January 11, 2024
In the world of concealed carry, convenience and accessibility don't always go hand in hand. How you carry can often influence the speed at which you can access your weapon. This is where off-body carry excels.
Off-body carry, keeping your firearm in a bag or backpack, instead of attached to your body, is a popular choice. It offers another solution for those looking for both concealment and easy access, especially when on-body carry might not work. Let’s delve into the best off-body carry setups featuring some of the best ccw bags, bulletproof panels, and holsters.
When considering an off-body carry bag, you should prioritize accessibility, discretion, and security. The bag should offer a quick and smooth draw while ensuring that the firearm remains concealed and protected.
Identifying the best off-body carry bag involves evaluating your daily activities, the environments you frequent, and your personal style. The best concealed gun bag allows you to carry discreetly AND provides functionality for your day-to-day tasks. Whether you're headed to the office, traveling, or hiking, you can find a suitable bag tailored to your needs.
Many who off-body concealed carry choose to because it offers more flexibility in wardrobe choices, especially during warmer months. It's also beneficial for those who find on-body carry uncomfortable, or are just starting out with a ccw. The main challenge is making sure the bag remains within reach and is not easily stolen or forgotten.
The allure of off-body carry bags is also the versatility. The bags can serve as regular backpacks with compartments for laptops, sunglasses, and other daily essentials, all while safely concealing your weapon. The bag's design should be inconspicuous, ensuring you don't draw unwanted attention.
A quality CCW bag holster ensures that your firearm remains in place, reducing the risk of accidental discharge. The best off-body carry system seamlessly integrates the holster into the bag, allowing for a smooth draw. Adding body armor panels ensures you are both offensive and defensive.
The Bag: The Viktos Upscale Sling 3 is a water-resistant nylon bag and sized between a fanny pack and a tactical sling bag. Not only that, it can be worn on either side, ensuring easy pistol access whether you are right or left handed.
With a main compartment designed for extra magazines and first aid, and a padded section for eyeglasses, it's perfect for the daily commuter or the casual traveler. The Upscale Sling comes in a variety of nylon colors as well as leather options, making it a solid choice for both men and women.
The Body Armor: The Premier Body Armor Custom-fit panel for the upscale sling seamlessly integrates protection into your EDC. Designed with top-notch para-aramid ballistic core and a rugged 500 Denier CORDURA® outer shell, it’s both lightweight and dependable. It’s a vital addition for any off-body carry bag. Upscale 3 inserts include the standard Cordura wrapped ballistics and a hook and loop version to maximize bag functionality.
The Holster: The Crossbreed Custom Modular Holster not only offers stability but also flair. Customize it to reflect your style with designs like Tropical, Tattoo, or Old Glory. Versatility with the Velcro® backed system ensures your weapon remains accessible no matter the situation.
This combo is great for people who want both style and function. It's the ideal bag for city life or traveling.
The Bag: The Viktos Perimeter 25 Backpack is designed for 24-hour tactical EDC, and is both rugged and versatile. The weatherproof body, durable zippers, and universal CCW holster make it a popular choice for tactical pros, professionals, and outdoor lovers. The size is perfect for holding extra magazines, first aid supplies, or a change of close for quick transitions from work to play.
The Body Armor: Carry the trusted protection of the Premier Body Armor Custom-fit panel tailored for the Perimeter backpack. With a design tested to meet NIJ ballistic standards for Level 3A, it’s discreet and always ready to defend.
The Holster: The CrossBreed Modular Holster offers adaptability with it's optional add-ons - be it the Purse Defender, Belly Band 2.0, or the Pac Mat. It's the ideal choice for those needing flexibility in their carry methods.
This combo is great for people who shift between professional and recreational settings. It's the ideal bag for those who are office professionals or outdoor enthusiasts.
The Bag: The Viktos Lowkey Chest Rig easily transitions from a low-visibility EDC satchel to a fully tactical chest rig, ensuring adaptability in dynamic situations. Built from weather-resistant nylon ripstop, other noteworthy features include its adjustable 4-point padded chest harness, a removable shoulder strap for casual carry, and magnetic quick-release buckles.
Internally, the rig boasts space for three rifle magazines, four pistol magazines, and a full-size pistol in the included holster. Plus, like all Viktos bags, its U.S. veteran-designed and developed, a testament to its utility and reliability.
The Body Armor: Safety takes a new dimension with the custom-designed ArmorSHIFT Panel for the Viktos Low Key and Tactulus Chest Rigs. Featuring innovative ArmorSHIFT Technology, this ballistic panel effortlessly adapts to changing situations, expanding from 8" to 12" in mere seconds.
While its slim profile ensures discretion, it doesn't compromise on protection, meeting the stringent NIJ ballistic standards for Level IIIA. Plus, with TSA approval and a 5-year warranty, it's a panel that assures protection whether you're on home turf or traveling.
The Holster: The CrossBreed A.R.M.S. Holster brings unparalleled modularity to your EDC. With the ability for an off-body carry holster to transition across various platforms, from a Belly Band at work to Velcro® in your bag, it ensures you're always prepared.
This combo is great for people who value adaptability and discreteness, and is perfect for those wanting a tactical edge without being cumbersome or drawing unwanted attention.
Choosing an off body bag setup involves more than just convenience or style. You should also consider safety, ease of use, and preparedness for any situation. With the combination of Viktos bags, Premier Body Armor bulletproof panels, and CrossBreed holsters, you’re not just carrying; you’re carrying smart.
Your EDC essentials are more than just items; they're an extension of your commitment to safety and preparedness. Whether it's ensuring holster retention or having quick access compartments at your fingertips, every detail matters.
Always be ready, always be protected, and always carry with confidence.
March 04, 2024
Definitely getting one or more . Nice options for edc
March 04, 2024
Offbody carry is more of a harzard than a traditional holster especially when being robbed.
March 04, 2024
My wife usually wears pants with no belt and a tank top. She loves off-body carry because it makes it possible for her to carry her favorite Beretta 92 no matter what she is wearing.
March 04, 2024
Nice write up
March 04, 2024
great info and products
March 04, 2024
I haven’t tried Off Body Carry, but these products look to be promising options.
March 04, 2024
Nice
March 04, 2024
Cool gear. 👍
March 04, 2024
It is a Brilliant Idea for a daily type of situation
March 04, 2024
When I travel I enjoy keeping mine in my shave bag
March 04, 2024
I just love the quality and reliable of this company but most of all I want to have my wife use it
March 04, 2024
a lot of people can sure use this
March 04, 2024
Very cool
March 04, 2024
I prefer on body carry the most. But there are times that it isn’t convenient or possible. These bags are great options for off body carry.
March 04, 2024
Nice products. Great functionality and they look good.
March 04, 2024
OFF BODY CARRY GIVES A VALID OPTION BUT IT REQUIRES CONSTANT VIGILANCE
March 04, 2024
Love my Premier Armor for Vertx Dead letter sling and Vertx Transit
March 04, 2024
The off-body carry choice is a significant option to consider for everyday living.
March 04, 2024
Cool!
March 04, 2024
Love bags that do not look tactical or give off carry vibes.
March 04, 2024
Looks pretty good.
March 04, 2024
This article gives some
Great options for off body carry. I’m still not a fan of it though
March 04, 2024
Great to carry with confidence!
March 04, 2024
I like to body armor combination.
March 04, 2024
Great stuff
March 04, 2024
The details in these products are amazing. Not only helps conceal but safely conceals!
March 04, 2024
love the design thanks for sharing
March 04, 2024
What a great way to conceal carry responsibly to ensure stronger safety measures
March 04, 2024
Off body is better than not carrying
March 04, 2024
good looking gear
March 04, 2024
I’ve been doing off body carry. I am still nervous about social interaction with a concealed carry.
March 04, 2024
I’m not really a fan of off body carry, I feel like it’s just 1 more step needed and seconds wasted trying to get to your firearm and being able to deploy it into the fight if the need arises.
February 13, 2025
Plate Carrier MOLLE and Velcro attached accessories for plate carriers: mag holders, admin pouches, Comms, knives placards, packs, armor plates and more.
February 12, 2025
Even with body armor you might need immediate medical attention and that's where an IFAK, AFAK, or MFAK tactical first aid kit comes into play.
February 10, 2025
Over the centuries, U.S. presidents have faced assassination attempts—some successful and tragic. Read about some of the most talked about, and stories you may not have heard before.
I bought the carrier, and it arrived within a few days. I was happily surprised by the low weight, and rugged construction of the Alpha Carrier. I put a level 4 plate in both front and back, both of which fit like a glove. The sizing was easy to adjust, and the one size fits most is true of this product. Huge adjustment range. Very impressed by the Fortis Alpha Carrier, along with everything I have ever ordered from Premier Body Armor. Great job, guys!
After wearing my full body armor for 30-years, it isn’t conducive to under cover plain clothes work that I do now and it is so hot to wear during the summer. I put this armored t-shirt on and it fits like a glove, but is not uncomfortable. The first day I wore it alone, but the second day I wore a form-fitting micro fiber tank top under it and it really felt good. I actually had no wetness because the bottom top absorbed it. It was a warm day, but nothing like sweating intensely with full body armor. I ordered a second carrier shirt to switch out for washings. With my gear on and plain black tactical shirt, I am so much more comfortable on my feet for long hours. I should have bought this years ago.
As someone with extensive experience wearing a wide variety of body armor in the military, law enforcement, and physical security industries, I know firsthand the challenges of balancing protection, comfort, and concealment. The Everyday Armor T-Shirt has exceeded my expectations on all fronts.
This is by far the most comfortable body armor option I’ve ever worn. The lightweight design and breathable material make it ideal for all-day wear, whether you’re on duty or just out running errands. It’s so well-concealed that it doesn’t print, even under a fitted shirt, making it perfect for discreet protection without sacrificing mobility.
What sets this apart is how seamlessly it integrates into daily life. Unlike traditional armor that feels bulky or restrictive, the Everyday Armor T-Shirt feels like part of your everyday wardrobe while still providing reliable peace of mind.
If you’re looking for everyday protection that doesn’t compromise comfort or discretion, this is an outstanding choice. Highly recommend!
PBA is awesome. I own 3 backpack panels from them. I own panels for Vertx ReadyPack, Eberlestock Fade Sling, and now the Fade Adapt.
The Fade Adapt panel is huge. Fits snug into the backpack and covers a lot. Mainly gonna be used for traveling and camping. I feel comfortable carrying it knowing I'll have a huge panel to hide behind.
Thanks again PBA for the great products.
When it comes to armor, if you want something light so you can be quick and/or carry more ammo, med supplies, etc., and still want the best protection… get these. Sure they’re not level 4… but they cover the most likely rounds to be used in an urban environment. Quit thinking Level 4 is the best and get these, you’ll be thoroughly impressed. Hell even my 10 year old loves them! Would be great for their backpack too.
Love this new little sling with the panel in it beautiful exactly how it describe on the website
Have always worn soft armor, generally in outside carrier working law enforcement and military. Needed to up protection from rifle fire. Did not want heavy steel plates. Polyethylene the ticket for weight and protection. The Fortis III+ very nice. Light, 3.4 lbs each, multi curve, comfortable, have protective coating, fabric, nice. I put them in a Agilite K19 carrier. Overall more comfortable, easier to move than the outer carriers and soft armor I have worn before. Weight is crucial in extended wearing of vest, especially when adding pouches, ammo, radio, etc. These plates really help in reducing weight and no compromise on protection. The price was a factor along with quality and protection level. These plates nailed it, don't know how you could get anything better for this price. Company is legit, background In manufacture sold me also. You will not be disappointed in the Fortis III+ multi-curve plates.
I’ve put it to use on the job as an AEMT and it does it’s job well. It keeps me at more of a peace of mind knowing I have a bit of protection going to calls and it doesn’t get in the way of my patient care.
First, I want to thank the customer support team that helped me with my return. The first sling pack was way too small. Y’all suggested another one that was larger. It was a perfect size and I love the way it hugs my body. Second, love the way your body armor fits in the sling pack. It’s a perfect pairing. Now let’s talk about the combo. This has to be one of the nicest packs I have ever bought. Honestly I didn’t know much about the Viktos brand. WOW!! Very nicely constructed. I love the fact I can put in my side x side while out on the ranch. It holds everything that might be needed.
Again thank you to everyone. Pease keep up with quality products like this. You have a customer for life! Thank you!
James Moffat
Caballo, NM
Fantastic Product - Armor Fits like a Glove. Also, it was very convenient to get the bag with the armor.
While it inherently seems a little bit silly to armor a fanny pack, premier and VertX are a perfect match as always. And silly or not, now I've got an extra layer of 3A soft armor to throw over one of my children, sling across my chest, etc if ever needed. It's big enough to protect vitals, and my gun rides in the socp pack as well. This is a great setup for short walks and hikes, or summertime on the boat
By far the most concealable body armor I own. I am 5’11 and 155 lbs. I got a small and was so worried that the armor wouldn’t be concealable since I’m on the thinner side, but I was dead wrong. I had a hoodie ready to throw on in order to show it concealed further, but there would be no point. You can’t see anything with this size SMALL under-armor polo on…that’s actually impressive premier. Great job.
I have wore the product multiple times now and have received many compliments on the fact that you can’t hardly tell I’m wearing it. Also it is very comfortable in comparison to other similar products on the market. I’m very happy with the product.
Fit as described quality products from a American family company.
Great shirt. Very discrete to wear. Proud to support and American company
T.Setliff
March 04, 2024
I love my leather briefcase that has a quick access pocket, just for my firearm. The only thing that would make it better is if it actually offered some kind of defensive protection, as well.