The Easiest Way to Start Concealed Carry (Beginner’s Guide)

By nick hoffer December 06, 2025

By Nick — Founder of Hoftac Industries & Creator of OMNIcarry

Starting concealed carry can feel overwhelming — new gun, new gear, new rules… and a whole lot of opinions online. So let’s keep this simple. Here’s the easiest, no-nonsense way to start carrying confidently without overthinking every detail.

Step 1: Choose a Gun You Actually Carry

Not the coolest gun.
Not the biggest gun.
Not the gun your buddy insists you “need.”

Choose the one you’ll actually carry daily.

Most beginners start with:

A compact pistol (G19, P320, M&P)
Or a micro-compact (P365, Hellcat, G43X)

Pick something comfortable, reliable, and easy to control.

Step 2: Pick a Holster That Makes Carrying Simple

If the holster isn’t comfortable or easy to use, you won’t carry consistently.

This is exactly why I built OMNIcarry — to make carrying simple, especially for beginners.

Look for:

Good retention (your gun shouldn’t fall out)
Comfortable backer material
Smooth draw
Safe trigger coverage
The option for IWB or OWB depending on your needs

And ideally…
One holster that fits multiple guns (so you’re not buying new gear every time).

Step 3: Start With IWB Carry

Inside-the-waistband (IWB) is the easiest way for beginners to conceal.

Why?

Best concealment
Works with most clothing
Stable and consistent
Easy to learn

Appendix (AIWB) or strong-side around 3–4 o’clock are the two simplest starting points.

Step 4: Learn Your Draw — Slowly and Safely

The draw should feel natural. You shouldn’t have to:

Wiggle
Yank
Fight your holster

Dry fire practice (with an unloaded gun, double-checked) is the fastest way to get comfortable.

Work on:

Clearing your shirt
Grip consistency
Smooth draw, smooth re-holster
Trigger discipline every single time

Practice makes your carry automatic, not stressful.

Step 5: Wear the Right Belt (Huge for Beginners)

Most new carriers skip this step… and pay for it with discomfort.

A sturdy carry belt:

Keeps your holster stable
Prevents sagging
Makes your gun feel lighter
Improves concealment

If your holster moves around, it’s usually the belt — not the holster.

Step 6: Start With Simple Clothing Choices

You don’t need a whole new wardrobe.

Just follow these basics:

Slightly thicker shirts conceal better
Darker colors hide printing
Avoid super tight tops
Hoodies, flannels, jackets = easy carry days

Give yourself permission to learn and adjust as you go.

Step 7: Don’t Stress Over Printing

Every beginner freaks out about printing.

Here’s the truth:
Nobody notices.
People are staring at their phones — not your hip.

Focus on comfort and consistency, not perfection.

Step 8: Carry Daily (Consistency = Confidence)

The fastest way to get comfortable?

Carry every day.

Even around the house while you’re learning.
The more normal it feels, the more confident you become.

How OMNIcarry Makes This Easier

As a beginner, switching guns, adjusting retention, and figuring out IWB vs OWB can get overwhelming fast.

OMNIcarry simplifies all of that with:

Multi-fit design
Adjustable retention plates
Comfortable hybrid backer
IWB and OWB compatibility
Fit for 300+ pistols

It removes the complications — so you can focus on carrying safely and confidently.

Concealed carry doesn’t have to be complicated.
Start with the right gun, a solid holster, a good belt, and a little practice — and you’ll build confidence fast.

And remember… most people overthink this.
Carry simply. Carry consistently. Carry confidently.

like this Blog? see some of our others as well.