The double arm band tattoo has been popping up more and more in the LGBTQ+ community, but its meaning might not be what you expect.
While it’s become a trendy ink choice, especially among gay men, it carries a surprising, and very NSFW, backstory that you might not want to explain to your grandmother — unless, of course, she’s pretty open-minded.
The story of tattoos with unintended meanings is nothing new. We’ve all heard about someone who thought they were getting a beautiful design in a foreign language, only to find out it says something offensive. But have you ever heard of the man who accidentally got a fisting tattoo?
That’s right, the double arm band tattoo, which has become a staple for many, actually has roots in the world of LGBTQ+ BDSM and has been linked to a well-known porn star, according to Pink News. While its meaning isn’t universally understood, it’s certainly causing a stir.
The origin of the tattoo
For years, people have debated the significance of the popular double arm band tattoo, and many believe it’s connected to the act of anal fisting.
”I have a double arm band tattoo,” said TikTok user and author Mr. Lewis Laney, showing off the dark bands on his forearm.
”I often get asked by gay men what it means. They assume it has something to do with fisting. The origins of these tattoos allegedly come from fisting, and it’s how far (down someone’s ass) you can go.”
Laney wasn’t fully aware of the sexual connotations when he first got the tattoo, but he shared why he chose it. ”For me, it’s not about that. I saw this tattoo on a porn star called Brent Everett when I was in my early 20s. When I turned 30, I got it, and I still like it!”
The tattoo, which initially appeared on adult actor Brent Everett, has since been linked to the notion of fisting — specifically, how deep someone can go in the act. Everett is known for his adult work, and his double arm band tattoo is considered part of his iconic image.
A question of popularity
The tattoo’s popularity isn’t confined to just one man or one meaning.
OnReddit, users have discussed the meaning behind this tattoo in depth. One Redditor explained, ”Its hidden meaning is to say ‘I’m a fister and the band represents how far I go in’,” while another commented, “I think Brent Everett is responsible for popularizing it.”
So it seems this ink may have spread largely due to its association with Everett.
Alternative meanings
While the tattoo’s BDSM connection is clear for some, it’s not the only interpretation.
Some people see the double arm bands as a symbol for LGBTQ+ equality, with the bands representing balance or unity, much like the equal sign. Others have a much lighter interpretation, joking that the tattoo symbolizes the skill of reaching into a Pringles can, which, let’s face it, is a talent in itself.
