Concealed-Carry Options for Women: Pros vs. Cons

Learn how to simplify your concealed-carry choices in this latest video from Smith & Wesson's GUNSMARTS series.

posted on August 3, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Smith & Wesson's Julie Golob may have been carrying concealed (not to mention winning shooting competitions) for years, but she does remember what it was like trying to figure out how to carry a concealed gun comfortably. Women who choose to carry a firearm for personal defense have some choices to make about how to do that ... and every choice you'll make has both pros and cons.

In this video from S&W's GUNSMARTS series, Golob takes the gun-industry jargon ("on-body carry" and "off-body carry") and boils it down to its component parts. Is it better for a beginner to carry a concealed gun in a purse or backpack, or does it make more sense to wear the gun directly on the body? The answers are different for everyone, but you won't know what your answer is until you ask the right questions. Watch this video for some very simple tips that will lead you to the right concealed-carry solution for you!

Latest

Deering Ccw Dont 2 Istock 1764000522
Deering Ccw Dont 2 Istock 1764000522

When NOT to Draw Your Gun

If you carry concealed, we hope you’ve given some thought to the circumstances under which you’d draw your gun. But have you thought about when you WON’T?

The Armed Citizen® Reload June 19, 2026

A woman used a revolver she had just purchased to save her husband's life during a violent attack outside their home. 

Kim Rowe Delivers Standout Performances at 2026 NRA National Championships

Rowe earned top honors and multiple podium finishes at both the NRA National High Power Mid-Range Prone Championships and the NRA National High Power Long Range Championships.

New Guns 2026: Ruger Adds More America 250th Anniversary Firearms

Each limited production model in this special collection is distinctly marked with the inscription, "Made in the 250th Year of American Liberty."

Delights for Dad on Father’s Day

Whether Dad is a dedicated hunter, competitive shooter, avid reloader or simply enjoys spending time outside, here's a selection of products that is sure to please.

4 Gun Sayings That Are Absolutely True … and 3 That Aren’t

There are a lot of cliches and one-liners we throw around in the gun community. Some of them are true, but some are just baloney.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.