You have to admit… Getting your first gun and your concealed carry permit, if your state requires it, are probably two of the most exciting moments as a gun owner.

And, if you got both and actually intend to carry your firearm wherever you go, there are several questions that pop up.

Questions such as, “What holster and ammunition should I use? Do I have to carry one in the chamber?” And, “In what position should I carry in; appendix, my side, 4 o’clock?”

All excellent questions. I’ve made videos on how to pick the right ammunition and whether to carry one in the chamber so you can watch them after. I left links in the description for those.

So, today, I’ll stick to what position is best to carry in. So, let’s get to it.

The main 3 positions you’ll find among gunowners who carry are appendix, 3 o’clock, and “4:30”.

When I started carrying, I chose 3 o’clock. I also didn’t carry one in the chamber and had a manual safety. I wasn’t yet confident enough to carry the way I do today, which is Appendix carry, with a round in the chamber and no manual safety. I practiced every day with dryfire and went to the range once a week. Habits I still have today.

I tried carrying and practicing with all 3 positions, and this is what I found:

The 4:30 position:

I found oftentimes that my garment would get stuck or not adequately clear the pistol because I had to reach further around my frame, don’t even go there, and with more effort, to clear it. Otherwise, my hand tended to grab the shirt and the gun, which would not lead to a smooth draw.

I could not count on my draw being natural, consistent, and smooth.

Also, since I carry on my person when I drive, sitting with a gun on my back is uncomfortable. And with a seatbelt on, trying to retrieve my gun in an instant will be a challenge that may cost me precious seconds.

Lastly, if I happen to fall on my back, for example, I was pushed to the ground in a fight, I may get injured falling on my gun. also, reaching behind my back for a gun while on my back will be much harder.

Now, if you intend to open-carry the garment issue is gone, but the rest may still be a challenge.

The 3 o’clock position:

That felt more natural to me, and also improved the garment issue. Falling on my side is not as likely either, and if I am on my back in a fight I can still reach for it if I had to. I also wasn’t ready to have a loaded firearm pointing at my manhood and femoral artery.

The seatbelt IS an issue when driving as the seatbelt buckle is resting on the gun. Again, that can cost me seconds I cannot afford when reacting to a fast and sudden violent attack.

I carried in this position for a few months and practiced regularly to be proficient. I could have maintained that carry position, but once I tried the Appendix version I found it to be the best one for me.

The Appendix position:

The first few weeks were awkward. I was worried about printing, which means someone can see there’s a gun under my shirt. I had to change my wardrobe to allow for extra space so I could avoid printing as much as possible.

Now, in Florida printing is not illegal, but being discreet is still smart for a whole lot of reasons. So, make sure you’re familiar with your local laws on the matter.

It took a while to carry with a round in the chamber, and when I started it was really strange. I like the idea of the firearm being in front of me. There is less chance of someone going for it without me seeing it coming.

If my hands are up in front of me in a defensive posture, it’s the shortest distance they have to travel to clear the garment and draw my pistol.

When I’m driving, it’s the most easily accessible from a concealed position. I don’t take the seatbelt off or adjust my posture at all to draw my gun.

So, for me, appendix carry is the preferred method. It is not as comfortable as the 3 o’clock position when going about your daily life, but at this point it’s an afterthought.

As I briefly mentioned before, the thought of having a loaded gun pointing at your private parts and a major artery can be disconcerting. However, although not impossible as almost nothing is, the probability is so low that, in my humble opinion, is as close to impossible with today’s quality firearms.

With all the safety features embedded in today’s firearms, the trigger must be pulled for the gun to go off. A good holster made of hard material such as kydex, and that covers the trigger completely, will keep that from happening.

The holster should be resting on a solid belt that will not bend or buckle under the weight of the gun. And that is true whether you carry open or concealed.

Now, there are stories out there of gun owners who carry a gun and end up shooting themselves accidentally. That rarely happens when they draw the firearm from the holster, but rather when they place the gun back in it.

It is completely preventable with the right technique. So, I urge you to take a class with a certified instructor to learn how to safely and responsibly carry in a holster.

And even if you’re a top-notch holster monster, if you’re that concerned about an accidental discharge while carrying, then just carry without a round in the chamber. Again, make sure to watch that video for my opinion on that.

Whichever way you choose to carry, you’re right.

It’s a personal preference, and your lifestyle and circumstances will dictate your choice. The key is to train and practice your technique regularly and safely under different circumstances, and an experienced instructor can help you with that.

So, go on, get some training and start carrying. Hopefully, you’ll never need it, but remember, it only takes once to make you wish you did.