Key Features to Look for in an IWB Holster

Inside the Waistband holsters are a preferred choice for concealment. Law enforcement officers and military personnel who require security and retention typically invest in them. However, selecting an IWB holster for the first time can be difficult. You have to look for some crucial factors:

• Benefits
• Material
• Carry style

So, what are the key features to look for in an IWB holster? This blog walks you through the basic things to remember and decide.

Benefits of the IWB Holster

A good-quality inside-the-waistband holster takes care of the handler’s requirements. Here’s what you need to check and ensure that there’s no compromise:

1. Retention

The IWB holster has sufficient friction to keep hold of your pistol. Its retention ability won’t let the firearm move, whether you run, walk, or engage in combat. There’s a click sound that ensures the weapon is locked and secure.

2. Smooth Draw

Your fingers should be able to hold the gun’s grip without continuous adjustment. Stiff retention can lead to delayed actions. However, a loose grip increases security issues. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check if there’s any interruption with drawing or not.

3. Concealment

Your IWB holster performs effectively when it’s positioned correctly. The best orientation options for your concealed carry are:

• 3 to 5 o’clock: The strong side carry position is ideal for easy draw in a standing motion.
• Appendix: Although many gun owners prefer the appendix position, it requires proper training and is suited for seated use.

4. Comfort

The holster sits between your body and the waistband, risking the comfort of carrying it throughout the day. A poorly designed holster compromises comfort and increases printing. Search for an IWB concealed carry that comes with adjustable clips and is not bulky.

Materials of the IWB Holster

The material determines your comfort level. An IWB holster designed from rigid materials may deliver durability; however, it can result in irritation. It’s always essential to maintain a balance between the two. Compare the common holster materials to decide which suits your needs:

1. Leather

Leather is always a preferred fit for holsters; however, it can also feel stiff at first. Eventually, the fabric can loosen, or you adapt to it.

Pros:

• Strong retention with room for adjustability
• Comfortable to wear for long hours

Cons:

• Long-term carrying can cause sweating
• Drawing depends on the reinforced opening

2. Nylon

Nylon is known for its comfort, lightness, and breathability. This weightless material doesn’t let your waist feel stiff and gives it room to breathe.

Pros:

• Breathability, especially in summer
• Retention screws ensure a smooth draw

Cons:

• Can fold or collapse after drawing the gun
• Has to be reholstered with both hands

3. Kydex

Kydex is a thermoplastic material that is often preferred for concealed carry. This fabric doesn’t require break-in time and is easily adjustable via retention screws.

Pros:

• Adjustable cant for different carry positions
• Naturally adaptable to the gun’s shape

Cons:

• Feels uncomfortable, especially in hot weather
• Noisy during drawing and reholstering

Carry Style of the IWB Holster

Your preferred carry style says a lot about the IWB holster you should buy. Most of the concealed carry is designed to suit different positions. While some are suitable for appendix holding, others are much better for a 3 o’clock position.

At Wright Leather Works, we offer different Inside the Waistband holsters to match your carry preference.

What are the Key Features to Choose an IWB Holster?

1. How does the holster hold onto your belt?

Your IWB holster needs to stay where you secured it, and that’s possible with either belt loops or belt clips.

• Belt Loops: Once you put the holster through the belt loop, it will stay intact. However, remember that in this situation, you can neither remove nor adjust the cover before unbuckling.
• Belt Clips: Also known as hooks, these clips hang like a J on the belt and secure your IWB holster. What’s good about the accessories is that you can wear, remove, or adjust the cover as needed. However, there’s always a risk of fall or wear and tear with the belt clips.

2. Tuckability of the holster

An IWB holster is meant to conceal your weapon. So, it is essential that you check whether a particular cover does its job or not. Check whether:

• The firearm is securely hidden in the waistband
• Your clothing is able to cover the holster

3. Does the holster have an adjustable cant?

The cant of the holster should be adjustable; otherwise, you might not be able to draw the firearm comfortably. If your concealed carry’s cant isn’t flexible, you might end up struggling while holding the grip.

4. How smoothly can you draw and reholster?

The aim of carrying an IWB holster isn’t just to conceal your weapon; it is also to speed up drawing in emergencies. So, check whether the concealed carry you choose has a:

• Lined interior
• Reinforced opening
• Adjustable cant

If yes, then your drawing and reholstering time will be reduced, keeping you ready for every situation.

Conclusion

Choosing an IWB holsteris as important as selecting the gun itself. The right concealed carry increases your ability to carry the weapon confidently and discreetly. A good holster should feel like a second skin and not just another accessory attached to your body. So, consider the key features to look for in an IWB holster and invest accordingly.

Wright Leather Works has an exclusive collection of IWB holsters designed to help you put your best foot forward. Remember, choose a reliable holster today; it can make all the difference.

FAQs

1. What are the features of an IWB holster?
   The key features of an IWB holster are concealability, retention, and cant adjustability. You should also look for add-on accessories to suit your everyday requirements.
2. What is the best location for an IWB holster?
   The best spot for the IWB holster is the 3 and 4 o’clock positions on your waistband.
3. Which is the best material for an IWB holster?
   The best materials for an IWB holster are Kydex and leather, as they ensure maximum retention.
4. Should I wear bigger pants for an IWB holster?
   You may require pants with waistbands that can easily accommodate your body and holster.