AIWB vs IWB vs OWB: How to Choose a Holster You'll Actually Wear All Day
By the team at DEFCON 1 GEAR, Mesa, Arizona
Daily carry is a commitment
The best holster is the one you actually wear. A gun left in the safe because the holster digs, pinches, or prints isn't protecting anyone. That's why we say it this way: daily carry is a commitment, so make it a comfortable one.
We've been building Kydex holsters since 2021. When we started, we used commercially available molds. Then we began making our own, because we wanted better ergonomics and better comfort. We also carried our own holsters 10 to 15 hours a day, and that's still how we judge a design. If it's miserable at hour nine, it isn't finished.
This guide covers the three main carry positions, who each one suits, and what to look for no matter which one you choose.
Appendix carry (AIWB)
Appendix inside the waistband (AIWB) puts the holster at the front of your body, around the 12 to 1 o'clock position.
Why people like it:
- Fast, natural access with either hand
- Easy to conceal under a regular untucked shirt
- Easier to protect in a crowd or while seated in a car
What to know:
- Comfort depends on your build, so adjustability matters
- A rigid holster that fully covers the trigger guard is essential.
- Many people like to carry a spare magazine, which is why a combined holster and mag carrier is popular
Our picks: the Trident II AIWB Holster with Mag Carrier ($109.99) and the Minuteman III IWB Appendix Holster ($89.99).
Inside the waistband (IWB), Dominant side
Strong/Dominant side IWB carries the gun inside your pants at the 3 to 5 o'clock position, on your dominant hip.
Why people like it:
- Very comfortable for many body types, especially when sitting for long periods
- Conceals well and stays out of the way during daily tasks
- A familiar position with a lot of holster options
What to know:
- Drawing can be slower when you're seated or wearing a seatbelt
- You'll want a belt that supports the weight so the grip doesn't tip away from your body
Our pick: the Peacekeeper IWB Holster ($79.99), built for strong/Dominant side 3 to 5 o'clock carry.
Outside the waistband (OWB)
OWB holsters ride on the outside of your belt. They're the standard for range days, competition, and duty use.
Why people like it:
- The easiest, repeatable draw
- Often very comfortable option for all-day wear
- Handles bigger guns and full-size setups well
What to know:
- Concealing it takes a cover garment, like a jacket or long untucked shirt
- Not every workplace or situation suits open-style carry
Our pick: the Titan II OWB Holster ($94.99), built from heavy-duty .125 Kydex for duty use and competition.
Quick comparison
|
|
AIWB |
IWB (strong side) |
OWB |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Concealment |
Excellent |
Excellent |
Needs a cover garment |
|
Draw speed |
Fast |
Moderate |
Fast |
|
All-day comfort |
Depends on build |
Good for most |
Very good |
|
Best for |
Everyday concealed carry |
Everyday concealed carry |
Range, competition, duty |
What matters more than the carry position
Picking AIWB, IWB, or OWB is only half the decision. Whichever you choose, check these:
- Trigger guard coverage. The holster should fully cover the trigger guard and hold its shape so nothing can enter it while holstered.
- Consistent retention. The gun should stay secure when you move, but release on a smooth, deliberate draw.
- An exact fit. Check that your exact make, model, and variant are listed, including barrel length and whether your gun wears a light. Small differences between models can change the fit.
- Adjustability. Cant and ride height make a big difference in comfort, especially for appendix carry.
- A real gun belt. A sturdy gun belt keeps the whole setup stable and comfortable. A flimsy belt makes any holster feel worse.
Give it two weeks
A new carry position always feels strange at first. Give yourself a couple of weeks before deciding it doesn't work, and make small adjustments along the way. Wear it around the house with an unloaded gun, sit, stand, bend over, and drive. Learn where it rubs and fix it before you ever carry it for real.
As always, follow the four rules of firearm safety, and seek qualified instruction if you're new to carrying.
When no holster fits your gun
Some firearms, and some setups with lights or other accessories, simply don't have a holster made for them. That's what our Custom Shop is for.
At our Mesa shop we offer a 3D scanning service that builds a mold from your exact firearm and accessories. The result is a holster made to your gun, not close to it. Appointments are best, and walk-ins are welcome.
DEFCON 1 GEAR 145 W Juanita Ave STE 15B, Mesa, AZ 85210 Mon-Fri, 9:30am-3:30pm 602-724-0362 | Info@defcon1group.com
Most orders ship within 5 to 7 business days, and custom configurations can take 8 to 10. Every holster is hand built in Mesa, Arizona, with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best holster for appendix carry? Look for a comfortable shape, adjustable cant and ride height, and a clean draw. Our Trident II and Minuteman III are made for appendix carry.
Can I get a left-handed holster? Yes. We make left-hand and right-hand holsters for most models. You can choose in the dropdown options.
Are your holsters made in the USA? Yes, hand built in Mesa, Arizona.
What if my gun isn't listed? Contact us by phone or email, or book a 3D scan. We're constantly adding to our library.
Ready to find yours?
Browse our Glock holsters, shop all holsters, or start a custom order.
