Glenn,
Definitely not a stupid question. You have several options for carrying your pistol, most of which involve carrying on the strong side hip (the right hip for most of us). Small of the back holsters and shoulder holsters may be right for a few special situations but probably not for the newcomer.
For carrying on the hip you have two main choices- an inside the waistband holster (IWB) or outside the waistband holster (OWB). OWB means the holster sits outside the pants and is anchored to the belt, usually by slots built into the holster. IWB means the holster sits between your pants and your skin or t-shirt, also secured to your belt usually by holster loops or clips. For many of us OWB is the most comfortable but is not as concealable as an IWB rig.
Important things to consider
1. you need a gun of small enough size to be easily concealed. The ease of concealment also depends on your body size, a larger body size may be able to conceal a larger size pistol. For most of us the pistol height is the most important factor, followed by the width and then barrel length. Polymer or aluminum-framed pistols are lighter in weight and easier to carry. For me I start having problems with printing (the pistol showing through your clothing) the more a pistol height gets above 5 inches. Four and a half inches to five inches high works best for me. In 9mm I use a Sig 239, CZ 75-compact or SW 6906. Also don't overlook a Glock 19. For a .45 I use a Sig p245, HK USP-compact or SW 4516-1.
2. You must get a good gun-belt which will support your pistol and holster. A good holster is also needed for proper support and concealment. I have a belt from the Beltman.
3. Before buying a pistol to carry try to rent one at a local range. If you have friends who have pistols or holsters try them out. Checking with your local law-enforcement may point you to local concealed carry classes which are very helpful.
4. Most of us wear our IWB or OWB holsters just behind our right hip, at what is called the 4 o'clock position (think of 12 oclock as straight forward, 3 o'clock right at your right hip).
5. There are many internet gun sites which have concealed carry sub-forums which can be very helpful. Some off the top of my head are
www.glocktalk.com, smith-wessonforum.com, sigforum.com, thehighroad.org, and thefiringling.com.
6. Many holster makers have an orientation to different holsters on their websites. Some you may look up on the internet include Fist holsters, Galco holsters, Highnoon holsters and Don Hume holsters. I have used all of them and all make reasonable holsters for concealed carry.
I hope this helps some. We were all at your stage at one time and the best way to learn is to ask questions.
best wishes- oldandslow
