When it comes to concealed carrying some of our favorite firearms we often are only thinking at surface level. That is, most of us only think of “outside” carry options because that is what we can see. So, Outside-the-Waistband (OWB) options get a lot of attention like Small-of-the-Back (SOB), Hip, Ankle, Shoulder Rigs and Crossdraw carry options. A word many people often glaze over though is concealed in concealed carry. How many of us are actually discreetly hiding our sidearm? Without it obviously printing under clothing? That is the key to sound carrying of a firearm for protection. My favorite position to carry concealed is Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) on the midline of my body or over my appendix.
There are several reasons why I prefer to carry appendix Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) for most of the firearms I use in my everyday carry (EDC) rotation. Depending on the amount of clothing, or lack of clothing, I might be wearing on a given day due to the weather or what type of errands and activities my day might involve I switch up what firearm I am using. My short list of CCW firearms are a Glock Gen4 17, SIG Sauer P365XL, Springfield Armory Hellcat, and Springfield Armory 911. This is a rather wide gamut of firearms. Everything from a double-stack , full-size pistol down to a single-stack, tiny 380. Living in Minnesota I see weather of -40°F in winter and 100°F in the summer so a variety pack like that is almost necessary.
But back to appendix Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) carry. I prefer appendix because it places the firearm in a spot that is readily available. Most people even if they consider themselves not flexible or experience limited mobility in their arms could draw a firearm from the appendix position because it is on the midline of our bodies. No rotation or acrobatic tricks are required. Also, by having your firearm located at appendix Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) you can maintain eye contact on whatever threat is prompting you to draw your sidearm. If your firearm was on your hip, ankle, or elsewhere you may need to direct your attention and eyes away from the threat in order to draw your pistol. When it is on your midline or located around your appendix it is central and immediately available.
The other prime reason I like appendix Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) is because it sets your pistol deep in your waistline. If you are stretching in an office chair, reaching for canned goods in a grocery store, or any other reasonable activity your firearm will not become exposed, brandished, or flashed in front of other people. The element of surprise is a strong tool to have in defense and that is why it is important to keep your firearm truly concealed.
I understand there are a lot more ways to carry than just appendix Inside-the-Waistband (IWB), but that is simply my favorite position to carry. If you happen to rave about another style or technique of carry, as always, let us know all of your thoughts in the Comments below. We love it when you participate in our articles and keep the conversation going!
