It can be overwhelming trying to figure out all of the new terms and lingo that get thrown at you when entering the firearms world. On top of that, there are separate and specific concealed carry terms that you also need to become familiar with.

Don’t be afraid to ask if you hear an acronym or term you’re not familiar with. It’s better to ask upfront and fully understand than to continue on without knowing what is being discussed. To help you get started, here are many common concealed carry terms to make sure you are set up for success.

AIWB (Appendix Inside-the-Waistband): A method of carrying a firearm between the 12 o’clock and 1 o’clock position inside your waistband.

BELLY BAND: A generic term for a type of soft holster that wraps around a person’s stomach that usually fastens by Velcro, hook & eye, or zipper.

CANT: Changing the angle of the holster to personalize draw and concealability.

CONCEALED CARRY: The practice of carrying your firearm on your person in a manner where it is not visible (concealed) to the public.

CONCEALMENT CLAW: An attachment on a holster that is designed to bring the grip of your firearm closer to your body.

COVER GARMENT: A clothing item that covers the holstered gun.

DRY FIRE: The operation of a firearm without the use of ammunition.

DUMMY ROUND: An ammunition-shaped object that does not fire.

EVERY DAY CARRY (EDC): The items you carry on your person whether that be on your waistband or in your pockets. When it comes to concealed carry, EDC is most commonly referring to your firearm and holster.

HOT SPOTS: Specific areas of discomfort (painful or tender to touch) caused by the added weight and pressure of a concealed carry firearm and holster.

HOLSTER: A sheath-like carrying case made to fit your specific firearm. It’s purpose is to secure the firearm and provide ready access to it.

HYBRID HOLSTER: A holster that uses a combination of Kydex (or some other type of plastic) on one side of the holster, typically the trigger side and some sort of fabric-esque material on the opposite side such as leather or neoprene.

IWB (Inside-the-Waistband): The method of carrying a firearm inside the waistband of your pants.

KYDEX HOLSTER: A plastic-like composite material used to make most holsters.

MAGAZINE: The detachable part of the firearm that holds the ammunition.

ON-BODY CARRY: The method of carrying a firearm someplace on the body. On-body carry can be both concealed and open carry.

OFF-BODY CARRY: The method of carrying a firearm not on your person such as in a purse or bag.

OPEN CARRY: The practice of carrying your firearm so it is visible by the public.

PLUS (+) ONE: The act of carrying the full capacity of your magazine plus one extra round in the chamber.

PRINTING: When the outline of your holster or firearm is noticeably visible through the garment covering it.

RETENTION: The ability to secure your firearm in its holster, preventing the firearm from coming loose.

SOFT HOLSTER: A holster that is made of durable and heavy fabric that either zip, velcro, or hook closed. These types of bands can wrap around your torso, hips, thigh, or ankle.

SPARE MAGAZINE: An extra magazine to carry additional ammunition.

STRONG SIDE: The method for carrying your firearm between the 4 o’clock or 5 o’clock position.

TRIGGER GUARD: A protective piece of hard material, often Kydex that covers the trigger. The purpose of a trigger guard is to prevent contact with the trigger.