Types of IWB Holsters

You want to carry your gun comfortably, but also at an immediate reach of your hand. Keeping it in the backpack is of no use, and putting it in your back pocket sounds like an inconvenient practice. Providing you with the best solution is gun holsters, the covers that are easy to carry and ensure accessibility. Although a wide variety of concealed carry holsters are designed, an IWB holster is one of the preferred choices of law enforcement officers. However, you can find a myriad of holster options online, which can confuse you during your purchase.

The blog discusses different types of IWB holsters to help you decide. It also explains IWB holsters and their advantages and disadvantages.

What is an IWB Holster?

IWB (Inside the Waistband) holster sits in the middle of your skin and the waistband. This type of concealed carry is suitable for concealment and can be placed anywhere along your waistline. Although the holster is hidden, your gun is still accessible whenever needed.

Top 7 IWB Holsters for You

At Wright Leather Works, we find pride in curating the best types of IWB holsters for officers, detectives, and security personnel. Our selection includes:

1. Cruiser IWB Clip Holster

Cruiser is the best choice if you are searching for a quick and easy clip holster. This IWB concealed carry includes a removable and replaceable clip so you can tuck the rig in your waist belt. It is low-profile and hides your weapon without extra fabric getting in the way. The Cruiser clip holster adjusts to up to 1-3/4-inch belts and is as compact as the gun itself.

Key Features:

• Four height adjustment holes
• Crux concealment system to put the holster back into its place without printing
• Add-on accessories available: ULTI-CLIP and slide-mounted reflex optic

2. Banshee IWB Holster

The pancake-kind holster is adjusted comfortably inside your waistband. Its slim and low profile enables quick concealment and easy tuck. This Banshee concealed carry comes with leather belt straps, making it suitable for medium and full-length pistols. You can easily accommodate the holster to up to 1-3/4-inch belts and keep the gun from printing.

Key Features:

• Straps with Pull-the-Dot snaps for closure
• Deep concealment clips for small pistols or when you want to hide the firearm lower in your pants
• Add-on accessories available: slide-mounted reflex optic and rail-mounted accessory

3. Cobra Hybrid Holster

Cobra is a hybrid, pancake-style holster that is feasible enough to carry any way you want. You can place it anywhere, depending on your clothes and situation. However, the best positions are considered to be at 4 o'clock or 5 o’clock. The holster features 1-3/4-inch belt slots for easy fit.

Key Features:

• High-ride leather straps with Pull-the-Dot snaps for secure closure
• Straps can hold medium and full-length pistols
• Deep concealment clips for small pistols, or when you want to keep the firearm lower in the pants
• Add-on accessories available: rail-mounted accessory

4. Closer IWB Holster

The high ride holster is suitable for weapons with long barrels. It has a classic, professional design with a small footprint for easy concealment. This type of IWB holster can shift the strap into a straight drop or a 20-degree forward or reverse crossdraw cant. The ideal position for the Closer holster is the 4 o’clock position. However, you can also wear it close to the appendix.

Key Features:

• Ideal for firearms with a minimum of 3.5” barrel
• One of the top choices for concealed cover
• Add-on accessories available: slide-mounted reflex optic and rail-mounted accessory

5. Bandicoot Pocket Holster

Easy to carry and concealable in the front pocket, a Bandicoot pocket holster is suitable for micro and sub-compact firearms. It comes with extra leather coverage, so there’s no compromise with minimal printing and comfort. The holster features specific points on the upper outside region, allowing you to keep hold of your pocket while drawing the firearm.

Key Features:

• Designed to be a pocket holster
• Recommended only for compact weapons
• Add-on accessories available: rail-mounted accessory

6. Insider Purse Holster

Carry your gun in the purse and alert nobody. You can keep the Insider holster in your handbag, messenger bag, or backpack; it all depends on your preference. This IWB concealed carry has a low profile and doesn’t have extra leather that blocks your access. It is designed specifically for every gun model, depending on your requirements.

Key Features:

• Compact with maximum concealment
• Easy to carry in every kind of backpack
• Customisable for individual gun cover needs
• Add-on accessories available: slide-mounted reflex optic and rail-mounted accessory

7. Cruiser ROR Reflex-Optics-Ready IWB Clip Holster

The ROR IWB holster is designed explicitly for pistols that come with reflex optics. This Cruiser clip concealed carry has an easy-to-mount clip that attaches to up to 1-3/4-inch loops. It is comfortable to wear and always ready for a quick grab and rig. This type of IWB holster is comfortable, adjustable, and minimises printing.

Key Features:

• Removable and replaceable clips to create a tuckable rig
• Crux concealment to rotate the holster and ensure maximum concealment
• Add-on accessories available: ULTI-CLIP and rail-mounted accessory

Advantages of an IWB Holster

An IWB holster is popular for the following reasons:

• Concealment: The concealed carry sits against your body and hides your weapon securely, minimising the chances of printing.
• Durability: A Wright Leather Works holster is made from high-quality material, ensuring long-lasting performance and strength.
• Retention: Your gun rests between the skin and waistband, offering a snug fit. It isn’t easy for anyone to pull out your gun.
• Quick Draw: An IWB gun cover always lets you draw out the gun quickly, as compared to shoulder and ankle holsters.

Disadvantages of an IWB Holster

Although IWB has several benefits, it also comes with the following limitations:

• Clothing Restrictions: Although easy to hide, the level of concealment depends on your outfit. You will face printing issues in tight-fitted shirts.
• Discomfort: Since the holster rests between your waistband and skin, you can experience discomfort, especially while driving or sitting for too long.

Conclusion

While searching for the best types of IWB holsters, also remember to look for the material, size, and additional accessories. The concealed cover is an investment for your gun; don’t make decisions in haste. Explore the options available at Wright Leather Works, see what seems right for you, and then purchase. Also, remember that a new holster might take time to break in. Don’t lose hope if you aren’t able to draw your weapon on the first attempt quickly.