Patent Publication Number: US-8522367-B2

Title: Garment pocket for carrying an object in a concealed state

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/048,056, filed Apr. 25, 2008, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/048,043, filed Apr. 25, 2008. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is directed to a garment pocket and, more specifically, to a garment pocket that is configured to carry, in a concealed and readily-accessible state, an extra handgun magazine or other relatively small object (e.g., bullets, pepper spray, pocket tool, handcuffs, dagger, etc.). Another embodiment of the garment pocket disclosed herein is configured to carry, in a concealed and readily-accessible state, both a handgun (or similar object) and an extra handgun magazine (or other relatively small object). 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Law-enforcement personnel are usually authorized to carry protection devices (e.g., handguns, stun guns, etc.) and/or related accessories (e.g., extra handgun magazines, extra bullets, pepper sprays, pocket tools, handcuffs, daggers, etc.). However, when working undercover or on duty in plain clothes, law-enforcement personnel can have a problem with telegraphing, which is sometimes referred to as “profiling” or “mapping.” As used broadly herein, “telegraphing” is the tendency for a concealed object (e.g., an extra handgun magazine) to show through the concealing garment, rendering it readily detectable by others. Known carrying devices worn by law-enforcement personnel do not sufficiently minimize telegraphing. Furthermore, when the law-enforcement officer or wearer is wearing only one or two layers of clothing, such as when the wearer is dressed appropriately for warm weather or for working indoors in a temperature-controlled environment, the presence of the carrying device becomes even more evident. In many instances, the carrying device, itself, will telegraph the potential presence of the object(s). 
     Accordingly, what is needed is a garment pocket that is configured to carry, in a concealed and readily-accessible state, an extra handgun magazine or other relatively small object (e.g., bullets, pepper spray, pocket tool, handcuffs, dagger, etc.). Additionally, there is a need for a garment pocket that is configured to carry, in a concealed and readily-accessible state, both a handgun (or similar object) and an extra handgun magazine (or other relatively small object). 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a pocket for a garment is disclosed. The pocket comprises a first portion and a second portion connected to the first portion to form a partially-enclosed space. The partially-enclosed space comprises a region defined by (1) a first line corresponding substantially to a line of flexion of a hip joint of a wearer of the garment, (2) a second line corresponding substantially to a centerline of a thigh of a wearer of the garment, and (3) a third line corresponding approximately to an inseam of a wearer of the garment. The region is configured and disposed to substantially conceal an object (e.g., a handgun magazine) retained in the region from a person viewing the garment. The pocket further comprises a retaining device disposed in the region. The retaining device is configured and disposed to hold the object in a fixed position in the region. 
     In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a garment for a person is disclosed. The garment comprises a pocket, which comprises a first portion and a second portion connected to the first portion to form a partially-enclosed space. The partially-enclosed space comprises a region defined by a first line corresponding substantially to a line of flexion of a hip joint of a wearer of the garment, a second line corresponding substantially to a centerline of a thigh of a wearer of the garment, and a third line corresponding approximately to an inseam of a wearer of the garment. The region is configured and disposed to substantially conceal an object retained in the region from a person viewing the garment. The pocket further comprises (1) a retainer configured to releasably retain an object, and (2) an attachment zone disposed in the region. The attachment zone is configured and disposed to releasably hold the retainer in a fixed position in the region. 
     In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a method of making a garment for a person is disclosed. The method comprises providing at least one sheet of material. The method further comprises forming a pocket having an opening and a partially-enclosed space from the at least one sheet of material. The partially-enclosed space comprises a region defined by a first line corresponding substantially to a line of flexion corresponding to a hip joint of a wearer of the garment, a second line corresponding substantially to a centerline of a thigh of the wearer of the garment, and a third line corresponding approximately to an inseam of a wearer of the garment. The region is configured and disposed to substantially conceal an object disposed in the region from a person viewing the garment. The method further comprises attaching a retaining device to the region. The retaining device is configured and disposed to hold an object in a fixed position in the region. Additionally, the method comprises attaching the pocket to the garment. 
     In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a system for carrying a handgun and a handgun magazine in a garment is disclosed. The system comprises a pocket to be attached to a garment, the pocket comprising a first portion and a second portion connected to the first portion to form a first partially-enclosed space. The first partially-enclosed space comprises a first region to store a handgun and a second region to store a handgun magazine. The first region is defined by a first line corresponding substantially to a line of flexion of a hip joint of a wearer of the garment, a second line corresponding substantially to a centerline of a thigh of a wearer of the garment, a third line corresponding approximately to an inseam of a wearer of the garment, and a fourth line corresponding substantially to a line of flexion of a knee joint of a wearer of the garment. The second region, which is defined by the first line, the second line, and the third line, is configured and disposed to substantially conceal a handgun magazine retained in the second region from a person viewing the garment. The pocket further comprises an inner edge to be disposed proximate to an inseam of the garment, a base intersecting the inner edge, and a seam disposed adjacent to the region, the seam extending substantially parallel to the inner edge for a predetermined distance. The base, the inner edge, and the seam define a first zone in the first region to receive a portion of a handgun. The first zone is configured to position a barrel of the handgun adjacent to the inner edge, to position a muzzle of the handgun substantially adjacent to the base, and to position a trigger guard of the handgun proximate to an end of the seam opposite the base. The seam and the inner edge are configured and disposed to restrict lateral movement of the handgun when positioned in the first zone. A retaining device is disposed in the second region, and is configured and disposed to hold a handgun magazine in a fixed position in the second region. 
     Among the advantages of the present invention are that it enables the wearer to carry, in a concealed and readily-accessible state, an extra handgun magazine or other relatively small object (e.g., bullets, pepper spray, pocket tool, handcuffs, dagger, etc.). The present invention minimizes telegraphing of the extra handgun magazine or other object and also renders it extremely difficult for a person other than the wearer to access the handgun magazine or other object carried therein without the wearer&#39;s knowledge. Additionally, it is difficult for the wearer to lose possession of the handgun magazine or other object carried therein, including even while the wearer is engaging in strenuous physical activity (e.g., fighting, running, jumping). The present invention does not significantly compromise the wearer&#39;s freedom of movement because the handgun magazine or other object does not intersect (1) the line of flexion of the wearer&#39;s hip joint or (2) the line of flexion of the wearer&#39;s knee joint. For example, the ability of the wearer to kneel, run, and sit is not significantly compromised. The wearer also benefits from having “constant recognition” or “constant feel” that the handgun magazine or other object is on his person because it is carried adjacent to his inner thigh, increasing the possibility that the wearer would notice if it went missing. 
     Other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following more detailed description of the preferred embodiment, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A  is a schematic front plan view of an unsewn exemplary embodiment of the garment pocket of the present invention. 
         FIG. 1B  is a schematic front plan view of a sewn exemplary embodiment of the garment pocket of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2A  is a top perspective view of a retainer for use with the garment pocket shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B . 
         FIG. 2B  is a perspective view of an exemplary handgun magazine. 
         FIG. 2C  is a top perspective view of the exemplary retainer shown in  FIG. 2A  retaining therein the exemplary handgun magazine shown in  FIG. 2B . 
         FIG. 2D  is a bottom perspective view of the exemplary retainer shown in  FIG. 2A  retaining therein the exemplary handgun magazine shown in  FIG. 2B . 
         FIG. 3  is a partial front view of a pair of pants having the exemplary embodiment of the garment pocket shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B  incorporated therein. 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic front plan view of another exemplary embodiment of the garment pocket of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a side view of a wearer wearing pants having an exemplary embodiment of the garment pocket incorporated therein. 
         FIG. 6  is a schematic front plan view of yet another exemplary embodiment of the garment pocket of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       FIGS. 1A and 1B  show different views of an exemplary embodiment of the garment pocket of the present invention. Pocket  10 , which is shown configured for access by a wearer&#39;s right hand, is intended for incorporation into a garment (e.g., pants, shorts, skirts). In another embodiment, pocket  10  can be configured for access by a wearer&#39;s left hand. For illustrative purposes,  FIG. 1A  shows pocket  10  before the actual pocket is formed, and  FIG. 1B  shows pocket  10  after the actual pocket has been formed, such as by stitching, sewing, or other suitable techniques. As shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B , pocket  10  can be formed, for example, by folding a single sheet of pliable material  14  along axis  12 . Suitable examples of a pliable material include, without limitation, cotton, twill, ripstop cloth, and ripstop nylon. In an alternate embodiment, pocket  10  can be manufactured using two or more pieces of pliable material. Referring to  FIG. 1A , first section  16  of pliable material  14 , which is defined in part by axis  12 , serves as the inner portion or part of pocket  10 , i.e., the part of pocket  10  that is intended to be in closest proximity to the wearer&#39;s body. Second section  18  of pliable material  14 , which is defined in part also by axis  12 , serves as outer portion or part  20  (see  FIG. 1B ) of pocket  10 . Outer part  20  is shown in  FIG. 1B , but the inner part is not, because outer part  20  and the inner part are substantially congruent in this exemplary embodiment. Upon formation of the actual pocket, as shown in  FIG. 1B , the surface of first section  16  shown in  FIG. 1A  serves as a first interior surface of pocket  10 , and the surface of second section  18  shown in  FIG. 1A  serves as an (opposing) second interior surface of pocket  10 . These two opposing interior surfaces border the partially enclosed space defined by the pocket  10 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1A , the first interior surface of pocket  10  includes a first attachment zone  30  and a second attachment zone  32 . First attachment zone  30  and a retainer  160  (see  FIGS. 2A ,  2 B, and  2 D) are mutually configured to enable retainer  160  to be releasably attached, removed and reattached multiple times to the first interior surface of pocket  10 . In another embodiment, first attachment zone  30  is included instead on the opposing second interior surface. As shown in  FIG. 1A , first attachment zone  30  includes loop-type fasteners  34  to enable releasable attachment to retainer  160 , by way of corresponding hook-type fasteners  214  on retainer  160  (see  FIG. 2D ). Hook and loop-type fastener systems marketed under the trademark Velcro® are among those that are suitable for use in this invention. Other readily-releasable fastener systems, including (without limitation) snaps or adhesives, may be used instead of, or in combination with, hook and loop-type fastener systems. In this exemplary embodiment, loop-type fasteners  34 , as opposed to hook-type fasteners  214 , are present on first attachment zone  30  because loop-type fasteners are generally less abrasive than hook-type fasteners. Thus, when pocket  10  is being used without retainer  160 , the wearer may experience less discomfort from contact with loop-type fasteners  34  when inserting (or withdrawing) a hand in (or from) pocket  10 . In an alternate embodiment, hook-type fasteners can be used on first attachment zone  30  and loop-type fasteners can be used on retainer  160 . Alternatively, a non-hook and loop-type fastener system (e.g., snaps) may be used in first attachment zone  30  and retainer  160 . 
     Second attachment zone  32  and retainer  160  (see  FIGS. 2A-2D ) are mutually configured to enable retainer  160  to be releasably attached, removed, and reattached to the first interior surface of pocket  10 . The structure and function of second attachment zone  32  is similar to the structure and function of first attachment zone  30 , and the variations in structure described above in relation to first attachment zone  30  are equally applicable to second attachment zone  32 . In another embodiment, second attachment zone  32  is included instead on the opposing second interior surface. In the exemplary embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B , first attachment zone  30  is substantially identical in size to second attachment zone  32 . However, in other embodiments, first attachment zone  30  and second attachment zone  32  may have different sizes. The exemplary embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B  is configured to enable the releasable attachment of two retainers  160 , each of which is configured to retain therein a handgun magazine, such as that shown in  FIG. 2B , or other item. In other exemplary embodiments, pocket  10  can include one attachment zone or three or more attachment zones. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1B , outer part  20  is fastened (e.g., seamed or sewn) to the corresponding inner part at least along (1) first segment  40  and second segment  42  of base edge  44 , (2) segment  50  of outer edge  54 , and (3) top edge  60 . In another embodiment, outer part  20  and the corresponding inner part may be derived from two or more pieces of pliable material. In embodiments using two or more pieces of pliable material, outer part  20  is additionally fastened to the corresponding inner part along inner edge  66 . 
     In pocket  10 , outer part  20  and the corresponding inner part can be fastened to the waistline of the garment along top edge  60 . As used herein, “waistline” is defined as the part of a garment that generally covers the waistline of the person and/or an adjoining area above or below the waistline. Similarly, the corresponding inner part (but not outer part  20 ) is intended to be fastened to the garment along segment  52  of outer edge  54 , which coincides with pocket opening  70 . Both outer part  20  and the corresponding inner part are intended to be fastened to the garment along segment  50  of outer edge  54 . As exemplified by pocket  10 , segment  50  can be used to maintain pocket  10  in a proper position following incorporation into the garment, especially as pocket  10  is generally not fastened to the garment along inner edge  66  or base edge  44 . 
     Pocket  10  can be incorporated into a garment (e.g., pants) such that pocket  10  is oriented as shown in  FIG. 1B . Line  80  through pocket  10  represents approximately the line of flexion corresponding to the wearer&#39;s hip joint. Line  82  through pocket  10  represents approximately the centerline of the wearer&#39;s thigh. Line  84  through pocket  10  represents approximately the wearer&#39;s waistline. Origin point  86  is defined by the intersection of line  80  and line  82 . 
     Assuming that line  80  and line  82  correspond respectively to the x-axis and y-axis of a Cartesian coordinate system, pocket  10  can be considered as having four quadrant-like regions, three of which are described below. A first region  90  is defined by (1) the line of flexion corresponding to the wearer&#39;s hip joint (i.e., line  80 ); (2) the centerline of the wearer&#39;s thigh (i.e., line  82 ); (3) inner edge  66  of pocket  10 , which corresponds approximately to the line defined by the wearer&#39;s inseam; and (4) line  84 , which corresponds approximately to the wearer&#39;s waistline. A second region  92  is defined by (1) the line of flexion corresponding to the wearer&#39;s hip joint (i.e., line  80 ); (2) the centerline of the wearer&#39;s thigh (i.e., line  82 ); (3) inner edge  66  of pocket  10 , which corresponds approximately to the line defined by the wearer&#39;s inseam; and (4) base edge  44 , which is located above the line of flexion corresponding to the wearer&#39;s knee joint, and includes first segment  40 . A third region  94  is defined by (1) the line of flexion corresponding to the wearer&#39;s hip joint (i.e., line  80 ); (2) the centerline of the wearer&#39;s thigh (i.e., line  82 ); (3) outer edge  54 ; and (4) second segment  42  of base edge  44 . 
     First attachment zone  30  can be located in first region  90  of pocket  10 . As shown in the exemplary embodiment, first attachment zone  30  is located adjacent to line  80 , which corresponds to the line of flexion corresponding to the wearer&#39;s hip joint, and adjacent to inner edge  66 , which corresponds approximately to the line defined by the wearer&#39;s inseam. In other embodiments, first attachment zone  30  may be located elsewhere in first region  90 , provided first attachment zone  30  does not intersect line  80  or line  82 . Also, as shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B , the shape of first attachment zone  30  is a right-angled trapezoid, rendering first attachment zone  30  substantially congruent to retainer  160  shown in  FIGS. 2A ,  2 B, and  2 D, thereby providing guidance to the wearer as he seeks to mate hook-type fasteners  214  of retainer  160  with loop-type fasteners  34  of first attachment zone  30  and fix retainer  160  in proper position and orientation in first region  90 . In other embodiments, first attachment zone  30  and retainer  160  are not substantially congruent, but still have the requisite and respective fastening (or mating) portions to enable releasable attachment, removal and reattachment multiple times. First attachment zone  30  has two substantially parallel sides: first parallel side  100  and second parallel side  102 . Additionally, first attachment zone  30  has a perpendicular side  104 , which is perpendicular to first parallel side  100  and to second parallel side  102 , and a non-perpendicular side  106 . First parallel side  100  and non-perpendicular side  106  meet at an acute angle  120 , and second parallel side  102  and non-perpendicular side  106  meet at an obtuse angle  122 . First attachment zone  30  is oriented such that non-perpendicular side  106  is substantially parallel to inner edge  66 , and first parallel side  100  is substantially parallel to line  80 . Additionally, first attachment zone  30  is oriented such that vertex  108  of acute angle  120  is proximate to the intersection of line  80  and inner edge  66 . In the exemplary embodiment, acute angle  120  is approximately seventy degrees (70°). An acute angle  120  of approximately seventy degrees (70°) aligns retainer  160 , such that retainer opening  190  is directed toward pocket opening  70 , thereby facilitating removal, by the wearer, of the object (e.g., handgun magazine) retained in retainer  160 . Depending on the application and/or the location of first attachment zone  30  in first region  90 , however, acute angle  120  may range from approximately forty-five degrees (45°) to approximately eighty-five degrees (85°) and, more preferably, from approximately sixty degrees (60°) to approximately eighty degrees (80°). Acute angle  120  may also vary with the configuration of pocket opening  70 . 
     Second attachment zone  32  is located in second region  92  of pocket  10 . As shown in the exemplary embodiment, second attachment zone  32  is located adjacent to line  80 , which corresponds to the line of flexion corresponding to the wearer&#39;s hip joint, and adjacent to inner edge  66 , which corresponds approximately to the line defined by the wearer&#39;s inseam. In other embodiments, second attachment zone  32  may be located elsewhere in second region  92 , provided second attachment zone  32  does not intersect line  80  or line  82 . Also, as shown in the exemplary embodiment, the shape of second attachment zone  32  is a right-angled trapezoid, rendering second attachment zone  32  substantially congruent to first attachment zone  30  and retainer  160 , thereby providing guidance to the wearer as he seeks to mate hook-type fasteners  214  of retainer  160  with loop-type fasteners  34  of second attachment zone  32  and fix retainer  160  in proper position and orientation in second region  92 . In other embodiments, second attachment zone  32  and retainer  160  are not substantially congruent, but still have the requisite and respective fastening (or mating) portions to enable releasable attachment, removal and reattachment multiple times. Accordingly, second attachment zone  32  has two substantially parallel sides: first parallel side  130  and second parallel side  132 . Additionally, second attachment zone  32  has a perpendicular side  134 , which is perpendicular to first parallel side  130  and to second parallel side  132 , and a non-perpendicular side  136 . First parallel side  130  and non-perpendicular side  136  meet at an acute angle  140 , and second parallel side  132  and non-perpendicular side  136  meet at an obtuse angle  142 . Second attachment zone  32  is oriented such that non-perpendicular side  136  is substantially parallel to inner edge  66 , and second parallel side  132  is substantially parallel to line  80 . Additionally, second attachment zone  32  is oriented such that vertex  148  of obtuse angle  142  is proximate to the intersection of line  80  and inner edge  66 . In other embodiments, the shapes of first and/or second attachment zones  30 ,  32  vary depending on the application. First and/or second attachment zones  30 ,  32  for use in carrying handcuffs, for example, can have a circular, semicircular, or elliptical shape. Similarly, first and/or second attachment zones  30 ,  32  for use in carrying a dagger, for example, can have a triangular shape. Variation in the application generally results also in an analogous change in the shape of retainer  160  (see  FIGS. 2A ,  2 C, and  2 D). 
     In the exemplary embodiment, obtuse angle  142  is approximately one-hundred-ten degrees (110°). An obtuse angle  142  of approximately one hundred ten degrees (110°) aligns retainer  160  such that retainer opening  192  is directed toward pocket opening  70 , thereby facilitating removal by the wearer of the object (e.g., handgun magazine) retained in retainer  160 . Depending on the application and/or the location of second attachment zone  32  in second region  92 , however, obtuse angle  142  may range from approximately ninety-five degrees (95°) to approximately one-hundred-thirty-five degrees (135°) and, more preferably, from approximately one hundred degrees (100°) to approximately one-hundred-twenty degrees (120°). Obtuse angle  142  may also vary with the configuration of pocket opening  70 . In one embodiment, acute angle  120  of first attachment zone  30  can be supplementary to obtuse angle  142  of second attachment zone  32 , as shown in the exemplary embodiment. Accordingly, any retainers  160  attached respectively to first attachment zone  30  and second attachment zone  32  will be similarly oriented toward pocket opening  70 . 
       FIGS. 2A-2D  illustrate the structure and function of an exemplary retainer.  FIG. 2A  consists of a top perspective view of retainer  160  for use with the embodiment of pocket  10  shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B . More specifically, retainer  160  is suitable for attachment to either first attachment zone  30  or second attachment zone  32 . Retainer  160  includes a first layer  170  and a second layer  210  (see  FIG. 2D ). First layer  170  is fastened (e.g., seamed or sewn) to second layer  210  along first parallel side  180  and second parallel side  182 , and (optionally) along non-perpendicular (or fourth) side  186 . First layer  170  is not fastened to second layer  210  along perpendicular (or third) side  184  in order to form a retainer opening  190  along perpendicular side  184 , which provides access to a partially enclosed space  192  located between first layer  170  and second layer  210 . Retainer  160  is configured to receive in partially enclosed space  192  at least a portion of a handgun magazine, for example, the exemplary nine millimeter (9 mm) handgun magazine  200  shown in  FIG. 2B . First layer  170  of exemplary retainer  160  incorporates an elastic fiber (e.g., spandex, Lycra®) and, therefore, is elastic. Accordingly, as handgun magazine  200  is inserted in retainer  160  by way of retainer opening  190 , first layer  170  expands in response to the contact force being exerted thereon by handgun magazine  200 . Thus, the volume of partially-enclosed space  192  increases, enabling retainer  160  to retain at least a portion of handgun magazine  200  in position in partially-enclosed space  192 . In an expanded state, first layer  170 , which is elastic, exerts a compressive force on handgun magazine  200  to aid in retaining it in retainer  160 .  FIG. 2C , which is a top perspective view of handgun magazine  200  retained in retainer  160 , shows first layer  170  in an expanded state. Second layer  210  is shown in  FIG. 2D , which is a bottom perspective view of handgun magazine  200  retained in retainer  160 . Second layer  210  includes an exterior surface  212  that includes a plurality of hook-type fasteners  214 , which enable retainer  160  to be releasably attached to either first attachment zone  30  or second attachment zone  32 . In another embodiment loop-type fasteners may be used on exterior surface  212 , provided that hook-type fasteners are present in first attachment zone  30 , second attachment zone  32 , or both. Alternatively, a non-hook and loop-type fastener system (e.g., snaps, adhesives) may be used between or among retainer(s)  160 , first attachment zone  30 , and/or second attachment zone  32 . In still other embodiments, the area of first attachment zone  30  or second attachment zone  32 , respectively, can be increased (or otherwise configured) to enable the attachment of two or more retainers  160  thereto, or to provide the wearer additional options in locating and/or orienting a (single) retainer  160  within first attachment zone  30  or second attachment zone  32 , respectively. In some of these embodiments and in still other embodiments, first attachment zone  30  (or second attachment zone  32 ) may partially extend into second region  92  (or first region  90 ) and/or third region  94  and/or fourth region (the remaining quadrant). In still another embodiment, first layer  170  is instead fastened (e.g., seamed or sewn) directly to either inner part (e.g., inner layer  290  (see  FIG. 5 )) or outer layer  20  to form the retainer or retaining device, thus eliminating second layer  210 . In this embodiment, the retainer or retaining device is consequently permanently attached to the pocket and, accordingly, is not releasably attached thereto. 
       FIG. 3  is a partial front view of a pair of pants  230  having pocket  10  incorporated therein. Specifically, pocket  10  has been substituted for the right front pocket of pants  230 . For purposes of comparison,  FIG. 3  includes an approximate outline of a conventional left front pocket  232 . As suggested by  FIG. 3 , even a relatively large conventional front pocket, such as left front pocket  232 , does not allow for a handgun magazine (or other object) to be carried in first region  90   a  or second region  92   a , which are the respective counterparts to first region  90  and second region  92  of pocket  10 , because pocket  232  does not extend into first region  90   a  and/or second region  92   a . Telegraphing of a handgun magazine (or other object) carried in conventional left front pocket  232  is more likely because, inter alia, the handgun magazine (or other object) would not be retained in first region  90   a  or second region  92   a  where the handgun magazine can be more easily concealed. Instead, the handgun magazine would be retained in third region  94   a , which is the counterpart to third region  94  of pocket  10 . In further contrast to pocket  10 , conventional left front pocket  232  does not include any features for maintaining a handgun magazine (or other object) in a position and in an orientation that facilitates removal by the wearer. 
       FIG. 4  is a schematic front plan view of another exemplary embodiment of the garment pocket of the present invention. Pocket  250 , which is shown configured for access by a wearer&#39;s right hand, is intended for incorporation into a garment (e.g., pants, shorts, skirts). In an alternate embodiment, pocket  250  can be configured for access by a wearer&#39;s left hand. As in  FIG. 1B , only outer part  20  is shown in  FIG. 4  because outer part  20  and the corresponding inner part are substantially congruent. As in pocket  10 , outer part  20  and the corresponding inner part may be formed from a single piece of pliable material. Referring to  FIG. 4 , outer part  20  is fastened (e.g., seamed or sewn) to the corresponding inner part at least along (1) first segment  40  and second segment  42  of base edge  44 , and (2) segment  50  of outer edge  54 . In contrast to pocket  10 , outer part  20  of pocket  250  is not fastened to the inner part along top edge  60 . Alternatively, outer part  20  and the corresponding inner part may be derived from two or more pieces of pliable material. In such instances, outer part  20  is additionally fastened to the corresponding inner part along inner edge  66 . 
     In pocket  250 , the corresponding inner part (but not outer part  20 ) can be fastened to the waistline of the garment along top edge  60 . Similarly, the corresponding inner part (but not outer part  20 ) is intended to be fastened to the garment along segment  52  of outer edge  54 , which coincides with unenlarged pocket opening  260  (explained below). Both outer part  20  and the corresponding inner part are intended to be fastened to the garment along segment  50  of outer edge  54 . Outer edge  54  can be used to maintain pocket  10  in a proper position following incorporation into the garment, especially as pocket  250  generally is not fastened to the garment along inner edge  66  or base edge  44 . Additionally, in pocket  250 , outer part  20  is releasably fastened to the corresponding inner part along top edge  60  via readily-releasable fasteners  254  that are disguised or hidden within a flap in the garment that also serves as a waistband. As shown in  FIG. 4 , readily-releasable fasteners  254  are snaps; however, other readily-releasable fasteners, including (without limitation) hook and loop-type fasteners (e.g., Velcro®) may be used instead of, or in combination with, snaps. In another embodiment, outer part  20  can alternatively be releasably fastened to the corresponding inner layer along outer edge  54 . 
     Pocket  250  is shown with an unenlarged pocket opening  260 , which is comparable in size to a conventional pocket opening. The wearer can freely insert his hand into pocket  250  by way of unenlarged pocket opening  260  and grip an exemplary object (e.g., handgun magazine) carried therein in either of retainers  160 . However, removal of the exemplary object from pocket  250  by way of unenlarged pocket opening  260  can be impeded because the size of the wearer&#39;s hand, when gripping the exemplary object, is greater than the size of the unenlarged pocket opening. Upon the release of readily-releasable fasteners  254 , the opening of pocket  10  becomes enlarged pocket opening  270 . Enlarged pocket opening  270  is significantly larger than unenlarged pocket opening  260 . Enlarged pocket opening  270  is dimensioned such that the wearer can readily remove the exemplary object from pocket  250  because the size of enlarged pocket opening  270  is significantly greater than the size of the wearer&#39;s hand gripping the exemplary object. Aside from the presence of enlarged pocket opening  270  and the attendant modifications, pocket  250  is otherwise similar to pocket  10 . 
       FIG. 5  is a side view of wearer  276  wearing pants  278  having pocket  250  incorporated therein. The opening of pocket  250  is shown in its enlarged state, i.e., enlarged pocket opening  270 , as readily-releasable fasteners  254  are not fastened. As stated earlier, enlarged pocket opening  270  is dimensioned such that wearer  276  can readily remove an exemplary object (e.g., handgun magazine) from pocket  250 .  FIG. 5  also shows the relationship between inner layer  290  and outer part  20 . The pre-existing seams of pants  278  can be used when incorporating pocket  250 , to minimize the possibility that an observer will notice that pants  278  have been modified. For example, top edge  60  of inner layer  290  is fastened (e.g., seamed) along waistline  282  of pants  278 , beneath beltline  280 . When fastened, fasteners  254  are concealed by beltline  280 , hiding the presence of a pocket opening that is enlargeable (see enlarged pocket opening  270 ). Additionally, there is no requirement that inner layer  290  and outer part  20  be congruent. As shown in  FIG. 5 , side edge  286  of outer part  20  extends further toward side seam  284  of pants  278  than does inner layer  290 . 
       FIG. 6  is a schematic front plan view of another exemplary embodiment of the garment pocket of the present invention. Aside from the additional features described below, which are included for maintaining handgun  320  in proper orientation, pocket  300  is otherwise similar to pocket  250 . In some embodiments, however, second attachment zone  32  and the corresponding retainer  160 , both which are located in second region  92 , are eliminated to allow sufficient space in the pocket for grip  342  and/or other portion of handgun  320 . Pocket  300  includes first seam  302 , which is substantially parallel to inner edge  66  and is substantially perpendicular to segment  40  of base edge  44 . First seam  302 , inner edge  66 , and first segment  40  define receiving zone or partially-enclosed subspace  304 , which is configured to receive barrel portion  310 , muzzle  312 , and trigger guard  314  of handgun  320 . Receiving zone  304  is dimensioned to aid in maintaining handgun  32  in second region  92  and to provide an ergonomic orientation of handgun  320 . Ergonomic orientation refers to one or more of (1) barrel portion  310  being substantially adjacent to inner edge  66 ; (2) muzzle  312  being substantially adjacent to first segment  40  of base edge  44 ; and/or (3) trigger guard  314  being proximal to the end of first seam  302  opposite base edge  44  (i.e., first end  322 ). Width  330  of receiving zone  304  is defined by the approximate distance between inner edge  66  and first seam  302 . First seam  302  prevents movement of trigger guard  314  away from inner edge  66  to prevent handgun  320  (or a portion thereof) from entering third region  94 . First seam  302  and inner edge  66  restrict lateral movement of handgun  320 , maintaining barrel portion  310  in an orientation substantially adjacent to inner edge  66 . If width  330  is too great, barrel portion  310  can move and not maintain such adjacent orientation. Conversely, if width  330  is too small, the wearer may experience difficulty in inserting barrel portion  310  and trigger guard  314  into receiving zone  304 . 
     Height  332  of receiving zone  304  is defined by the approximate length of first seam  302 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , the length of first seam  302  can be selected such that, once handgun  320  is inserted into receiving zone  304 , the muzzle  312  of handgun  320  rests on base edge  44  and forms a finger gap  340  between grip  342  of handgun  320  and first end  322  of first seam  302 . Finger gap  340  enables the wearer to grip and remove handgun  320  from pocket  300  more readily. The wearer, in preparing to remove handgun  320  from pocket  300 , does not have to force his fingers between grip  342  and first end  322  of first seam  302  in order to grasp grip  342 . Accordingly, finger gap  340  and the length of barrel portion  310  of handgun  320  are factors in selecting the length of first seam  302 . 
     Pocket  300  could be modified to carry a handgun having a shorter barrel portion by shortening (1) first seam  302 , or (2) first seam  302  and inner edge  66 . Regarding the latter, the length of inner edge  66  will generally be shortened more than first seam  302  is shortened. Alternatively, pocket  300  could be modified to carry a handgun having a longer barrel portion by extending inner edge  66 , first seam  302 , and base edge  44  downward (i.e., in the direction of the wearer&#39;s knee), increasing height  332  of receiving zone  304 . However, it is preferable that neither inner edge  66 , first seam  302 , nor base edge  44  is extended so far downward that they meet or intersect the line of flexion of corresponding to the wearer&#39;s knee joint. 
     Pocket  300  also includes second seam  350 , which meets first end  322  of first seam  302  and segment  50  of outer edge  54 . Second seam  350  can be provided to seal off adjoining zone  360 , which includes part of second region  92  and part of third region  94 . The second seam  350  can be configured to aid the wearer in correctly inserting barrel portion  310  of handgun  320  into receiving zone  304  by preventing the wearer from mistakenly inserting handgun  320  into adjoining zone  360 . 
     While the invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.