With regular innovation in tactical gear, it is no surprise that concealed carry purses have carved a significant market. These purses are a seamless blend of tactical preparedness and everyday functionality.
The craze for these purses has led to the security bag market reaching $498 million in 2023, and it is projected to cross $943.2 million by 2033.
Constructed with high-quality materials, these purses boast a variety of hidden features. However, many people are not aware of these features, which often leads them to purchase duplicate and low-quality products.
Therefore, this comprehensive guide is going to explore the five essential features that you should consider in a reliable concealed carry purse.
1. Dedicated Carry Compartment
A concealed carry purse must include a dedicated compartment for the firearm. Dropping a loaded firearm into the main compartment of a purse can prove to be a fatal mistake.
Most purses feature a large main compartment where women tend to drop almost anything. This can lead to dangerous situations where loose objects can interfere with the firearm or even trigger a negligent discharge.
A dedicated compartment eliminates these hazards. The design of most concealed carry purses provides a dedicated compartment with a side opening to make accessing the firearm easier and safer. This end opening feature sets up the purse for ambidextrous use to utilize right or left-hand draw.
Shop for a purse whose dedicated carry compartment unzips from the end. The end opening allows the firearm to be drawn smoothly from the compartment, no matter the orientation of the purse in relation to the body.
2. Universal Holster & Reinforced Base
A dedicated carry compartment is incomplete without the strategic placement of a universal weapon holster. Though a dedicated carry compartment minimizes the risk of accidental discharge, opting for a purse with a universal holster is still recommended.
Since not all weapon sizes are the same, a universal weapon holster ensures that your firearm fits snuggly in your purse, regardless of size. A universal weapon holster can quickly secure a small gun like .45mm to a more significant 9mm caliber weapon.
Furthermore, the inclusion of a reinforced base, often lined with a sturdy metal plate, provides proper weight distribution and added security while carrying a heavy firearm.
3. Adjustable Straps & Magnetic Closure
Purse straps are the most essential part of a purse, as they are subjected to the most wear and tear. In the case of a concealed carry purse, durability and functionality are paramount.
Most modern concealed carry purses are made with slash-proof handles so they cannot be damaged. The concealed wire reinforcement in the straps extends security, while the added padding ensures comfort. No matter how heavy your load is, you’ll feel both secure and comfortable with it on your shoulder.
These straps are made from high-quality leather and heavy-duty nylon webbing to ensure extended durability. The ends of the straps are equipped with a steel hook and loop holster to customize the placement of the straps for maximum comfort and confidence.
Moreover, magnetic snaps or closures provide added security while ensuring that your concealed weapon can be snuggly kept hidden in your bag. These snaps are also crucial in an emergency, as the quick-open design allows for swift weapon withdrawal.
Magnetic snaps can be used on various types of bags and purses. Commonly constructed with brass, gold, and nickel, these durable snaps are perfect for daily use and can withstand harsh usage. These magnetic snaps come in many sizes ranging from 10mm, 12mm, and 18mm in round and rectangular shapes.
4. Pockets and Zippers
Along with serving as a vessel for your concealed firearm, a concealed carry purse must also serve as a daily-use purse. That is why it is crucial to choose a purse with plenty of pockets and zippers to store your essentials.
Choose a bag that features an extra zipper pocket that can fit small items like smartphones, lipstick, and pepper spray. Meanwhile, the zippered gun compartment on the outside of the bag could feature a standard holster; the zipper itself should be constructed from nylon coil or other sturdy material for added safety.
Modern purses nowadays are equipped with plenty of interior and exterior pockets with sturdy zippers or magnetic closures that provide ample space to store your other articles like pens, loose change, makeup, and other things.
Many concealed carry purses are designed for left and right-hand use and feature antique brass-colored hardware. Moreover, these purses also double as work bags by providing space to store full-size laptops, clothing articles, etc.
The strategic placement of these pockets and pouches complements the ability of swift withdrawal of weapons in case of emergency.
5. Design
While all the other features aid in securely concealing a firearm, an attractive and functional design of the purse helps in hiding the purse in plain sight while not attracting any attention towards it.
Concealed carry purses are now available in attractive patterns and colors that, at first glance, could be mistaken for ordinary bags. These purses include bold, striking prints and quilted construction to match your aesthetics.
Some concealed bags are handcrafted with premium leather to ensure durability and print resistance. By carrying a beautiful bag without the threat of imprinting, you can continue to regularly use your concealed bag.
Conclusion
Concealed carry purses have gained recent popularity due to their functionality and maneuverability. Moreover, a quality concealed carry bag is not apparent.
It is essential to understand the components and features of a concealed carry purse. A thorough inspection of features such as universal holster, concealed compartment, sturdy construction, and design can help you choose the best option.
