Is Holstering a Gun In Your Waistband a Good Idea?

If you're new to gun ownership or concealed carrying, you may be wondering if carrying a gun in a waistband holster is the best idea. Of course, it's easy to think of old Western movies where the hero drew his gun in a second and took a bad guy down. In reality, waistband holsters take some time and practice to get used to and to learn how to draw properly and safely.

Tips for Carrying Concealed Inside the Waistband

When it comes to finding the right IWB carry holster for your needs, there are a few things to consider first before you get ready to carry concealed. The placement of your IWB holster is the first factor to consider.

While most IWB holsters fit best right behind your hip bone, some prefer to carry in the rear or in front of the hip bone. The appendix carry is a popular option for front carry. It's important to experiment with what position fits best for your draw and comfort.

Invest in a gun belt that will support your IWB holster and keep it secured. Over time, the weight of your gun will weigh down and break down a belt not made for guns. This can make it feel even less comfortable and secure, and could lead to poor draw time.

Spend time practicing with your IWB holster at the gun range. Draw, aim, shoot, and build muscle memory. When it comes time to defend yourself during a high-stress situation, you will depend on this muscle memory.

Choose your clothing carefully. Your IWB holster should be completely concealed, and flowy garments can snag the gun. Loose clothing that does not expose the grip and won't catch the gun are key. Choosing patterns instead of solid colors can also help keep your firearm concealed.

Choose a gun with a grip that will not shred your clothes over time. G10, stippling, and skateboard tape will scratch and tear your clothes.

How To Carry A Gun In Your Waistband

Put your gun belt on. Your holster comes equipped with a loop or a clip that your gun belt goes through. Put on your holster and carefully insert your firearm. Choose the carry position that feels most natural to you.

Waistband Carrying Basics

The most important thing to remember when you concealed carry on your waistband is safety. Your trigger guard and safety should be protected so they can't accidentally be engaged or disengaged.

Practice until you're comfortable safely drawing and reholstering your firearm. Do this while the gun is unloaded. Make sure your firearm is completely concealed while you are in public. In some places, this is the law, but guns also tend to make people nervous. To follow the law don't allow your grip or the outline of your gun to be seen.

11 Things to Consider When Choosing a Concealed Carry Holster

For a quick list, here are the top 11 things to consider when you choose a concealed carry IWB holster:

1. Comfort 2. Clothing 3. Easy to remove 4. Covers the safety and trigger guard 5. High-quality 6. Ease of reach and access 7. Retention- stays in holster during movement or struggle 8. Fits to gun 9. Location 10. Size 11. Material, durability, and cleaning

Criteria for Selecting Your IWB Holster

There are three primary materials of IWB carry holsters: Leather, nylon, and Kydex. Each has its pros and cons.

When you select your IWB holster, you want a holster that will sit comfortably throughout the day, stay clean, and not absorb moisture. Your holster should mold perfectly to your gun for an easy draw so that it does not catch on the material.

This will slow you down when you draw, and may cause an accidental disengagement of the safety or trigger movement. Your IWB holster should be concealable, and not sit in such a way that it is visible through your clothes.

Unfortunately, while leather has been the primary holster material of choice for years, it absorbs a lot of moisture when you wear it against your skin. Leather has a breaking-in period, but it is very soft and durable.

Eventually, it molds to your body and your gun perfectly. You must take care to clean it and wipe it down with a leather-safe cleaner daily. Over time, extreme heat or cold can adversely impact on the material, but with proper care, leather holsters can last 20 years or more.

Nylon IWB holsters are made to wick away moisture, which is a primary advantage when you're concealed carrying throughout the day. It stands up to extreme temperatures and only needs to be wiped out after each use. You can purchase nylon holsters specifically for your gun, or a nylon holster that molds to most sizes of your concealed carry gun. Over time, nylon can break down and catch on belts or clothing. With consistent use, nylon lasts about 10-15 years.

Kydex holsters are made of a special material which molds to fit your firearm perfectly. It repels moisture and just needs to be wiped down after each use. Kydex withstands all extreme temperatures, and with proper care, will last a lifetime. For some, the hardness of the Kydex is uncomfortable at first.

Concealed Carry Method Poll

While there are no formal polls of concealed carry gun owners, many informal website polls for gun enthusiasts put IWB carry at the top of the list. IWB is convenient to draw and conceal, which makes it a great choice for many gun owners.

Outside Waistband vs. Inside Waistband Holsters: Why It's Good To Have Both

When you are concealed carrying, IWB holsters are one of the best options. Outside the waistband, or OWB, holsters, can also be concealed with the right length of jacket or shirt.

However, OWB holsters are best for when you are at home and you want to keep your firearm with you. OWB holsters come with the same comfort and safety features as an IWB holster, making them simple and comfortable to carry for long periods of time while on your own property.

How To Wear An IWB Holster

Choose pants that are not too tight, but will accommodate your holster. Choose a gun belt that fits your size, and that will hold your firearm's size. Think of your waistband as a clock, with the small of your back being 6 o'clock, and your belly button being 12 o'clock.

Slowly maneuver the holster to each area of your waistband, deciding where it feels most comfortable and natural.

Carrying With An IWB Holster

When you carry with an IWB holster, remember to keep your firearm concealed. If it becomes uncomfortable to carry throughout the day, try switching to a different position.

Clean out your holster and wipe down your gun after each use to get rid of any dirt, lint, and moisture that may have accumulated throughout the day.

Insider Secrets: The Inside-The-Waistband Holster

Here are some secrets from the IWB experts.

• Find the right position
• Balance concealability with comfort
• Choose a high-quality holster
• Practice excessively
• Keep your holster concealed

Concealed Carry Myths: You Don’t Need a Holster

While your gun may remain in place without a holster, for safety’s sake and the longevity of your gun’s finish, you need a holster. You are more likely to set off the trigger and misfire, killing yourself or someone else, if your trigger is not protected in a holster.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for the best IWB holster for a Glock 23, a Smith & Wesson M&P, or a SIG Sauer P365, we have a wide selection of high-quality holsters to choose from. Browse our online inventory today, or use our online form to contact us.