How to Effectively Use Ankle Carry?

Concealed carry is the practice of carrying a weapon in a way that is not visible to others. Concealed carry offers a variety of methods for hiding your firearm and ensuring your firearm remains accessible at every point in time. Among these options, ankle carry remains superior and versatile as it is most accessible among all other options, and it is easy to hide a weapon on your ankle without getting it noticed by anyone. However, an ankle carry may require some considerations, such as using the right holster, proper techniques, and regular practice of carrying the weapon.

Understanding Ankle Carry

Ankle carry is a type of concealed carry where an individual carries a weapon just above his ankle using a specialized holster. This method is frequently used since it offers deep concealment, which makes it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to conceal their firearm in settings where discretion is crucial. 

Ideal Scenarios for Ankle Carry:

• Backup firearms: Many professionals use ankle carry to carry secondary weapons.
• Seated positions: This method of carrying a concealed weapon is very dominant when you are in a sitting position.
• Light clothing: Ankle carry provides a discrete option when waistband carry isn’t practical.

Determining whether ankle carry is the best concealed carry choice for your needs and lifestyle requires an understanding of its pros and cons. When done properly, it can be a dependable and useful personal safety solution.

Selecting the Right Ankle Holster

Choosing the right ankle holster is essential for ensuring comfort, accessibility, and safety while carrying a weapon. 

Key features to look for in a holster:

• Comfort and fit: A holster must be comfortable and not burden the body. For a better fit, look for breathable materials and adjustable straps. A tight fit around your ankle is ensured with adjustable straps, which minimize undesired movement while engaging in activities.
• Retention and security: An ideal holster should securely carry your weapon, avoiding accidental dislodging. For additional safety, consider a holster with adjustable retention levels or thumb break straps.
• Ease of accessibility: Quick access to weapons is an important factor to consider when selecting a holster. Choose a holster that allows you to smooth the withdrawal of a weapon.

Top Ankle Holster Recommendations:

Blackhawk Ankle Black Cordura 1000D Holster:

These Blackhawk ankle holsters are comfortable enough to wear against skin due to soft knit fabric, and the closed cell foam acts as a moisture barrier and provides padding for comfort. They also feature a molded thumb break and non-stretch retention strap.

Blackhawk 40AH12BKR Ankle Black Cordura 1000D:

The Blackhawk ankle holster is comfortable enough to wear against skin due to the soft knit fabric, and the closed cell foam acts as a moisture barrier and provides padding for comfort. It also features a molded thumb break and a non-stretch retention strap. This model is compatible with Glock 26/27/33.

Proper Techniques for Ankle Carry

Effective use of the ankle carry method requires acquiring the right skills to guarantee both speed and safety. You can rely on ankle carry as a practical concealed carry option if you have a safe and comfortable setup and practice consistently. 

1. Strapping the holster correctly: Place the holster directly above the ankle in your non-dominant leg. Drawing the weapon with your dominant hand will be easier as a result. Test for stability by walking, jogging, or moving around. The holster should stay snug and comfortable at all times.
2. Achieving quick accessibility: Practice reaching for the weapon on a regular basis, including kneeling over, gripping, and drawing out the weapon. Since ankle carry is ineffective as a concealed carry alternative, rapid accessibility is necessary.
3. Ensuring safety during use: Avoid keeping your finger on the trigger until the firearm is fully drawn and ready to use, ensure your pant is not tangled with the firearm, and carry loose pants for easy access.
4. Minimizing detection: Select clothing that conceals enough without causing the holster to protrude. Pay attention to how your jeans move when you’re doing things to avoid unintentionally exposing the holster.

Situational Awareness and Accessibility

Ankle carry can be a discreet and effective concealed carry method. However, situational awareness is crucial for its effectiveness, making sure that weapons are available when you need them most. You can utilize the ankle carry technique for self-defense with confidence if you are aware of its special difficulties and have prepared for them. 

Prioritizing situational awareness: Always be mindful of your surroundings, especially when you are in a crowded place, and identify potential cover, exits, and threats in every situation. Position yourself in a way that minimizes the need for rapid, complex movements to access your firearm.

Techniques for ensuring accessibility:

• Prepare your clothing by wearing pants that have enough room at the ankle to lift the fabric quickly without snagging.
• Always avoid tight clothing that could hinder access to firearms. 
• Always use your non-dominant hand to lift your pants.

Clothing Choices for Ankle Carry

Pants styles and fits that work best

Loose-fitting pants, particularly cargo pants, are ideal for carrying a firearm. Boot-cut or straight-fit styles also work well for ankle carry. Choosing pants made from stretchable or flexible fabric can make accessing your weapon easier.

Additionally, avoid skinny and tapered fits as they may increase the chances of getting the weapon revealed.

Managing concealment 

Ensure the length of your pants is good enough to hide the weapon even when you are sitting or running. Wear pants that are slightly longer than usual (approx 1.5-2 inches). Choose thick fabrics over thinner ones, such as denim or wool, to effectively mask the firearm’s outline.

Footwear considerations for stability and balance

Wear shoes that go well with your setup, such as boots, which can help conceal the gun and stabilize the holster. Sneakers and other low-cut shoes are good for ankle carry as long as they don’t get in the way of drawing or re-holstering. Ankle-supporting footwear reduces discomfort and helps balance the firearm’s added weight.

Conclusion

Ankle carry offers a discreet and reliable concealed carry solution when executed properly. By understanding the working and purpose of ankle carry, choosing the right ankle holster according to your need and comfort, analyzing the proper techniques of ankle carry, acknowledging situational awareness and accessibility, and choosing the right clothing while carrying the weapon, you can carry the concealed weapon more efficiently without getting it traced.

With the right approach, this method can enhance your confidence and readiness, ensuring that you’re prepared to protect yourself and others when it matters most.