Concealed carry is a serious responsibility, and choosing the right holster is paramount for comfort, accessibility, and safety. Among the various options available, Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) holsters offer a balance of concealability and accessibility, making them a popular choice among concealed carriers. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into everything you need to know about IWB holsters, from their construction and materials to tips for choosing the perfect one for your needs.

 

Understanding Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) Holsters:

  • Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters are designed to be worn inside the waistband of your pants, typically positioned at the hip or small of the back. This positioning offers excellent concealment while providing quick access to your firearm when needed. Unlike outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters, which are worn outside the pants, IWB holsters hug closer to the body, reducing printing and making it easier to keep your firearm discreetly hidden.

Construction and Materials:

IWB holsters come in various designs and materials, each with its own set of advantages and considerations:

  1. Kydex: Kydex holsters are lightweight, durable, and offer excellent retention. They're molded to the specific shape of your firearm, providing a secure fit and smooth draw. Kydex holsters are resistant to moisture and can withstand harsh conditions without losing their shape.
  2. Leather: Leather holsters are known for their comfort and classic appearance. They conform to your body over time, providing a custom fit that enhances comfort and concealment. However, leather holsters may require a break-in period, and they can be affected by moisture and sweat.

  1. Hybrid: Hybrid holsters combine the best of both worlds, featuring a Kydex shell for retention and a leather or neoprene backing for comfort. These holsters offer excellent retention and comfort, making them a popular choice for everyday carry.
  2. Nylon: Nylon holsters are lightweight and affordable, but they lack the durability and retention of Kydex or leather. They're suitable for occasional use but may not provide the level of security needed for daily carry.

Comfort and Concealment:

Comfort and concealment are crucial factors to consider when choosing an IWB holster:

  1. Comfort: Look for holsters with features like adjustable cant and ride height, which allow you to customize the position and angle of your firearm for maximum comfort. Additionally, padded backing or sweat guards can help prevent irritation and discomfort during extended wear.
  2. Concealment: The key to effective concealment is minimizing printing, or the outline of your firearm showing through your clothing. Choose a holster with a slim profile and adjustable retention to keep your firearm close to your body, reducing the likelihood of printing. Experiment with different clothing styles and positions to find the most concealable setup for your body type and preferences.

Retention and Accessibility:

Retention refers to the ability of the holster to securely hold your firearm in place, even during physical activity or sudden movements. While it's essential for your holster to retain your firearm securely, it should also allow for a smooth and intuitive draw when needed:

  1. Adjustable retention: Many IWB holsters feature adjustable retention screws or mechanisms that allow you to customize the level of retention to your preference. This ensures a secure fit without sacrificing draw speed or ease of access.
  2. Accessibility: Your holster should enable a quick and natural draw, allowing you to access your firearm efficiently in a high-stress situation. Consider factors such as holster orientation, placement, and accessibility when choosing the right holster for your needs.

Training and Practice:

 

Even the best holster won't guarantee your safety if you're not properly trained in its use. Invest time in regular training and practice to develop muscle memory and proficiency with your chosen holster:

  1. Draw practice: Practice drawing from your holster regularly, focusing on smooth, fluid movements and proper technique. Incorporate different scenarios and shooting positions to simulate real-world situations and improve your readiness.
  2. Concealed carry courses: Consider enrolling in a concealed carry course or defensive handgun training program to learn essential skills and tactics for carrying concealed. These courses often include instruction on holster selection, draw techniques, and situational awareness, helping you become a more responsible and effective concealed carrier.

Adding Accessories: RMR and Flashlights:

 

As technology advances, many concealed carriers opt to enhance their firearms with accessories such as red dot sights (RMR) or flashlights for improved accuracy and low-light visibility. While these additions can enhance the functionality of your firearm, they also introduce additional considerations when selecting an IWB holster:

  1. Red Dot Sights (RMR): Red dot sights are becoming increasingly popular for handguns, offering a precise aiming point and faster target acquisition. However, adding an RMR to your firearm will impact the fit and retention of your holster. Look for holsters specifically designed to accommodate handguns with RMRs, ensuring proper clearance and retention around the sight housing.
  2. Flashlights: A flashlight mounted on your firearm can be a valuable tool for identifying threats in low-light conditions. When choosing an IWB holster for a handgun equipped with a flashlight, ensure that the holster provides adequate clearance and retention for both the firearm and the attached flashlight. Some holsters may feature adjustable retention screws or interchangeable inserts to accommodate different flashlight models.
  3. Considerations: When adding accessories to your concealed carry gun, it's essential to prioritize safety and functionality. Ensure that your holster fully covers the trigger guard and provides sufficient retention to prevent accidental discharges. Additionally, consider the added weight and bulk of accessories when assessing comfort and concealability. Experiment with different holster designs and positions to find the best fit for your setup, taking into account the added dimensions of your firearm with accessories attached.

 

The Top 8 IWB Holsters for Concealed Carry

 

1. Safariland Model 17: The Safariland Model 17 is a rugged and reliable IWB holster favored by law enforcement officers and competitive shooters. Its durable SafariLaminate construction and adjustable retention screw ensure a secure fit and smooth draw in any situation.

2. Tulster Profile Holster: The Tulster Profile Holster features a minimalist design and adjustable retention, making it a favorite among concealed carriers. Its slim profile and precision molding provide excellent concealment and comfort for all-day wear.

3. Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite: The Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite is praised for its innovative design and customizable features. It features a flexible Kydex shell and breathable backing, offering superior comfort and retention for everyday carry.

4. Vedder LightTuck: The Vedder LightTuck is known for its slim profile and customizable retention, making it an excellent choice for concealed carry. Its adjustable ride height can't allow you to find the perfect carry position, while its durable Kydex construction ensures years of reliable use.

5. Bravo Concealment Torsion 3.0: The Bravo Concealment Torsion 3.0 features a unique design that twists the holster inward, reducing printing and enhancing concealment. Its adjustable retention and compatibility with various firearms make it a versatile option for concealed carry.

6. Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5: The Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5 offers exceptional comfort and adjustability, thanks to its neoprene backing and adjustable retention screws. It provides excellent concealment and retention while ensuring all-day comfort for extended wear.

7. Dara Holsters IWB: Dara Holsters offers a wide range of IWB holsters tailored to fit specific firearm models, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal retention. Their holsters feature adjustable retention screws, adjustable cant and ride height, and optional accessories such as claw attachments for enhanced concealment.

8. We The People Holsters: We The People Holsters offers a variety of IWB holsters designed for comfort, concealment, and accessibility. Their holsters feature durable Kydex construction, adjustable retention, and customizable designs to fit your individual needs. Urban Carry Holsters:

9. Urban Carry Holsters: provide a unique deep concealment option with their leather-based designs. They offer various styles, including the Urban Carry G2 and the Revo Holster System, which offer deep concealment while providing quick access to your firearm when needed.