Purchasing your first concealed carry gun is an exciting milestone, whether you’re a new shooter or helping a loved one start their firearms journey. However, owning a reliable handgun is only part of the equation. To carry safely and effectively, you need the right accessories from the start.
1. Range and Self-Defense Ammunition
When buying your first concealed carry gun, ammunition is a critical consideration. Many new shooters make the mistake of purchasing just one box of range ammo, thinking it’s enough to get started. However, you need both range ammunition for practice and self-defense ammunition for real-world protection. Here’s why:
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Range Ammo: Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) rounds are cost-effective for training, allowing you to practice and test your firearm’s reliability. Aim to buy at least 100 rounds to familiarize yourself with your gun and ensure it functions properly.
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Self-Defense Ammo: Unlike FMJ rounds, self-defense rounds (such as hollow points) are designed to stop a threat by transferring energy into the target, reducing the risk of over-penetration that could harm bystanders. Always have at least one box of quality self-defense ammo for your carry load.
Using FMJ ammo for self-defense is risky, as it can pass through a target and pose a danger to others. By investing in both types of ammo, you’ll be ready to train effectively and carry with confidence.
Pro Tip: Test your self-defense ammo at the range to confirm it cycles reliably in your firearm. This ensures your gun performs as expected in a critical moment.
2. A Quality Kydex Holster
A proper holster is non-negotiable for safe concealed carry. Many new shooters opt for cheap, universal cloth holsters as a temporary solution, but these often lack proper retention and safety features. Instead, invest in a quality Kydex holster tailored to your specific firearm. Here’s why it matters:
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Safety: A Kydex holster is molded to fit your gun precisely, ensuring secure retention and preventing accidental trigger access, which could lead to a negligent discharge.
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Comfort and Reliability: Custom Kydex holsters stay in place all day, offering comfort and confidence whether you’re carrying appendix, hip, or small-of-back.
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Quick Access: Many manufacturers, like ANR Design, offer customizable options and quick-ship models, so you don’t have to wait weeks for a custom order.
Avoid universal holsters, as they often fail to secure the firearm properly. Plan ahead by ordering your holster when you purchase your gun to ensure it’s ready when you need it.
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3. A Lockable Case for Secure Storage
Safety doesn’t end when you’re not carrying your firearm. If you have children, roommates, or visitors who may not be familiar with gun safety, a lockable case is essential for storing your handgun when it’s not on your person. Here’s why this is a must-have:
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Child Safety: A lockable case prevents unauthorized access, protecting curious kids or untrained individuals from handling your firearm.
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Compliance and Peace of Mind: Most firearms come with a factory hard case and a cable lock, which are sufficient for basic security. Use these to secure your gun when it’s not in use.
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Scalability: As your collection grows, you can upgrade to a gun safe or even a dedicated gun room, but a lockable case is an affordable starting point.
Responsible gun ownership means ensuring your firearm is secure at all times. A lockable case is a simple yet vital step in preventing accidents.
Final Thoughts on Your First Concealed Carry Setup
Purchasing your first concealed carry gun is a significant step, but it’s only the beginning. By investing in range and self-defense ammunition, a quality Kydex holster, and a lockable case, you’ll be well-equipped to carry safely and responsibly. These items, combined with proper training from a reputable instructor, will set you up for success as a concealed carry permit holder.