As the temperature rises and things heat up — especially here in Texas — our clothing options change. Jackets, sweaters, and long pants are often replaced by a t-shirt and shorts. This can make concealed carry more difficult and may require you to switch to a smaller pistol to keep carrying consistently. Everyday carry means every day, right? Some will carry a full-size pistol all year round without problem, but not me. I’ll share a secret though, a fanny pack can help you comfortably carry a pistol and all your EDC gear, and, with the rise of hipsters, no one will take a second look at your fanny pack and unquestionable style.
Fanny Pack Features
The Galco FasTrax PAC fanny pack is full of features that make it a great option for everyday carry, especially during summer trips. The main compartment features a built-in steerhide holster that can be sized and adjusted for several subcompact or compact pistols (there are versions for each). It can also be set up for either left- or right-hand use. I currently have mine set up to tote my trusty Glock 26. The pack incorporates a reinforced backing to help support the pistol while carrying and during the draw. The comfort cloth backing keeps you comfortable all day long.
At the heart of the FasTrax PAC is a pivoting holster with a drawstring activation cord. This keeps the firearm horizontal for discreet carry and allows you to shift it to a vertical position for easy retrieval and a natural draw stroke. Large pull tabs for zippers allow you to quickly open and access the holster compartment in an emergency. The high-quality elastic waistband with secure buckle adjusts up to 50 inches to fit a variety of body sizes and carry methods.
Additionally, there’s a smaller pocket section in the front of the pack that’s great for holding some of your other EDC gear, such as a small flashlight, folding knife, and hygiene supplies. There’s even a headphone wire outlet for those who may want to use the pack for workouts. The extra storage may even allow you to carry more EDC gear than you normally would.
Adjusting Holster Fit
Galco includes a fitment guide to help you configure the holster for your preferred carry pistol. This is a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes with a couple of screwdrivers. There are button sections that secure in the front and back to align the holster for left- or right-hand use. There are also screw sections for sizing the leather holster insert to your pistol. This adjusts the fitment and retention around the front and rear of the trigger guard.
Unfortunately, you’re not going to get much in the way of retention, and I would definitely recommend that you do not keep any other gear in the pocket with the holster to prevent accidental discharge. Additionally, you may want to consider selecting a pistol with a manual safety, such as the S&W CSX, for added security. If this differs from your standard carry pistol, be sure to train with your new manual of arms.
The Draw
As with any carry method, the draw needs to be practiced. Now, a fanny pack doesn’t make for the fastest draw in the West, but it can be effective. Let’s break it down into a few steps. First, you’ll need to unzip the main compartment that houses the pistol. Next, pull the drawstring to pivot the holster into the upright position. Finally, draw and present the pistol. This step is similar to drawing from a conventional IWB holster in the appendix carry position.
Alternative Carry Methods
So, if you’re thinking to yourself, “Wow! Alex, you can certainly rock that fanny pack, but I’ll never be able to pull that off.” you’re wrong, but I’ll include some alternative options for you. First up, is something that most of you probably already do, inside-the-waistband carry. However, you may need to switch to a smaller pistol and use a slim holster option such as the DeSantis Slim-Tuk or Raven Concealment Vanguard 2.
Next up, pocket carry often gets a bad rap, but I think it gives non-gun people a way they will consistently carry every day. It also provides a discreet option for when carrying your standard pistol just won’t fly. The pistol will need to be pretty small. I can sometimes get away with my Glock 26 in my jeans pocket, but it prints noticeably.
The Ruger LCP Max is my go-to for pocket carry, but I have also rocked a S&W J-Frame and SIG P938 in the past. They’re both in a better size range to disappear in the pocket. Ensure you use a pocket holster that fits properly and fully covers the trigger. I would also recommend not carrying anything else in the pocket with the pistol. This could interfere with the draw or catch on the trigger.
Another option is off-body carry. Keeping a handgun in a bag or your car can be a good last resort. It’s definitely not recommended, but it’s better than nothing. However, the handgun should be properly secured and kept out of the hands of any kids or unauthorized individuals. Do not forget you have a loaded firearm and leave it unattended.
Conclusion: FasTrax PAC
Whether you’re a hipster at a music festival or a gun-toting sheepdog, a fanny pack can be more than an excellent fashion statement. From chapstick and a lighter to a knife and a pistol, fanny packs are a great way to extend your EDC options, especially during those hot summer months, and the Galco Fastrax PAC is hands-down one of the best options. Give one a shot, it may mean you have a pistol on you in situations where you otherwise would not.
Good article BUT it doesn’t mention the Fanny Pac’s fitting features relating to pistols having trigger guard type lasers – Cirmson Trace lasers, Laser Max. etc. What size fanny pac is best for a Ruger 9 mm, LC9 with a LazerMax grip sense on the trigger guard ??