Inside Waistband Holsters (IWB)
The inside waistband holster (IWB) is one of if not the most common method for concealed carry. Unlike the outside waistband holster (OWB), the IWB holster keeps the gun within your belt line. This means that the gun will stick out no farther than your belt, minus the grip. The IWB holster allows for a very natural, quick draw especially if you are used to OWB. I think IWB is an excellent first choice to get into concealed carry.
-
Pros:
- High concealment. Still need to be wary of printing when bending or crouching.
- Allows for shirt to be tucked in if desired.
- Wide range of customization. The IWB holster can be worn anywhere on your waist line (think of a clock). I typically wear mine at around 3:30-4:00 o’clock. You can also apply a cant on the holster which will tilt the gun forward or backward.
- No thumb break. OWB holsters typically come with a thumb break to keep retention on the gun. This is more needed for open carry purposes since the gun is fully exposed. However, for a concealed draw I see it as a plus to have only natural holster retention on the gun and no need for a thumb break.
-
Cons:
- Sometimes not as comfortable. I find OWB or Shoulder holster offerings to be more comfortable than IWB. Driving for long periods of time becomes especially uncomfortable for me with IWB. You’ll definitely always know your gun is there, but that could be thought of as a good thing.
- Usually a ½” to 1” larger pant size will be needed (i.e. if a 33” pant is tight you will need a 34” for IWB carry)
Gun Choice:
I normally carry either my Glock 30 or Kahr PM9 when I use IWB carry. The Glock 30 is a little wide, but that is expected for a double stack .45ACP. The Kahr PM9, on the other hand, can really disappear with the right holster.
July 13th, 2008 at 3:49 pm
I highly recommend inside waistband holsters. They are very common and can be found custom molded for almost any gun.
July 13th, 2008 at 7:43 pm
I also like my IWB holster. The one I purchased was very low cost but provides great comfort and is easy to conceal. I also have a shoulder holster but it only works well with a coat of some sort.
December 8th, 2008 at 7:58 pm
I am a big guy… I was wondering is there a perticular conceal carry style that would be more beneficial to a bigger frame. I have a .45ACP.
December 8th, 2008 at 8:49 pm
Kenny,
Other than the outside waistband method, I would say a shoulder holster would be your best option; second best inside waistband. I regularly carry my full size 1911 .45ACP in a shoulder holster. For inside waistband, I usually carry my Glock 30 (”compact” frame compared to the 1911, but still in .45ACP). I don’t have a IWB holster for my 1911 but I have heard people using that method with them. Either the shoulder holster or inside waistband should work for you. Smartcarry may also work if you don’t have a full size .45ACP.
- ConcealedCarryAdvocate
December 13th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
I have tried IWB and OWB. I have used shoulder and smartcarry. In think the best way is IWB appendix position.
It is the fastest to draw from.
It won’t give you a problem while sitting and driving.
People cannot get it away from you easily in a crowd.
It seems that every time I have worn a shoulder holster I see an old friend. When I give her a hug, she will put her hand right on the gun. (This has never happened with the gun in the IWB appendix position.) I don’t expect it will, either.
January 8th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
I just got a Glock 23 and my concealed carry license. I have a small frame for a man. What do you think would be the best position to carry a Glock 23 in an IWB holster?
January 9th, 2009 at 5:01 am
Chris,
When I first started carrying IWB I wore it at about 5 ‘o clock. I liked the position when walking around but every time I got in my truck I could never get comfortable. It was positioned so far back I was always basically sitting on it.
After that, I moved it up to about the 3:30 position. This was perfect for comfort in the car, but then the bottom of the grip was more visible than before. To fix that, I adjusted the holsters cant forward slightly until the printing was gone.
Some people have also had success with carrying IWB at the small of the back (right at your spine, 6 ‘o clock). Personally, I can never get comfortable while sitting if I’ve got a big .45 pressing on me. A smaller pocket type gun might fix that problem, but your Glock 23 is by no means a pocket sized handgun.
- ConcealedCarryAdvocate
January 24th, 2009 at 7:19 pm
I currently have a Sig Sauer P-250 and would like to know if anyone makes a IWB holster for it.
Thanks
January 25th, 2009 at 9:13 pm
Tim,
Take a look here, my favorite IWB holster is the: Comp-Tac MTAC.
If something like this is a bit too pricey, consider going with a non-custom fit option. Non-custom fit holsters will come in “medium frame,” “large frame,” etc. designations.
- ConcealedCarryAdvocate
February 16th, 2009 at 4:19 pm
I use a Galco Royal Guard with both a 5″ and 3″ 1911. They hold the gun securely. I found that going one size up in jeans was too much, so I accept a little more tightness in the waist than normal. The biggest problem for me is most of my day is spent sitting. Either at a desk, in a car, or on a motorcycle with backrest. I find that the grip manages to dig in right at the kidneys. This type of carry works for me, but I usually reserve it for when I’m going to be on my feet mainly (like at the mall) and the drive is short, rather than everyday carry. I have also have the Royal Guard to fit my Sig P220 (.45). I don’t wear it that much because I prefer the 1911.
February 24th, 2009 at 7:41 pm
I have a Springfield XD 45ACP with a 4″ bbl I have been looking at a Galco Skyops iwb holster what would you recommend for comfort, concealment, and quality?
February 26th, 2009 at 10:36 pm
I have a Sig Sauer P220 and I’m looking at the Don Hume P.C.C.H. and the Galco Royal Guard. Which Holster is better in quality or am I going in the wrong direction? I want to stay in the $60.00 to $100.00 range. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.
March 19th, 2009 at 8:52 am
I have a Browning Hi-Power,.. I used to carry in a shoulder holster when I lived in the cold country, but now live in the warmer climate,. I carry IWB without a holster but I get a little printing from the handle with a tee shirt on,. (I’m not a big guy) I’ve thought about getting a smaller gun, but my browning fit’s me well and I’m used it,.. Any thought on what I could do different, or should I just start looking harder for a smaller Kahr or something… Thanks..
March 20th, 2009 at 11:48 am
Does anyone know what happened to a company called Frist Holsters? I bought a IWB holster from them about two years ago and now I cannot find their web-site.
March 24th, 2009 at 1:38 pm
Check spelling: http://www.fist-inc.com/holsters/
I started carrying IWB at the 5:00 position, palm-out/ Cavalry draw, with a Colt Mustang. Then a .45 ACP Detonics CombatMaster VI. Now a Springfield XD Compact with 4″ barrel. I’m only 5′9″, 180#, and neither size nor weight of gun has presented a challenge. No problem sitting, riding, socializing, even hugging. My only ‘busts’ in about 10 years, were twice, when a sweater or a coat rode up over the grip, getting out of the car. It’s nicely hidden but comes out quickly, and –best– with the palm-out draw, presentation is minimally threatening until the gun actually appears. “Here’s my wallet…”
March 25th, 2009 at 8:20 pm
So let’s put this plainly… Do we have a recommendation for a fat guy? I’m 250lbs at the moment (’though I’m working on it’)adn I’m wondering what I should consider for carrying a sig p22 carry? Thanks for any input!
March 26th, 2009 at 8:35 pm
Mi, I am 6′2′ 235lbs. I am looking at the crossbreed supertuck deluxe. I’ve heard it is
the best. I carry a Ruger SR9.
April 1st, 2009 at 12:19 pm
Paul, KEEP THE Hi-POWER!!!
April 27th, 2009 at 9:11 am
Looking for a good holster to conceal my PA-63, but most shops in my town don’t have holstrs made to fit a makarov ( they’ll fit, but not very well)
April 29th, 2009 at 1:44 pm
Kholster dot com. Mine is awesome for my Taurus 24/7 pro compact 9mm.
May 26th, 2009 at 6:22 pm
That was a great post…I love this site. Thanks
June 13th, 2009 at 12:36 pm
I just purchased a Springfield XDm .40 and was wondering what brand of IWB holster to purchase. I’ve looked at the supertuck (Crossbreed) and cell pal (concealed comfort)but I’m not sure.
June 16th, 2009 at 5:49 pm
Some other suggestions are:
Milt Sparks, Brigade holsters (these are beautiful but you’ll wait a year for it), Mitch Rosen, Ted Blocker, Bulman Gunleather and Blackhawk holsters, Ehud iwb holster, H.B.E leather works, High Noon
June 19th, 2009 at 6:54 am
i’m looking for a concealed option for my wife. she is about 5′3″ and 105#s she’ll be carrying a Colt Detective’s Special or a springfield EMP. any help would be greatly appreciated
June 20th, 2009 at 12:15 am
OK, where is the best place on the internet to purchase IWB tuckable holsters? Has anyone found a particular site or sites that are generally cheaper than others?
June 23rd, 2009 at 4:24 pm
I have a kimber classic ultra carry 45 and am looking for a good conceament holster for inside the pants, Any ideas of type and model for best concealment and comfort. I am on the motorcycle most of the time if this helps.
July 8th, 2009 at 9:50 am
I am having trouble finding a holster for my gun. I am wanting a inside the waistband holster for concealed carry. I have an EAA P Carry 9mm with a picatinny rail. The dimensions of the gun are: 7.5″ Overall, 1.4″ Width, 5.5″ Height, and 3.6″ Barrel.
July 12th, 2009 at 12:37 pm
I have a modified Springfield XDL uses 40. cal S&W. I mounted a Laser sight that mounts right under the barrel. And I also have a minture or compacked flashlight mounted to the bottom of the Laser sight. So needless to say it will not fit ANY holster. I decided to do some web suffering and try my luck. Found your web-site seen a holster I liked which is the inside waist-band or IWB style and I like it very much. Is it possible that you could make or have a holster made to fit my needs. I would prefered one made of leather but will accept any holster that would let me carry. Thank you for your time, Respectfully Cecil Leigeber
July 27th, 2009 at 11:52 am
I’ve got an Springfield XD SubCompact (3″), I’ve been looking for an IWB holster and was wondering if anyone has any suggestions. I’m about 6′ 185lbs. I came close to buying a Desantis holster, but haven’t pulled the trigger. I’m completely in the dark when it comes to what brand makes a good holster.
July 28th, 2009 at 5:33 am
McKinley,
You can’t go wrong with any of the major holster makers (Galco, Desantis, Bianchi, etc.). It really comes down to which style fits you best. Also, make sure you get a good gun belt.
- ConcealedCarryAdvocate
July 28th, 2009 at 8:27 am
I wanted to know what people think of a clip draw with a trigger safety for a glock 23. recommend or no
August 12th, 2009 at 7:20 am
I just picked up a soft frame IWB for my Glock 19, so far I find it most comfortable positioned at 12:30-1:00. Is that an OK placement or is this not a good idea? Thanks.
August 12th, 2009 at 7:42 am
JR,
12:30-1:00 isn’t a bad idea at all. I’ve carried in that position before but did not find it comfortable when sitting. If I carry IWB, I usually go for 3:30-4:00. If you want to carry in the front something like Smartcarry will be much more comfortable when sitting.
- ConcealedCarryAdvocate
August 16th, 2009 at 9:23 am
These guys really helped me to select a holster for concealed carry. The belly band holster they sold me fits perfect for a ton of different pistols and is an excellent alternatve to a clip on or belt holster and they had the best price and highest quality holster on the web.
http://Www.personaldefenseservice.com
Amy Smith, Michigan
August 18th, 2009 at 9:14 pm
ConcealedCarryAdvocate i was wondernig what holster that is in the picture at the top
Thanks Chris.
August 19th, 2009 at 8:03 am
Chris,
That is the Comp-Tac C-TAC.
- ConcealedCarryAdvocate
August 19th, 2009 at 8:23 am
Thanks i’ve been looking for one that might keep the gun from tilting back
September 3rd, 2009 at 12:35 am
I just picked up a soft frame IWB for my Glock 19, so far I find it most comfortable positioned at 12:30-1:00. Is that an OK placement or is this not a good idea? Thanks.;…
September 10th, 2009 at 8:58 am
have an LCP and am looking for high-quality iwb for concealed carry. Any experience with this weapon and holster?
September 18th, 2009 at 11:33 pm
I have a 3032 TomCat Inox. I’m looking for a IWB holster. I am a small woman…5′2″, about 122 lbs. Any suggestions?
September 19th, 2009 at 2:16 pm
I have tried most styles over the years as a plainclothes detective. In the winter you are bundled up. Nobody is going to draw fast with a topcoat, and suit or sport coat buttoned. In the heat os the desert southwest you un-layer. Granted most cops will carry externally on a belt, with their shield clearly visible. Those of us with concealed carry permit aren’t so fortunate. DeSantis makes what I am finding to be about the best all around concealed carry holster. One of their models allows for the wearer to actually tuck his shirt, blouse in between the clip on your slacks, skirt. You then slide the holster onto whatever you are wearing. the only visible is the curled metal lip. Your belt( mandatory) fits in the clip. and covers most of he clip. I have carried my Colt Commander, my S&W model 908 in their respective holsters. You can’t even see. And as we all know, most Americans are pretty blind to what’s going on around them. The nice thing about the semi autos is that there is a pocket on top for an extra magazine.
September 25th, 2009 at 4:21 pm
Fist, Inc. has a nice adjustable cant IWB holster molded for the Glock 23, made of Kydex. On the body, I wear it at about the 3 O’ Clock position. I am relatively small framed and find a shirt that covers the waste will add concealment.
September 28th, 2009 at 12:48 pm
Following up on Cecil’s question, is ther any hope in finding an IWB for an H&K P-30 with a laser/light combo mounted directly under the barrel?
October 6th, 2009 at 6:38 am
What holster is that I have been looking for a good holster for conceled carry for a while and cant find one that is comfertable
October 6th, 2009 at 5:34 pm
I am looking for a left handed IWB holster for a Springfield XD 40 cal. Any suggestions?
October 7th, 2009 at 12:58 pm
David,
What DeSantis holster do you recommend.
October 22nd, 2009 at 2:46 pm
Check these holsters out. They isolate the weapon from your body. Extremely comfortable!
October 24th, 2009 at 1:19 am
Has anyone Tried the Don Hume PCCW? I carry a Sig p220 Equinox and I prefer a IWH (Im a big guy, and believe it or not they help keep my jeans up) but i’ve been settling with a cheap blackhawk. I like the looks of the PCCW and just want some reviews before I buy.
Thanks, Josh
November 5th, 2009 at 10:37 am
I have 3 PCCW, 2 XD in slightly different styles, and one for a 1911. Good inexpensive leather holster. No steel band in the top so after a while the leather softens up with use and compresses under your belt, re-holstering takes a bit of effort. That aside it’s well made and workable. - JJ
November 5th, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Hey, im looking for both an IWB & OWB holster for a Smith&Wesson Sigma .40; I know they are almost an identical copy of the glocks. Should i be just looking for a glock holster then?
-Thanks
November 29th, 2009 at 11:56 pm
You cant beat the Comp-Tac. Have them for several models. Very comfortable. Has a J-hook that if your like me and do not wear a belt. Is still very secure just over the top of the jeans. Good retention and light.
November 30th, 2009 at 12:00 am
One more thing. For new carriers. Think about your weapon. Pick a gun that you can actually carry comfortably. A holster can only do so much
December 23rd, 2009 at 10:32 am
Hi,
I’ll be old enough to carry soon, and I’ll be carrying a Smith and Wesson M&P 9mm compact.
I was wanting to carry IWB, but cross-draw. Is there anything I should consider before doing this?
I’m Right-Handed.
I should be able to just purchase a normal Right-Handed IWB holster, and reverse it, No?
Any Help would be appreciated,
Thanks.
January 1st, 2010 at 5:23 pm
BUDD
I have a Springfield XD Compact 45ACP, 4in Barrel… i have 2 IWB holsters that I rotate between just because. One is from Desantis..click on link…http://www.desantisholster.com/storefrontB2CWEB/itemdetail.do?action=prepare_detail&itm_id=6953&itm_index=0
the other I use is from Blade-Tech…. http://www.blade-tech.com/Bobby-Mcgee-Pro-Series-NANO-IWB-pr-1141.html
both have excellent comfort for me..set at 2 different angles…. I am 5′11..210 lbs, athletic build
January 12th, 2010 at 1:45 pm
I highly recommend the Crossbreed holster. I wear it everyday, all day and sometimes forget the gun is there.
January 16th, 2010 at 12:39 pm
what is a good concealed carry holster for a bersha 380 thunderer
January 24th, 2010 at 3:15 pm
Im wanting to get a tauarus pt92 can recommend a way to carry that and a holster?
January 28th, 2010 at 9:43 am
I have a Springfield XD 45ACP and have found that the Smartcarry is excellent. Since I am a minister, there are times even my wife is not sure if I am carrying. I also use a OWB Fobus paddle holster if I am going to be wearing a jacket of untucked shirt.
February 2nd, 2010 at 10:34 pm
don hume has good iwb holsters for bersa thunder 380
the pcch works great .also there clip on would be a good choise.
last but not least the pocket holster is not bad .i have all three
all are very well made for owb galco stinger is a great choise
February 9th, 2010 at 8:44 am
I have a Springfield XD-M 40 SW service model 4″ barrel. I was wondering if it is best to conceal in a IWB or shoulder holster? It’s a heavier than the glock so I didn’t know if it would be easier to use a shoulder holster. I also am looking to purchase a Beretta Px4 storm and was wondering the same thing about it. Thanks!