Knowing whether an individual is carrying a concealed weapon is critical for threat assessment. Armed individuals display distinct, subconscious behaviors that can be observed.
Concealed Carry Indicators
- •Subconscious Adjustments (The Security Pat): Subconsciously touching or adjusting the weapon to ensure it remains hidden and secure.
- •Anomalous Gait: A slightly shortened stride on the carrying side or guarding the weapon side when passing close to others.
- •Clothing Mismatches: Heavy jackets in warm weather, asymmetrical clothing drape, or stiff, heavy pockets.
"An armed subject cannot fully hide their weapon from an observer who understands human mechanics and baseline behaviors."
Learn more about scanning general environmental indicators in What Is Situational Awareness?.
