How to Choose a Concealed Carry Fanny Pack [Review + Top Choice]
When we think of concealed carry, we will often think of hidden holsters. But the concealed carry fanny pack conceals your firearm in plain sight. What, then, is the best fanny pack for such a feat?
The MEDIUM – DTOM Concealed Carry Fanny Pack is my personal choice. It fits medium sized guns like the Springfield XD compact and sub-compact. Not only does it appear inconspicuous, it also has pockets for your wallet, keys, cell phone, and any other compact items you might need to carry around with you.
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Table of Contents
Pros and Cons of a Concealed Carry Fanny Pack
Fanny pack holsters are, as they sound like, a fanny pack with the main pouch being made for your firearm. Of course, any regular old fanny pack won’t do because tossing your gun in it and letting it toss around loose isn’t secure or safe.
You want a pack that is made for carrying a gun specifically, which usually comes with security measures and retention. Without these, you run the risk of both damaging your gun and negligent discharge.
There’s a bit of a debate on whether the fanny pack says “gun” or not. There’s also debate over whether they’re even a good carrying option. Some people are adamant that anything aside from holster carry is no good, while there are those who enjoy the comfort of something other than a holster.
Needless to say, there are varying options. While I can’t make the decision for you on which side of any debate is right, I will talk about some of the pros and cons of a fanny pack and why they are so.
THE PROS
Some of the common positive reasons given for them are that they are more comfortable, they protect your gun from all weather conditions and elements, they’re easily accessible, and can be worn with any casual clothing type.
Comfort. The comfort of this pack comes from the fact that you don’t have a holster digging into your side. You also don’t have the stress of your shirt hiking up or moving around, and no extra bulk that may print under your clothing.
However, the more you add into the pack the more it will weigh down and pull away from your body rather than rest against you. If you load it with a wallet, keys, phone, charger, batteries, flashlight, and that extra pack of gum, the bulk increases and the discomfort along with it.
Accessibility. Because it sits right in front of you, there’s no struggling with lifting your shirt up and no leaning forward while seated. All you do is open the fanny pack and draw the gun.
Protection. Inside this safe, cozy pouch your gun is protected from rain, snow, dust, and mud. The pocket of the pack is sealed and protects against such elements to help the finish and function of your firearm last longer.
THE CONS
On the negative side of things, reasoning is given that they are not safe on a range, they obviously say “concealed weapon,” drawing your weapon is too slow and complicated, and drawing requires two hands.
The Range. Alongside other students, a fanny pack is not at all safe. The main concern is that one cannot see the trigger finger of whoever is drawing the firearm from the pouch. Though it should be common knowledge to keep your finger off the trigger, beginners might not be thinking about this.
Removal. The process of drawing the gun might be awkward and slow-going for first time users, according to the argument over it. The two-handed issue comes with having to unzip or undo the pouch with one hand while drawing with the other. It has been stated one can learn to do all of this one handed, but it might not be as efficient and quick as a holster.
The pace of drawing is slower than a hip holster, and about the speed as drawing from a shoulder holster.
Obvious. Many people argue that it is obvious you are packing. This comes down to location, however. In certain areas it might be obvious, while in others you will potentially blend in if you wear the right clothing with it.
We don’t want to stereotype or categorize, but appearance does matter with this accessory and if you do anything to make it stand out, it will and people might be able to identify it as a concealed carry pouch.
Wearing clothing and colors that are bright, conforming, and unassuming work best, because anything that appears to “macho” or law enforcement/military-like will identify as more than a fanny pack.
Just as much as you have to think about the concealment of your IWB or another hip holster, fanny packs still require some thinking and planning if you want to do it right.
Top Concealed Carry Fanny Pack Options
Now let’s take a look at the top choices when it comes to available product out there. The purpose of this is to help you find what suits your needs so there are a few different reviews below.
1. MEDIUM – DTOM CONCEALED CARRY FANNY PACK
An ambidextrous option for any owner of a medium sized gun. Not only is it comfortable, it also has ample storage space for other miscellaneous items.
Features
- Slim Fit Concealed Carry Fanny Pack
- Works for Right or Left Handed
- MEDIUM size CORDURA NYLON Concealed Carry Fanny Pack
- Fits up to 40″ waist
- Ambidextrous
Pros
- Works great with bigger firearms for running
- Not too bulky
- Heavy Duty
Cons
- Extra compartment zippers might be cheaper material
- Belt material can roll
- Webbing is slightly weak
2. 5.11 SELECT CARRY PISTOL POUCH
This pack is made for compact or subcompact guns, and is great for carrying an extra magazine or so along with it. The Hot-Pull tab meant to aid in a quicker draw is nice, and works well.
Features
- 100% Rugged 1050D Nylon
- Small-format covert carry pouch
- Front pouch concealment pack with pistol holder
- Hot-Pull™ tabs for rapid weapon deployment
- Added magazine holders on front flip down
- Ambidextrous
Pros
- Pull tab works great for quick draw
- Can be worn left, right, on hip, or as a sling
- Fits great
Cons
- Too much extra strap for smaller people
- Side pockets are too small to hold much (mostly decoys) and not meant to function as more than just the holster
- adjustable belt may slip a little
3. SMALL – DTOM CONCEALED CARRY FANNY PACK
Much like the medium version, this DTOM pack works well for the smaller pistols out there. For guns like the Ruger LCP, this pouch is a great choice.
Features
SMALL – Slim Fit Concealed Carry Fanny Pack
- Works for Right or Left Handed
- YKK Zippers and Rugged 1000 Denier Cordura Nylon
- Works well for Small sized guns
- Fits up to 42″ waist
Pros
- Sturdy build
- Extra compartments are nice
Cons
- Draw is slower
- Zipper metal is too noisy
- Security strap is not as secure as desired for some
4. DTOM LAW ENFORCEMENT CONCEALED CARRY FANNY PACK
While this pack does not appear like some of the regular fanny packs, it still serves the same purpose and offers a unique look for those who prefer something a little less traditional. While it looks like a smaller square pouch, the muzzle of your gun is tucked into the side to better conceal the fact that you are carrying.
Features
- YKK Zippers throughout and 1000 D Cordura Nylon
- Rugged CORDURA NYLON
- Carry-all fits full-size firearms
- Unique Design
- Fits 36-46 inch waist
Pros
- Fits spare mag too
- Fits shorter muzzled pistols
- Durable and water resistant
Cons
- Not a quick draw
- Pouch is somewhat cumbersome
- May push against thigh while seated
- Magazine may rub against pistol
5. HUNTVP TACTICAL WAIST PACK BAG MILITARY FANNY PACK
For a more stylish option, this military-style fanny pack is perfect for the avid hiker. Rain or shine, this waterproof pack will protect your firearm on any outdoor adventure.
Features
- Materials: High density 900D nylon and canvas
- Quality ABS buckle
- Adjustable, Detachable Strap
- Small, Compact, Design
- Molle Compatible Tactical Utility / Gadget fanny pack
- Extra pockets
- Color options
Pros
- Sturdy, good material
- Good for a small pack
Cons
- Putter pockets are small
- Straps/fasteners over zipper that aren’t quick release
- Too many zippers
- Not entirely waterproof
Top Fanny Pack Holster Pick
Among the above options, my top choice remains the MEDIUM – DTOM Concealed Carry Fanny Pack. As long as your gun is in the correct size category for this pack, it has and does everything that is necessary for security and reliability. While it might not be a super quick draw, with practice you can get quicker with it.
You might enjoy another type of fanny pack holster, whether it’s on this list or not. Perhaps your gun isn’t compact or subcompact, or maybe you just prefer different features or another style. Whatever your preference, we hope this article helped you narrow down your choices and learn a bit in the process.
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will the medium dtom pack fit a glock 17?
I have a large dtom, I use it for a Glock 19. It will fit a Glock 17 but the draw is not fast because it is tight in there.
My gag firefly .22 is 7.2 inches and will not fit in a compact Fanny pack. What do you have that will fit my pistol
I’m looking for a 2-compartment fanny pack to carry a Kimber 6-shot 2″ snubnose revolver in one compartment and a phone OR wallet in the other pocket. Don’t want a bulky multi-compartment fanny pack. Prefer durable metal zippers. The plastic zipper on my current fanny-pack is worn and won’t stay closed. It’s black nylon 8″ wide X 5″ tall X 2.5″ deep. I bought it years ago at the Dallas gun show and, unfortunately, there’s no brand or maker’s label. Thanks for any suggestions.