Concealed Carry Holster Guide
Find the right holster for your carry style, body type, and lifestyle.
Carry Positions (Clock Reference)
- 12 o'clock: Appendix (AIWB)
- 1-2 o'clock: Appendix (strong side)
- 3 o'clock: Strong side hip
- 4 o'clock: Behind hip
- 5-6 o'clock: Small of back (not recommended)
- 8-9 o'clock: Cross-draw (support side)
- 10-11 o'clock: Appendix (support side)
Holster Types
IWB (Inside Waistband)
Holster worn inside the pants, between body and waistband. Most popular for concealed carry.
- Excellent concealment
- Works with most clothing
- May require larger pants
- Can be warm in summer
AIWB (Appendix IWB)
IWB worn in front of the body, between 11-1 o'clock position. Fast draw and excellent concealment.
- Fastest draw
- Easy access while seated
- Comfort issues for larger builds
- Safety concerns (muzzle direction)
OWB (Outside Waistband)
Holster worn outside the pants, attached to belt. Common for duty use, open carry, and range.
- Most comfortable
- Fastest access
- Requires jacket/cover garment to conceal
- Prints easily
Shoulder Holster
Harness system with holster under the arm. Classic style often seen with suits.
- Comfortable while seated
- Weight distributed on shoulders
- Requires cover garment
- Slower draw
Ankle Holster
Holster worn around the ankle, concealed by pants leg. Good for backup guns.
- Excellent concealment
- Accessible while seated
- Slow standing draw
- Limited gun size
Pocket Holster
Small holster designed to fit in a front pocket. Disguises gun shape.
- Very easy to carry
- Breaks up gun outline
- Limited to small guns
- Slower draw
Belly Band
Elastic band worn around midsection with built-in holster pocket. Very versatile.
- Works without belt
- Very versatile positioning
- Can be hot
- Less secure retention
Enigma System
Chassis system that suspends holster from body independent of belt. Revolutionary design.
- Truly beltless carry
- Works with anything
- Learning curve to set up
- Higher cost
Holster Materials
Kydex
Rigid thermoplastic that's molded to the specific gun model.
+ Excellent retention, Consistent draw
− Can be loud, Less comfortable against body
Best for: IWB, AIWB, OWB - most carry styles
Leather
Traditional material, forms to gun over time.
+ Comfortable against body, Classic look
− Requires break-in, Can lose shape
Best for: OWB, shoulder holsters, traditional carry
Hybrid (Kydex/Leather)
Kydex shell with leather or neoprene backing.
+ Comfort of leather, Retention of Kydex
− Can be bulkier, Leather may wear
Best for: IWB carry, all-day comfort
Nylon
Soft fabric construction, often with universal fit.
+ Inexpensive, Lightweight
− Poor retention, Can collapse
Best for: Budget option, range use - NOT recommended for daily carry
Concealed Carry Tips
Invest in a Gun Belt
A proper gun belt is essential. It supports the weight and prevents sagging. Look for reinforced or purpose-built belts.
Practice Your Draw
Unloaded practice at home builds muscle memory. Practice with the same clothing you'll carry with.
Cover the Trigger Guard
Never carry without full trigger guard coverage. This is non-negotiable for safety.
Check Your Concealment
Mirror check from multiple angles. Move, bend, and reach. Have someone else check for printing.
Consider Seasons
Your summer carry setup may differ from winter. Plan for both minimal and layered clothing.
Train Regularly
Take a concealed carry course. Practice drawing from concealment at the range.
Quick Selection Guide
By Body Type:
- Slim/Athletic: AIWB, IWB 3-4 o'clock
- Average: IWB any position, AIWB
- Larger Build: IWB 3-5 o'clock, OWB with cover
By Lifestyle:
- Desk Job: AIWB, Shoulder
- Active/Labor: IWB with good retention
- Driving Often: AIWB, Shoulder, Ankle (backup)
By Wardrobe:
- Tucked Shirts: Tuckable IWB, Belly band
- T-Shirts: AIWB, IWB 4 o'clock
- Suits/Jackets: OWB, Shoulder
- Athletic Wear: Belly band, Enigma
Safety Requirements:
- Trigger guard coverage: The holster MUST fully cover the trigger guard at all times.
- Secure retention: Gun should not fall out when holster is inverted and shaken.
- Rigid material: Holster opening must stay open for safe re-holstering.
- Avoid soft nylon: Universal nylon holsters often fail these requirements.