Concealed Carry for Short and Curvy Women: Complete Guide to Finding Your Perfect Holster

The Unique Challenges of Concealed Carry for Short Women

There are quite a few advantages to being a short girl – you rarely have to duck going on an airplane; you always get to ask the chivalrous ones to grab something from the top shelf; and you get to shop from the cute petite section in the ladies’ department.

Unfortunately, there’s a few drawbacks too – you can’t reach the top shelf; it’s hard to jump up in the pickup truck without a runner; and you rarely can find pants at the right length. All of these things I live with every day.

Some of these short girl issues come into play when you’re trying to find the best way to carry your firearm, too. If you’re like me, short AND curvy, you may face some challenges when trying to find something that’s just right for you.

My Concealed Carry Philosophy: Consistency is Key

My carry goal is to always, or at least 95% of the time, carry on-body. Over the years, I’ve tried so many different types of holsters, belly bands, corsets, thigh holsters, tank tops, and more. You name it, I’ve probably tried it. And to be honest, some have been great and some not so great.

Why I Choose Appendix Carry

My preferred carry holster is used most of the time in the same place, appendix carry, specifically because I want to be consistent with my draw in the same place, most of the time, at a close reach. I think we all agree that what you practice consistently becomes muscle memory in an emergency.

However, I also realize there may be a few times I can’t carry in that same location because of my wardrobe, i.e., wearing a fitted evening gown doesn’t lean towards appendix carry. (Trust me, it can be picked up by television cameras).

Essential Tips for Short and Curvy Concealed Carry

But what I’ve found over time is that being flexible is the key, and it’s not a one size fits all. So here are a few tips I’ve learned along the way from valuable sources and from my own experiences that may help you, the “short and curvy”, find your sweet spot.

1. Assess Your Physical Limitations

First, ask yourself, do you have any physical restrictions on where you can reach? Example: if you have shoulder issues like a rotator cuff issue, reaching behind you to a holster that sits at your hip or anything towards the small of your back, will probably not be the wisest choice for you. You’ll need to practice this draw over and over until you become smooth and safe, and if it becomes painful, you can overdo it and injure yourself.

2. Consider Your Body Type

Second, are you buxom and short waisted? If so, can you reach across your body for a safe cross draw (not muzzling yourself or anyone else)? If not, using a tank top holster, a shoulder rig, or a holster on your opposite side may not be good choice. Another carry location will be best for you.

Best Concealed Carry Options for Short and Curvy Women

Yes, it can be frustrating but there are still lots of options. You know your body best, so find the areas of your body that don’t stick out, and find the areas where things can be hidden. We call these “peaks and valleys”. Peaks will allow holsters to stick out, whereas valleys will give you a great location to conceal.

Belly Bands and Concealment Belts

Belly bands and holster concealment belts are great choices that allow you to carry at your appendix, or at the front of your stomach, high or low, and allows you to wear any type of clothing without a regular belt. I especially love this because I like to wear jeans and dress slacks without a belt.

IWB (Inside the Waistband) Holsters

Another option, is to use an IWB (inside the waist band) holster that clips to your pants with or without a belt. Be careful here though. Without a belt, you’ll need to make sure you have a strong clip on your holster, and I recommend a metal clip or the Ulti-clip, both attaching firmly to your pants and helps the holster not to tilt or flip over when the firearm is in place.

Thigh Holsters for Special Occasions

The last on body concealment choice I love is the thigh holster. Earlier I mentioned wearing an evening gown. The shorts style allows me to have tummy control needed for a tight dress and allows me to have a built-in holster that doesn’t move.

These type of shorts come in your choice of the holster on the inside of your thighs or the outside. The outside holster is definitely more comfortable and conceals well with A-line skirts or dresses, which as you know is great for the curvy figure. But there are times you may need the inside the thigh holster for that right dress. As a short and curvy girl, we look great in fitted dresses too, and this can be your go-to holster for just that occasion.

Safety First: Essential Holster Requirements

Ultimately, your safety is the most important factor when choosing the right way to conceal. Don’t give up. Sometimes it just takes time and the opportunity to try different holsters to see what works for you.

Non-Negotiable Safety Features

In making your final decisions, be sure whichever holster you choose:

• Covers your trigger completely
• Allows you to safely draw from concealment without muzzling yourself or anyone else
• Is made of material that won’t allow an accidental discharge

Leather and kydex are my top choices. If you do use a soft material, like a belly band, be sure to add a kydex trigger guard too.

When On-Body Carry Isn’t Possible

If all else fails, and you’re still struggling with on-body carry, let’s talk purses….