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Best IWB Holster: Buying Guide & Reviews 2023

Choosing from among the available concealed carry holsters on the market can be really tricky because there are so many options of IWB holsters on the market. The best IWB holster for your gun is important because the best concealed carry holster should keep your gun secure in place when holstered and must offer you quick and easy access to your gun.

A concealed carry holster should also prevent any accidental firing, so ensuring that nothing touches the trigger is essential. The IWB holster must also allow for a total grip so that you can draw your handgun quickly. In addition, the holster should maintain its durability and structural integrity over the years. And if you’re comparing choices of the best concealed carry, one of the critical factors to check is the holster’s ability in concealing your firearm, while avoiding printing. Most importantly, the holster must not hinder movement and be comfortable to wear for hours. In today’s buying guide, I am featuring the best concealed carry holsters, each with different features and qualities that make them to the top of the list.

What is an IWB Holster?

An IWB concealed carry holster is worn inside the waistband by users that want to carry a concealed weapon and keep it secure in place while they’re doing what they need to do in their everyday lives, like for people in the military, law enforcement, security, tactical, personal defense, and/or hunting. An IWB holster is simply an inside the waistband holster that is a popular choice for users that want to carry a self-defense handgun. It is available in different materials, like plastic, leather, and even synthetic and can be in a wide range of shapes and sizes. Some are custom fit for a specific handgun model. These holsters are also secured to the person’s waistband with a loop/clip, providing quick and easy gun access, either side of the body – left or right.

Thing to consider for an IWB Holster

When carrying a concealed firearm, one of the most important aspects involved in it is ensuring it remains concealed. This is where a good holster comes in. However, it is not enough for you to buy the first one that pops in searches. In the following are some of the crucial points to remember in comparing IWB holsters. IWB holsters: Common Types  You’ll find different combinations in concealed carry holsters; however, many of them are categorized based on the manner that they’re worn and their material. Here are some of them. Strong side IWB holster This refers to the way of carrying one’s handgun on the side, which is near one’s dominant hand. It allows you to quickly draw your firearm when needed.  The strong side’s opposite is the weak side. This means that you are carrying your holster in a manner that you’d need to reach your weapon across your body. Appendix carry holster This refers to carrying your holster by the appendix carry position. Typically, it’s located in your abdomen’s lower right side. This type of carry is preferred by those who want to position their firearm in an easy location and provide them with a natural draw. You’ll find two types of appendix holsters - one being only holding the weapon and the other having a component that can fit a knife/magazine. However, the second type is uncommon because it is not that comfortable to wear. Kydex concealed carry holster Kydex is a material typically used in holster manufacturing because it is known for its durability to last over the years. It is also easy to maintain and clean and is also lightweight and comfortable to wear. Hybrid IWB holsters Hybrid holsters combine materials to manufacture a holster, meaning it’s not only made of Kydex or leather, but a combination of two materials.  In many cases, the exterior of a hybrid holster is either a nylon or leather material. On the downside, this type of holster, which is made of either nylon or leather on the outside, may be moisture absorbing. Some reports that it can also wear out after some time. Good hybrid holsters use a Kydex shell, which works well in trigger protection, and have a softer material in areas that comes in contact with the user’s body. Material When looking for a holster, check for its material that has to do with the holster’s ability in keeping its integrity for the years to come. Typically, options include Kydex, nylon, or leather. Kydex and leather holsters are both popular choices in the concealed carry world. Leather holsters have been around for ages and are available in different styles. They are aesthetically pleasing to the eyes, while also being comfortable to wear. However, they need upkeep and care. To maintain their integrity and appearance, users should apply and use leather lotions and creams on leather holsters. Today, you’ll find a lot of options in Kydex construction material for its ability to keep up with pressure, temperature changes, and a whole lot of factors that will affect the performance of the holster. Kydex holsters may also be able to offer better retention to hold your gun in place, while also allowing you to quickly draw it when the need arises. On the downside, some people find it rigid and a bit uncomfortable to wear for hours on end. At the end of the day, material is really all about personal preference. What works well for some may not work for others. Comfort A good holster is comfortable to wear and you should be able to wear it for a long time. When comparing your choices, also check if the holster is comfortable in that as if it’s part of your clothing, allowing you to not be conscious that you’re wearing it. A slim profile is a wise choice because it can reduce printing issues and bulkiness, which would otherwise make you feel uncomfortable when worn for many hours. The best concealed carry holster must allow you to adjust your gun to a desired ride height. This will allow you to move freely and as you do. Look for holsters with adjustable cant and ride height so that you can select the best positioning of the holster based on your body’s shape and size. This holstering device must be able to let you keep that position when you attach it to your belt. Holster Fit Your holster should not be too tight or too loose but must be the right fit for your gun.  That is why I also advise not to buy a one-size-fits-all nylon holster because it doesn’t keep the gun well in place. Cheap nylon holsters also have a retention scattered all over. You need a holster that is custom fit or molded to the pistol model you’re using. Kydex proves itself to excel in molded fit, while also offering many advantages. It can absorb shocks and protect your gun from scrapes and bumps, while also having the ability to deal with corrosive chemicals. It is also water resistant, which is an important factor especially if you’re living in extreme climates. Kydex can also protect your gun from the changing weather and temperatures. And as it’s snugly fitting your firearm, your gun will not move even when you’re moving. This can also reduce any risk of scraping your gun’s finish. A Kydex concealed carry holster is also good in keeping moisture that can damage your ammunition’s internal parts out. Adjustability Every gun user’s body is different. That’s why adjustability is important, like in terms of ride height and cant. This will ensure that it can offer you with more options in terms of concealment. Quality construction You might have to pay a higher price for a quality holster, but the service it can give you can last for years unlike if you settle for cheap and flimsy holsters. It is not just about a matter of durability here, but also performance. The least that we would want is a holster that couldn’t keep our gun well secure in place. This can compromise not only the security of our person but also others around us. When choosing shoulder holsters, appendix holsters, or just about any concealed carry holster, don’t just look at the price tag but also the quality of what you’re getting. You may refer to the reviews we’ve presented here for reference. Safety and security One of the reasons we’re buying holsters is to ensure it can conceal our firearm properly while also securing the gun all the time. In addition, we’re getting one to ensure that it can cover the trigger guard in order to prevent accidental firing or keep any object like our clothing or finger from reaching it. Check that the concealed carry IWB holster fully covers the trigger guard through a solid and durable material that will not collapse as time passes by. Drawing Especially when in a tough situation, we need to make quick decisions and be able to draw our firearm quickly. A bad holster won’t let you do this, and it might put your life in danger because you might have to struggle in drawing your gun. Look for good retention in an IWB holster that  allows for adjusting the cant angle and ride height. Make sure it also allows quick drawing when needed. Attachments Look for an inside the waistband holster that allows you to easily fit it under your clothing and one that is convenient to wear and remove. Belt clips are important in this regard. It must be easy to use, though. Dominant hand: Left or right? You must also consider this before buying a holster because a lot of holsters are not interchangeable for your left and right hand, meaning not ambidextrous. Consider your dominant hand and buy a holster that is designed for it. Pistol model I recommend getting a custom fit holster for your pistol to ensure it fits correctly, not loose or tight. Avoid buying universal nylon holsters, as they will not be able to hold your firearm well. In addition, be sure to get a holster based on the type of your gun’s features. Does it have accessories like raised sights, laser sights or accessory rails? So when comparing choices, check that the holster allows for these accessories. Local and state regulations Laws vary from one territory to another. Research about local and state carry laws and regulations because they may differ from your area to another. Stay updated with regulations to keep yourself out of trouble. IWB Holster Benefits Maybe you’re asking why get an inside the waistband holster for concealed carry. I have some answers for you. Firearm control and safety An IWB holster allows you to take full control of your firearm even in situations when an attacker would try to snatch your gun. Concealment Carrying your firearm inside your waistband can offer better concealment of it; however, this can be best achieved if you would buy a slim profile holster that doesn’t cause any bulge or leaves any printing marks. The people around you won’t even know that you’re carrying a weapon. Definitely, IWB holsters excel in this department. Choice of clothing You’ll find holsters that follow your body’s contour or shape; thus, they will allow you to wear any clothing of your choice. This adds to the comfort of using IWB concealed carry holsters. But generally of course, you must not wear tight pants if you decide to conceal carry with an IWB holster. I recommend wearing larger pants than you commonly wear for comfort and more room for your holster. In terms of top clothing, I recommend wearing loose shirts or button up shirts that you can wear open over a shirt. This again will provide you with more comfort and concealment. 

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Best OWB Holster: Top 9 Picks & Buying Guide 2023

Outside the waistband holsters are an excellent option for gun owners who want to carry their gun outdoors aside from using IWB holsters. Both holsters are good for concealed carry if your clothing covers your holster well. However, the best OWB holster can also be an excellent gun holstering device for open carry in places where carrying a gun even in plain view is allowed and you have the permit.

Today, more gun owners are going the OWB carry route because it’s more comfortable and offers quick and easy gun access. Outside the waistband carry is also a great way of carrying your weapon conveniently. But before these benefits of outside the waistband holsters, you must be able to find a comfortable, adjustable, and durable one. In today’s featured buying guide, I am highlighting the top 9 OWB holsters and discussing the things to consider so that you can make a good decision later.

 What is an OWB Holster?

OWB stands for Outside Waistband, and so OWB holsters are worn outside the waistband of the user. These holsters are more or less one of the most popular choices for a gun holster because it is quite versatile for open or concealed carry. Typically designed with a belt loop and belt clip, this gun holster can be secured outside one’s belt, and then usually will be covered under a shirt or jacket for concealed carry. Alternatively, it can be used for an open carry style. People who want a very comfortable carry position might opt for this type of holster because it doesn’t make much or have almost no contact with the body. Many also consider it for safety. In an OWB carry style, their weapon is away from their body by a few more inches; this reduces any chances of injuries in the event of an accidental discharge or negligent firing when compared to an inside the waistband (IWB) carry style. For example, an OWB competition holster can also help users conceal their larger handguns better, and it can allow for an easier drawing of their firearm because there are fewer separation layers between them and their gun.

What to Look for When Buying an OWB holster?

Shopping around for a good holster, you’ll be presented with a lot of choices from brands like Concealment Express, Safariland, Bravo Concealment, and DeSantis to name some. OWB holsters can have different features, including threaded barrels, belt slide, belt clips, thumb break, retention screw, secure grip, a paddle attachment, and compatibility for multiple firearms. But before making the decision, it is important to know certain factors to look for. Here are some things to consider when buying OWB holsters. OWB holster type Open carry or concealed carry or both are available for picking.  But generally, outside the waistband holsters are for open carry. These holsters are designed for law enforcement and competition shooting. They’re also available for shooters and other civilians who want an easy concealment or security for their firearm. Duty holsters The best OWB holsters can also be meant for duty officers. Unlike concealed carry holsters, duty holsters make it obvious that the person is carrying a gun on their hip. A duty holster is durable and is designed with a passive retention system. This holstering gear can accommodate larger handguns, too. Then, there are also duty holsters that are worn with other gears, such as battle belts and plate carriers. Competition holsters Some would assume that these OWB holsters are like range holsters, but they’re not.  An OWB competition holster should be compliant with the rules of the organizers of the competition. It must also have a reliable passive retention and some adjustable features. Range holsters They can be Kydex holsters or leather holsters, but most range holsters are very simple and straightforward. Many of them are designed to support a firearm, and that’s all. For range use, an OWB holster can be universal and it can fit almost all similar style guns. But then, it’s still good to have a fully covered trigger guard for safety. Concealed carry holster The holster will fit close to your body and shouldn’t cause much printing or unsightly bulges. If you do choose to use OWB for concealed carry, you might not want or need active retention device. An OWB paddle holster and belt holster are the two styles of OWB holsters. You might want to check out a belt holster if you want a more secure fit. However, it can be more difficult to put on and remove. Meanwhile, there is also the paddle holster, which the others pick because it is easier to put on and remove, although can offer less security than a belt holster. Safety and fitment First and foremost, a gun holster should give you peace of mind and what better to achieve than a holster that can reduce chances of an accidental discharge. Most manufacturers will mold their holsters for a specific or several gun models and ensure they add a full cover for the trigger guard in the design. While there are different holsters out there, check that the paddle holster, concealed carry holster, or OWB holster you’re getting is designed for the model and make of your firearm, ensuring it will snugly fit around it – and without any gaps. This must also be the right fit that allows you to draw and re-holster it without any hassle. Easy access A waistband holster should also be effective in allowing better access to your firearm, and that means only you can have access to it. That’s why outside the waistband holsters are designed and manufactured with adjustments. This will allow you to wear it in a position that makes your gun most accessible for you. Ride height No one wants an uncomfortable holster that is also inconvenient to use. That’s why it also matters to find the right ride height that an OWB holster offers. Remember, a certain kind of purpose will be best served depending on the ride heights that the holster offers. Concealed style of carry holsters will typically ride higher, allowing users to better conceal their weapon with clothing. Meanwhile, competition and duty guns should be riding low for a quick draw. However, you’ll find OWB holsters offering adjustable ride heights, while an OWB competition holster or duty holster is designed to be compatible with an offset drop adapter. Firearm retention Retention has to do with the holstering gear’s ability to keep a firearm secure well in place. The two retention systems are active and passive. A holster with an active retention is designed with a switch or a button, which users need to access in order to access their gun. Examples of active retention devices are those using release mechanisms that the user needs to unlock or engage first. Meanwhile, an OWB with a passive system uses tension or friction from the holster to the gun. Typically, this is in molded or friction fit carry holsters. Consider your level of experience and training when thinking about the kind of good retention you need for an outside the waistband holster. Modularity and adjustability An outside the waistband holster can be modular, allowing you to swap out certain parts of the OWB holster to match your preferences. You can make adjustments to the cant and ride height so that you can set it for your concealment needs and preferences. Many of these modular concealed carry OWB holsters will let you change belt loops, belt clips, and paddle to ensure their right fit for your gear and clothing. Accessories When choosing OWB carry holsters, think about the gun accessories your firearm wears. Does it use red dot sights, suppressor height sights, threaded barrels, or a weapon light? So depending on the accessories you’re using, check that the holster for concealed carry or open carry will accommodate them. Concealability How much concealment do you need? If you are not for concealed carry, then open carry holsters will be for you. It’s the opposite if you’re buying for concealment. In this case, you must look for a paddle holster or belt holster that offers concealment options. More so, check for a low profile design for added concealability. Material Another consideration when buying open or concealed carry holsters is its durability to ensure that they can withstand the different elements, heavy abuse and use, and other factors that will lead to wear and tear. Durability has to do with the holster material. If it’s sturdy, then it will not fall apart sooner. A leather holster is a popular choice for holsters. It is because leather material is aesthetically-pleasing and rugged, although can be prone to water and moisture damage. That’s why it also needs more care than any other holster material like Kydex. If buying an OWB leather holster, you might also want to invest in leather lotions and creams. On the other hand, there are also Kydex holsters, which are super durable and resistant to both heat and water. For its downside, Kydex may be challenging to clean and may not be the most comfortable holster. The last type is nylon, which is used in manufacturing affordable holsters. I don’t really recommend this one because it may not be able to hold up well and not very resistant to water damage. Comfort Choose an OWB carry holster, whether leather holsters or Kydex holsters, that is comfortable to wear, especially if you’re a duty officer who needs to wear one all day. Draw Speed An OWB carry holster should let you draw from it easily and quickly, allowing you to get your firearm fast, while also having a nice firing grip. You’ll find OWB holsters that can offer a quick draw in the standing position, and the others are also good even when you draw your gun while sitting, kneeling, or being in any prone position. Re-holstering must also be easy with the OWB holster. Functionality When you’re wearing tactical gear, backpack, battle belts, or plate carriers, an OWB holster is good to have provided you’d choose a comfortable OWB holster for any of these. Pricing The cost of an OWB rig varies per model, maker, and holster material. You might be able to find one with a price between 35 and 50 USD for your firearm model. Although they can be good for concealed carry or range use. However, they might not be the best option for duty use. And as they’re very affordable, you should be able to expect them to be mass produced. For the middle range priced holsters, you’ll find quality ones that can be compatible with gear like a light, suppressor height sights, or even a red dot. Retention can be passive or active and designs can be modular. If you need the best OWB holsters for concealed carry, range use, or competition, you might be able to find one with a mid-price between 50 and 75 USD. High range OWB holsters are typically more expensive, and you can find a well-compatible holster for your gun make and model. There are duty holsters and different options for one’s everyday carry requirements. Other holsters can also be multi-purpose and modular and are often heavy-duty. Premium holsters are also available. They are stellar in quality and can be expected for long-term use. These holsters can have multiple features and offer different options for carrying with firearm accessories. Typically, premium holsters are what professionals use for competition and daily use. If you have more to spend for your holster and for better concealment and quick and easy draw, then going for a great OWB holster, like high-end paddle holsters, priced from 150 USD and up can be for you.  Read the full article