What are the best Concealed Carry Holsters? What are the differences between holster styles? Given the endless number of options available, it's no surprise that even the most experienced gun owner would find it difficult to answer which EDC holster is the best.
First, we'll break down the key differences between IWB (Inside the Waistband) and OWB (Outside the Waistband) holsters, two of the most popular styles among gun owners.
Next, we'll provide our top recommendations for concealed carry holsters, detailing their features and benefits to help you find the perfect match for your lifestyle and needs.
While it's true that we all have our own preferences and there's rarely a universal "catch-all" solution, after pouring over countless reviews and testimonials, we've put together a comprehensive list of the firearm industry's best concealed carry holsters.
Popular Concealed Carry Holster Types
IWB (Inside the Waistband) Holsters
Pros:
- Concealment: IWB holsters are great for optimal concealment because they tuck the gun inside your pants, which minimizes the weapon’s profile under clothing. This makes IWB holsters ideal for use in environments where discretion is paramount.
- Security: They generally offer better retention of the weapon, as the holster is securely attached to your belt and the gun is pressed between your body and your pants.
- Accessibility: Despite the deep concealment, modern IWB holsters are designed for quick gun access, especially if you practice your draw regularly.
Cons:
- Comfort: Depending on the exact position (such as directly on the hip bone or back), IWB can be less comfortable for some users, particularly when sitting or bending over.
- Wardrobe Adjustments: You may need to wear pants a size larger as the gun and holster will take up space inside your waistband.
- Temperature Sensitivity: In hot weather, having a gun inside your waistband can become uncomfortable due to sweating.
OWB (Outside the Waistband) Holsters
Pros:
- Comfort: OWB holsters are generally considered more comfortable, especially when worn for long periods, as the gun sits outside the pants and doesn’t press against the body.
- Ease of Access: They provide quicker access to the firearm as there is less clothing over the weapon; this can be crucial in a self-defense scenario.
- Versatility: These holsters can be easier to adjust and position on different parts of the belt, providing flexibility based on the situation or personal comfort.
Cons:
- Concealment Challenges: OWB holsters are harder to conceal without the right clothing, as they tend to protrude more than IWB options. They require longer shirts or jackets to effectively hide the firearm.
- Securement: While they can be very secure, the fact that the gun is more "exposed" can be a concern in close quarters where someone might attempt to grab it.
- Weather Limitations: In colder climates, an OWB holster is ideal as it's easier to conceal with large coats, but in hot weather, it becomes challenging to conceal without heavy clothing.
Our Top Rated Concealed Holster Picks
Alien Gear ShapeShift Appendix Carry Holster
The Alien Gear ShapeShift Appendix Carry Holster is designed for those who prioritize both comfort and concealability. It features a breathable neoprene backing and a custom-molded shell for perfect fitment, ensuring maximum comfort when worn at the front of the waist.
This innovative holster also allows for easy shifts to other carry positions with its modular design, making it one of the most versatile appendix carry holsters on the market.
Mission First Tactical Minimalist Holster
The Mission First Tactical Minimalist Holster provides a slim, low-profile option for those seeking simplicity and efficiency. Made from durable Boltaron material, it offers excellent retention while keeping bulk to a minimum.
This OWB holster is easy to conceal under a loose shirt or jacket, making it an ideal choice for everyday carry.
The Sticky Holster MD 4 is designed for compact firearms and offers an innovative no-clip design that allows you to mount it inside the waistband or in a pocket seamlessly.
Utilizing friction and compression to secure the holster, it adjusts to your body movements and provides a quick, clean draw without the need for belt loops or clips.
The Blackhawk Stache IWB Holster is built for deep concealment and everyday comfort. This injection-molded polymer holster is lightweight yet sturdy, providing a discrete carry option without sacrificing accessibility.
Ideal for personal defense, it's designed to fit a wide range of firearms and offers a customizable carry experience.
Blackhawk Stache Premium IWB Holster
Upgrading from the standard Stache, the Blackhawk Stache Premium IWB Holster enhances comfort with a breathable neoprene backing and improves durability with its advanced injection-molded design.
This holster provides a secure fit and a swift draw, making it a top choice for those who carry daily.
Uncle Mike's Reflex Holster utilizes an Integrated Retention Technology (IRT) to provide a secure hold and instant release. This holster is designed for tactical and law enforcement use, offering robust construction and an intuitive draw that allows for a swift and effective response in critical situations.
The Blackhawk ARC (Appendix Reversible Carry) IWB Holster offers flexibility and comfort for appendix carry enthusiasts. Made from a soft yet durable material, it can be worn with ease all day and is adjustable for both right and left-handed users, making it a versatile option for any carrier.
The Blackhawk Omnivore Holster caters to more than 150 styles of semi-automatic handguns. Its active retention mechanism locks onto the weapon’s rail, ensuring a universal fit and quick release.
This holster is perfect for those who own multiple handguns but want a single, reliable solution for tactical use.
Rattlesnake Tactical Universal Velcro Holster
The RTAC Universal velcro gun holster features a "hook" back panel (the rough, scratchy portion of velcro), capable of being fitted to your soft loop portion (the softer, fuzzier portion of velcro) of any backpack, range bag, or velecro surfaced material.
The velcro holster wraps around the frame and slide of your pistol and features an elastic band that can stretch around the grip and beavertail of the gun, keeping it tightly secured.
Rattlesnake Tactical Universal Velcro Holster
The RTAC Universal velcro gun holster features a "hook" back panel (the rough, scratchy portion of velcro), capable of being fitted to your soft loop portion (the softer, fuzzier portion of velcro) of any backpack, range bag, or velecro surfaced material.
The velcro holster wraps around the frame and slide of your pistol and features an elastic band that can stretch around the grip and beavertail of the gun, keeping it tightly secured.
Final Thoughts / Saved Rounds
In this blog post, we've taken a closer look at the ins and outs of concealed carry holsters, particularly focusing on the differences between IWB and OWB styles.
While we might not have directly answered the question, 'What are the best concealed carry holsters?', we are confident that our handpicked selection of top-notch concealed carry holsters from trusted brands like Alien Gear, Mission First Tactical, Blackhawk, and Uncle Mike's will help guide you in making a well-informed choice.
Whatever your preferences or requirements, we're confident you'll find a holster that meets your needs at a price point that won't break the bank.
Want to view more holsters? Browse our entire online catalog of Holsters for Sale at Ammunition Depot.
