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Ever wondered why you need a holster for your gun? You don’t want to be carrying around a weapon without the right protection. Your gun is an investment and it is only natural that you want to protect it as best as possible. There are many different types of holsters but one of the most popular ones with people who carry their guns on them at all times is AIWB (Appendix Inside The Waistband). This blog post will review seven of the most popular best AIWB holster, so let’s get started!
We will cover all the salient features of the top holsters on the market right now, followed by an in-depth buyer’s guide to help make the buying decision easy for you. Make sure you check the FAQ section at the end of this article to clear any doubts about holsters or carrying a gun that you might have.
Table of Contents
If you are in a hurry to purchase the best AIWB holster, and you want to make the best decision, here are our top 3 picks:
Top 3 AIWB Holster
7 Best AIWB Holster (Ranked And Reviewed)
Specifications
-
Material:
Kydex
-
Hand Orientation:
Right and Left
-
Color:
Black
The Fierce Defender IWB Kydex Holster is the ultimate concealed carry holster. This holster was designed for the experienced appendix carrier who wants increased comfort, concealability, retention, and adjustability. The Fierce Defender has an adjustable retention screw on both the weapon and magazine to ensure you can get exactly what you want out of your holster. There are multiple belt loops to allow you to move your holster on your belt depending on where it feels most comfortable. The Fierce Defender also has a sweat guard that protects against moisture from entering into your weapon.
The ShapeShift 4.0 IWB Holster is the most versatile, concealable, and comfortable holster on the market today. The patent-pending design allows you to carry your firearm in multiple positions without sacrificing comfort or performance. The all-new ShapeShift 4.0 IWB Holster delivers a full range of motion, allowing you to adjust cant, retention, and ride height while carrying concealed. This holster is designed for maximum versatility with a sleek minimalist profile that carries comfortably whether you’re sitting or standing, moving fast or walking normally.
Positive
- Increased comfort, concealability, retention and adjustability
- There are multiple belt loops to allow you to move your holster on your belt depending on where it feels most comfortable
- Carry in multiple positions without sacrificing comfort or performance
- Sleek minimalist profile delivers maximum versatility with a comfortable carry
Negatives
- Sharp edges make it feel uncomfortable
2. Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster
Specifications
-
Material:
Kydex
-
Hand Orientation:
Right and Left
-
Color:
Black
The Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster is the perfect choice for those looking for a minimalist inside the waistband holster. This model can be worn comfortably with an untucked shirt and will fit all the listed firearms, except where specified in the product description. It features a .08” Kydex precision formed over the proprietary in house CAD designed and crafted Aluminum molds. This Kydex holster ensures unparalleled consistency, fit, quality, durability, lightness, comfort & uniform features across all of these holsters. The holster comes standard with adjustable retention screws.
The Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster is a minimalist holster designed to be worn inside the waistband. The unique design of this holster allows it to be extremely thin, lightweight, and comfortable. Made with .080 Kydex® sheeting, this holster is stiff enough to retain your weapon yet flexible enough for all-day comfort. The undercut trigger guard keeps Kydex from interfering with your draw while our over-cut open-face accommodates threaded barrels and clears suppressor height.
Positive
- Comfortable and lightweight
- Easy to conceal
- Sleek design
- Customizable retention screws
Negatives
- A bit too tight which may result in accidental ejection of magazine
3. Fierce Defender The Paladin Series Holster
Specifications
-
Material:
Kydex
-
Hand Orientation:
Right and Left
-
Color:
Black
The Paladin Series Holster is a comfortable, durable, and adjustable holster for everyday carry. This holster is made from .08 Kydex material that is strong and molded specifically for your weapon. The Paladin has a unique design that allows you to adjust the retention of your weapon to get the perfect fit. This holster will give you the confidence in knowing that your weapon will stay securely in place during any activity. Keep your weapon secure and conformed to your body so you can carry it every day with confidence!
The Paladin Series Holster is a hybrid design that combines the comfort and easy re-holstering of a leather holster with the performance and durability of Kydex. The Paladin is a tuckable holster designed for concealed carry. It features an adjustable retention screw so you can choose how tight or loose it will fit on your belt. Also, this holster has been designed to have a flared opening so you can easily re-holster your gun once you draw it from its snug fit inside your waistband.
Positive
- Comfortable and easy re-holstering
- Durable kydex construction
- Adjust the retention to get the perfect fit
- The holster is made from durable materials
Negatives
- Holster not being very wide might scratch you weapon
4. Maxx Carry IWB Leather Gun Holster
Specifications
-
Material:
Leather
-
Hand Orientation:
Right and Left
-
Color:
Brown
This gun holster is made of premium cowhide leather with a suede-lined interior, which provides comfortable wear for the wearer. The high back shield protects the body from contact with the firearm. The gun holster is designed to fit most medium to large frame pistols and revolvers. It features a reinforced thumb break, as well as a sturdy belt strap that can be worn on either side for right or left-handed use. Additionally, it has an adjustable cant feature that allows you to position your firearm at any angle along your waistline for added comfort.
Maxx Carry IWB leather gun holster is made of top grain cowhide leather. The holster can be used with any type of pistol and it has a steel spring clip that provides easy removal of the holster and fits belt widths up to 1.75” (45 mm). Maxx carry IWB leather gun holster is designed for concealed carry, so it doesn’t print on your clothes. It also comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and a limited lifetime warranty.
Positive
- Fits most pistols
- Has a steel clip for easy removal
- Keeps your firearm close to your body for quick access
- The high back shield protects the wearer from contact with the gun
Negatives
- Retention system is not very good which might result in accidental discharge
5. Concealment Express Tuckable IWB Kydex Holster
Specifications
-
Material:
.08″ Kydex
-
Hand Orientation:
Right and Left
-
Color:
Black
Concealment Express Tuckable IWB Kydex Holster is the ultimate in concealment. Our Undercut Trigger Guard allows you to draw your weapon without interference from the Kydex, which keeps your draw smooth and snag-free. The Over-Cut Open Face design accommodates threaded barrels and clears suppressor height sights. We include a Full-Length Sweat Guard & Rear Sight Shield to protect your weapon from sweat during rigorous activity. We utilize all Black Oxide Steel (Phillips) hardware with Threadlock, so you can easily make adjustments.
The Concealment Express Tuckable IWB Kydex Holster is a great choice for those who carry a Kimber, Colt, Ruger, or Springfield Officer Model 1911 3.5″ (non-rail). This holster will securely hold your weapon in place when you holster it and won’t come out unless you want it to. The retention pressure is adjustable as well as the ride height (Standard, Shallow & Deep). Cant (Carry Angle) is adjustable from -30 to +30 Degrees allowing you to angle the holster perfectly for the appendix.
Positive
- Keeps your weapon secure for all day use
- You'll be able to draw quickly and smoothly
- Adjustable retention pressure
- Fully adjustable ride height and cant
Negatives
- Might not feel very comfortable in certain sitting positions
6. Pole Craft IWB Kydex Holster
Specifications
-
Material:
Kydex
-
Hand Orientation:
Right and Left
-
Color:
Black
This is a custom-made, high-quality Kydex IWB Holster tailored for the Ruger LCP 380 Auto model. It is not only highly precise, but also rugged and durable, and can be hidden and portable, so you can protect yourself anytime, anywhere. The holster has a retention screw to adjust the tightness of the fit and an adjustable belt clip that fits up to 1.5” belts. This holster is made to last a lifetime. The Pole Craft IWB Kydex Holster is made of high-quality, durable Nylon and Kydex material that can be washed and cleaned with water. The holster comes with a clip that allows you to easily attach the holster to your belt or pants. This holster is suitable for both left-handed and right-handed users! With this holster, you will never need to worry about losing your gun again!
Positive
- Lightweight, sturdy design
- Durable and sweatproof
- Quickly accessible
- Durable and lightweight
Negatives
- Minimal retention customizability
7. Amberide IWB Kydex Holster
Specifications
-
Material:
Kydex
-
Hand Orientation:
Right and Left
-
Color:
Black
Amberide IWB Kydex Holster is a one-of-a-kind, innovative, and highly functional holster that allows you to carry your gun comfortably and securely. This is the perfect holster for concealed carry purposes. The Amberide IWB Kydex Holster features a sweat guard that covers the full length of the slide to help maintain your sidearm in pristine condition. It also has an adjustable retention screw so you can get it just right for you!
Positive
- Carry your gun in comfort and style
- Keeps your gun safe from damage
- Conceals firearm without sacrificing accessibility
- Adjustable retention pressure
Negatives
- Gun might rattle inside the holster
What To Consider While Buying The Best AIWB Holster?
AIWB means Appendix Inside the Waistband. This is a carry method in which you carry a handgun inside your waistband, but behind your strong-side hip, with the grip of the gun pointed straight at your abdomen. In most cases, AIWB means that you have to use a special holster to do so safely and effectively. Such holsters usually tilt the grip of the gun slightly up and back, towards your strong-side shoulder. This enables you to comfortably carry larger handguns.
An alternative is to use an IWB holster with a strap or wing that goes behind your hip to push the grip of the handgun into your abdomen. Such holsters are usually used for appendix carry as well. If you cannot easily reach the grip of your gun, due to a large stomach, being overweight or because of female anatomical issues, appendix carry might not be for you. In fact, it might be downright dangerous. It is highly recommended that you do extensive research before trying AIWB carry, or any other form of concealed carry.
Also, consider other possible carry methods that you find more suitable: Appendix IWB (AIWB+) holster. This is a combination of the AIWB and IWB holsters: The gun gets carried in an (IWB) holster behind your hip, while parts of said holster get attached to the gun itself for maximum comfort and concealability. Example here. Appendix carry. This means you carry the gun straight at your hip, but use an IWB holster or something like The Cloak Tuck 3.0 by Alien Gear (it’s not an IWB holster for this carry method). If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, there is an Agender Defense Solutions Echo holster, which can be securely attached to your hip with a belt loop. Appendix behind the back carry. This is where you attach an AIWB holster to your upper thigh so that the gun is pointed backward when carried straight at your hip.
Things to Look for in an AIWB Holster
There are a few things you should prioritize when shopping for an AIWB holster. Consider these as mandatory features, and shop around if they are not included in the design of the holster:
A quality gun belt. If your gun is going to be held securely on your body, it needs a sturdy foundation. The belt makes sure that part of the job is taken care of. Keep in mind that you are going to have the gun drawn very often, so a good holster should not rely on your pants for support.
A sturdy belt attachment. Whether it’s a clip or loop, make sure it will hold your gun properly and won’t come off when drawing the firearm. There are several good options out there: UltiClip, which comes with a lifetime warranty and is very sturdy; G-Code OSH (Opposite Side Hooks) Clips (regular or reversed); Tuckable J-Hook; Bullard Looper, which is also adjustable for ride height.
A comfortable trigger guard. If you are wearing the holster for extended periods of time, you need to make sure your trigger is kept safe and secure. Some holsters even come with an integrated trigger safety (like V Development Group’s Raptor Claw ), which is great if you carry inside the waistband.
A proper cant. AIWB means that the grip of your handgun should be tilted back towards your strong side. This increases comfort and reduces the risk of “printing” (letting the gun show through your clothes to give away what you are carrying). A good holster should have a cant between 15-20 degrees in either direction.
A well-padded holster. The big advantage of AIWB carry is comfort – because the gun is pressed against your body, you have very little printing and there is no chance of the gun-slinging around. However, this also means that a good AIWB holster should be well padded to ensure maximum comfort as you sit down or walk around.
A quality trigger guard. A good trigger guard provides an added layer of security for holstering and drawing your gun. It should be sturdy and well built, without sharp edges that could snag on the trigger guard of the holster.
A comfortable belt loop. Whether it’s a clip or a loop, make sure that your new AIWB holster has a good quality belt loop that will keep both parts of the holster securely in place.
FAQs
What is the most comfortable holster for concealed carry?
The most comfortable holster for concealed carry is the one that feels the best and allows you to draw your gun quickly. You want a holster with a high-quality leather backing, so it molds to your body. The adjustable strap should be easy to pull tight without over-tightening or slipping loose. Your weapon must be easily accessible and comfortable enough that you can carry it all day long without any discomfort!
Which concealed carry holster is best?
There are so many variables, and it’s hard to know what the perfect fit for you will be without trying them all on. The truth is that there isn’t just one “best” concealed carry holster for everyone because we’re all built differently and have different needs in terms of our clothing, lifestyle, gun size, etc.
What does AIWB mean in holsters?
AIWB stands for “Appendix Inside the Waistband,” and is a type of holster. It is worn inside the pants at the front of one’s body, with the grip facing either to the side or to the person’s back. AIWB holsters are popular among those who carry a semi-automatic pistol tucked into their waistband because they allow easier access than traditional hip holsters which require you to remove your belt in order to draw your weapon from an outside-the-waistband holster.
Should I carry AIWB?
Carrying a firearm in front of your body has been proven to be safer than carrying it behind you or on your side, but some still worry that there may be an increased risk when compared with IWB or OWB positions. In addition, because appendix carries require more gear, they can make clothing choices difficult and uncomfortable if the person doesn’t have much experience wearing them.
Conclusion
So, that was a review of the best AIWB holster on the market. Now it’s time to go out and get one for yourself! If you want a holster that will keep your gun safe, while also remaining comfortable enough to wear all day long, then this post has shown you all the options. We hope these reviews have helped you find what you were looking for in an AIWB holster. If you want more recommendations on guns, hunting, outdoors, camping, and adventure, keep coming back to Ballachy.com where our experts are always working meticulously to bring you the best and the most valuable content.
Our Research Process
Our curated list of products has been provided to you by our experienced team of researchers and writers at Ballachy who have tested and scrutinized product recommendations on the market. Our experience in the field, in-depth research and hands-on approach has allowed us to objectively analyse products for years and continuously providing value for buyers who are looking to get accurate and unbiased reviews. If you would like to know more about our research methods, we welcome you to visit our page here detailing how our recommendations are done. Furthermore, as we are always looking keep our guides updated and welcome any feedback from readers regarding different experiences or recommendations to adjust our list. If you consider that we have missed on some important recommendations, please let us know here, so we can add-on any valuable feedback.
Author Profile
- Gabriel Tackett
- Gabriel Tackett is an experienced shooter and hunter for over 15 years with a degree in Engineering from the University of Minnesota. He is also a certified National Rifle Association (NRA) officer for 10 years And his passion lies in teaching others how to safely enjoy the hobby by recommending the best practices & products in the gun industry.