Quick answer: Concealed carry hides the gun from view and favors IWB, shoulder and well-fitted OWB holsters under a cover garment. Open carry keeps the gun visible, so it favors OWB holsters with secure retention such as a thumb break. Laws on both vary widely by location, so always check the rules where you live and travel before choosing.
People often use the terms open carry and concealed carry as if they were opposites, but they describe two ways of carrying a holstered handgun that have different legal, practical and equipment considerations. This guide explains how holster choice changes between the two, without pretending to be legal advice.
First, a note on the law
Laws on carrying a handgun in public vary widely across the United States and change over time. Some places allow open carry without a permit, others require one, and some restrict it. The same is true of concealed carry. You can read a neutral overview of the concealed carry and open carry landscape, but you should always confirm the current rules with your state or local authorities before you carry. Many places, such as schools, government buildings and airports, restrict carrying entirely.
What is concealed carry?
Concealed carry means keeping a handgun hidden from view, usually under clothing. The goal is to carry without drawing attention to the gun. People often choose this for everyday carry at work and in public, because it draws less notice. Our beginner guide to concealed carry explains the basics.
What is open carry?
Open carry means carrying the gun visibly in a holster, usually on the belt. It is common in rural areas, on the range and while hunting or working outdoors where the law allows it. Because the holster is exposed, it must be secure, comfortable and well-made.
Holsters for concealed carry
- IWB holsters hide the gun inside the waistband under an untucked shirt. See our IWB holsters and the guide to IWB comfort.
- Shoulder holsters carry under a jacket and are comfortable for long seated or driving days. See our shoulder holsters.
- OWB pancake holsters can be concealed by a longer shirt, jacket or vest. See what a pancake holster is.
OWB leather holsters with secure retention
Holsters for open carry
Open carry usually calls for an OWB holster with strong retention. A pancake holster with a thumb break is a classic choice because the strap secures the gun over the back of the frame until you release it. Our OWB range includes models for the Glock, 1911, Beretta, CZ 75 and many revolvers; see the full OWB holster collection and our OWB guide.
When the holster is visible, retention matters even more, because the gun is easier for others to see and reach. Our guide to picking the right retention holster goes into detail.
Key differences at a glance
| Factor | Concealed carry | Open carry |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Hidden under clothing | Visible on the belt |
| Typical holster | IWB, shoulder, OWB with cover | OWB, often with thumb break |
| Clothing | Needs a cover garment | Flexible |
| Retention priority | Important | Very important |
| Draw speed | Depends on clothing | Typically fastest |
| Legal rules | Vary by location | Vary by location |
Practical considerations
Comfort and clothing
For concealed carry, your clothes must hide the holster and gun, and your belt must be stiff enough to carry the weight. For open carry, comfort for long hours is the main factor. See our gun belt guide for what to look for.
Security and awareness
A visible gun draws attention, which some people prefer and others do not. Whatever you choose, the holster must secure the gun and cover the trigger guard. Read our holster safety rules.
Spare magazines
Many people carry a spare magazine in a pouch on the belt. Our magazine pouch guide explains how to choose one.
Awareness and etiquette
Whether you carry openly or concealed, the way you carry matters. If you open carry where it is legal, expect questions and attention, stay calm and polite, and keep the holster secure. If you carry concealed, be aware of how your clothing moves when you bend or reach, so the gun is not exposed unintentionally. In both cases, maintain good safety habits; see our holster safety rules.
Cars, travel and workplaces
Rules about carrying in vehicles, across state lines and in workplaces vary a great deal. Some places treat a loaded gun in a car differently from one on your body, and some employers have their own policies. Check the rules before you travel and never assume that what is allowed at home is allowed elsewhere. A neutral overview is available at concealed carry in the United States, but your state and local authorities are the authority on what applies to you.
Choosing clothing to match your carry style
- For concealed IWB carry, an untucked shirt in a darker, textured fabric is easiest.
- For concealed OWB or shoulder carry, add a jacket, vest or overshirt that covers the holster.
- For open carry, choose a sturdy belt and a holster with strong retention.
Choosing the right holster for how you carry
If you carry concealed, start with a comfortable IWB or shoulder holster and a good belt. If you carry openly where it is legal, choose a quality OWB holster with strong retention. If you do both, many people own two holsters. Our holster buying guide helps you decide.
We offer handmade leather holsters, free U.S. shipping on orders over $99, 30-day returns on our Easy Returns page and a lifetime warranty on stitching and hardware. As always, know and follow the law where you live and travel.
Key takeaways
- Open and concealed carry are legal in different ways in different places; always check your local laws before you carry.
- Concealed carry favors IWB, shoulder and OWB holsters under a cover garment.
- Open carry favors OWB holsters with strong retention, such as a thumb break.
- Good belts, quality holsters and training matter more than the label you give the carry style.
- This guide is general information, not legal advice.
Leather holsters designed for discreet carry
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between open carry and concealed carry?
Open carry means carrying a firearm visibly, usually in a holster on the belt. Concealed carry means keeping it hidden from view, usually under clothing. The legal requirements for each, including permits, differ by location.
What holster is best for open carry?
An OWB holster with strong retention is a common choice, such as a pancake holster with a thumb break. It keeps the gun secure when you move around in public. Check your local laws on how and where open carry is allowed.
What holster is best for concealed carry?
IWB holsters hide the gun most easily, while shoulder holsters and OWB holsters can also work under a jacket or long shirt. The best choice depends on your clothing, gun size and comfort.
Do I need a permit to carry?
It depends on where you live and travel. Some places require a permit for open or concealed carry, others do not. Check the current laws with your state or local authorities, and keep in mind that laws can change.
Can I use the same holster for open and concealed carry?
An OWB holster can often be used for both, depending on your clothing and the law. An IWB holster is made for concealed carry. Always use a holster the way the maker intended.
This guide is general information, not legal or professional advice. Always follow your firearm manufacturer's instructions, practice the basic rules of firearm safety, and make sure you understand the laws that apply where you live.