Benefits of an Inside the Waistband or IWB Holster

When carrying a concealed firearm, there are a variety of carry options and holster styles available. Every type of holster is designed to meet a different need and has its pros and cons. You’ll need to try different holsters to see which one suits you best.

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Waistband Holsters

When searching for waistband concealed-carry holsters, there are two main types: IWB and OWB. IWB, which stands for Inside the Waistband, is designed primarily for concealed carry. You place the holster inside your pants, between the waistband and your body, allowing for a snug, discreet fit.

Standing for Outside the Waistband,  OWB holsters are suitable for either concealed or open carry; however, in order to conceal an OWB holster, a covering garment is often required.

Universal Holster Features

Every holster, regardless of type, should protect the trigger guard. When you draw your weapon, the holster should not allow your index finger to enter the trigger guard, or contact the trigger, until the weapon has cleared the holster mouth. Most accidental discharges are negligent — a result of failing to properly  follow gun safety rules. A fully covered trigger guard can help you practice trigger discipline consistently during high-stress situations.

You can also consider wearing a holster that features a partial or full sweat shield. A sweat shield is where the rear holster sheet extends upward, covering the slide and preventing contact between the gun and your body.

If you ever find yourself having to draw your firearm in self-defense, you’ll need to reholster your weapon after incapacitating or deterring the threat, preferably before the police arrive; you should not face law-enforcement officers visibly armed. Reholstering can be dangerous and requires practice, but a holster with a rigid mouth that doesn’t collapse reduces this risk.

Benefits of IWB Holsters

The most obvious  benefit of an IWB holster is concealment. By hiding part of the holster and gun below the beltline, IWB holsters have a distinct advantage compared with OWB holsters.

Clothing Versatility

Many gun owners wear a jacket or coat when carrying IWB; however, it’s not always necessary. An untucked shirt draped over an IWB holster is often sufficient to conceal it. In June or July, when temperatures rise, wearing a covering garment can be inconvenient, making IWB holsters the better choice for warm weather carry.

Concealment Devices

One phenomenon that you want to minimize is printing — when the gun creates a visible outline through clothing. Several factors contribute to printing, such as your handgun and wardrobe. You can consider adding a concealment device, such as a claw or wedge, to further conceal your firearm. These devices are typically used to conceal using an AIWB (appendix inside the waistband) holster. Placing the holster between the navel and hip, appendix carry is one of the most popular and concealable positions.

Retention

A gun holster should retain your weapon securely, ensuring that it doesn’t fall out due to vigorous physical activity. IWB holsters, being more deeply concealed, often use passive retention. Passive retention is simpler and allows for a more rapid draw stroke, relying on friction to keep the weapon in place. Active-retention holsters that use a thumb break or lever-activated locking mechanism are comparatively slow to draw from.

The purpose of the claw is to press against the inside of your waistband, rotating the grip away from your waistband and toward your body. The wedge is a device located on the rear face of the holster and is designed to force the lower half of the holster away from you and toward your waistband. This helps correct the cant in the appendix carrying position.

Tuckable Holsters

Depending on your circumstances, you may need to wear a collared shirt tucked in. This can pose a challenge when carrying a concealed firearm. A tuckable holster allows you to tuck the fabric of your shirt into your pants between the holster and the belt clip for the ultimate in concealability. The only parts that remain exposed are the belt clips. Matching the color of your belt clips to that of your gun belt will reduce the contrast.

In addition, your choice of belt clips can further hide the fact that you’re concealing a firearm. C clips, for example, attach to the top and underside of your belt, reducing exposure. If you need an even more inconspicuous option, consider the UltiClip. This type of clip can attach directly to the hem of your pants.

If you then wear a dress or gun belt over the clip, neither your weapon nor your concealed-carry accessories will be visible. You’ll need to practice your draw stroke regularly to ensure reliable performance. Although casual onlookers will probably not notice belt clips, experienced observers may recognize them.

Where to Buy IWB Holsters

IWB holsters are the standard for discreet carry. At Incognito Concealment, we manufacture high-quality  Kydex IWB holsters for every major handgun brand, from Colt to Walther. This includes our popular Incognito T3, which is designed specifically for concealed carry. Call us at (586) 999-5820, and we’ll help you find the best holster for your concealed-carry requirements.