Can I open carry without a holster in NC?
Asked by: Myra Bechtelar DVM | Last update: February 8, 2026Score: 4.2/5 (75 votes)
Yes, in North Carolina, you can generally open carry a handgun without a holster as long as it's visible (fully or partially) and you're not in a prohibited location (like schools, government buildings, or private property with "No Weapons" signs). Open carry doesn't require a permit, but the firearm must be obviously visible, often in a hip holster or similar manner for clarity, though simply being partially visible qualifies as open carry, contrasting with concealed carry which requires a permit.
Do you need a holster to open carry in NC?
Open carry simply means openly carrying a firearm in public. The gun must be clearly visible, often in a holster on your hip or shoulder. With open carry, your firearm is out in the open for all to see. You don't need a permit in North Carolina as long as you're legally allowed to possess the gun.
Is it illegal to carry with no holster?
However, as of January 1, 2012, according to California open carry laws under California Penal Code 26350 PC, it is a crime to openly carry any firearm in public, even if the gun is unloaded.
Do you have to use a holster for concealed carry?
While some states don't explicitly require a holster for concealed carry, carrying without one puts you at risk for negligent discharges, legal trouble, and serious injury. Using a holster for concealed carry is vital to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.
Why is open carry legal but not concealed?
Proponents of open carry point to history and statistics, noting that criminals usually conceal their weapons, in contrast to the law-abiding citizens who display their weapons. As of 2025, almost all US states allow for open carry either without a permit or with a permit/license.
Five Gun Laws in North Carolina You Need to Know
Does open carry make you a target?
The Risk of Targeting
One of the biggest drawbacks of open carry is that it can make you a target. For example, suppose you are sitting down and having lunch with your family at a restaurant. Suddenly, armed robbers barge in with guns drawn and demand cash from the register.
Can you carry on an unloaded gun?
You may transport unloaded firearms in a locked hard-sided container as checked baggage only. Declare the firearm and/or ammunition to the airline when checking your bag at the ticket counter.
Can I carry a gun in NC without a permit?
Open carry is legal in North Carolina without a permit, if you can legally own a firearm. You must be at least 18 years old with no felony convictions. The state places no limits on weapon caliber size or magazine capacity.
Is it legal to drive around with a loaded gun?
Firearms must be unloaded and locked in a secure container unless the person is exempt, such as licensed security or law enforcement. Even when legally owned, a loaded gun in a car is unlawful without a concealed carry permit.
Can I open carry a loaded gun in my car in NC?
Can I carry a loaded gun in my car without a permit? Yes, but only if the firearm is: Openly displayed (e.g., on the dashboard or seat) Locked away in the trunk or glove box.
Can you pocket carry a gun in NC?
A: Yes, North Carolina allows the open carry of firearms without a permit, provided the weapon is clearly visible. If you are concealing your weapon, you must have a valid concealed handgun permit.
Can I carry my gun in my purse without a holster?
How Many States Allow Open Carry? Currently, 46 states allow open carry in some form. The remaining four states — California, Florida, Illinois and New York (plus Washington D.C.) — generally prohibit it.
Can you travel by car with a pistol?
Pursuant to California Penal Code section 25610, a United States citizen over 18 years of age who is not prohibited from firearm possession, and who resides or is temporarily in California, may transport by motor vehicle any handgun provided it is unloaded and locked in the vehicle's trunk or in a locked container.
Can I take my gun to the range in a backpack?
Well, you could, but you're definitely going to want a backpack with padding to prevent scratches to your firearm. You also need to weigh the pros of having a bag that doesn't scream "gun owner" with the cons of how easy a backpack is to snatch and how insecure it is. Convenient but risky.
What percent of Americans open carry?
Among the findings: 80 percent of surveyed handgun owners who carried their handgun had a concealed-carry permit, and 66 percent said they always carried their handguns concealed, compared with 10 percent who said they always carry their weapons openly.
Does Home Depot allow open carry?
Home Depot said that it will act in accordance with federal and state regulations. “We follow all federal and state regulations everywhere we operate,” the home improvement store said. “We allow customers to conceal carry and open carry where permissible by local laws.”
Why do people want open carry?
Self-Defense and Safety
Another significant reason people choose to open carry is self-defense. Many believe that openly carrying a firearm can deter crime, as the visible presence of a weapon may discourage potential threats.
What are the pros of open carry?
There are several advantages to open carry. Your exposed firearm sends a message to potential criminals that you are not an easy and soft target, and that you will fight back. Open carrying also allows you to access and draw your firearm quickly and unobstructed by outer garments.
What is a good reason to carry a gun?
To protect yourself and those you love anywhere you are
This is of course the obvious answer but sometimes the most overlooked. Many people have firearms, home security systems, dead bolted doors, etc, to protect them and their family when they are at home.
What is the alternative to a holster?
Understanding Concealed Carry Without a Holster
- Waistband Carry. Waistband carry, often referred to as "tucking," involves placing the firearm directly into your waistband or pants. ...
- Pocket Carry. Another method is pocket carry, where the firearm is placed in a pocket, typically within the pants. ...
- Off-Body Carry.