[2 min read]

👋 Hey Warrior,

First of all…

…we need to be able to spot the signs, the subtle cues that someone might be concealing a weapon.

Why?

Because a fight changes completely when weapons are involved.

Your tactics, your awareness, everything shifts.

So, let's break down how to recognize when someone might be armed…

…even if they're trying to hide it.

Recognizing a concealed weapon is not an exact science.

It's crucial to remember that these signs are potential indicators, not definitive proof.

We need to observe the totality of circumstances and avoid making assumptions based on a single sign.

Here are some signs that may suggest someone is concealing a weapon, based on information from security and law enforcement sources…

Behavioral Signs

• Security Check/Frequent Touching or Adjusting: Individuals may repeatedly touch or adjust the area where a weapon might be concealed to ensure it's still in place and hidden. This could be a subtle bump, pat, or a more obvious grasp, especially when moving (e.g., getting up, walking, climbing stairs).

• Nervous Behavior: Watch for signs of anxiety like fidgeting, sweating, avoiding eye contact, or unusual hesitation in conversation. These behaviors can sometimes indicate someone is trying to hide something.

Physical Signs

• Unnatural Gait or Restricted Movement: Concealing a weapon can alter a person's natural walk. They might avoid bending their knees or make stiff movements to keep the weapon hidden. Limited mobility in certain areas, like avoiding bending over or sudden movements, can also be a sign.

• Clothing Issues:

  • Jacket Sag: A heavy object like a handgun in a jacket pocket can cause the jacket to hang unevenly or sag on one side. The fabric might be pulled tight, and the pocket could swing unnaturally while walking.

  • Bulges or Outlines: Look for unusual bulges or outlines under clothing that could indicate the shape of a weapon. This could be in pockets, waistbands, or under the arm.

  • Loose or Bulky Clothing in Warm Weather: Wearing heavy or bulky clothing, like a coat in warm weather, can be a method to conceal a weapon.

• Hunchback Stride: When concealing a long gun (like a shotgun or rifle) under a coat, the butt of the weapon can create a bulge behind the armpit. The jacket may also appear stiff and not move naturally.

• Palming: This is more often seen with knives. Someone might run their hand along their arm or leg to hide the weapon from view, or keep a hand in a pocket to hold a weapon in place.

Important Considerations

• Context is Key: Consider the environment and the person's overall behavior. A bulge might just be a phone or wallet. Nervousness could be due to many reasons unrelated to carrying a weapon.

• Not Always Weapons: The signs listed can also be caused by other things. For example, someone with a disability might have an unnatural gait, or someone might be adjusting clothing for comfort.

• Professional Training: Security professionals receive specific training in behavioral analysis and weapon detection techniques that go beyond these general signs.

It is important to emphasize that observing these signs does not confirm someone is carrying a concealed weapon.

If you suspect someone is carrying a weapon and it causes you concern, it is best to alert security personnel or law enforcement rather than confronting the individual yourself.

Final Thoughts

Remember, Warrior, awareness is your first line of defense.

By learning to recognize the signs of a concealed weapon, you're giving yourself a crucial advantage in potentially dangerous situations.

Stay vigilant,

Paul Simoes

P.S. Tomorrow, we'll dive into the world of improvised weapons. You'll be surprised what everyday objects can be turned into weapons!

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