Concealed Carry for Women

Concealed Carry For Larger Women

Women have multiple challenges carrying a firearm. Many of those challenges are due to the curves and shorter waists of the female body. Concealed carry for larger women has some additional issues that only exacerbate the already challenging problem of finding holsters that can be worn comfortably, discreetly, safely and allow for effective access to the gun should the need arise. Most holsters are designed by men for a man’s body and for clothing styles designed for men. For larger, full-figured women the challenges are even greater.

A large bust makes reaching for the firearm difficult and sometimes impossible if crossing the body is necessary. A fuller middle also interferes with reach and accessibility. Clothing styles and options that accommodate concealed carry are limited, which only adds to the problems and frustrations. For some women, the combination of these challenges makes typical methods of concealed carry so uncomfortable and frustrating that they give up trying.

Common Issues Of Concealed Carry For Larger Women

Each woman will have her own set of challenges. Why? Because every woman’s body is unique. The concealed carry issues faced by larger women are significant and the topic is often neglected. Here, I will attempt to break down the problems shared by hundreds of women. These Women share advice and ideas that work for them. There is no single solution to the various problems larger women have with concealed carry.  I hope to offer two things: First – as a larger woman you are not alone and many women share your frustrations. Secondly, here you will find a suggestion or two that will be helpful to you. All women need to push through and overcome their particular obstacles because if your gun is not on or with you – it can’t protect you.

Large Bust


Buxom women shared a few key issues pertaining to full-sized busts and concealed carry. The primary issue is the challenge to reach the holstered firearm. They simply can’t get around their breasts to get to their gun. Whether holstered in a shoulder, cross-body,  in or on the waistband holster, even a bra holster. One might assume that a bra holster would work well, given that large breasts create sufficient “hiding space” for a gun. Interestingly, the majority of the women responded that bra holsters didn’t work for them. They said the gun “gets lost” and is extremely hard to draw. Sweat under the breasts was another key negative commonly shared by a larger chested woman.

Wide Around The Middle

Being wide around the middle restricts the ability to reach the holstered concealed carry gun, especially with bra holsters and in/on the waistband holsters (whether appendix or cross body). The need to wear looser stretch pants with elastic waistbands also limits the possible options for in/on the waistband holsters as they need the support of either a sturdy wide belt or a substantial and tight waistband. Having a large middle also makes it tough to access an ankle holster. Another common frustration of concealed carry for larger women is that the grip of the gun digs into them in most on-the-waist forms of carrying.

Short Waist

Many women have a waist shorter than men do. This makes drawing from an on-the-hip holster difficult. There simply is not enough room to fully clear the firearm without running a fist into the underarm or breast. The more of you there is in that shorter distance, the tougher this becomes. The distance is simply not sufficient for an effective draw. Most on-the-hip holsters ride too high, which only makes things worse. When you factor in elastic or weak waistbands and it becomes almost impossible.

Some Suggestions For Concealed Carry For Larger Women from Larger Women

Comfort Carry Belly Band

TWAW Comfort Carry Belly Band

So, what can you do to make concealed carry more comfortable and effective for you as a larger woman? This depends on your climate, and anyone of the above issues or a combination of them. There were some common areas of agreement amongst the women we polled. The majority found the belly band to be a very good option. It can be rotated to any position around the middle. Belly bands can be worn high or low or on the middle. This allows the user to find the location most comfortable for her and that provides the easiest access to her gun. Unfortunately, a common complaint was that in warmer weather, belly bands can be hot to wear.

An Option for Larger Chested Woman

An alternative suggested by very large chested women was using an inside-the-waistband holster like The TWAW Slim Carry Holster but clipping it to the top of the bra near the armpit. So the gun lies on the top corner of the breast, not under it. A simple reach through the collar of the shirt allows for easy access.

 

 

 

Carrying the firearm on the waist with a loose fitting cover shirt or in the pants, off the back of the hip, more toward the small of the back was another successful position for many of the larger chested, wider middle women. The middle and the bust do not come into play which allows for smoother access. Whenever holstering on the back, however, a woman must be hyper-alert to her surroundings as she may be more vulnerable to another person gaining access to it from behind.

 

Options If You Don’t’ Wear a Belt

The Sticky Holster, which will stick firmly in place because the of material and tension of your waistband without the need of a clip was another popular option for in-the-waistband carry. Many women reported to me that because of the non-slip qualities of the material – you can place the firearm in any location and it stays put, making it ideal for stretch waistbands.

 

 

 

Another suggested option is a magnetic outside-the-waistband holster, which instead of a metal clip, uses a very strong magnet that locks shut over the waistband. A belt is not required. The strength of the magnet provides the necessary support. Also available are paddle holsters which slide down the inside of the pants, acting as a brace to keep the holster in place when no belt is available.

 

 

For larger women who happen to be long waisted, a very positive solution is to wear low rise pants. The lowered waistband will increase the distance between the grip of the gun and the armpit. Adjusting the location to just off the hip (front or back) and adjusting the cant to a steeper angle for easier access is also effective.

For women whose middles were “in the middle”, the most successful reported option was in-the-waistband, appendix-style carry. With the gun is carried in the fleshy front (in front of the hip bone) it was found to be a very comfortable carry position. Also, providing good access to the waist area.

 

The ankle holster was suggested by many women who deal with a large bust and shorter waist issues, but this option is reported as ineffective for women who are larger in the middle as noted earlier.

The Last Option – A Concealed Carry Purse

The last and most reluctantly suggested option for most of these women is carrying in a concealed carry purse or fanny pack. Carrying a concealed gun in an external bag takes an extra dose of awareness and responsibility. For many women, it can be the difference between carrying and not carrying. When this is your only option, the gun must be in a holster with the trigger fully covered. The firearm must be in a separate compartment within the bag. There are just too many items in the purse that can get in the trigger guard and contribute to an accidental discharge. The bag must be on you and with you at all times. Having the gun in a separate compartment also makes access easier and faster. No fumbling around – you know right where it is.

The Importance Of Practice

Practice is essential when wearing any new holster or when changing the position of the one you already use. The utmost care must be taken to not “cover” yourself at any time during holstering and un-holstering. Practice with your UNLOADED gun (checking it 3 times) to get comfortable and effective with the new holster and location.

Our ability to carry a concealed gun is a powerful equalizer for women when assaulted. For many large women, running away or running for cover may not be a realistic option. She must be able to access her gun quickly, safely and with the skill necessary to defend herself. That requires at least three things: First, the gun must be with her. Second, it must be holstered in a manner and location that SHE can manage. Third, she must be well-trained and prepared to draw and use it effectively.

A sincere thanks to all the women who bravely shared their stories, challenges, and photos with The Well Armed Woman. Hearing about your struggles and sharing what works for you will no doubt help others.

Also see article on Beretta USA

 

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27 thoughts on “Concealed Carry For Larger Women

  1. Isela Caples says:

    These are all really good options. But coming from a signing agent, I wear dresses and blazers. I would like for someone to developed a holster for the shoulders that can be worn with a dress and not need to attached by a belt to hold it down. I can’t pick up my whole dress for a belt band. The though holder isn’t strong enough. can’t anyone help?

  2. Peanut says:

    I too am looking into this. But day i am an office worker, stretch capris, or fairly loose capri jeans, or sweats, and. T-shirt is my normal wear. Now, sometimes during or, or even after, you NEVER know what I’m getting into. Climbing g in a loader to dish out hay for the cattle, crawling under the car to fix god knows what, up a latter to Install cameras, sticking arm inside cow, butchering hog, stitching up someone/thing… seriously with me you just never ever know. I do not carry a purse, for me that would double as a toolbag. I need something that is comfy, no under boob stuff… books get in the way as it is, for example, wiggling Into a small opening, popping one boob in at a time, no place for a holster there. I have a rounder belly, with a crease in the middle from where my pants sit, effectively giving.me upper and lower belly. Belly band won’t work I already know it. I pi der if theres anything out there I can use for inside pants without belt, sometimes my paints are looser, dont need em to drop.down. there an inside belt garter belt type design out there? My pants could fit over that and I do t have to worry about it dropping g when in the bathroom? Women’s pants have suck ass pockets… so they arent an option.

    1. Carrie Lightfoot says:

      Maybe you could try some concealment wear? Either the undershirt Tank or the Undershorts?

  3. CB says:

    Hello. Thank you for this article. There is definitely not enough info out there for “curvy” women. I am working on getting my LTC and have been looking for information or videos on how women of different sizes carry. Most of the videos I have found are women who have a tiny toothpick sized waist (not me). I have several holsters for my CCWs but I am looking for something that is COMFORTABLE that I will actually wear/use and be practical. I am not the leggings or dress type (at least not in public, LOL) and I don’t really like carrying a purse. I wear jeans/jean capris and a t-shirt pretty much everyday and I like my jeans to fit “snug”. My mid section does overlap a bit making in-the-waist holsters uncomfortable and make the grip stick out, outside-the-waist ones make a very noticeable print. I have tried only one belly band but it is too big and won’t stay in place, plus where I live, I’m afraid it will not be a good option in the summer. I know it is not really the safest but I am almost to the point of a fanny pack, cross body bag or something similar. I will check out your website for available options before I “pull the trigger” on my next holster and/or bag purchase.

    1. Judy says:

      Hi have rhe exact same problem you do body and clothes wise. I have tried everything. It is irritating that even companies that make women CC options are for size 2 women. I finally had to give in and embrace using a conceal carry purse and “fanny pack”. Better to have something than nothing. I actually had some mention on a walk that she liked my fanny pack. It is a nice bright pink and she had no clue. All the best.

  4. Beverly Hutchinson says:

    Thank you for posting this article it covered all of my problems except menopause. I like the belt but I live in Florida and between the menopause and the Florida heat I find it easier for me to carry in a crossbody bag. I just purchased a Cross-Body Pistol Bag and so far I really like it. There is plenty of room for a small, medium, or large gun and lots of space for everything else women carry.

  5. Pat says:

    The belly band seems to be my best option for one reason. It is not a problem for those occasions you have to go to the restroom. Anything else that goes on the waistband is a problem.

  6. GR Secord says:

    I with someone would make those CC tank tops/camis as a body suit. I’ve never worn a compression garment that didn’t roll, even though every single one says they don’t.

    1. Beverly Hutchinson says:

      I agree with you that would be a good idea

  7. Cheryl says:

    Thank you so much for this!! I am so happy to see some real info for women who aren’t build like stick figures. Can’t wait to show hubby and do a little research to figure out what might work best for me. And rest assured, he will have me practicing until I am so comfortable wearing it that I will feel naked without it.

  8. Dena says:

    I have a belly band and MANY holsters. The belly band is hot and rolls but is by far more comfortable than any holster. I have found some zip up tanks that I am going to try. Very expensive. Anyone have any experience?

    1. Tricia Ewing says:

      I wear tank tops with holsters under the armpit. I’m a size 16-18 or a 1X-2X and this is a very comfortable fit.. the tanks are made of lycra and with a nice flowing shirt they conceal nicely. I’ve tried a belly band before but I hate the way the one I have rolls. I love the idea of the belly band and so I don’t have to hold my gun when I use the restroom and I’m wearing my belt holster.

      1. Cece says:

        Thanks for the tips!

      2. Carla Morgan says:

        What kind of tank top with holster do you use?

  9. kalamazoo says:

    I own a Marilyn by flashbang holsters. You wear it in your bra and draw it from the top of your shirt. The weapon is positioned with the barrel pointing toward your armpit and the grip is above your breast. It stays put with a clip and a strap. I love it. I have large breasts and tummy

  10. Becca says:

    I found myself trying to search for tactical pants a few weeks and and my searches for what i wanted were coming up empty and I was really resisting typing in “tactical leggings” because I didn’t want old navy tacti-cool fashion stuff, j wanted tactical pants that had some stretch and a soft waistband and tighter legs. I finally gave up and googled tactical leggings, which did produce a few options. I still haven’t found what I wanted but as a fellow leggings wearer- I get it lol. In my car bag, I actually carry a tactical belt because if something happened and I needed to get home or get to safety, I can’t be walking around pulling my pants up and chances are I’m gonna have leggings on. So my tactical belt can be thrown on, firearm clipped to that, small molle bag with flashlight and batteries and some other stuff, knife, tomahawk, whatever else. And then a loose light jacket that I can throw on over the whole rig to help conceal it. This is for something extreme though, not for everyday concealed carry.

  11. LelaBelle says:

    Thank God! I have been trying to find other “curvy” women who live in leggings like I do and figure out how they carry… I was starting to think that I was the only one!

    1. Ashley says:

      I have a warfyter holster for my 380 and it works perfect to clip onto my leggings. Only problem is when I pull my gun I sometimes get a wedgie alas that is a small price to pay. I also run with a group of ladies and one of us is always armed. I clip mine onto the inside of my running pants and it doesnt budge. They seem to always be adjusting when they carry. I’m 5′ tall which of course I have a short (and round) waist so concealment is sometimes hard, but my holster makes it a lot easier.

  12. Vee says:

    I would love to see a more in depth article on this! I do the belly band but i get so hot in the summer.

  13. Mik neetso says:

    This is very informative. Thank you for posting this read. I am a large woman with a full chest and short waist. I have tried several conceal carry items and none have worked for me or comfortable. I had a man (believe it or not lol) mention the belly band. So I tried one one and waa laa perfect and can draw within 2.1 seconds. (my husband times me, he’s not as quick on the draw he says) I wear it right under my breast in a comfortable position as to where all I have to do is raise my shirt very little and I have complete control. I recommend a belly band for all women, at least have one on hand. They can be a bit expensive but I ordered online at half the price of stores. Again thank you for the breakdown of the read as to there aren’t many reads for larger women on concealed carry. I prefer cc just for the fact of not wanting anyone to see my firearm and try to take advantage of a situation. It’s the ultimate surprise if a situation ever occurs…. Be safe, think safe and stay safe..

    1. Marcy Taylor says:

      I have a belly band but because I am larger I found that is rolls and is not as comfortable as I would like. I do not carry my gun as often as I want because I have not found a comfortable way to carry concealed. The belts are to thick and heavy, a clip on pulls your pants down, lol and the one in your bra well just trying to get to it is a joke. My husband is on my case about carrying it always and I need to but just can not find the right fit. It may be the gun I have S&W Shield. I am looking for another that is not so heavy and has an easier slide. Any suggestions would be welcome.

      1. Scandalousrumor says:

        Sig 365 9mm, Smith Wesson ez .38

      2. Mike says:

        S&W Shield EZ 380

      3. Sheila Brown says:

        I also have a S&W Shield, but have recently found the SCCY CPX-3 that is a 380 and is very easy to rack the slide back. It fits very well in my hands (which are not small). I’m very happy with replacing Shield with this as my carry option!

      4. Beverly Hutchinson says:

        I also am a big woman and have a hard time finding anything that allows me to conceal carry. I just bought a Cross Body Pistol Bag that I carry in the front because it is easier on my back. So far I like it and I carry a Walther PK 380 and I love it because it is light and the slide is very easy.

  14. Malena says:

    Thank you – this topic is NOT covered enough! I’m a new carrier. I see women with flat stomachs carry appendix a lot – but it seems that my round belly would make that more difficult, especially when sitting. I have a butt, too, which makes carrying at 4 or 5 o-clock a challenge unless I’m wearing a tent. Belly bands are a no-go because it’s just too warm here. I don’t wear a belt, so right now I use a Remora holster, but I’m going to try a Kydex holster with a clip that grabs on to the fabric. I’m going to keep trying!

  15. Namrag says:

    Thank you, thank you, thank you! You addressed many of issues, especially being buxom and needing an elastic waist. Two issues you did not address are finding a curved belt that accommodated a larger middle without digging into the belly and left hand holsters. Any thoughts and/or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

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