Is a Shoulder Holster Open Carry? Understanding Concealed vs. Open Carry with Shoulder Holsters
The question of whether a shoulder holster constitutes open carry or concealed carry is nuanced and depends heavily on several factors: the specific firearm, the holster design, the clothing worn, and most importantly, the laws of your state or jurisdiction. There's no single, universally applicable answer.
Let's break down the key considerations:
What Constitutes Open Carry?
Open carry generally means a firearm is readily visible to the public. This isn't necessarily a matter of intentional display, but rather the lack of any attempt to conceal the weapon. If a reasonably observant person could easily see the firearm, it's generally considered open carry, regardless of the holster type.
What Constitutes Concealed Carry?
Concealed carry means the firearm is completely hidden from view by clothing or other means. A person should not be able to readily see the firearm.
Shoulder Holsters and the Gray Area
Shoulder holsters fall into a gray area because they can be used for both open and concealed carry, depending on the circumstances:
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Open Carry with a Shoulder Holster: If the firearm's grip and a significant portion of the weapon are visible, even partially, under a light jacket or shirt, it's likely considered open carry. This is especially true if the holster is designed to sit high on the shoulder, allowing the weapon to be seen easily.
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Concealed Carry with a Shoulder Holster: Concealed carry with a shoulder holster is possible, but requires careful consideration. The firearm needs to be completely covered by sufficiently thick and opaque clothing. A heavy coat or jacket might effectively conceal a firearm in a shoulder holster, while a light shirt or blouse likely wouldn't.
State and Local Laws: The Decisive Factor
The most crucial element in determining whether a shoulder holster constitutes open or concealed carry is your state's or locality's specific laws. These laws vary widely, and some may define open carry and concealed carry in ways that differ from the general descriptions above. Some states may have specific regulations about the types of holsters permitted for open or concealed carry.
Always check your local and state laws before carrying a firearm in any holster, including a shoulder holster. Failure to comply with these laws can result in serious legal consequences.
Factors Influencing Open Carry vs. Concealed Carry with a Shoulder Holster:
- Holster Design: Some shoulder holsters are designed to be more concealing than others. Holsters that sit lower and are less bulky might offer better concealment.
- Clothing: The type of clothing worn significantly impacts visibility. A bulky jacket offers more concealment than a thin shirt.
- Body Type: A larger individual might more easily conceal a firearm in a shoulder holster than a smaller individual.
- Firearm Size: Larger firearms are generally more difficult to conceal than smaller ones.
Conclusion:
Whether a shoulder holster constitutes open or concealed carry is not a simple yes or no answer. It's crucial to understand your local and state laws, consider the firearm and holster design, and assess your clothing and body type to determine the legality and safety of your chosen carry method. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and consult with legal counsel or law enforcement to ensure you are carrying legally and safely. Ignorance of the law is not a defense.
