Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) holsters have become increasingly popular among concealed carry enthusiasts due to their effectiveness in concealing firearms while maintaining quick access. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about wearing an IWB holster safely and comfortably.
Understanding IWB Holsters
What is an IWB holster?
An IWB holster is designed to be worn inside the waistband of your pants, positioned between your body and the fabric. This placement offers several advantages for concealed carry:
Enhanced concealment
Better weapon retention
Versatility in carry positions
Benefits of IWB carry
IWB holsters offer numerous benefits over other carry methods:
Improved concealment: By keeping the firearm close to your body, IWB holsters minimize printing (visible outline of the gun).
Versatility: They can be worn in various positions around the waist.
Accessibility: Quick and easy access to your firearm when needed.
Comfort: When properly fitted, IWB holsters can be worn comfortably for extended periods.
Types of IWB holsters
There are several types of IWB holsters available:
Kydex holsters: Durable, lightweight, and offer excellent retention
Leather holsters: Traditional, comfortable, and mold to your body over time
Hybrid holsters: Combine the benefits of both Kydex and leather
Nylon holsters: Affordable and lightweight, but may lack in durability
Selecting the Right IWB Holster
Choosing the right IWB holster is crucial for comfort, concealment, and safety. Consider the following factors:
Factors to consider when choosing an IWB holster
Firearm compatibility: Ensure the holster is designed for your specific gun model.
Retention: Look for adjustable retention to keep your firearm secure.
Comfort: Consider the materials and design that will be most comfortable for all-day wear.
Concealment: Choose a holster that minimizes printing and allows for easy concealment.
Accessibility: Ensure you can draw your firearm quickly and efficiently.
Pros: Combines comfort of leather with retention of Kydex
Cons: Bulkier than single-material options
Importance of proper fit and retention
A properly fitting holster with good retention is essential for safety and comfort. Ensure that:
The holster covers the trigger guard completely
The firearm fits snugly without excessive movement
Retention can be adjusted to your preference
Proper Positioning and Carry Options
Finding the right position for your IWB holster is crucial for comfort and concealment.
Common IWB carry positions (3-5 o’clock, appendix)
Strong-side carry (3-5 o’clock): Popular for right-handed shooters, offers good concealment and natural draw
Appendix carry (12-2 o’clock): Allows for quick access and good concealment, but may be uncomfortable for some body types
Cross-draw (10-11 o’clock for right-handed shooters): Less common but can be comfortable for driving or sitting for long periods
Finding your ideal carry position
To find your ideal position:
Experiment with different positions around your waist
Consider your daily activities and how they might affect accessibility
Practice drawing from various positions to find what feels most natural
Adjusting cant and ride height for comfort
Many IWB holsters allow for adjustment of cant (angle) and ride height:
Cant: Adjusting the angle can improve concealment and draw speed
Ride height: Higher ride height increases concealment but may slow draw speed
Experiment with these adjustments to find your optimal setup.
Dressing for Concealed Carry
Proper clothing choices are essential for effective concealment when using an IWB holster.
Choosing the right clothing for IWB carry
Consider the following when selecting clothing:
Opt for slightly looser-fitting shirts to prevent printing
Choose pants with a slightly larger waist to accommodate the holster
Dark colors and patterns can help conceal any slight printing
The importance of a quality gun belt
A sturdy gun belt is crucial for comfortable and secure IWB carry. A good gun belt will:
Distribute the weight of your firearm evenly
Prevent sagging and shifting of your holster
Provide a stable platform for drawing your weapon
Layering techniques for better concealment
Layering can significantly improve concealment:
Wear an undershirt to protect your skin from the holster
Use open-front garments like jackets or button-up shirts for easy access
Consider using a “concealment shirt” designed for IWB carry
Wearing Your IWB Holster Safely and Comfortably
Safety should always be your top priority when carrying a concealed firearm.
Proper holstering and unholstering techniques
Follow these steps for safe holstering and unholstering:
Always keep your finger off the trigger
Use your support hand to clear clothing from the holster
Holster slowly and deliberately, watching the entire process
Never force the gun into the holster if you feel resistance
Maintaining situational awareness
Carrying a concealed firearm comes with responsibility:
Be aware of your surroundings at all times
Avoid touching or adjusting your firearm in public
Know the local laws regarding concealed carry
Practicing your draw from concealment
Regular practice is essential:
Use a safe, unloaded firearm or training gun
Practice drawing from various positions (standing, sitting, etc.)
Focus on a smooth, consistent draw stroke
Troubleshooting Common IWB Carry Issues
Even with proper setup, you may encounter some challenges with IWB carry.
Dealing with printing and ride-up
To minimize printing:
Adjust the cant and ride height of your holster
Experiment with different carry positions
Consider using a wedge or claw attachment to push the grip closer to your body
For ride-up issues:
Ensure your gun belt is tight enough
Try a holster with better retention
Consider using holster clips designed to prevent ride-up
Adjusting for different body types and activities
Different body types may require different approaches:
For larger individuals: Consider strong-side carry or a holster with adjustable cant
For smaller frames: Appendix carry or a holster with adjustable ride height may work better
Adapt your carry method to your daily activities:
For active lifestyles: Choose a holster with excellent retention
For sedentary jobs: Focus on comfort for long periods of sitting
Carrying comfortably while seated or driving
To improve comfort while seated:
Adjust the ride height of your holster
Consider cross-draw or appendix carry for driving
Use a holster with a sweat guard to protect your skin
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of wearing an IWB holster for concealed carry. Remember, comfort and safety should always be your top priorities when choosing and using any concealed carry method.
Erick Flores
Erick Flores is a professional specializing in security and tactical equipment, with a remarkable track record in the law enforcement equipment industry. He has significantly contributed to developing educational content and guides for security professionals, focusing on the proper selection and use of tactical gear. His expertise and knowledge have been instrumental in informing and training security agents and law enforcement personnel in the use of high-quality equipment.
