If you’re watching the thermometer drop and wondering how on earth you’re supposed to draw your firearm through a base layer, a thick sweater, and a heavy coat, you aren’t alone.
Winter carry is a different beast. The same gear that keeps us cozy also creates "layer lag," and those cute jacket drawstrings can become major safety hazards if you aren’t careful. At Moms Who Carry®, we believe you shouldn't have to choose between staying warm and staying ready.
Here is your guide to mastering the winter draw, and choosing the right hardware for your snowy day wardrobe.
1. The "Clear & Pin" Technique
The biggest mistake you can make in winter is assuming a simple "tug" on your coat will give you access to your holster. Heavy fabrics have a habit of falling back down or snagging your grip.
The Pro Move: Use your non-dominant hand to hook your thumbs under your innermost layer that is covering your gun, and aggressively rip all layers and across your chest. Once the holster is clear, pin the fabric against your chest with that same hand. This creates a "clearance pocket" that stays open until your firearm is out and on target.
Safety Note: Watch out for those elastic toggles and drawstrings at the bottom of your winter coats. They can catch on your gun's grip on the draw. They also have the potential to snake into trigger guards. Always look your gun back into its holster when reholstering, to ensure nothing is inside that trigger guard.
2. Why the Mod Wing Matters (Even in Bulky Clothes)
You might think a concealment wing is only good for hiding a grip under thin layers.
Actually, it’s still a performance aid in the winter, too. By pushing the grip of the gun toward your body, the wing increases the gap between the gun and your layers of clothing on top of it. This prevents your thumb from getting "lost" or snagged on your shirt during a draw. It ensures that when you reach for your grip, you find a firearm, not fleece.
3. Matching Your Hardware to Your Layers
One of the best parts of a cold snap? Leggings, sweatpants, and all the cozy hibernation-ready clothes. But carrying in "comfort wear" requires the right clip.
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For the "Jean & Boots" Days: If you're wearing heavy winter denim or a sturdy belt, the Monoblock or the UltiClip are your go-to's. These clips provide a rock-solid attachment that won't budge from a belt or thick waistband.
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For the "Snowed-In" Days: If you’re rocking fleece-lined leggings or drawstring joggers, you need the Fabriclip. It’s designed to lock directly onto the fabric of your waistband, meaning you don't need a belt to stay protected while you're hiding from the weather on the couch, or running quick errands.
- (BONUS: The 3-in-1 Holster is the best of all worlds, with the Monoblock Clip, UltiClip, and Fabriclip options offered together with one holster.)
Real Moms, Real Gear
We want to know how you’re handling the freeze! Are you sticking to your IWB setup under your parka, or have you transitioned to a Purse Holster for off-body access? Tag us in your setup @momswhocarry on all major social media platforms.
Stay warm, stay safe, and keep carrying.
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