One of the cardinal rules for off-body purse carry is not to stash everything you would normally pack into your regular non-carry purse. After all, if the worst-case scenario happens, you need to be able to reach into your purse and access your CCW—and only your CCW—when responding to a threat. When seconds count, the last thing you need to be grasping is a hairbrush, makeup, phone or anything else BUT your pistol. For that reason, many CCW purses intentionally aren’t designed to hold a lot of extra stuff, which admittedly can hinder the decision to carry one of the many stylish concealed-carry bags offered today. It can indeed be difficult some days to edit your purse contents to the bare necessities.
That is why I was so pleasantly surprised when a Smith & Wesson-branded CCW purse inadvertently recently found its way to my desk. Intended for another NRA Media editor, it wasn’t scheduled to be tested by me. After some sleuthing and unraveling the mystery of the sender (GunGoddess), it was mine to test. I couldn’t wait to try this barrel-style bag.
Immediately the roomy interior of the bag is obvious. While you should still limit the quantity of items you stash in your CCW purse, this one lets you add a couple of more things where you don't feel you need to have a second bag with you. Need both your sunglasses and your readers? And your phone? And a small makeup bag? No problem. And, like some other CCW purses, a zippered exterior compartment keeps the pistol discreetly concealed from the rest of the contents you might be carrying. The difference is that the barrel design of the bag is more than ample, allowing you the option of stashing some of those extras small items without interfering with your CCW should you need to access it. It’s amazingly roomy for those of us who carry two phones, a wallet and more.
Moreover, the purse is stunningly fashionable, made from a rich tan-brown cowhide leather. It can be worn from the wrist or, add the strap and carry crossbody. As described online: “This concealed carry bag is not just a fashion statement; it's a thoughtful companion for those who seek a harmonious balance between elegance, convenience, and personal security in their daily journeys.”
We could not agree more. If you’re looking for an aesthetic that crosses over from work to weekend with room for extras, the Smith & Wesson barrel bag is worth looking at. It’s available for $159.99 from multiple suppliers, including GunGoddess, Nineline Apparel, Hiding Hilda, Cozy Home Cottage and Gifts, and others.
Specifications:
- Measurements: 9.5" x 7.5" x 6.5"
- Handle drop: 3.5"
- CCW compartment: 7.5" x 10"
