Appendix Carry vs 4 o’clock: Which Carry Position is More Comfortable & Concealable?

Not sure if appendix carry or 4 o’clock is your best fit? Explore every major carry position in our Complete Comparison Guide before you decide.

Choosing the right carry position isn’t just about personal preference — it impacts your comfort, draw speed, and even your concealment level. Two of the most popular positions for concealed carry are:

Appendix Carry (AIWB): Holster sits up front, around 1 o’clock.
4 o’clock Carry: Holster sits behind the hip, around 4 o’clock.

Both are common, but they perform very differently depending on your body type, firearm size, and daily activity.

Appendix carry: fast and discreet

Key advantages

Fastest draw when standing.
Works great with smaller pistols.
Easier to protect against gun grabs since the gun is visible to you at all times.
Conceals well with untucked shirts.

Main downsides

Can be uncomfortable when sitting, especially for larger body types.
Higher risk of negligent discharge if reholstering carelessly.
Not ideal for full-size firearms.

| If you’re debating between appendix and a more traditional hip carry, don’t miss our detailed Appendix Carry vs Hip Carry analysis.

4 o’clock carry: comfortable but slower

Key advantages

Very comfortable for all-day carry.
Works well with larger pistols.
Easy to conceal under jackets and untucked shirts.
Safe and natural reholstering process.

Main downsides

Slower draw, especially from seated position.
Harder to protect from gun grabs (less visual awareness of the gun).
Can shift out of position if the belt isn’t tight enough.

Comparison table

Factor	Appendix Carry (AIWB)	4 o’clock Carry
Draw Speed	Fastest	Slower
Comfort	Moderate (less when seated)	Excellent
Concealment	Excellent with small guns	Good with proper cover
Safety (reholstering)	Requires extreme caution	Safer process
Best For	Slim guns, fast access	Larger guns, long wear time

| Thinking beyond waistband carry? Learn how IWB compares to OWB.

Which position works best for your lifestyle?

Scenario	Best Option
Daily carry with slim pistol	Appendix
Long hours of sitting (office, driving)	4 o’clock
Max draw speed while standing	Appendix
Large firearm (Glock 17, 1911)	4 o’clock
Tighter clothing (summer carry)	Appendix

Expert tip: test before committing

Some carriers rotate between both positions depending on the situation. For example:

Appendix carry in casual clothes.
4 o’clock carry for long road trips or formal events.

If you’re unsure, invest in a quality holster that supports both positions, giving you flexibility to adapt.

Both appendix carry and 4 o’clock carry have clear strengths and weaknesses. The right choice depends on:

Your body type and flexibility.
The size and weight of your firearm.
How often you sit, stand, or move throughout the day.

At US Duty Gear, we offer premium holsters designed for appendix carry, 4 o’clock carry, and every position in between. Shop now to find the perfect fit for your firearm and lifestyle.

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