Carry Vests

posted on September 28, 2012
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
rackley2015_fs.jpg (3)

For years, gunwriters have been emphatic in their opinion that vests used by concealed-gun carriers practically scream "gun." But I’m not so certain. Sure, tactical vests are unneeded in almost every situation that doesn’t require kicking down a door, but that doesn’t mean that all vests are bad for carry advocates.

In fact, vests are quite popular, considering how many companies produce and sell them in fleece, denim, leather and down-filled nylon. With so many different types available, why would anyone assume that only gun owners wear vests? Leather vests are often worn in the West in dressier situations, and in the Midwest, down vests are used for additional warmth during the three seasons that are not hot.

I personally love fleece vests in the fall and spring for the both their lightweight warmth and effectiveness in concealing a gun. I have a Ducks Unlimited vest in black that I have worn in many places, and I really don’t think anyone has ever realized that I’m carrying, especially with the DU logo emblazened on the chest. Vests with sports team logos are another way to disquise that you're carrying. I’m currently searching for one for alma mater, Ole Miss, to supplement my wardrobe.

Vests can be a useful tool for covering your gun while still being fashionable. Companies like Cabela's, Woolrich and even the NRA Store sell quite a variety, including some with a holster sewn into the vest.

Latest

Balikli BLK bolt-action rifle
Balikli BLK bolt-action rifle

Review: EAA Balikli BLK

EAA’s new Balikli BLK bolt-action rifle is a Model 700-inspired rifle that’s feature-laden and affordable.

Big Iron: The Smith & Wesson Model 1917 Classic & Model 22 Classic

Smith & Wesson is resurrecting and updating two of its classic .45 caliber revolvers, with the Model 1917 Classic and Model 22 Classic.

The Armed Citizen® Nov. 2, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

2nd Amendment Freedom is on the Ballot

This midterm election on November 3 will soon be behind us. We could see, come January 2027, a Congress that respects our Second Amendment freedom, or the American electorate could vote in the opposite.

Suppressor Demand Outpaces Production

The demand for suppressors is setting new records. National Firearm Act (NFA) item purchases in September—primarily suppressors—more than doubled compared to the same month in 2025.

Book Review | Five Decades of a Fabulous Firearm: Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Beretta 92 Pistol Series

In this wide-ranging book, you’ll find a history of Beretta, discussion of developments leading to the Model 1951/951 Brigadier, its evolution into the Model 92 and the U.S. military’s adoption of the platform (as the M9) in 1985.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.