the biggest complaint concerning appendix carry is that it is uncomfortable while seated.

Because of the gun’s positioning at the front of your body, any time you bend over or sit down, that pistol is digging directly into your stomach or thigh. Not all people find this to be the case, especially if you carry a smaller piece, but it can be all but impossible to sit for long periods if you do. Luckily, the right handgun and holster combo can help mitigate this issue.

Safety Risks: Another common issue people have with AIWB is the safety factor. We’ve already discussed this in our article so far, but it bears repeating: appendix carry without a proper gun belt, holster, and training can be risky.

Because of where your muzzle points, if you experience a negligent discharge as you draw or holster your weapon, you could shoot through your femoral artery, which is deadly. Luckily, this is an extremely uncommon occurrence, and practicing good gun safety habits can reduce the risk to almost nothing. But it is certainly an issue to be mindful of and one that discourages some from trying the position altogether.

Obvious Draw: The only other downside to AIWB carry is that you can’t really hide the fact that you’re drawing from someone. If your firearm is located either on or behind your hip, you can kind of hide the fact that you have it for a moment from someone who isn’t aware that it’s there. With your pistol on the front of your body, however, that is next to impossible.

“When someone moves to defeat their cover garment and draw from the appendix position, it is pretty clear that person is trying to access their firearm from their holster,” according to a Tactical Hyve article. “In contrast, if one carried their gun along their hip, one could better disguise or hide the draw from a threat.”

While all of the aforementioned downsides to AIWB carry are significant, most of them can be mitigated by wearing the right holster, learning to draw and re-holster safely, and adjusting your setup to be more comfortable. Let’s talk about each of these factors next.

How to Appendix Carry Comfortably

One of the biggest complaints people have about AIWB is that it’s uncomfortable while sitting or bending over. Luckily, we have some tips for how to improve your experience in regards to comfort.

The most critical thing you can do to improve the comfort of carrying appendix is to invest in a quality adjustable holster. The ability to sit with a gun in this position relies almost entirely on being able to adjust the angle of your pistol so that it won’t dig into your body.

We’ll go over more of the specifics of what you should look for in an appendix carry holster next, but for now, just know that you need to look for an AIWB holster with adjustable cant (forward and reverse!), ride height, and retention.

If you find a plain, hard Kydex shell uncomfortable, you may want to consider trying a hybrid AIWB holster. This style is designed with a Kydex shell and a leather backing, which is both comfortable and protective.

Another thing you can do is adjust your positioning slightly. You don’t necessarily have to carry AIWB right at the 1 or 2 o’clock position. You can wear it at the 1:30 position or even the 2:45 position. We promise it’s okay!

Making a few lifestyle adjustments can make carrying appendix easier as well. Good posture will go a long way in ensuring a comfortable AIWB experience. If you work in an office, you may even want to go so far as to invest in a standing desk.

Our final tip has to do with gun size. We know you’re attached to your carry pistol, but you can always consider swapping it for a smaller one for the sake of comfort. Obviously, a firearm with a large grip is way more likely to dig into your stomach than a nice, compact one.

But we’ll talk more about the best guns for this method soon. First, let’s jump into how to pick the right holster.

How to Choose an Appendix Holster

We’ve talked a lot about the importance of using a quality appendix carry holster in this article already. So what exactly are you supposed to look for in an AIWB holster?

MATERIAL

The first thing to think about is your holster material. There are four main types of holsters: leather, nylon, Kydex, and hybrid.

Because most appendix carry accidents happen during holstering, nylon and leather holsters are not recommended. These holsters tend to collapse once your pistol is removed, making it more difficult to re-holster.

This is where Kydex comes in. These holsters are made from durable thermoplastic and are designed for a specific model. You can easily holster your weapon with one hand, and your gun will securely click into place. And, despite being a hard shell, Kydex holsters like the Vedder LightTuck™ are surprisingly comfortable.

If you’d like the best of both worlds, a hybrid holster, which offers the comfort of a leather backing and the security of a Kydex shell, is always a great option. The Vedder Holsters RapidTuck™ is a great hybrid option for AIWB, thanks to its lightweight design.

ADJUSTABILITY

Most Kydex holsters come with a few adjustable options. This ensures you can find that “sweet spot” for comfort and concealment that works with your body and clothing choices. For appendix carry holsters, it’s important to look for adjustable cant, ride height, and retention.

For the 1-2 o’clock position specifically, adjustable cant is the most critical feature concerning comfort and concealment. As firearms expert Nate Parker writes in a piece for USA Carry, finding a holster with reverse cant can do wonders in finding the perfect spot.

“Typically when we talk about canting holsters, we think of canting the butt of the gun forward when carried in a traditional 3-4 o’clock position,” he writes. “With appendix carry, canting the gun in the opposite direction can be of incredible usefulness. … Using reverse cant on the holster allows me to put the muzzle of the gun where I want it, closer to the centerline, but keep the grip of the gun where I want it too.”

Not all holsters are designed with forward and reverse cant, so it’s essential to make sure yours does. The LightTuck™ makes an excellent appendix carry holster as it is built with 30 degrees of cant in both directions, which is significantly more than most other appendix carry holsters on the market.

Adjustable ride height also plays a role in how comfortable and easy to conceal your weapon is. This allows you to choose either deep concealment or to have your gun ride higher on your waistband, depending on your preference.

HOLSTER CLAW

If there’s one accessory that can do wonders in aiding in concealment and comfort, it’s a holster claw or “wing.” These pieces attach to your holster and press against your gun belt to keep everything more secure.

They work by helping to distribute the weight of your firearm and draw the grip closer to your body, which helps reduce printing.

You can check out our Holster Claw Add-On Kit here. It really is the holy grail of holster accessories.

SAFETY

Last but certainly not least, safety. You already know that there are a few risk factors when it comes to carrying AIWB, so ensuring your holster is as safe as possible should be a priority.

The first thing to look for is a fully covered trigger guard. Because most negligent discharges happen when your shirt or finger accidentally makes contact with the trigger, having a holster that completely protects it will go a long way in helping to prevent an accident.

This is also where adjustable retention comes into play. Retention allows you to adjust how tightly the holster holds on to your gun and how easy it is to draw. It’s important that you adjust your retention to be tight enough to prevent your firearm from slipping yet loose enough to quickly draw from.

How to Safely Re-holster While Carrying AIWB

At last, we’ve reached the section about how to safely holster your weapon while carrying AIWB.

As we’ve already established, holstering is when a negligent discharge is most likely to occur, as your clothing or finger may make its way onto the trigger. When this happens in the 1-2 o’clock position, the results can be tragic.

Luckily, with the correct technique and practice, the risk of this happening can be reduced to almost zero. How, you ask? Well, there are a few tips to keep in mind.

First and foremost, the most important thing to remember is to keep your finger off the trigger during these steps. No exceptions.

Next, follow these four simple steps for safely re-holstering your weapon:

1. Do not rush. If you’re putting your gun back into its holster, there is no urgency to do so quickly. Take your time, and be intentional.
2. Clear your cover garment completely. And by completely, we mean get every inch of fabric out of the way by pulling it up nice and high toward your face with your non-dominant hand. Trust us, you do not want a part of your shirt getting wrapped up in your gun and reaching your trigger.
3. Lean back. The easiest way to do this is by placing one foot slightly behind you, shifting your weight back, and tilting your hips forward. It may feel silly, but this is a crucial step as it ensures the barrel will be pointing at the ground, not at your body, as you re-holster. So, if by some chance the gun does go off, it should miss you entirely.
4. Insert your pistol into the holster until you hear it click into place.

It’s important to practice these steps at home regularly with an unloaded weapon so that it becomes a habit. You should train often enough that you’ll do it automatically if you need to re-holster while out and about.

How to Dress to Carry Appendix

Luckily, appendix is by far one of the easiest waistband positions to dress for.

Because your weapon is positioned at the front of your body, where you don’t have any bones, angles, or curves to work around, you can be much more flexible with your clothing options.

Otherwise, dressing for AIWB is essentially the same as dressing for any other carry method. Looser shirts, larger pants, dark colors, prints and patterns, and shirts with embellishments are ideal for keeping your firearm hidden.

One of the major differences between appendix carry and other positions is that it’s more difficult to use a cover garment to aid in concealment. While yes, a flannel, vest, or jacket that is buttoned or zipped up does the same job, leaving these articles open in the front doesn’t do much for concealing a gun at the front of your body like it does for other techniques.

But perhaps the most significant aspect of dressing for AIWB is your gun belt. A proper EDC belt is essential for any carry position, and this is especially true for appendix carry. Gun belts are designed to be thicker, stiffer, and made from better materials to prevent belt sag. A regular belt, however, may allow your pistol and holster to droop and become visible.

The only issue with gun belts in respect to AIWB carry is that the thick, sturdy buckle found on most EDC belts can add a lot of bulk to the front of your body where you’re already trying to hide a firearm and holster.

Luckily, there is an easy fix for this. If you position your gun belt so that the buckle is situated off to the side of your body instead of in its traditional spot at the front, you can reduce a lot of bulk that would otherwise take place.

If you’re in need of a quality EDC belt, we offer several low-profile tactical belt options, as well as a leather belt made with stiff, high-quality materials guaranteed to keep your weapon where you want it and look great too.

Best Guns for Appendix Carry

Carrying the right gun can make a big difference in the success of your concealed carry ventures.

For the most part, the weapons that work for AIWB carry are the same that work well for all positions. Traditional dual-action and single-action semi-automatic pistols and semi-automatics with a manual safety are a pretty safe bet.

According to Shooting Illustrated, single- and double-action firearms work well for AIWB because you can place your thumb over the hammer to prevent an accidental discharge while holstering.

As far as size goes, while compact and micro-compact guns work well, you may be surprised to learn that appendix is actually one of the easiest methods to carry longer pistols in. The reason being that, with appendix, the slide of your barrel fits neatly in the space where your leg meets your pelvis, making them easier to conceal.

Revolvers are also highly recommended for AIWB carry. Jim Wilson writes for NRA Family that revolvers are far more difficult to accidentally discharge, making them one of the safer choices for the 1-2 o’clock position.

“Revolvers, single action or double action, will not easily fire when your finger, or the holster, comes in contact with the trigger. I’m sure it can be done, but you’d really have to work at it and, in the case of the SA revolver, you would have to be re-holstering with the hammer cocked – a move that no one in their right mind should consider,” he wrote.

The best gun for you will depend on your personal preference, body type, and choice of clothing. It may take some time to figure out what works best.

Is Appendix Carry Right for Me?

Now that you know the pros and cons of carrying AIWB, it’s time to consider your lifestyle and concealed carry preferences before determining whether you want to try it.

While the decision to carry in the 1-2 o’clock position largely comes down to personal preference, there are a few factors you can take into consideration when deciding whether it is the right move for you.

BODY TYPE

One of the biggest determining factors in whether or not you will find AIWB to be a success is your body type.

People with flatter stomachs and smaller frames tend to enjoy appendix carry. Those with larger middles tend to experience more issues with printing and often find AIWB to be rather uncomfortable.That’s not to say that if you have a beer belly, you can’t successfully carry appendix.

Utilizing a holster claw will do wonders in ensuring your gun stays as close to your body as possible, and an adjustable holster can help you get your pistol in a more comfortable location.

Curves, no matter how much we love them, are not well suited for many concealed carry positions. Guns are square and blocky, and when you try to conceal them over a curved area, it doesn’t usually work well.

For this reason, many women find that AIWB works well for them. Rather than trying to conceal a pistol on your strong side, where a woman’s naturally curved hips cause it to protrude uncomfortably, placing it on your midsection is often easier to conceal.

DAILY ACTIVITIES

Your lifestyle and daily activities play a role in whether you enjoy appendix carry.

For example, most (though not all!) people find sitting for long periods while carrying AIWB extremely uncomfortable. After all, your gun is positioned, so it will likely dig into your leg or stomach while seated.

On the other hand, if you’re on your feet most of the day, appendix is probably one of the best carry options there is.

So, think about all the things you do in your day-to-day. Do you sit, bend over, or have to rotate your body a lot? It may still be worth a try, but you’ll most likely find AIWB to be a miserable experience. If not, it’s probably an excellent choice for you!

EXPERIENCE

If you’re brand new to CCW, you may want to reconsider trying appendix carry right off the bat.

Even though it’s true that overall AIWB is no more or less dangerous than any other position, certain variables with appendix concealed carry make it a bit riskier.

Because appendix effectively points your gun right at your femoral artery, a wound from a negligent discharge would be far more life threatening than, say, strong side carry (or any other waistband position, really).

While proper holstering techniques and consistent training can negate this added risk, it does take time to work these things into muscle memory. For that reason, it’s probably best to stay clear of the 1-2 o’clock position until you’re confident that you can do so safely.

TRIAL AND ERROR

At the end of the day, the only way to find out whether or not appendix carry will work for you is just to give it a go. As with any carry method, it may take a day or two to work out any kinks and adjust your holster.

Because of this, we recommend trying AIWB for two to three days to see if it wears in properly. If not, you can always try one of the many other IWB carry positions out there. If you do find you like it, great! Now it’s time to carry often, train consistently, all that good stuff.

Summary

To sum it all up, while there are certain risks associated with appendix carry, this increasingly popular carry position isn’t all that different from the rest. So long as you use the right gear, learn how to holster properly, and train regularly, AIWB carry is a comfortable, safe, accessible, and easy to conceal option.

If you’re looking for belts or holsters, we recommend visiting our Holsters by Gun Model page if you are looking for holsters that are custom-made for your weapon of choice. For all of our belt and holster options and for more information to help you choose the carry system that works best for you, visit our Vedder Holsters website.

Looking for items beyond holsters and belts, check out our Resources Page for popular product links like lights, lasers, first aid, maintenance, and more.

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You’ve probably heard the term “EDC” tossed around and may be wondering what it is and whether it’s something you should start doing.

EDC refers to all the essentials you bring with you when you leave your home, including your concealed carry gun, wallet, pocket knife, keys, and anything else you can’t leave the house without.

While stuffing your belongings into your pocket on your way out the door could technically count as EDC, many people choose to take a more intentional approach by assembling a kit full of survival gear, medical supplies, and emergency tools.

Let’s start by talking about the basics of what EDC is and why it’s important to be prepared.

What Does EDC Stand For?

If you’re new to the subject, the first thing you may be wondering is, what does EDC stand for, anyway?

EDC stands for “everyday carry” and refers to everything you take with you when you leave the house. That includes things like your cell phone, wallet, keys, gun/holster, pocket knife, and even your signature scrunchie. Everything.

So what is an EDC kit? Basically, an everyday carry kit is a more organized approach to preparedness and the things you take with you every day. Rather than simply stuffing your phone, wallet, and keys into your pockets and hitting the road, it involves intentionally planning and carrying the things you need so you can be ready for anything that comes your way.

Now that you know what EDC stands for and what an everyday carry kit is, let’s talk about the many benefits of having one.

Why Assemble an EDC Kit?

If you’re the type of person who likes to carry light, you might be wondering what benefit there is in putting together an everyday carry kit.

While sure, you can leave the house with nothing more than the clothes on your back and be fine most of the time, there are several benefits to carrying an EDC kit.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

The number one reason to carry an EDC kit is to be prepared in an emergency, a defensive encounter, or even just for the unexpected. In fact, it could save your life or the life of someone else.

For example, having a glass breaker/seatbelt cutter could allow you to rescue someone after a car crash. Your carry gun could save your life when faced with a threatening situation. The tourniquet in your med kit could mean the difference between life and death if someone is seriously injured.

We could keep going, but you get the idea. The reality is that even if the odds are good that you won’t need to use these emergency supplies, they’re sure nice to have when things go south. After all, it’s better to have and not need than to need and not have, right?

CONVENIENCE

On a lighter note, everyday carry kits can be just plain convenient. Rather than asking around for a pen, trying to see in the dark with your phone, or *gasp* borrowing a friend’s pocket knife, you have all that stuff right in your backpack. Not only will this save you time and hassle, but it will help you be more self-reliant.

FUN

Not only are EDC kits practical and potentially lifesaving, but it can be fun to put your pack together. If you’re looking for an excuse to go shopping for a new knife or a reason to show off your new gear bag, this is it. Once you get started, you’ll likely find that you have a great time choosing everyday carry items specific to your personality and an even better time showing them off.

Everyday Carry List: The Essentials

Everyone has different needs and experiences, so every person will have a slightly different EDC setup. The things you need throughout the day or want to have in case of an emergency are entirely up to you and will probably even change over time. But if you’re unsure where to start, here are some of the most common items you may want to add to your everyday carry list.

CELL PHONE

While it may seem a little pointless to mention smartphones as a piece of EDC equipment, these handy devices actually deserve an honorable mention for being the ultimate “multi-tool.”

Not only are they useful for calls, texts, and internet searches (which is already a lot!), but they can also serve as a compass, camera, ruler, GPS, watch, notebook, wallet, recorder, a metal detector (you read that right), translator, and so much more.

This is obviously useful all on its own, and it also effectively eliminates the need for you to carry a physical item for most of these uses, which makes room in your gear bag for more important things, like a portable charger, for your phone.

WALLET

It goes without saying that your wallet is one of the first things you grab when leaving the house. It contains your ID, your debit and credit cards, that gift certificate to The Cheesecake Factory you’ve been hanging on to, your insurance card, and probably a buck or two.

But not all wallets are created equal, especially when it comes to everyday carry gear.While, yes, you can keep carrying your thick leather billfold, most people find that trading their dad wallet for a more compact, RFID-blocking minimalist wallet, or slim wallet, works best for EDC.

If you’re looking for an everyday carry wallet designed to be durable, functional, and made in America, check out the soon-to-be-launched GeoGrit Wallet. We’ve designed it to be the ultimate minimalist wallet with all the quality and comfort the Vedder brand is known for.

GUN AND HOLSTER

Many people in the EDC community include a concealed carry pistol as part of their setup. After all, in the event of a self-defense encounter, it could mean the difference between life and death.

If you’re looking for a quality Kydex or hybrid holster for your carry gun, check out our Holsters by Gun Model page for custom, handcrafted holster options with a lifetime guarantee.

KNIFE OR MULTI-TOOL

Every good EDC kit needs a quality pocket knife or multi-tool, and ideally both.

The reason for carrying such a tool is pretty self-explanatory. These tools come in handy in all sorts of situations and serve multiple purposes, whether it’s for self-defense, a survival situation, or even just to open toys at a birthday party.

We’ve got a lot of great knife recommendations over on our Resources page.

WATCH

Even in a day in age where you can use your cell phone to tell time, wearing a quality watch can be beneficial.

Not only are watches a great fashion piece, and they do tell the time, but they can also do so much more. A smartwatch or fitness tracker can help monitor your health, and smartwatches can also take calls, send text messages, and surf the Internet, among other things. Even if you don’t want a high-tech piece on your wrist, a good tactical watch can double as a compass and many other things.

A watch isn’t an “essential” item per se, but it’s definitely one that can be useful and stylish.

FLASHLIGHT

This one is pretty self-explanatory; sometimes, you just need a light. Whether your truck breaks down during a late-night road trip, the power goes out at work, or you find yourself out hiking later than expected, that flashlight you packed in your bag will come in handy. And if you want to get extra tactical, you can even find flashlights that double as a pen, knife, compass, or an array of other tools.

MEDICAL KIT

Carrying a med kit with first aid supplies like a tourniquet, gauze, chest seal, and other items to help stop bleeding is a concept that is gaining traction in the EDC community, especially in the concealed carry world.

The idea is that if you’re capable of causing a life-threatening injury to someone, then you should carry supplies to help patch it up until first responders arrive. Even if you don’t carry a weapon in your day-to-day, including a tactical medical kit in your EDC setup can come in handy in the event of a car accident or other emergency.

You can (and should) even expand your first aid kit to include the basics as well: bandages, alcohol wipes, gloves, scissors, etc. Check out our Resources page for some tactical first aid kit ideas.

PERSONAL SUPPLIES

Your EDC kit doesn’t have to be strictly made up of tactical gear and emergency supplies. Remember, everything you carry in your day-to-day counts, which means you’re allowed to carry a few personal items as well.

Everything from sunglasses to chapstick, lotion, hand sanitizer, tissues, makeup, feminine hygiene supplies, medication, deodorant, hair ties, and even an extra pair of underwear (hey, you never know) can be part of your personal kit.

OTHER GEAR

What we have here is by no means a comprehensive everyday carry list. Other things you may want to include are things like a compass, glasses cleaner, a lighter or matches, a notebook and pen, food, a water bottle, an emergency blanket, a snake bite kit, earbuds, a camera, hand warmers, a laptop, or anything else you can think of that you might find personally handy.

Tips for EDC

There is no right or wrong way to go about everyday carry. But there are a few tips and tricks that can make for a better, more efficient experience.

CHOOSE MULTIPURPOSE TOOLS

One of the best things you can do when looking for EDC gear is to choose tools with more than one purpose.

Obviously, multi-tools like a Leatherman or Swiss Army Knife, which are made up of all sorts of useful tools, are an excellent example of this. But that’s not the only tool that can have multiple uses. Plenty of things you’d want to include in an everyday carry kit can be multi-purpose, like tactical pens, tool cards, and even keychains.

Utilizing multi-tools not only allows keeps things compact and leaves you room for more gear, but they can also save you money as instead of buying five different tools, you can invest in one that does it all.

USE BAG ORGANIZERS

Many tactical EDC bags are already well-equipped with straps, pockets, and zippers to help you organize all your gear. But if you need additional help, or you’re not using a “tactical” bag in the traditional sense, don’t be afraid to invest in a few organizers to keep your things in order.

Pocket organizers for tools work well for this purpose, as do tactical bag organizers. If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, you may find that travel organizers work well and usually look nice, too.

INVEST IN QUALITY EQUIPMENT

One of the best tips for assembling an EDC kit is to invest in high-quality gear.

Even though it’s tempting to opt for a cheaper tool rather than invest in a more expensive piece of equipment, it will actually save you money over the long run to spend a few extra bucks on higher-quality gear. These products are usually made with stronger materials and are designed to last longer.

Many higher-end products, like all Vedder Holsters belts and holsters and even GeoGrit slim wallets, are also backed by a lifetime warranty so that if for some reason it doesn’t hold up, you can have it replaced. It’s definitely worth investing in better gear knowing that it’s the last time you’ll ever have to buy that particular piece of equipment.

You also don’t want to find yourself in a situation where your EDC gear fails when you need it because it was cheaply made. That kind of defeats the purpose, after all, and is not only inconvenient but could result in a tragic situation, especially when it comes to self-defense and medical gear.

DO ROUTINE GEAR CHECKS

What’s the purpose of toting around a bunch of equipment if none of it works when you need it? That’s why it’s critical to do gear checks every so often to ensure everything is in proper working order.

That means checking to make sure your flashlight doesn’t need new batteries, your granola bars haven’t expired, your knife is sharp, and your first aid wipes haven’t dried up.

Check everything out, replace anything you need to, and take the opportunity to reorganize if necessary. It’s better to do some housekeeping every once in a while than to find yourself with faulty gear when you need it most.

How to Carry and Store Your EDC Gear

Once you’ve gathered all the EDC gear you need, you’ll need a practical way to store and transport it throughout the day.

Some people choose to carry their stuff in a gear bag. Depending on your needs, these bags can range from a small tote to a full-on tactical backpack. There is a wide variety of bags to choose from through retailers like Amazon.

If you don’t want to carry a bag, or if you only carry a few items with you, a good tactical belt is a great option. Rather than keeping track of a backpack all day, you can easily strap your holster, gun, spare magazines, knife, and anything else that has a clip onto your belt and go about your day.

At Vedder Holsters, we offer several different gun belts, including tactical and leather styles, which are specifically designed to support the weight of your EDC gear. You can read more about the different kinds of tactical belts and how to use them here.

But what do you do with all your gear once you get home?

The easiest way to store your gear so that it’s easy to grab and go in the morning without losing it is to use an EDC tray.

An EDC tray, also known as a “dump tray,” is exactly what it sounds like: it’s a tray designed to hold your everyday carry gear when you’re not using it. While they can be made from any material, Kydex is often the preferred choice as it’s durable and easy to clean.

Read more about all the many uses and benefits of an EDC tray here.

If you’re looking for a quality, multipurpose everyday carry tray, check out the Vedder Holsters tactical EDC tray. Our tray is handcrafted, customizable, and perfect for storing all your everyday carry essentials.

Summary

EDC refers to all of the items you carry with you on a daily basis. That can include things like your phone, wallet, keys, carry gun, holster, pocket knife, sunglasses, chapstick, medical kit, and anything else you can’t leave the house without.

An organization plan is one of the most essential aspects of a good everyday carry setup. Whether you choose to use a gear bag, a tactical belt, or your pockets, you’ll want to use a quality EDC tray to keep it all in one place when you get home.

If you’re looking for belts or holsters, we recommend visiting our Holsters by Gun Model page if you are looking for holsters that are custom-made for your weapon of choice. For all of our belt and holster options and for more information to help you choose the carry system that works best for you, visit our Vedder Holsters website.

Looking for items beyond holsters and belts, check out our Resources Page for popular product links like lights, lasers, first aid, maintenance, and more.

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It’s not enough to carry a concealed weapon, take classes, and train often.

While all these things are great, and you should do them, equipment and training can only get you so far. If you’re not aware of your surroundings, by the time you realize you’re in danger, it could be too late.

That’s where the concept of “situational awareness” comes in. The idea is to be aware of your surroundings so you can assess any potential dangers and prepare to defend yourself or, ideally, avoid the situation in the first place.

So let’s get into why it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and discuss strategies for how to develop situational awareness.

What is Situational Awareness?

Situational awareness is all about paying attention to what’s going on around you. That means looking out for any person, thing, or situation that is potentially threatening, then avoiding it if possible and taking action to defend yourself if necessary.

While the actual term wasn’t coined until more modern times, situational awareness (SA) has been taught and practiced in the military for centuries. Today, the concept has been applied to everything from workplace safety to technology, though it is still most often used in the military, police, and self-defense communities.

The concept is often broken up into four situational awareness levels. First introduced by U.S. Marine Colonel Jeff Cooper in the 1970s, the “Cooper Color Code” indicates the different mental states of awareness, or “conditions,” that a person may be in at any given time.

There are 4 levels of situational awareness:

Condition White – Condition white is a state in which you are completely unaware of your surroundings. Whether distracted by something or simply oblivious to what’s happening around you, this condition leaves you unprepared and vulnerable to attack. Unless you are asleep or sitting in a bubble bath at home, you should never be in condition white.

An example of condition white would be walking down the street with your earbuds in while looking down at your phone. In that state, you have no way of noticing any sort of threat, whether that’s a car barreling toward you or a mugger sneaking up from behind. And when danger strikes, you’ll be caught off guard and slow to react.

Condition Yellow – In condition yellow, you’re relaxed but alert. It’s not a state of paranoia but rather casually observing what’s happening around you as you go about your day. That way, if something sketchy is going on, you’ll notice. This is the condition you want to be in at all times while in public.

So, instead of texting and listening to Bon Jovi while you walk down the street, in condition yellow, you are walking confidently with your head up so you can see and hear what’s going on around you.

Condition Orange – In condition orange, you’re on edge. You’ve noticed something that’s not quite right, and you’re hyper-aware of what’s around you. Your focus is on the potential danger, and you’re prepared to defend yourself if you need to.

For example, you’re walking through a parking garage when a shady character starts walking toward you with his hands in his coat pockets. He could be harmless, but something about the way he’s approaching you sets you on edge. You turn to face him, identify nearby exits, and mentally prepare to reach for your gun in case the situation goes south.

Condition Red – In condition red, there is no longer a question of whether you’re in danger. Something bad has happened, and you are now in “fight or flight” mode. The plan you devised while in condition orange is now officially in action.

Example: the man in the parking garage pulls a knife from his pocket and starts running toward you. You quickly draw your weapon and use your command voice to order him to STOP. Surprised and out-gunned, he retreats, and you place a call to 911. Because you were ready, you were able to react appropriately and defend yourself.

Bonus: Condition Black – While not part of Cooper’s original color code, “condition black” was recently added to the list and is considered the “fifth condition” by some. In condition black, things are not going well. In this state, you are overwhelmed by fear and fail to respond in the face of danger.

Let’s say the man in the parking garage does not stop despite your drawn weapon and commands to back off. Instead, he rushes you with his knife, catching you off guard. Panic sets in, and instead of taking action, you freeze.

It should go without saying, but condition black is a state that you never want to be in. That’s one of the many reasons why it’s so important to get proper training and practice regularly so that when faced with a life or death situation, you react almost automatically.

While the color code itself can’t protect you from danger, learning to recognize what state you’re in at any given time can help you practice situational awareness.

That way, the next time you’re walking down the street and realize you’ve been blissfully meandering in condition white, you can correct yourself and deliberately move into condition yellow until it becomes second nature.

Red Flags: What Should Raise Your Awareness Level?

You don’t want to live your life in a state of ignorant bliss, but you don’t want to be paranoid, either. That’s how accidents and misunderstandings happen. So, what sort of things are worth raising your awareness level from yellow to orange?

Behavioral Cues: The first thing that should get your attention is anyone who is behaving in a way that seems highly unusual. Whether they appear nervous, are pacing, acting jumpy or jittery, loitering, staring, or walking aggressively, watch out. They could be mad about their mother-in-law overstepping, nervously awaiting a job interview, or dealing with a medical condition of some sort. Or, they could be up to something.

If you see someone acting suspiciously, just pay attention. Watch for signs that their behavior is escalating, and be prepared to respond appropriately.

Odd Clothing: We’re not asking you to judge people’s clothing styles. Rather, we’re saying it’s important to look out for unusual things like bulges in clothing or articles that just don’t seem to fit.

For example, if you notice someone is wearing a jacket indoors or when it’s 100 degrees outside, that’s suspicious. While it may just be someone who is unusually cold-blooded, there’s a chance that person is trying to hide something.

The same goes for strange bulges in someone’s clothing. While it could be a cell phone, or they’re just happy to see you, it could also be a concealed knife or firearm. Perhaps that person is part of the CCW community like you, or maybe they’re up to no good. Either way, it can’t hurt to keep a casual eye on them.

Physical Cues: It’s impossible to know what’s going on in someone’s head, so you have to look for physical clues that they’re about to make a move.

Obviously, if someone is making aggressive gestures, rushing toward you, or displaying other threatening physical signs, get ready to protect yourself. But it’s also important to watch for more subtle cues.

If someone has you on edge, watching their hands is more important than almost anything else. Before they can draw a weapon or make a move to attack you, they have to move their hands.

If their hands aren’t visible, watching their shoulders is the next best thing. Before taking any sort of action, a person must draw their shoulders back, alerting you that they’re about to make a move.

Verbal Threats: This one should be obvious: if someone is verbally threatening you or someone else, be on guard. Even if the person is saying something that’s not blatantly threatening or offensive, but makes you uncomfortable, pay attention.

Whether someone is catcalling you, yelling at someone nearby, or animatedly talking to themselves, it’s a good reason to be on guard as you never know how it might escalate. They may not be dangerous, but you can’t ignore a verbal cue.

Anything That Makes You Uncomfortable: We can’t stress it enough: trust your gut! If something or someone is making you feel uncomfortable, even if you can’t put your finger on why, don’t ignore it. It doesn’t make you judgemental; it makes you cautious.

Your mind is able to pick up on subtle signs of danger, so if something is doing or saying something that makes you uncomfortable or scared, there’s probably a reason. If it turns out to be nothing, great! But it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Responding Without Overreacting

We’ve already hinted at this throughout this article, but one of the most important aspects of self-defense and situational awareness is responding appropriately depending on the circumstances.

While it’s important to pay attention to your surroundings and be prepared to defend yourself, be careful not to become paranoid. Paranoia never leads to anything good and could make you suspicious of people who are actually harmless.

After all, the last thing you want to do is be the one threatening someone because you misunderstood their actions and assumed the worst. It wouldn’t be the first time someone thought another person was drawing a gun when they were only reaching for their phone. The consequences of overreacting can be tragic.

So, how do you protect yourself while giving people the benefit of the doubt?

Well, at the end of the day, situational awareness is all about preparedness. When you are aware of potential dangers, you can craft a plan in your head to either remove yourself from the situation or defend yourself if it comes to that.

The laws regarding self-defense and when it’s justified vary by state. For that reason, it’s critically important that you familiarize yourself with the laws regarding reasonable and deadly force where you live. This knowledge can and should factor into the response planning you do while in condition orange. Not only will this help ensure that innocent people don’t get hurt, but it can help keep you out of trouble with the law.

How to Develop Situational Awareness

Simply being aware of Cooper’s color code doesn’t actually help you in practice. It takes time and dedication to develop good SA skills.

When learning how to develop situational awareness, the first thing you need to do is be more mindful of the state of awareness you are in. Recognizing when you are in condition white, and then consciously moving to condition yellow, will train your mind to automatically go to that state over time.

Next, you have to learn to use all your senses. Simply observing the people and objects around you isn’t always enough. You need to be able to listen for potential threats – like fast-approaching footsteps. It’s also important to notice any strange smells, like smoke or other scents that seem out of place, which can help you identify danger before you even see it.

Oh, and that prickling feeling you get when your hair stands on end? Definitely pay attention to that. Your body can sense when you’re in danger. Listen to it.

Something that can be helpful when training to notice the environment with all your senses is to establish a baseline of what’s normal. Next time you’re at work, your favorite bar, or even the neighborhood grocery store, take a moment to really experience the sights, smells, and sounds. Once you’ve established what’s normal, it’ll be easier to pick up on things that are out of place.

To help further develop your situational awareness skills, you may want to engage in some observational exercises while you’re out and about. Consistently doing so will help you start to notice things you would have otherwise missed. We’ll go over some simple exercises to help you develop your skills next.

Finally, specific situational awareness training is an option that you may find helpful. You can find games and activities online to help you fine-tune your observation skills, or you can attend an SA training session in person with a firearms trainer.

Situational Awareness Exercises

With regular training, the following situational awareness exercises can help you go from condition white to condition yellow in no time:

Escape Routes: This is an easy exercise to do any time you walk into a new room. Next time you go to a new place, take a moment to identify every exit. This will help you build your observational skills and may come in handy if you need to leave quickly.

Take Attendance: Another easy way to build observational skills is to start counting the number of people in any given place. Whether you’re in a convenience store, a coffee shop, or a conference room meeting,take attendance of how many people are there.

You can also do this in parking lots. As you walk to your vehicle, look around you and notice how many people are sitting in their cars. Take note of other people walking in the parking lot and pay attention to which vehicles they are coming or going from.

People Watching: This one is kind of fun. Whenever you’re bored in public, look at the people around you and try to notice everything about them (without staring and creeping them out, obviously. You don’t want to send them into condition orange unnecessarily!).

Notice what people are wearing, how they look, what they have with them, and where they are heading. Based on your observations, try to make up a story about who you imagine they are. Where do they work? What is their personality like? What do you think they’re doing today?

Try to notice enough about them that you could give a detailed description to the police if you had to. Notice small details like whether they’re right- or left-handed, their eye color, any visible tattoos, and anything else that stands out or could be relevant.

On the Road: If you’re like most people, you tend to have the most time to yourself during your daily commute. Luckily, this is also an excellent opportunity to practice your situational awareness skills.

As you drive, keep an eye out for different driving behaviors and just take note. Try to notice which people are texting while stopped at a light, who is dancing to the radio, and how many people are in each car. It’s not only an easy way to become more observant, but it could help you prevent an accident!

Make Eye Contact: If you’re looking for an easy exercise that can be done anywhere, this is it. All you have to do is simply make eye contact with everyone you come across. Whether you’re driving, walking, or waiting in line at the store, make it a point to briefly make eye contact with everyone who comes your way. (Don’t stare, though, as it can come across as creepy or confrontational).

Not only is this a great way to start observing people, but it can also ward off potential attackers. Your body language tells a would-be criminal a lot about whether you’d be a good potential victim, and making eye contact not only shows confidence, which bad guys hate, but now that they know you’ve seen them, they’re less likely to attack.

Summary

It takes time to learn how to develop situational awareness. Simply knowing which color condition you are in and consciously choosing to be more observant can help you avoid potentially dangerous situations or defend yourself if you must.

Certain exercises, like identifying the exits in a building, counting the number of people around you, or otherwise “people watching,” can help you fine-tune your SA skills. Specific situational awareness training sessions are also an option for anyone looking to up their self-defense game.

If you’re looking for belts or holsters, we recommend visiting our Holsters by Gun Model page if you are looking for holsters that are custom-made for your weapon of choice. For all of our belt and holster options and for more information to help you choose the carry system that works best for you, visit our Vedder Holsters website.

Looking for items beyond holsters and belts, check out our Resources Page for popular product links like lights, lasers, first aid, maintenance, and more.

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