Tips for choosing the right concealed carry backpack

Some preppers feel at ease when they carry a concealed weapon in a holster on their waistband. But when this setup isn’t allowed in certain scenarios, it may be better to keep your weapon in a concealed carry backpack. (h/t to ThePreppingGuide.com)

Using a concealed carry backpack allows you to keep your firearm within reach while also keeping a low profile. While some backpacks can be used to conceal a gun, you should purchase a bag that’s specifically designed for concealed carry.

Specialized tactical backpacks are more effective at concealing your gun – the outline of your gun can be seen through the material of a regular backpack. A high-quality concealed carry bag also makes it easy to reach your weapon if you’re in a hurry.

Always double-check concealed carry laws for your state before packing a firearm. When deciding on a concealed carry backpack, here are some factors to consider.

Quick access

The best concealed carry backpack has a hidden compartment with side zippers that let you access your weapon without having to reposition your bag. Some bags hide the weapon inside the main compartment, which is still easy to access when you’re in a hurry.

Size

Keep the size of your concealed firearm in mind before you purchase a backpack. A compact backpack is convenient, but you may run out of space if you’re carrying a full-size handgun. Larger weapons like an air rifle should be stored in a bigger bag for easier concealment.

Functionality

Are you using the backpack as a bug-out bag or as a bag for work? If your concealed carry backpack is going to function as a work bag, it needs to be roomy enough for your laptop and your firearm, along with your maintenance kit. A bug-out bag should be made of water-resistant and breathable fabric. (Related: Prepper hacks: How to make modular bug-out bags.)

Style

Your chosen bag should match your style of dress. If you usually wear jeans and a T-shirt, you won’t seem out of place at the office with a messenger or courier bag for your laptop (and a concealed weapon).

The best concealed carry bags

Below are four of the best concealed carry backpacks based on The Prepping Guide‘s field tests and user reviews.

Vertx EDC Gamut Bag

Vertx’s EDC Gamut Bag is compact yet offers the premium features of a full-size professional pack. The bag’s primary compartment has a reinforced pocket big enough for a 15-inch laptop and a full-size handgun. The front of the pack can be opened completely for easier organization and maximum accessibility.

The bag has a full-fold, loop-lined draw frame that gives you access to your weapon.

The exterior of the bag has dual-sized pockets with added storage capacity. The EDC Gamut Bag also has cinch-down side pockets with elasticized straps and zippered side-compartment pockets on both sides.

SOG Ninja daypack 

SOG’s Ninja daypack has a water-repellent finish, making it the ideal concealed carry backpack if you’re on a budget. This versatile bag is trail-ready so you can also use it as a bug-out bag.

The bottom of the daypack has two grommeted drain holes that will prevent liquids from pooling around your gear. The Ninja daypack has a main compartment and a soft-lined pocket for electronics and sunglasses. The bag also features a small accessory pocket for flat items and a zippered front organizer pocket.

As a military-style bag, the daypack rests comfortably on your shoulders. The bag has yoke-style adjustable shoulder straps, along with breathable padded mesh that prevents your shoulders from getting drenched in sweat on a hot day. The back of the bag is made with contoured foam with multiple air channels to keep your back cool during a long hike.

Copper Basin Takedown Firearm Backpack

Copper Basin’s Takedown Firearm Backpack is designed for discreetly transporting takedown-style rifles and compact firearms. The bag will blend in whether you’re in a rural or an urban setting since it isn’t made with materials and fabrics usually associated with law enforcement and military personnel.

The bag’s non-descript finish and integrated structural foam obscures the contours of your firearm while the fleece-lined interior keeps everything in place and minimizes noise. The bag also has a quick-access top flap that allows for quick access to your firearm.

The Takedown Firearm Backpack has roomy pockets for a firearm, bipod, optics, and other accessories. The exterior of the bag is designed for both functionality and comfort.

American Rebel Inc. Tactical Concealed Carry Everyday Backpack

Preppers who carry a lot of gear should go with this roomy bag from American Rebel Inc. The backpack comes with a dedicated laptop compartment big enough for a 17-inch laptop.

The bag’s main compartment can hold gear and has a hidden pocket built into the side that can hold your weapon. This pocket also lets you quickly draw your firearm when SHTF.

The bag has several compartments with mesh pockets for organizing essential items. Some compartments are lined with soft fleece for carrying valuables.

Before SHTF, keep your firearm in a sturdy concealed carry backpack so you can defend yourself and your loved ones.

Sources include:

ThePreppingGuide.com

PoliceOne.com