How to Safely Walk With an Unholstered Handgun

Smith & Wesson's GUNSMARTS video clarifies some gun-safety questions you may have been afraid to ask.

posted on July 28, 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 is a competitive shooter with a list of accolades longer than she is tall, but she remembers as well as anyone what it's like to be a beginner. One of the questions that many new shooters have (but are afraid to ask) is about what to do if they need to hand-carry a pistol out of its holster. What does a "safe direction" mean when you're on the move? Is there a special way to hold the handgun to ensure that you're observing the Three Rules of Gun Safety

In this video from S&W's GUNSMARTS series, Golob walks you through what "moving with a gun" means for a beginner versus for a competitive shooter. She'll also demonstrate how to walk safely with your unholstered handgun while explaining exactly why you'll want to copy her moves. These gun-handling skills are the ones you're most likely to need in your day-to-day life, but they can't ever become "casual." 

Latest

Deering Flyways Pacific Flyway
Deering Flyways Pacific Flyway

What’s Up With Flyways?

If you’re not a waterfowl hunter, you might not be familiar with the concept of flyways. What are they, and what are the differences between the different flyways?

The Armed Citizen® Reload April 17, 2026

It's reality TV at its best: A brave hotel clerk is captured on video as she thwarts an armed robbery—and potentially worse—with her own handgun.

From Hawaii To Houston: Finding Fab Female NRA Firearm Training on the Mainland

Frustrated in their search for next-level instruction on the Big Island, two women journey 3,800 miles to Texas for the gold standard in training.

3 Hunting Tips from an Old Game Warden

For a fun, safe and successful hunt, it's best to follow sage advice from the most experienced.

New Guns 2026: Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 38 2.0 Revolver

This enhanced small-frame revolver is intended for personal protection in a compact, lightweight platform.

How to Avoid Panic-Buying Ammo

When is the best time to buy ammo? Right now. 

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.