Carrying a concealed weapon comes with significant responsibility, and inside the waistband (IWB) carry is a popular method. With your firearm discreetly hidden inside your pants, it remains out of sight but within easy reach.
Choosing the right IWB holster is essential for both safety and comfort. Simply tucking a gun into your waistband is risky; similarly, using a cheap, low-quality holster isn’t much better.
For effective concealed carry, you need a reliable and safe holster tailored to your needs.
To help you in this quest, I’ve curated a list of the top five IWB holsters, highlighting their key features and what to consider when selecting the best one for your weapon and lifestyle.
Key Takeaways
- Insight into choosing the appropriate IWB holster
- Features of top five IWB holsters
- Key considerations for selecting a holster
Understanding IWB Carry
Carrying a concealed weapon carries significant responsibility, and many prefer inside the waistband (IWB) carry. This method keeps your firearm hidden inside your pants, making it hard to spot but still easily accessible.
Choosing the right IWB holster is crucial for both safety and comfort. Simply tucking a gun into your waistband is risky, and low-quality holsters aren’t much better.
There are a plethora of holsters available online, and finding the perfect one can be a challenge.
Concealed carry is serious, and you need a holster that’s safe, reliable, and suitable for everyday use.
It’s essential to take your time and select a holster that fits your weapon and lifestyle, providing confidence in your carry.
To assist in finding the right holster, I’ve listed the top five IWB holsters and their key features. Combine this with factors that will help you make the best choice for your needs.
Top IWB Holsters
1971 Gun Leather IWB
- Price Point: Budget-friendly.
- Material: Full leather.
- Safety: Adequate trigger coverage with reasonable retention.
- Comfort: Soft against the body, though slightly thicker than kydex holsters.
- Adjustability: Limited; fixed ride and cant.
- Concealment: Compact size, easy to hide under clothing.
- Warranty: Lifetime.
Concealment Express IWB Holster
- Design: Secure trigger guard, high grip.
- Magazine Release: Partial or full coverage, depending on firearm model.
- Features: Posi-click system for confirmation when holstered.
- Adjustability: Adjustable cant; ride height on tuckable models.
- Drawback: Slightly awkward grip on smaller pistols.
Tulster Profile IWB
- Material: Full kydex.
- Quality: High-quality control; contoured edges.
- Design: Reveals great craftsmanship, providing excellent trigger coverage.
- Comfort: Rounded edges and streamlined design for comfort while seated or moving.
- Warranty: Lifetime with a 30-day return policy.
- Customization: Limited, though additional options may be purchased separately.
Selecting the Right IWB Holster
Finding the right Inside the Waistband (IWB) holster for concealed carry is essential to ensure both safety and comfort. IWB carry, as the name suggests, means your firearm is tucked inside your pants. This setup keeps it hidden yet easily accessible.
It’s crucial, though, to choose the correct holster rather than just sticking the gun into your waistband, which is unsafe.
When selecting an IWB holster, several factors come into play like safety, reliability, and comfort.
There are plenty of options online, but not all will fit your needs.
For reliable concealed carry, the holster must effectively cover the trigger and offer decent retention to keep the firearm secure under normal conditions.
Quality and Material: Opt for holsters made of either leather, Kydex, or a hybrid of both.
Leather holsters tend to be more comfortable and have a softer feel. Kydex holsters, on the other hand, provide a slimmer profile and rigid structure, enhancing security. If you prefer a mix of both, hybrid holsters combine comfort with a firm structure.
Comfort: Comfort is a top priority when carrying daily.
Leather holsters offer a softer contact with the body but may be thicker. Kydex options provide a slimmer profile, making them less noticeable under clothing. Full leather might give a luxurious feel, but some users might lean towards the minimalistic approach of Kydex.
Adjustability: Some holsters come with fixed settings, while others offer adjustable features like ride height and cant.
Adjustable cant lets you tilt the holster for an optimal draw angle. Ride height adjustment helps position the firearm at a comfortable level on the waistband.
Retention Characteristics: Good retention ensures the firearm stays secured until you intentionally draw it.
Features like Posi-Click in some Kydex holsters provide auditory and tactile feedback for reassurance. On the flip side, leather options might have slightly looser retention, facilitating a quicker draw.
Design and Concealability: The holster’s design impacts how well it stays hidden under clothing.
Compact designs with a sleek profile offer better concealability. For instance, a tuckable IWB holster allows you to tuck in your shirt while keeping the firearm concealed.
Durability and Warranty: Lastly, durability matters for long-term use.
Consider holsters with good construction and a warranty. Products like the 1791 Gun Leather IWB offer a lifetime warranty, adding peace of mind regarding quality and longevity.
Top Five IWB Holsters
1791 Gun Leather IWB
The 1791 Gun Leather IWB stands out as a budget-friendly option for those looking for a full leather concealed carry holster. Priced lower than many top-tier selections, it offers simplicity and durability.
The holster provides adequate trigger coverage and reasonable retention, but it’s crucial not to invert it as the firearm might not stay secure. The leather quality is commendable, reinforced for added durability.
Comfort-wise, it’s softer against the body but slightly thicker than full Kydex holsters.
Adjustability is limited with fixed ride and cant, yet it excels in concealment with its compact size. The lifetime warranty adds assurance, though the universal design might not be a perfect fit for all firearms. The suede exterior, while comfortable, may show wear over time.
Concealment Express IWB Holster
Concealment Express holsters are highly acclaimed for their blend of affordability and reliability. These Kydex holsters feature a design ensuring the trigger guard sits flush, providing a secure grip.
They also pay attention to the magazine release button, depending on the firearm model, which adds extra protection but might result in a slightly awkward grip for some users.
A standout feature is the Posi-Click system, giving tactile and audible confirmation when the handgun is holstered.
The tuckable IWB model allows for seamless concealed carry, ideal for those who need to tuck in their shirts. Both models offer adjustable cant and, in the case of the tuckable version, adjustable ride height.
Tulster Profile IWB
The Tulster Profile IWB is a premium full Kydex holster that shines in quality control and meticulous craftsmanship. Priced higher, it justifies the cost with exquisite contouring, finely finished edges, and a sleek appearance.
The non-adjustable ride height finds a comfortable sweet spot, although some might prefer models with more adjustability.
The holster comes with a plastic clip, though a metal clip is available for separate purchase.
In terms of design, safety, and construction, it scores high with its refined elements and full-size sweat guard. It accommodates threaded barrels and suppressor sights, providing a secure fit and easy concealment.
Backed by a lifetime warranty and a 30-day return policy, it’s a top-tier choice.
Alien Gear Shape Shift 4.0 IWB
The Alien Gear Shape Shift 4.0 IWB is a top contender in the concealed carry holster market. Known for blending innovation with practicality, it offers unique features that make it a favorite. This holster stands out for its thoughtful engineering, providing comfort and ease of use.
We The People IWB
We The People IWB holsters are renowned for their user-friendly features and robust design. These holsters offer adjustable retention and cant, allowing for a customized fit.
With a sturdy build and focus on comfort, it’s suitable for various carrying positions.
The design ensures complete trigger coverage, contributing to its safety. The holster’s material and construction provide a reliable and durable option for everyday concealed carry, ensuring your firearm remains secure and easily accessible.
Considerations for Holster Selection
When picking an inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster, safety is paramount. Don’t just slip your firearm into your waistband; it’s unsafe. A holster should provide solid coverage and retention for the trigger.
Cheap holsters might not meet these criteria, so opt for something reliable even if it costs a bit more.
Comfort is another key aspect. Since the holster sits inside your pants, it should feel comfortable against your body.
Leather options can offer a softer feel, though they might be thicker than Kydex holsters. If a slim profile is important to you, Kydex might be the better choice.
Adjustability is worth noting as well. Some holsters come with features like adjustable cant and ride height, allowing you to tweak the position for the best fit and draw speed.
Not all options have these adjustments, so consider what’s important for you.
For concealment, the holster should be compact and easy to hide under clothing.
A good design will ensure it doesn’t print, revealing the firearm’s shape. Holsters that are too bulky can make concealment difficult, so a balance between size and functionality is crucial.
Lastly, think about the durability and construction quality of the holster.
Materials like Kydex, leather, and hybrid mixtures each offer different benefits and trade-offs.
Investing in a well-constructed holster will pay off in the long run, offering reliability and a good user experience.
Holster Features and Benefits
Choosing a concealed carry holster, especially an IWB one, requires attention to several crucial aspects.
Safety and comfort are the top priorities to ensure that the firearm remains secure and accessible while staying hidden.
Here’s what makes these holsters stand out:
Safety Features
- Trigger Coverage: Holsters must provide complete protection for the trigger to avoid accidental discharges.
- Retention: The level of retention is vital. A good holster keeps the firearm secure even when subjected to movements. However, some might have more or less retention depending on personal preferences.
- Material Quality: Whether it’s leather or Kydex, the material should be durable and reliable, maintaining its form after repeated use.
Comfort and Concealment
- Material Comfort: Leather holsters tend to be softer against the body, offering a more comfortable carrying experience. Kydex holsters, though stiffer, are thinner and may be preferred for a slimmer profile.
- Fit and Finish: High-quality holsters feature smooth edges and refined contouring, reducing discomfort and skin irritation during wear.
- Concealment: An IWB holster should remain hidden under clothing without printing. A well-designed holster blends in seamlessly, allowing for discreet carry.
Adjustability and Versatility
- Ride Height and Cant Adjustment: Some holsters allow users to adjust the ride height and the cant (tilt angle), enabling a personalized fit.
- Ride height and cant adjustment allows for a personalized fit. Affordable options may lack these features but often get the basic job done excellently.
- Clip Options: The type of clip, whether plastic or metal, can influence the stability of the holster. Metal clips, though sometimes sold separately, can offer enhanced durability.
Performance and Reliability
- Ease of Draw: Quick and smooth draw capability is essential. Holsters that provide secure retention while allowing for a swift draw are highly valued.
- Durability: The build quality should ensure longevity even with frequent use. Features like reinforced top sections and high-quality stitching add to the overall durability of leather holsters.
- Warranty: Brands that offer lifetime warranties extend peace of mind, ensuring that the holster can serve reliably without the worry of premature wear or failure.