It is legal to carry a concealed weapon in Illinois, which is good news for law-abiding gun owners in the state. If it’s your first time purchasing a concealed weapon, making the right selection is crucial for your personal safety. Here are a few factors to keep in mind when choosing. 

3 Aspects to Consider When Choosing a Concealed Carry Gun

1. Caliber

A higher caliber weapon definitely provides stopping power, but it often lacks accuracy in a tense situation. The primary objective of any concealed carry gun is to neutralize a threat, which typically entails placing multiple rounds into a target. You may want to try out a few different calibers to determine the one you’re most accurate with when firing off multiple shots. 

2. Fit 

Fit is as important as caliber, if not more so. Keep in mind that a higher caliber weapon that is larger might actually be easier to fire than a smaller weapon. It’s all about grip in this case, and you must ensure that a gun feels comfortable in your hands if you choose it for concealed carry.

When holding different sized guns, consider where your fingers fall on the magazine. Are you able to control it with one hand? Can you eject the magazine while the gun is in your hands? Answering these questions will help you make the best decision. 

3. How You’ll Carry the Gun

In most cases, it’s best to carry your handgun on your person or in a bag with a holster built in. If you choose to carry on your body, there are a few different types of holsters available. Popular options include the shoulder, the waist, and ankle, all of which can be accessed from standing, seated, or prone positions. 

In Columbia, IL, Shooter's Firearms & Indoor Range provides a wide selection of quality weapons to local gun owners. This knowledgeable staff will help you make the best possible decision using their extensive firearms expertise. If you want to hone up on your shooting skills, check out the indoor shooting range on-site. Stop by today or call (618) 281-6393 for more information. You can also learn more about Illinois’ concealed carry requirements online.