Open carry gun law set to go into effect Jan. 1(TX)

Breckenridge American ^ | 12/26/2015 | Tony Pilkington

[TXnMA]

"Can I carry a gun in my pocket, or must it be in a holster? What about a purse?"

Those are concealed carry methods. AFAIK there are no method restrictions on concealed carry (except that they must conceal...).

For open carry, the weapon must be secured in a holster for safety's sake. (No sticking it in your waistband, where it can be grabbed or dislodged -- or fall down your pantsleg -- when you are active.

[TXnMA]

"I never understood why anyone would want to open carry."

I don't "want to open carry" -- but, there are times when I do not want to be "required to conceal".

HUGE difference...

[centurion316]

Reasonable restrictions, I suppose.

[zeugma]

No license required to purchase or transfer a handgun in Texas. I’m a little disappointed that HEB (grocery chain) has elected to opt out of open carry.

They probably also prohibited concealed carry when it first came out. A lot of places did. Slowly, over time, the signs came down without any fanfare. I expect this to be the same.

[TXnMA]

There is a gray area, called, (for want of a better term) "imperfect concealment".

For example I'm looking into "wallet" holsters for some small pieces that are a bit too large to conceal fully or well.

Also, it appears that a backup carry method that is popular with LEOs isn't covered: ankle or boot holsters...

And, for the ladies, what about open carry in a "FlashBang" holster with a bikini top?

[knarf]

[Puppage]

When I carry, it’s no ones business but mine. Thus, I always carry concealed. It’s my preference.

[TXnMA]

"Thus, I always carry concealed. "

So do I -- for both tactical and social reasons. But there are times when I would like to take off my jacket...

Also, I prefer to hang my jacket or suit coat in the back of my vehicle while I'm driving. Now I can do so, and step back to get and don my jacket -- without being illegal.