Battlbox
What Is Open Carry: A Practical Guide to Rules and Gear
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What Is Open Carry?
- The Different Types of Open Carry Laws
- Why Choose Open Carry for Outdoor Adventures?
- The Importance of Retention in Open Carry
- Essential Gear: Holsters and Belts
- Situational Awareness and Social Etiquette
- Practicing for Success and Safety
- Conclusion
- FAQ
Introduction
Walking a remote trail in the high desert or navigating a dense forest requires a specific level of preparedness. You might find yourself considering the best way to carry a sidearm for protection against predators or for general peace of mind. For many outdoor enthusiasts, this leads to a fundamental question: what is open carry? While the concept seems straightforward, the nuances of legalities, gear selection, and social etiquette are significant. At BattlBox, we believe that understanding your equipment and the laws surrounding it is just as critical as knowing how to build a fire or purify water. If you want the kind of gear that supports that mindset month after month, subscribe to BattlBox. This article covers the definition of open carry, the legal frameworks you might encounter in the United States, and the specialized gear required to do it safely. By the end of this guide, you will have a clear understanding of how open carry functions and how to integrate it into your outdoor lifestyle responsibly.
Quick Answer: Open carry is the practice of wearing a firearm in a manner where it is clearly visible to the public. Unlike concealed carry, the weapon is not hidden under clothing or inside a bag, making it accessible for quick use and often more comfortable during strenuous outdoor activities.
What Is Open Carry?
At its most basic level, open carry refers to the act of carrying a firearm in plain view. This means that a casual observer would be able to identify that you are armed without you having to move clothing or gear. In the world of Everyday Carry (EDC)—the collection of tools you keep on your person daily—open carry is a specific choice often dictated by the environment or the intended task.
The definition of "plain view" can vary slightly depending on local regulations, but it generally means the firearm is holstered on the outside of the clothing. For a hiker, this might be a fixed blade on one side of the belt and a sidearm in an Outside the Waistband (OWB) holster on the other. Because the firearm is not obscured, it falls under the classification of open carry.
It is important to distinguish this from concealed carry, where the firearm is hidden from public view, usually under a shirt or inside the waistband. Open carry is frequently preferred by those in the backcountry because it allows for larger frame firearms that would be uncomfortable to hide. It also provides faster access if you encounter an immediate threat, such as an aggressive animal. If you want a deeper dive into the concealed-carry side of the conversation, start with What Is Considered Concealed Carry?.
The Different Types of Open Carry Laws
Before you strap on a holster, you must understand that the legality of open carry is not uniform across the United States. Laws change at state lines and sometimes even between local jurisdictions. Generally, open carry laws fall into four main categories.
Permissive Open Carry
In these states, open carry is legal for anyone who can legally possess a firearm. You do not need a special permit or license to carry your sidearm openly. This is often referred to as Constitutional Carry when it applies to both open and concealed carry, though some states only allow permitless carry for the open variety.
Licensed Open Carry
Some states allow you to carry a firearm openly, but only if you possess a valid state-issued permit. This is often the same permit required for concealed carry. In these areas, the law recognizes your right to carry but requires a background check and sometimes a training course first.
Anomalous Open Carry
This is a tricky category. In these states, open carry may be legal under state law, but local governments (cities or counties) are allowed to pass their own more restrictive ordinances. You might be perfectly legal in a rural forest area but technically breaking the law the moment you step into a nearby town. For a broader look at that side of the discussion, read Why Carry a Concealed Weapon.
Prohibited Open Carry
In several states, open carry is strictly prohibited in most public places. Even if you have a concealed carry permit, you are required by law to keep the firearm hidden. There are often exceptions for specific activities like hunting or target shooting, but for general hiking or travel, it is off-limits.
Note: Always check the specific laws of the state and local area where you plan to travel. Reciprocity—where one state honors another's permit—often applies to concealed carry but may not apply to open carry rules.
Why Choose Open Carry for Outdoor Adventures?
For many in our community, open carry is a functional choice rather than a political one. When you are miles away from the nearest road, your priorities shift toward accessibility and physical comfort. If you want that cadence built into your routine, choose your BattlBox subscription.
Accessibility and Speed
When you are dealing with a fast-moving threat, every second counts. A firearm carried openly is easier to draw because there is no "cover garment" to clear. You don't have to sweep a jacket or shirt out of the way. For someone wearing heavy gloves or a thick winter coat, an open-carried sidearm on a thigh rig or chest holster is significantly more accessible. If you also want a light that rides as easily as your carry setup, check out the Powertac SOL LED Rechargeable Keychain Light.
Comfort with Large Frames
If you are carrying for protection against large predators, you are likely carrying a large-frame revolver or a high-capacity semi-automatic. These are heavy and bulky. Trying to hide a large .44 Magnum inside your waistband while hiking ten miles is a recipe for discomfort and skin irritation. Open carry allows you to use a robust holster and a dedicated gun belt to distribute that weight effectively.
Compatibility with Gear
Backpacks are a staple of outdoor life. Most multi-day packs have thick, padded waist belts. These belts often sit exactly where a concealed carry holster would be, making it impossible to draw the weapon or even wear the holster comfortably. Open carry solutions, such as chest rigs or drop-leg holsters, allow the firearm to sit clear of your pack's suspension system, which is why the emergency preparedness collection fits so naturally into the same mindset.
Key Takeaway: Open carry in the backcountry is primarily about solving the logistical problems of weight, accessibility, and gear interference.
The Importance of Retention in Open Carry
Because an open-carry firearm is visible to everyone, it requires a different approach to security than concealed carry. This is where the concept of holster retention becomes vital. Retention refers to the features of a holster that prevent the firearm from falling out or being removed by someone else.
| Retention Level | Description | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Uses friction only. The holster is molded to the gun's shape. | Range use or very low-risk environments. |
| Level 2 | Uses friction plus a mechanical lock (like a thumb break or button). | General outdoor use and hiking. |
| Level 3 | Uses friction plus two mechanical locks. | Professional law enforcement or high-crowd areas. |
When you are open carrying, a Level 2 holster is generally considered the minimum for safety. If you are climbing over rocks, crossing a stream, or pushing through thick brush, you need to know that your firearm won't tumble out. Furthermore, in the rare event of a physical confrontation with another person, a mechanical lock provides a layer of protection against someone trying to grab your weapon.
Essential Gear: Holsters and Belts
Your carry system is only as strong as its weakest link. If you have a high-quality firearm but a cheap, flimsy holster, you are not prepared. Our team at BattlBox often sees gear fail in the field because it wasn't designed for the rigors of active movement.
The Holster
For open carry, Kydex and high-grade leather are the standard materials. Kydex is a hard thermoplastic that is waterproof and holds its shape perfectly, making it ideal for wet or humid environments. Leather is traditional and comfortable but requires more maintenance to prevent it from softening over time.
You also need to consider the mounting style:
- OWB (Outside the Waistband): The most common style, looping directly onto your belt.
- Paddle Holsters: These slip over the waistband for easy removal but are generally less secure than belt-loop versions.
- Chest Rigs: These position the firearm in the center of your chest. They are excellent for fly-fishing, backpacking, or driving an ATV.
- Drop-Leg Holsters: These move the firearm down to the thigh, clearing space for a backpack waist belt or a tactical vest.
If you're building out the rest of that carry system, the EDC collection is the right place to start.
The Gun Belt
A standard leather belt from a department store is not designed to support the weight of a firearm and extra magazines. It will sag, twist, and eventually fail. A dedicated gun belt is reinforced with a stiff internal liner (often made of polymer or steel). This stiffness keeps the holster in a consistent position, making your draw more reliable and the weight much more manageable.
EDC Integration
Open carry doesn't mean you ignore your other tools. Your belt should also accommodate your IFAK, a reliable flashlight, and a multi-tool. A well-organized belt ensures that your most critical survival gear is always within reach, regardless of whether you have your pack on, and a MyMedic MyFAK Standard is a strong place to start.
Bottom line: Invest in a Level 2 retention holster and a reinforced gun belt to ensure your gear stays secure and comfortable during active outdoor use.
Situational Awareness and Social Etiquette
Carrying a firearm openly changes how the world sees you. While it is a legal right in many places, it comes with a high level of responsibility. You are no longer just another hiker; you are an armed citizen. If you want the bigger picture on how carry choices affect perception, What Is Considered Concealed Carry? is worth a look.
Situational Awareness
When your firearm is visible, you must maintain a higher level of situational awareness. This means being constantly aware of who is around you and maintaining a "reactionary gap." You should be mindful of people approaching from your "strong side" (the side where the gun is holstered). This isn't about being paranoid; it's about being a responsible owner who ensures their weapon is always under their control.
Interacting with the Public
In popular parks or on crowded trails, open carry can sometimes make other people uncomfortable. While you may be within your legal rights, being polite and non-confrontational goes a long way. If someone asks why you are carrying, a simple, calm explanation about wildlife protection is usually sufficient. For the broader personal-protection angle, Why Carry a Concealed Weapon is a useful follow-up.
Interactions with Law Enforcement
If you are approached by a ranger or police officer while open carrying, keep your hands visible and away from your firearm. Follow their instructions calmly. In most cases, they simply want to verify that you are in a legal area. Do not reach for your ID until you have informed them where it is and that you are moving to get it. Keeping your field medical kit nearby, especially from the Medical & Safety collection, is a smart part of the same readiness mindset.
Myth: Open carry makes you a primary target for criminals. Fact: While some argue it makes you a target, there is little statistical evidence to support this. However, it does require you to be more vigilant about your surroundings to prevent a "gun grab."
Practicing for Success and Safety
Owning the gear is only the first step. You must be proficient with it. A holster with a mechanical retention lock requires practice to use effectively under pressure. It also helps to have the right support gear from the Medical & Safety collection.
Step 1: Dry Fire Practice. / Ensure your firearm is completely unloaded and no ammunition is in the room. Practice drawing from your holster and achieving a proper grip. Focus on smoothly deactivating the retention locks.
Step 2: Movement Drills. / Wear your full outdoor kit, including your backpack. Practice moving, kneeling, and sitting to see if the holster pinches or if the firearm shifts. A compact EDC multitool can help you make quick adjustments.
Step 3: Live Fire Training. / Go to a range that allows drawing from a holster. Practice your draw and first shot on target. This builds the muscle memory needed if you ever have to defend yourself against a charging animal.
Step 4: Retention Drills. / If you have a trusted training partner, have them safely attempt to pull the (unloaded) firearm from your holster while you practice retention techniques. This will teach you how to protect the weapon during a physical struggle.
Remember, the best gear is the gear you know how to use. Don't wait until you're in the middle of a survival situation to figure out how your thumb break works.
Conclusion
Understanding what is open carry is the first step toward becoming a more prepared and capable outdoorsman. It is a practice rooted in utility, offering quick access and comfort for those who spend their time in the wild. However, it demands a deep commitment to legal knowledge, high-quality gear selection, and constant situational awareness. Choosing the right retention holster and a sturdy belt is just as important as the firearm itself, and a Pull Start Fire Starter can round out the rest of your kit.
At BattlBox, our mission is to provide you with the expert-curated gear and knowledge you need to face any challenge with confidence. Whether you are building an emergency kit or refining your backcountry EDC, we are here to help you level up your skills. Preparation is an ongoing journey, and having the right tools delivered to your door is a great way to stay ahead of the curve.
Key Takeaway: Open carry is a functional tool for the outdoors that requires the right holster, a stiff belt, and a high level of personal responsibility.
To ensure you have the best gear for your next adventure, consider exploring our collections or subscribing to receive professional-grade survival and outdoor equipment every month. Get your BattlBox subscription
FAQ
Is open carry legal in all 50 states?
No, open carry is not legal everywhere. While many states allow it either without a permit or with a license, some states like Florida, Illinois, and California have strict prohibitions against it in most public spaces. Always check the specific state and local laws of your destination before carrying.
Do I need a holster for open carry?
Yes, you should always use a high-quality holster for open carry. Carrying a firearm loosely in a waistband or pocket is dangerous and often illegal, as it does not securely cover the trigger guard. A dedicated holster with retention features is essential for safety and to prevent the loss of the firearm. If you are building that kind of setup, the EDC collection is a solid starting point.
What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 retention?
Level 1 retention relies solely on friction to hold the firearm in place, meaning it can be pulled out with a direct tug. Level 2 retention adds a mechanical lock, such as a thumb break or a button, that must be deactivated before the firearm can be drawn. Level 2 is generally recommended for open carry to prevent accidental loss or unauthorized access.
Can I open carry while wearing a backpack?
You can, but it often requires specialized gear. A standard belt holster may be blocked by the backpack’s padded waist belt. Many hikers and backpackers use a chest rig or a drop-leg holster to ensure the firearm remains accessible and comfortable while wearing a heavy pack. If that sounds like your setup, the camping collection is a natural next step.
Share on:
