Concealed Carry in New Mexico: Choosing the Right Holster for Everyday Carry

You passed your NM CHL course, cleared the background check, and received your license. Now comes the question every new carrier faces: how do you actually carry every day - comfortably, safely, and in a way that works for your lifestyle? The answer starts with your holster.

Key Takeaways

• Your holster must fully cover the trigger guard at all times - a non-negotiable safety requirement.
• Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters offer the best concealment for most body types and carry positions.
• Retention must be tested before you carry in public.
• Comfort and consistency go hand in hand - if your holster is uncomfortable, you will stop carrying.
• Dry-fire practice with your actual carry holster is essential.

The One Rule That Cannot Be Compromised

Every holster must fully cover and protect the trigger guard. A holster that leaves the trigger exposed is a liability and is how negligent discharges happen during holstering.

IWB vs. OWB

• IWB holsters sit between your body and waistband - superior concealment, preferred for warmer months; requires pants with 1–2 inches of extra waist room.
• OWB holsters attach outside your belt - more comfortable for extended wear, faster draw; requires a cover garment for concealment.

Carry Position

• Strong-side hip (3 o'clock): most natural draw position.
• Appendix (AIWB, ~1 o'clock): excellent concealment and fast draw; requires careful re-holstering and a purpose-built holster.
• Small of back (6 o'clock): good concealment but not recommended - hard to access seated, spinal injury risk in a fall.
• Shoulder holster: useful for long hours seated/driving; requires a cover garment and careful muzzle discipline.

Holster Materials

• Kydex: rigid thermoplastic, consistent retention, easy one-handed re-holster, unaffected by moisture. Most popular among trained carriers.
• Leather: comfortable, breaks in over time; can absorb moisture and collapse when drawn.
• Hybrid: Kydex shell + leather/foam backing; retention of Kydex with improved comfort.

Training Application

• Wear your holster empty for several days before carrying live.
• Practice your draw stroke with an unloaded firearm - 10–15 slow reps per session.
• Practice re-holstering slowly; look the firearm into the holster, keep your trigger finger indexed.
• Bring your carry setup to a structured training course for evaluation.