5 Tips for Choosing the Best IWB Concealed Holster for You

In-the-waistband (IWB) holsters are ideal for those with a concealed carry permit. They allow you to carry your gun in public without it being noticeable. While there are other carry options, such as outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters, or ankle holsters, IWB options are popular for optimal discretion.

However, there are several types of IWB holsters, and it's essential to take the time to choose the one that is best for you. Different styles may appeal to you, and individual preferences such as carry height can also be critical factors.

Fortunately, you can choose the right option for you by considering some key factors.

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1. Quality Materials

One of the longest-running debates between those who love their gun holsters is the choice between leather and Kydex. Leather holsters have been around for centuries, and there is a wide range of styles for those who like their holster to look, as well as feel good.

However, Kydex is now a favored holster material among many gun owners. Kydex holsters are more durable than leather holsters and have greater retention. Keeping your firearm in one place is not just about comfort; it also allows you to locate your weapon quickly when you need it most. This feature can be crucial when you are in a self-defense situation.

When manufacturers began using Kydex as a holster material, some found that it was too rigid, and was uncomfortable to carry for long periods. At Incognito Concealment, we listened to what our customers had to say, and we've produced one of the most comfortable Kydex holsters on the market.

2. Comfort for All-Day Carrying

If you carry your weapon every day, being comfortable is essential. Holsters that fit your gun also need to fit your body. A good holster should feel like it is part of your clothing so you are not conscious it is there when you are wearing it.

By choosing a slimline design, you reduce the bulkiness that can become uncomfortable over long periods. It is essential you can adjust your firearm to your favored height, so you can move as usual, without having to change your gait when you are carrying your weapon.

At Incognito Concealment, we make IWB holsters with adjustable height and cant features. You can choose the most comfortable position for your unique body shape, and the holster retains that position each time you attach it to your gun belt.

3. The Right Fit for Your Firearm

While you need to be comfortable when you’re wearing your holster, it also needs to be a good fit for your firearm. This is a crucial area where  Kydex is superior to many other materials.

The shock-absorbent material protects your weapon from accidental bumps and scrapes when carrying. Also, Kydex is weather-resistant, and can also withstand exposure to many corrosive chemicals.

This feature is especially vital when carrying your firearm in extreme climates, or changeable weather. Even if you’re using an IWB holster, you may still come into contact with extreme heat and humidity, freezing cold, and sudden downpours. In each case, your Kydex material protects your pistol from the damage these elements can wreak on your gun.

The snug fit ensures that your firearm does not move when you are carrying it, reducing the risk of wearing away the finish on your gun. Keeping it in good condition, and fitting tightly around the frame, a Kydex holster also protects your handgun from moisture that could damage the internal components or your ammunition.

After you invest in your firearm, it is crucial that you also invest in a high-quality holster. Ensuring your weapon fits tightly into the holster gives it protection from a range of harmful factors that could increase the risk of a misfire.

4. Easy to Access

While concealment is essential with an IWB holster, you also need to have rapid access to your firearm. Unlike an open carry holster, IWB holsters are below your clothing, and it can take marginally more time to locate and draw your weapon.

Most people carry their handgun on their strong side and use their dominant hand to draw. However, if you prefer to cross-draw using your dominant hand, you can also place your holster on your weaker side.

Choose the correct hand orientation when you are purchasing your holster. Also, measure your belt size, and ensure you buy the holster that fits correctly. If you have to force a holster on your belt, this can affect the cant, and make it more challenging to reach your gun in an emergency.

Some types of holster, such as our  SIG Sauer range, also come with laser/light rail features. This feature means you can carry your firearm when fully-assembled, and there is no need to attach the laser or light attachment after drawing your weapon. Although this is convenient, it can also save crucial time when using your firearm in challenging conditions.

5. Concealment from View

It may seem an obvious point, but if you use an IWB holster, you are trying to keep your weapon hidden from view. In some jurisdictions, keeping your gun concealed as you carry may even be the law. However, some holsters are bulky and don't have a close fit around the firearm. These discrepancies lead to either the holster, the gun, or both being visible to those with a keen eye.

Even worse, some ill-fitting holsters even allow your firearm to fall to the ground. While this could be embarrassing, it's also dangerous and increases the risk of an accidental discharge.

Incognito Concealment has developed a range of  high-quality IWB handgun holsters that have a slimline design. The low-profile build ensures that the weapon and holster fit snugly against your body's shape, hiding it from view. Even in hot weather, you can wear just a T-shirt and the outline of the holster and gun are invisible to onlookers.

Because an IWB holster sits in between your waist and your pants, your weapon's weight could cause your pants to sag. Although this may not reveal that you are carrying a firearm, it may be best to invest in a secure gun belt. By strapping the holster onto the belt, you ensure the holster does not weigh down on your clothing.

Final Thoughts

When choosing an IWB concealed carry holster, you must consider the quality of construction. A holster with a poor design, or one that uses low-quality materials, could damage your firearm, and even leave you exposed if you are in a dangerous situation.

At Incognito Concealment, we only use durable materials that can give many years of safe service. We make our hand-crafted products in the United States, and our quality-control processes are second-to-none.

We stand behind each holster and offer a lifetime warranty with all our products. If you are ready to invest in some of the finest IWB holsters available, contact Incognito Concealment at  (586) 333-4240.