Can I Conceal Carry A Gun Without A Holster?

“Firearms can legally be carried in a case, holster, scabbard, pack or luggage that is carried within a means of transportation or within a storage compartment, map pocket, trunk or glove compartment of a means of transportation.”
12-781

This section of code specifically prohibits property owners from forbidding storage of a firearm in a vehicle, provided the gun is holstered or otherwise secured.

“‘Securely encased’ means in a glove compartment, whether or not locked; snapped in a holster; in a gun case, whether or not locked; in a zippered gun case; or in a closed box or container which requires a lid or cover to be opened for access.”
790.001

“Notwithstanding s. 790.01, a person 18 years of age or older who is in lawful possession of a handgun or other weapon may possess such a handgun or weapon within the interior of a private conveyance if the handgun or weapon is securely encased or otherwise not readily accessible for immediate use. A person who possesses a handgun or other weapon as authorized under this paragraph may not carry the handgun or weapon on his or her person.”
790.25

Unlicensed individuals must secure their firearm, in a holster or other approved method, during transport or conveyance within a vehicle.

“[…] each handgun is unloaded and carried in an enclosed case or an enclosed holster;“
4-203

This excerpt above and code 5-307 governs transporting a firearm in a vehicle for bona-fide purposes. However, individuals with a Maryland wear and carry permit are exempt.

“A license under this section is not required for a loaded or unloaded pistol or revolver to be carried upon the person in a sheath, belt holster or shoulder holster or in a purse, handbag, satchel, other similar bag or briefcase or fully enclosed case”
45-9-101

In effect, this code outlines that individuals who carry a gun as outlined are not required to have a permit. However, we can extrapolate that these provisions apply to both licensed and unlicensed individuals.

“A firearm must be carried in a suitable holster or carrying device. A suitable holster or carrying device is one that covers the trigger guard of the firearm and retains the firearm from accidental droppage. Carrying a firearm in a purse, backpack, briefcase, or in a holster with no retention is prohibited.”
State Employee Policy

This code specifically impacts state employees, and is not codified to impact permit holders or the general public. However, given the nature of this article, it seemed prudent to include.

“Any person who holds a valid permit to carry a handgun issued pursuant to this section shall be authorized to carry a handgun in a holster concealed on their person […]”

“For purposes of this section, “holster” means a device or sheath that securely retains a handgun which, at a minimum, conceals and protects the main body of the firearm, maintains the firearm in a consistent and accessible position, and renders the trigger covered and inaccessible while the handgun is fully seated in the holster.”
PL 2022

Simply put, any person with a valid license to carry must do so with a holster. New Jersey also goes the additional step of defining what constitutes a holster. Additionally, it is worth noting that certain NJ state employees must abide by a more stringent standard for a “holster.”

“A license holder commits an offense if the license holder carries a handgun on or about the license holder’s person under the authority of Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code, and intentionally displays the handgun in plain view of another person in a public place. It is an exception to the application of this subsection that the handgun was partially or wholly visible but was:
(1) carried in a holster by the license holder; or
(2) in a holster, and the handgun and the license holder were in a motor vehicle.“
Sec. 46

The word “holster” is mentioned multiple times within section 46, and reiterates that you cannot carry a gun without a holster in Texas.

I discuss holster selection and materials in other posts. However, the safest holster is a hard shell holster designed for your specific model of handgun, that fully encloses the trigger guard, and has an active retention system.

First, a hard shell holster designed for your specific handgun ensures a snug fit to prevent your gun from moving within the holster.

Next, a fully enclosed trigger guard ensures the trigger is not manipulated unintentionally. Leading to a decreased occurrence of accidental discharges.

Finally, an active retention system keeps the firearm holstered, which prevents dropping the gun and protects against theft.

Carrying a gun without a holster is sometimes referred to as “Mexican carry.” The term “Mexican carry” traces its origins back to vaqueros of the 1800’s who defied gun laws by tucking firearms into their belts.