Guides
Great Bag Styles for Off-Body Carry
Carrying a firearm off-body can be a practical and versatile option for many individuals. Whether your outfit doesn’t allow for comfortable concealed carry or you’re looking to carry a firearm larger than the average concealed carry pistol, off-body carry bags provide an effective solution. In this post, we’ll explore three popular styles of bags suitable for off-body firearm carry—waist packs, sling bags, and backpacks—highlighting their features, benefits, and best use cases.
Why Choose Off-Body Carry Bags?
Before we dive into the different styles, let’s talk about why you might opt for off-body carry in the first place:
- Versatility: Off-body carry bags allow for a wider range of firearm sizes and types, providing flexibility in what you can carry.
- Convenience: Bags can offer additional storage space for other essentials such as extra magazines, medical kits, and personal items.
- Discretion: Off-body carry bags can sometimes be more discreet than on-body options, especially in environments where concealed carry is preferred but not easily achievable due to wardrobe constraints.
Now, let’s explore some of the key styles of off-body firearm carry bags.
Waist Packs
Features:
- Compact Size: Waist packs are small, making them an unobtrusive option for carrying a firearm.
- Quick Access: Positioned around the waist, these packs allow for quick and easy access to your firearm.
- Multiple Compartments: Many waist packs come with more than one compartment, enabling you to organize other essentials alongside your firearm.
Benefits:
Waist packs are ideal for situations where minimalism and swift access are paramount. While drawing from a waist pack isn’t as fast as drawing from a traditional holster set up, it can be a relatively quick option. In comparison to other bag styles, waist packs provide you with the closest experience to carrying on your person. With the help of aids like rapid access tabs, you can achieve a relatively quick draw. Waist packs can be especially useful for activities like hiking, or casual outings where carrying a larger bag would be cumbersome.
Best Use Cases:
- Active lifestyles (biking, short hikes, etc.)
- Casual day trips
- Situations requiring quick firearm access
Product Feature:
The Every Day Fanny Pack from Vertx seamlessly combines style and functionality, making it an excellent choice for those in need of a secure yet convenient carry solution. Designed in collaboration with renowned shooter Lena Miculek, this CCW-compatible fanny pack features a main compartment with a 2-way zipper and VELCRO® loop panel for easy access, a front zippered pocket with organizational mesh pockets, and a back pocket that accommodates most smartphones. With an adjustable belt for comfort and a silicon shuriken logo to prevent slippage, this pack is ideal for daily activities.
Key Specifications:
- Volume: 2 Liters
- Width: 9 inches
- Height: 5.5 inches
- Depth: 2.1 inches
Sling Bags
Features:
- Accessibility: Sling bags provide quick access to your firearm, allowing you to easily reach for it when necessary. Their design enables you to swing the bag around your body, making it simple to retrieve the firearm.
- Comfort and Stability: The design of a sling bag distributes weight over a broader area of your shoulder and back, helping to reduce strain during prolonged wear. This allows for more comfortable carrying, especially when you need to be mobile or engaged in various activities.
- Discretion: Sling bags often have a less tactical appearance compared to traditional firearm cases and gun bags, which can help in maintaining a low profile. This discretion can be beneficial in urban environments or social settings, allowing you to carry your firearm without drawing unnecessary attention.
Benefits:
Sling bags strike a balance between size and convenience. They offer more storage space than waist packs without being as bulky as backpacks. This makes them a great choice for daily carrying or casual travel.
Best Use Cases:
- Daily commutes
- Short trips and errands
- Environments requiring medium-sized storage
Product Feature:
Vertx Commuter Sling Bag Gen 3
The Vertx Commuter Sling Bag Gen 3 is designed for those who need a versatile and robust everyday carry (EDC) solution. Tailored for on-the-go professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who values functionality and readiness, this sling bag offers a combination of rapid access, customizable features, and comfortable carrying options.
Key Specifications:
- Outside Dimensions: 20.5”H x 12”W x 8”D
- CCW Compartment Dimensions: 19.5”H x 11”W x 2.5”D
- Volume: 22 Liters
Backpacks
Features:
- Maximum Storage Capacity: Backpacks offer the most space, catering to those who need to carry larger firearms or multiple items.
- Comfortable Carrying: With padded straps and back panels, backpacks distribute weight evenly, making them the most comfortable option for extended wear.
- Dedicated Firearm Compartments: Many backpacks designed for off-body carry come with specialized compartments for securing your firearm.
Benefits:
Backpacks are the go-to option for those who need to carry a lot of gear. They offer ample space for not only your firearm but also other essentials like laptops, first aid kits, and personal items. Those with dedicated compartments ensure that your firearm is secure and easily accessible when needed.
Best Use Cases:
- Long commutes
- Travel
- Situations requiring extensive gear
Product Feature
The Grey Ghost Gear Gypsy Pack is a versatile daily commuter bag that merges tactical functionality with urban style, catering to both bicycle commuters and discreet travelers. Key features include dual carry handles, accessible side zippers for a concealed carry compartment, and redesigned side pockets for secure storage. Made from durable waxed canvas and ripstop nylon, it features a spacious main compartment, padded back and straps for comfort, and customizable MOLLE webbing for accessories. With thoughtful design updates based on user feedback, the Gypsy Pack strikes an ideal balance between practicality and subtlety, making it perfect for both commuter and more tactical use.
Key Specifications:
Main Pocket:
- Height: 19″
- Width: 13″ at bottom, 15.5″ at top
- Depth: 7″
- Volume: 17 liters (1,093 cubic inches)
Safety
When carrying a firearm in a bag, it’s crucial to prioritize safety precautions to ensure both your safety and that of those around you. Carrying a firearm in a bag requires more consideration than simply throwing a gun in a bag and going. The best bags for off-body carry have a dedicated compartment for your firearm, separate from other belongings, in order to prevent accidental discharge. Some bags include holsters, or have features that encourage holster use. Using a holster or trigger guard is a crucial element in helping to prevent accidental discharge. Lastly, keep the bag on your person at all times; never leave it unattended or out of your direct control. By taking these steps, you can mitigate potential risks and responsibly carry a firearm.
Conclusion
Off-body carry bags provide a versatile and practical solution for firearm enthusiasts who need flexibility in their carry options. Whether you choose a waist pack, sling bag, or backpack, each style offers unique benefits tailored to different situations and needs. By understanding the advantages and best use cases of each style, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision and enhance your off-body concealed carry experience. Stay safe and carry smart!
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