Safely Carrying a Concealed Weapon at Work

Workplace violence seems to be on the rise. You hear about it in the news – even YouTube’s Headquarters has been under attack. Luckily, it is your right as an American to defend yourself. Get your Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) permit and be prepared when tragedy strikes.

Actually, you are less likely to be the victim of a violent crime at work than nearly anywhere else. Most workplace violence is simple assault, and there is a 50/50 chance you’ll be the victim of a coworker than from a stranger.

When it comes to carrying at work, it is crucial to remember that this is a privilege and needs to be taken seriously. If you are in a situation where you need to use it, be smart about it. The rules of gun safety should be followed and you should never try to act like a hero just because you have a weapon. Here are 5 things to consider when carrying at work.

Choosing a CCW gun is a very personal choice. Do you have the need for a full sized pistol, such as the 1911 or Sig Sauer 226? Or would you prefer a pocket pistol like the Ruger LCP or Glock 26? A gun should be a secondary thought when you are at work – it should be light, reliable, and most importantly, unseen.

A fitted CCW holster is the best way to manage your firearm at work. It should be comfortable enough to never impede you while you are on the job, yet close at hand in the event that there is need for it.

Holsters, like the guns they contain, are personal choices. The best way to find the right option for you is to go to your local gun shop and try out the selection for drop leg holsters. Listen to the experts, as most gun store owners are carrying their concealed weapon. If they aren’t, don’t follow their advice. Carrying a firearm is a right but it is also a duty.

Some jobs require firearms to be locked up when you are in the building. If this is the case, consider getting a biometric safe and lock it in your desk drawer. A biometric safe will allow only you to open it (since they generally go off your fingerprint), whereas a normal locked safe could potentially get opened by a coworker if they gain access to your key.

If your employer refuses to allow you to carry a firearm in the office, at least keep it stored in your car. While this will not help you in an immediate urgent situation, it is still better to have it somewhat nearby than not have it at all.

Remember to have your gun locked in a case and safely hidden in your car. Additionally, do not let others know that you are keeping it in your car – this is the fastest way to have it stolen.

If your gun is stolen or if you are required to use it, any action that happens is your responsibility. This is not just good advice, but in most jurisdictions it is the law.

Many companies prefer their employees do not carry firearms because of the liability issues surrounding them. You need to weigh the cost of your life against the cost of you losing your job if you fire your CCW at work. When in doubt err on the side of caution. Don’t pull out your gun just to seem like a hero.

When carrying a firearm always remember the four pillars of safe firearm handling.

1. All guns are always loaded.

2. Never let the muzzle cover anything you are not willing to destroy.

3. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target.

4. Be sure of your target and what is beyond it.

Safely carrying your gun is a mindset that requires practice. Like diet, exercise, or addiction there is no such thing as a cheat day. Every second you need to be mindful of your weapon and the threats around you. Follow the rules and stay safe.