When you’re carrying a gun for self-defense there are many factors to take into consideration, and rapid presentation is one of the most important things. After all, if you can’t get to your gun quickly odds are good you will not be the one walking away from the fight. It’s an issue heavily influenced by what gun you carry, which is a choice having to do not only with caliber but size: frame, double stack or single stack, barrel length, the list goes on. Your method of carry does depend on what gun you carry. And of the many available methods for concealed carry ankle holsters just might be the most contentious.

There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to ankle holsters. Is it your main carry or secondary? Is it the only option available for concealment at the time for one reason or another? Most importantly, though, is just how fast you can draw from it. Placement may be everything, but positioning is also important. The issue of caliber comes into play with ankle holsters as well because your average ankle holster only holds smaller caliber pistols.

What do you think? Are ankle holsters a viable option for self-defense use? If so, should they be used as a primary carry or for backup only?