When I carry concealed, I treat it as more than just having a firearm on me. It’s a mindset. A responsibility. And one of the places I think a lot about this is when I’m out to eat with family or friends. Sitting down in a restaurant might feel like a time to relax—and it should be—but I always stay mindful of my surroundings, especially when I’m carrying.
First things first, anytime I walk into a restaurant, I take a second to scan the layout. I make a mental note of every exit point, not just the front door. Emergency exits, side doors, kitchen access—all of it. If something were to happen, knowing how to get out or move others to safety is crucial. It’s not about being paranoid; it’s about being prepared. I want to know my options without having to look around in panic if something goes wrong.
Whenever I have the choice, I always sit facing the front door. That one habit alone can give you a serious edge if you ever find yourself in a bad situation. I want to be able to see who comes in, what they’re doing, and if anything seems off. Facing the entrance allows me to keep a calm eye on the room and still enjoy my meal with my loved ones.
If I end up sitting in a booth, I always sit on the outer side of the booth—never tucked in against the wall. I want to be able to move quickly if I have to. If something goes down, the last thing I want is to be trapped or have to slide under a table to get out. Sitting on the outer edge means I can stand, draw if needed, and put myself between danger and my family. It gives me space to act, and when you’re carrying concealed, that space matters.
When it comes to how I carry, comfort and access are both key. Most of the time, I carry appendix or at the three o’clock position. Appendix carry gives me quick access, even when I’m sitting. It takes a little getting used to, especially when you’re sitting in a booth or against a hard chair, but it’s one of the fastest draws you can get. I use a holster that’s built for comfort and concealment, so I can sit and move without constantly adjusting.
The three o’clock position is also great, especially when I’m wearing an untucked shirt or a jacket. It’s natural, comfortable, and offers solid access whether I’m standing or sitting. I also carry at the five o’clock position on occasion, but that setup is a bit slower to draw from when you’re seated. Still, it can be a great option depending on what I’m wearing or the situation I’m in. The key is always knowing how to draw quickly and safely from your chosen carry position.
I also keep in mind how I carry based on who I’m with. If I’m out with my kids or someone who might not be comfortable around firearms, I make sure my gun stays completely concealed. No printing, no accidental reveals when I lean forward. That’s part of the responsibility, too. Carrying should be invisible to everyone else in the restaurant.
At the end of the day, carrying in a restaurant isn’t about being on high alert the whole time. It’s about being ready, not scared. It’s about taking small steps that stack up to make a big difference. Knowing the exits, choosing your seat wisely, sitting where you can move, and carrying in a way that works for you—those are the things that matter.
Being prepared isn’t about living in fear. It’s about making sure you’re able to protect the people you care about if something ever goes wrong. And for me, that starts the moment I walk through the door of any restaurant.
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Great reminder!