The IWB (Inside the Waistband) Holster is specifically designed to carry a concealed weapon. As the name suggests, it rests between your body and bottom wear, ensuring that another person cannot see it. This kind of gun holster provides you with easy accessibility, comfort, and security and is ideal for law enforcement officers. If you have a license to carry a gun, the IWB holster comes in handy. It ensures that you can quickly respond in an urgent situation without struggling with the belt buckle.
So, what are the advantages of an IWB holster, and which one is ideal for you? This blog covers the best-selling holsters and why an IWB is better than other choices available in the market.
Browse Our Best-Selling IWB Holsters
An IWB holster from Wright Leather Works will help keep a concealed carry, ensuring that the weapon is always accessible. These are some of the best options for you:
Cruiser® IWB Clip Holster
Cruiser® is a low-profile IWB holster that easily adjusts with up to 1-3/4” belts. It comes with an easy-slide, removable clip that allows you to adjust the cover wherever you want. Owing to a Crux concealment system, you can quickly rotate and put the pistol grip back in its body. There are four holes to customize the holster’s height according to your convenience.
Banshee™ IWB Holster
Banshee is a pancake-designed holster with a slim and low profile. It comes with leather belt straps for easy adjustment. This cover features Pull-The-Dot® snaps to keep the carry hidden at all times. Designed for medium to full-size guns, the Banshee is a versatile choice for every user. The holster features tuckable concealment clips, suitable for those who want to keep their firearm lower in their pants.
Cobra™ Hybrid Holster
Cobra is a hybrid holster that enables you to carry your pistol in multiple styles. Its OWB/IWB configuration provides maximum comfort, regardless of how to carry concealed. However, the most comfortable position is behind the side hip at a 4 or 5 o’clock position. Owing to the 1-3/4” slots, you can attach it to any belt of your choice. The high-ride straps with Pull-The-Dot® snaps make the holster suitable for medium and full-size pistols.
Cruiser® ROR Reflex-Optics-Ready IWB Clip Holster
The Cruiser is designed for up to 1-3/4” belts and includes a standard clip for each attachment. This ROR holster is specifically perfect for pistols with reflex optics. The four adjustment holes enable you to customize the holster’s height, depending on your comfort. Since this is a low-profile holster, you can conceal your carry without any leather coming in the way.
Bandicoot™ Pocket Holster
Bandicoot is a small and versatile holster that can easily hide in your front pocket. Its additional leather coverage not only provides comfort but also masks any potential printing. The pocket holster can fit any model you want. However, it works best with subcompact and micro firearms.
IWB Holster Basics: How They Work & Who They're For
An IWB holster is ideal for those who want to carry a concealed pistol. It is typically used by law enforcement officers and HNIs to protect their rights. Selecting the right holster is just the beginning. Wearing them accurately ensures that you can maintain comfort, agility, and concealment.
Here is how an inside-the-waistband holster works:
Select the Position
The correct position differs for every individual. However, one of the most common places is the appendix, close to the belly button. You can also place it in a 4 or 5 o’clock position if you are a right-hand shooter. Left-handed concealers should position their holster at the 7 or 9 o’clock position.
Attach the Clip
Make sure that the holster clip is properly attached to the gun belt. It is essential to maintain stability for security and easy access.
Adjust the Angle and Height
Several IWB holsters provide ride height and angle adjustment. Customise them according to your comfort and preference to maintain the ideal fit.
Test It
Practice taking out your firearm a few times before you go out. This practice will help adjust the height or angle, if required.
Ensure Comfort
Ascertain if the holster stays comfortable in different positions and situations. Checking the convenience will help ensure that you don’t struggle when you actually have to take out the pistol.
Confirm Retention
Check whether the firearm stays intact for long durations and allows a smooth access. You can test under different situations to find the right balance.
Why Concealed Carriers Prefer IWB Over OWB
Concealed carriers can invest in an IWB or OWB (Outside the Waistband) holster. However, many prefer the former due to its effortless carrying experience. This holster tucks away the pistol and minimises the chances of printing peeping through the clothes.
Ideal Gun Sizes for IWB Carry
IWB carry is suitable for small and compact firearms. The most popular choices are subcompact and compact guns like micro-pistols.
Benefits of IWB Holsters for Concealed Carry
For a concealed firearm, the holster is as important as the pistol itself. A wrong cover can slow you down, create discomfort, and may not provide the degree of concealment you require. An IWB holster is a preferred choice for regular carriers and firearm enthusiasts. Here is why everyone likes this cover:
Proper Concealment
An inside-the-waistband holster ensures that your concealed carry stays completely hidden. It is effortlessly stuck between your pants and your body so you can keep the firearm discreetly. The cover also ascertains that the boundary of the weapon isn’t visible through the clothes.
Easy Access
Although the pistol is always concealed, it is never inaccessible. Whenever you need your gun, an IWB holster ensures that it happens within seconds. Once you practice, drawing out the carry will become second nature for you.
Better Comfort
Switch from bulky covers to sleek holsters for optimal comfort throughout the day. An IWB cover fits snugly against your body and distributes the weight of your firearm. You would not feel any bulkiness or inconvenience. Carry your gun comfortably in the holster and carry on through the day without continuous irritation or adjustments.
Versatility
An IWB holster allows you to carry the gun in whichever position you want. Whether you want to keep it close to the appendix, behind the hip, or at another location, the cover cooperates. This functionality enables you to draw out the weapon in whichever manner you want without wasting any time.
Best IWB Carry Positions for Comfort & Concealment
As discussed above, an IWB holster is versatile, enabling you to carry it in whichever way you want. The position depends on your regular activities, clothing options, and body type. However, the best carry orientations that work better than the others are:
Appendix
The position depends on whether you are left- or right-handed. An appendix position is 1 or 2 o’clock if you use your right hand. However, place it on a 10 or 11 o’clock position if you use your left hand.
12 o’clock
The position is right next to your navel and is a preferred choice for people who have long guns. A 12 o’clock orientation makes it easy to access your weapon from your front. It is an ideal choice for those who sit for long hours throughout the day.
3 o’clock
Often known as the strong-side position, a 3 o’clock is commonly used by IWB users. The orientation keeps the gun close to your dominant hand and ensures that you can draw the pistol quickly.
4 to 5 o’clock
A 4 or 5 o’clock position is also called the kidney carry, where the pistol rests just behind your hips. This makes the weapon withdrawal a bit awkward, and it is not suited for large pistols. The position is suitable for carriers who mostly need to access their guns quickly
How to Ensure a Comfortable & Secure IWB Carry
The key to carrying your IWB holster for a long time is to make sure the grip is secure and comfortable.
The Right Belt
A secure IWB carry involves choosing the gun belt carefully. You can either select a leather or nylon belt, as the fabrics promise durability and strength. You can also use reinforced belts, which enhance rigidity.
Clothing Considerations
Your outfit plays a crucial role in maintaining long-lasting comfort. Choose thick fabrics like cotton or denim as they reduce printing potential. These garments are moisture-wicking and feel soft against the skin.
Proper Placement
Understand the different placement options and use the right technique. The ideal carry position will depend on your body type, individual preference, and specific firearm. You can select from strong side, appendix carry, or SOB (small of the back).
Types of IWB Holsters
Two kinds of holsters are commonly available for the Inside the Waistband category:
Minimalist
- Low profile
- Small trigger guard with a belt clip
- Compact and lightweight
- Exposed muzzle to contact with the skin or clothes
Hybrid
- Rigid profile
- Flexible backer designed from leather, neoprene, or synthetic material
- Dual-clip attachments for stability
- Bulky and prone to cracking
Also, Explore our Top 7 types of IWB Holsters
Key Features to Look for in an IWB Holster
Choosing an IWB holster can be tough, especially if you don’t know what to look for. Here are a few key considerations to keep in mind while investing in a new concealed carry holder:
Retention
A dependable holster will not only fit your gun but also keep it put. Although it should have a strong grip to keep it secure, the case should not be so rigid. You should be able to take it out promptly.
Safety
The holster should completely secure the gun. If it doesn’t cover the trigger, it can lead to an accidental bang. Don’t use such covers for your own safety.
Concealability
The purpose of a holster is to conceal the pistol. So, don’t deviate from it. Make sure the cover accustoms to your body shape, clothing, and your form of carrying the gun.
Comfort
Getting a comfortable holster is more important than investing in an aesthetically pleasing cover. Remember that comfort plays a significant role in long-term usage of the carry holder.
Full Grip
The holster you select should provide you with a complete grip of the gun. So, the one you choose should enable easy access and a full grip, even if it is inside the cover.
IWB Holster Safety Considerations
A firearm inside your holster? That’s a major sign of safety concerns. Avoiding the fundamentals of safety can result in loss of control, unintentional fire, or injury. Here are the things you need to take care of:
Trigger Guard Coverage
A good IWB holster guards the trigger hole properly to avoid unintentional fire. So, it is important to choose a model that molds properly around the frame and trigger guard.
Muzzle Orientation
The position of the muzzle plays an important role in safety. Here’s how:
- Appendix: The muzzle points towards your upper thigh. There is an increased chance of intestinal or bladder damage.
- Strong side: The muzzle points downwards. This doesn’t pose a direct risk but still requires caution.
- SOB:The muzzle points directly at the butt or spine. It leads to a risk of injury to the spinal cord.
How to mitigate this risk?
- Maintain a vertical path so the muzzle points downwards.
- Do not adjust cant angles in such a way that the muzzle excessively tilts towards the body.
- Choose a holster that positions the firearm a little forward to improve grip access.
FAQs About IWB Holsters
Are IWB holsters uncomfortable?
No, IWB holsters are specifically designed to ensure maximum comfort.
What’s the best position for IWB carry?
The best positions for an IWB carry are appendix, 3 o’clock, 12 o’clock, and 5 o’clock.
Do IWB holsters fit all guns?
Different IWB holsters are designed to fit different guns. However, they are mostly suited for subcompact and micro firearms.
Can I wear an IWB holster without a belt?
Yes, you can wear an IWB holster without a belt if it fits perfectly around the waist.
Why Wright Leather Works IWB Holsters Stand Out
Wright Leather Works is a one-stop destination for all your IWB holster needs. It stands out as every holster is designed while keeping precision in mind. Your firearm will rest safely in our holster, no doubt there. We also believe in proper concealment, without any printing. Wright Leather Works’ gun holsters feature padded backs for everyday comfort.
Final Thoughts
An IWB holster makes concealing your pistol easy. Selecting the right concealed carry case is important for maximum effectiveness and safety. At Wright Leather Works, hybrid and minimalist Inside the Waistband holsters are available, taking care of everyone’s requirements. Select from a range of available options and keep your gun hidden but easily accessible at all times.
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