How Do I Choose a Holster? IWB vs OWB vs Appendix Carry Explained
For concealed carry, an inside-the-waistband (IWB) Kydex holster at the appendix (AIWB) or 3 to 4 o'clock position is the most common and effective choice. For open carry, range use, or duty use, an outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster provides comfort and faster draws. Appendix carry (AIWB) offers the fastest draw and best concealment for most body types but requires specific training for safe reholstering.
Why It Matters
The holster is as important as the gun for concealed carry. A poor holster causes discomfort (so you stop carrying), inadequate retention (the gun can fall out), or safety issues (the trigger is exposed). A quality holster keeps the gun secure, comfortable enough for all-day wear, and safe during draw and reholster. Many new gun owners buy three or four cheap holsters before investing in a quality one — save yourself the trouble.
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Holster types explained:
Inside the Waistband (IWB):
- Worn inside pants, clipped to the belt
- Best concealment of belt-mounted options
- Positions: appendix (AIWB, 12 to 1 o'clock), strong-side (3 to 5 o'clock)
- Material: Kydex (rigid, consistent retention) or hybrid (Kydex shell + leather/neoprene backer)
- Requires pants sized 1 inch larger than normal
Appendix IWB (AIWB):
- Worn at 12 to 1 o'clock position, in front of the hip
- Fastest draw from concealment
- Best concealment — gun is in front where clothing drapes naturally
- Works for most body types with proper holster (wedge and claw)
- Requires specific reholstering technique — look the gun into the holster
- Safety concern: muzzle points toward femoral artery — training is critical
Outside the Waistband (OWB):
- Worn outside pants, on the belt
- Most comfortable for extended wear
- Faster draw than IWB
- Harder to conceal — requires cover garment (jacket, untucked shirt)
- Best for: range, competition, open carry, duty use, home defense staging
Pocket Carry:
- For micro-compact pistols only (P365, LCP, Bodyguard)
- Must use a pocket holster that breaks up the gun's outline
- Slowest draw, limited to small guns
- Best for: deep concealment, dress clothes, situations where belt carry is impossible
Holster features that matter:
- Full trigger guard coverage (non-negotiable)
- Adjustable retention (set firm enough to hold during activity)
- Concealment claw (pushes grip into body)
- Wedge (improves concealment and comfort)
- Sweat guard (protects gun from body moisture)
- Proper belt clips or loops (soft loops for AIWB, DCC clips for maximum stability)
Top holster brands by category:
- AIWB: Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite, PHLster Enigma, Tenicor Velo
- Strong-side IWB: JM Custom Kydex, Tenicor Certum, Dark Star Gear
- OWB: Safariland (duty), Blade-Tech (competition), PHLster Floodlight
- Budget: Vedder LightTuck, Tulster, We The People (acceptable starting point)
Build Impact
Buy one quality holster from a reputable maker rather than three cheap ones. Expect to spend $50 to $120 for a good IWB holster. Pair it with a proper gun belt — a regular belt will sag and shift. Break in a new holster by wearing it around the house for several days before carrying in public. Adjust ride height, cant, and retention until it disappears into your daily routine.