There is an entire host of people whose profession and interests rest on their ability to properly conceal a firearm on their person at all times: police detectives, security guards, military personnel and government agents. And, of course, we should add American citizens who prefer to be armed. All these people need a reliable way of keeping their firearms discreetly handy.

WHAT TO CARRY

The most important consideration when selecting a pistol to carry is its width. An awkward and unnatural bulge under your coat, pant leg or waistband will be obvious and attract unwanted attention. A low-caliber, single-stack magazine is best. You want a firearm to have stopping power without size. For example, a Rohrbaugh R9 9mm is a light and small-framed pistol that is easily concealed, while the Smith & Wesson Model 642 .38 Special tucks nicely into a waistband or small pouch. Don’t have or want a holster? Get the Taurus Curve .380, which has a built-in belt clip. Other good examples are the Glock Model 19, Kahr PM9 and the Walther PPS.

HOW TO CARRY