2 Ways to Prevent Negligent Discharges

Unfortunately, there are still instances happening of accidental discharges—even in 2018. Which is why all of us need to continue to preach gun safety. But I have two ways to help prevent negligent discharges, or at least make it (hopefully) less likely.

1. Prevent negligent discharges by getting rid of that old holster that’s falling apart.

Seriously. If you carry your CCW every day, imagine what your pants go through—sweat, heat, cold, dust, dirt, grime, lint, rain, mud, dog hair. The more you carry, the more your holster (and even your gun, too) is exposed to all manners of things, especially depending on your profession. When your holster starts to fall apart, the less secure your pistol is. It might even start to ride up if you’re carrying an IWB (if you know what I’m talking about, then you definitely need to retire yours).

Now, this includes your “expensive” holsters. Look—they are not going to last forever. They’re durable, sure, but not indestructible. After years and years, it’s going to wear out. If the material (especially that of fabric and some leather holsters) starts to bend and dip into the trigger well, then it’s time to get another one.

2. Prevent negligent discharges by investing in quality.

Yes, I already said that quality holsters can wear out, but when that time comes is entirely dependent on frequency of use, amount of abuse and wear, holster material, and even sometimes where you live (exposure to weather, like rain). But quality means that your higher dollar purchase is going to stretch over a longer period, especially if those concealed carry holsters modular and durable for a lifetime supply of use.

A lower quality holster that “kind-of” or “almost” fits your pistol isn’t going to cut it, and it’s definitely not safe. Good retention in a holster is key to safety because that means the gun isn’t going anywhere until it is unholstered. God forbid that cheap, $15 holster’s plastic clip break while you’re out or your IWB kydex holster and gun both slide out (and off) and fall to the ground.

Other than practicing the gun safety rules, do you think these two tips can help prevent accidental discharges?

Hannah Staton holds a Bachelor’s of Arts in Rhetoric and Writing from the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith where she also is a Writing Tutor. She was issued her Concealed Carry License in 2016, but has grown up around firearms her whole life. She is a Contributing Editor and Copy Writer for Clinger Holsters. She is an artist, cigar enthusiast, poet, and an avid shooter. She resides in Van Buren, Arkansas with her dog, Sunday and spends as much of her free time either with her family or making art. You can find her on Instagram @hr.staton or reach her by email: hr.staton@yahoo.com