ARGYLE, Texas - Last year, almost 67,000 women in Texas got a permit to carry a concealed firearm. But some of them complain they often have to keep their guns in their purses because they can't find a comfortable way to hide the weapon on their bodies.
"Most holsters have been built for men's bodies," said firearms instructor Karla Pohl. "Women are built differently, and we dress differently."
And that has led to a booming industry. There are now garters, ankle holsters, female-friendly waistbands, and "flash bang" bra holsters.
Carrie Lightfoot, owner of The Well Armed Woman, said that's a particularly popular place to conceal a handgun.
"It's kind of a natural location, depending on the size of the gun and the size of the 'guns,'" she quipped. "We have some things to consider, and it's not for everyone. But it's about options. Women just need options, because one day a woman is wearing a dress... the next day a suit... and the next day exercise clothing."
But Lightfoot said with the new options come some new challenges.
"Each position will require a different draw, because in the heat of the moment, you can't say, 'Hold on a second... I don't know how to draw from this thing; I have to learn now.' It just doesn't work that way," she said.
So this weekend in Argyle, there was a ladies-only event including classroom time and time on the shooting range. The aim was to give women choices on where to wear their guns, and then give them training so they can get to all those spots for a quick draw if needed.
