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Best AIWB Holsters for Appendix Carry

PHLster Floodlight AIWB
We walk you through some of our favorite holsters for concealed carry appendix style. See what brands and models we recommend for AIWB!
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    Appendix inside the waistband carry — AIWB in shooter lingo — is the method of choice for most people who carry a concealed pistol these days.

    Springfield Echelon AIWB

    AIWB holsters are dominating the market and have become the default carry method for most people. But which holster should you buy?

    I’m glad you asked! Today is all about the holsters that make appendix carry so popular — and effective. We’ll run you through the best AIWB holsters on the market and dive deeper into what AIWB is and why you might want to carry that way.

    THE QUICK LIST

    1. Best For Full-Size Pistols

      Raven Concealment Eidolon

    Table of Contents

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    How We Test the Best AIWB Holsters

    We don’t just dabble in carrying with appendix holsters; we use them every day. Most of us have several in the rotation at any given time.

    We’ve tested quite a few and read up on even more to figure out which ones are worth recommending to you.

    Womens Concealed Carry AIWB
    You don’t need baggy jeans to conceal a good AIWB holster.

    Sometimes, the answers are cut and dry; other times, it’s more subjective.

    When hands-on testing was possible, we used holsters as our EDC rigs to find out how well they secured a firearm, how comfortable they were to wear (that includes standing, sitting, walking, and doing daily tasks), how well they minimized printing, and how easy they were to draw from.

    Best AIWB Holsters

    1. Safariland Incog X – Best Overall AIWB Holster

    Best Overall
    $92
    at Safariland

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Capable of concealing a pistol, light, optic, and spare magazine
    • Extremely durable
    • Removable magazine carrier

    Cons

    • Expensive

    Specs

    • Material: Boltaron molded thermoplastic
    • Belt Clips: 2
    • Claw Attachment: Yes
    • Magazine Carrier: Yes
    • Supports Optics: Yes
    • Supports Weapon Lights: Yes

    Sometimes you get what you pay for, and that’s definitely true in the case of the Safariland Incog X. It took Safariland a while to jump on the AIWB holster/magazine carrier trend, but they’re onto something with this one.

    Safariland Incog X light-bearing AIWB holster.

    First, I’ll address the elephant in the room. This is a huge IWB setup. Nevertheless, the size really disappears inside the waistband.

    For all that heft, you’ll get a tank of a holster that can accommodate a pistol, red dot, weapon light, and an increased-capacity magazine. Somehow, it’s even extremely comfortable.

    The design is also quite clever. Safariland put both belt clips on the holster itself so you can add or remove the magazine carrier depending on your mood on any given day.

    The belt clips are also adjustable, so you can raise and lower the holster on your belt a bit.

    Safariland Incog X with a Springfield Hellcat Pro (farmer’s tan not included).

    The claw does a good job of keeping your pistol tucked flush with your midsection to avoid printing, and the Incog X comes with three shims to fine-tune that fit.

    Finally, you can tighten or loosen a few screws to tweak how tightly the holster and caddy hang onto your pistol and magazine.

    Sure, this is a lot to tuck inside your waistband, but there are times when you’ll be willing to deal with it. When I had to evacuate my house and hit the road to escape a wildfire with nothing but a bug-out bag, times were very uncertain, and this was the AIWB holster I reached for without hesitation.

    2. Tenicor VELO4 – Most Comfortable AIWB Holster

    Most Comfortable
    $99
    at Tenicor

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Integrated shim for a great fit out of the box
    • Some of the best belt clips in the business
    • Customizable

    Cons

    • No magazine carrier

    Specs

    • Material: Molded thermoplastic
    • Belt Clips: 2
    • Claw Attachment: No
    • Magazine Carrier: No
    • Supports Optics: Yes
    • Supports Weapon Lights: No

    The Tenicor VELO4 is explicitly designed for appendix carry, and Tenicor took every aspect of its design into serious consideration.

    Tenicor Velo Holster with G19
    The VELO4 cuts out a lot of unnecessary bulk.

    The VELO4 is contoured for the body. While it doesn’t have a pronounced claw or wing, like some AIWB holsters, there is a subtle camming bar that steers the grip towards the body to further reduce printing.

    Plus, the holster itself is incredibly thin, making it disappear even more.

    Any holster can be comfortable for an hour or two, but how about 12? That’s the real challenge, and the VELO4 is absolutely up to the task.

    Tenicor Metal Clips & Camming Bar
    Tenicor Metal Clips and Camming Bar.

    While concealment is maximized, the VELO4 still provides a swift and easy draw without holster movement thanks to the all-metal, dual-clip design. Tenicor calls it the Trucise fit.

    If you have your gun outfitted like you’re John Wick, then you’ll be covered. This holster accommodates red dots and tall sights. The open-bottom design also allows for muzzle devices.

    What do you think of Tenicor? Give it a rating below.

    Readers’ Ratings

    5.00/5 (764)

    Your Rating?

    3. Hidden Hybrid Holsters AIWB – Best Hybrid AIWB Holster

    Best Hybrid
    $89
    at Hidden Hybrid Holsters

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Rigidity of Kydex with the comfort of leather
    • Claw attachment minimizes printing
    • Lots of pistol makes and models supported

    Cons

    • Less stable than full-Kydex holsters

    Specs

    • Material: Leather, molded Kydex
    • Belt Clips: 1
    • Claw Attachment: Yes
    • Magazine Carrier: No
    • Supports Optics: Varies
    • Supports Weapon Lights: No
    Hidden Hybrid Holsters, Claw Attachment
    Hidden Hybrid Holsters, Claw Attachment

    Another great option that some of the folks at PPT like is the Hidden Hybrid Holsters AIWB. If you’re a fan of leather and Kydex, this is the one you want.

    You might recognize it from our Best Concealed Carry Holster article!

    The single clip keeps things hidden while also balancing comfort. 

    P365XL with Hidden Hybrid Holster
    P365XL with Hidden Hybrid Holster

    The leather and suede backer make all the difference in terms of comfort. Our founder uses it for his EDC with his Sig P365XL.

    While shopping, I recommend grabbing a claw attachment, which helps rotate the grip of the gun into your body. This helps concealment and makes toting a gun easier. 

    See all the details in our Hidden Hybrid Holster review.

    4. Raven Concealment Eidolon – Best AIWB Holster for Full-Size Glocks

    Best For Full-Size Pistols
    $40.09
    at Grab A Gun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Quality belt clips
    • Removable claw attachment
    • Big enough for a Glock 17

    Cons

    • For Glocks only

    Specs

    • Material: Molded polymer
    • Belt Clips: 2
    • Claw Attachment: Yes
    • Magazine Carrier: No
    • Supports Optics: Yes
    • Supports Weapon Lights: No

    The Raven Concealment Eidolon is the premier holster for medium-frame Glock pistols.

    The Eidolon is a slick, yet easily accessorized design. (Photo: Ammoland)

    This rig comes ready to add plenty of accessories — I mean that for both your holster and your gun.

    Running red dots, threaded barrels, suppressor height sights, or extended controls are all doable with the Eidolon. On top of that, you can change the holster’s clips, add a wing, add a wedge, and whatever else you can stick on a holster.

    You can have it for whatever gun you want, as long as it is a medium-framed Glock. (Photo: Breach Bang Clear)

    The Eidolon makes it downright easy to carry a Glock 19 or even the bigger Glock 17 and Glock 31. Comfort and AIWB holsters don’t always go together, but the Eidolon is one of the comfiest holsters in my collection.

    At the same time, you won’t have issues getting a proper firing grip and a good draw, which will translate into a good presentation, which could save your life.

    If you’re new to AIWB and packing a Glock, I’d go with the Eidolon. It’s too bad they aren’t made for any other pistols.

    5. Tulster Oath – Best Budget AIWB Holster

    Best Budget
    $74
    at Amazon

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Thin profile minimizes printing
    • Adjustable fit
    • Red dot-compatible

    Specs

    • Material: Molded polymer
    • Belt Clips: 1
    • Claw Attachment: Yes
    • Magazine Carrier: No
    • Supports Optics: Yes
    • Supports Weapon Lights: No

    When it comes to carrying little guns, less can often be more, and Tulster Oath offers a minimalist option for a huge variety of small pistols.

    Sometimes a no-frills approach is the best approach. (Photo: The Armory Life)

    I use the Oath with my P365, which comes in handy when wearing clothes that tend to print more. If I’m wearing dress pants and tucking my shirt in, the Tulster Oath is perfect. Its minimalist design allows it to practically disappear.

    The single clip is enough for a small gun, and it’s made from metal to ensure it remains strong. An added claw increases concealment, and the cut of the holster allows for red dots.

    The simple design of the Oath translates into a thin profile without a ton of fuss. (Photo: Tulster)

    Also present is a raised sight channel to accommodate suppressor-height sights, and the muzzle is open-ended to make room for a compensator or threaded barrel.

    The thin nature and lightweight design also help with comfort, and the medium-high sweat guard provides pretty decent protection — all while ensuring guns disappear with ease regardless of accessories.

    You can adjust the cant and ride height, but the retention remains fixed.

    This holster is friendly to lefties as well, as it is ambidextrous!

    When concealment can be difficult, the Tulster Oath steps up. It’s simple, reliable, rugged, and a great choice if you wear more restrictive clothing.

    Honorable Mentions

    6. PHLster Floodlight – Best Universal AIWB Holster

    Best Universal
    $138
    at Phlster

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Many pistols, one holster
    • Weapon light-compatible
    • Highly adjustable fit

    Cons

    • Not molded for your specific pistol

    Specs

    • Material: Molded plastic
    • Belt Clips: 2
    • Claw Attachment: Yes
    • Magazine Carrier: No
    • Supports Optics: Yes
    • Supports Weapon Lights: Yes

    If you are like me and have heavily invested in weird guns, then the PHLster Floodlight is for you.

    The Floodlight is one of the few universal holsters that doesn’t suck. I’d go as far as to say it’s the best universal holster. Instead of being fitted to the gun, it indexes on your light.

    Tension is adjustable via a shock cord.

    PHLster Floodlight IWB CZ P09
    A CZ P-09 in a PHLster Floodlight1 IWB holster.

    PHLster’s Floodlight2 features an updated ribbed design that improves concealment and comfort.

    This AIWB holster allows you to carry a compact or full-size pistol with either a TLR-1 or a Surefire X300U. It’s also a light-compatible AIWB rig that is very adjustable and modular.

    You can easily change ride height, cant, tension, and clips. Getting this holster set up for you and your carry style and comfort isn’t difficult.

    PHLster Floodlight AIWB
    The Floodlight is great for those who carry light-bearing guns that aren’t quite as mainstream as others.

    Once properly set up, you’ll be surprised how comfy carrying a full-sized gun can be. It took me a little time to get it to fit just how I liked it, but it was time well spent.

    My main complaint is one Phlster can’t fix — not if they want to keep it universal. The holster is fairly bulky as a byproduct of accommodating so many different guns.

    If you carry an unusual CZ, Walther, or another less common pistol, then this is the holster for you. It’s also an excellent option for those who switch between multiple light-bearing pistols

    7. Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite – Most Comfortable Sidecar AIWB Holster

    $135
    at Tier 1 Concealed

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    The Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite doesn’t take the cake in any particular category of AIWB holsters but it’s an extremely solid all-around option.

    Tier 1 Concealed with a Springfield Hellcat Pro.

    It might not be as fancy as the Safariland Incog X or as slim as our other picks, but it does a great job of putting your pistol and a spare magazine inside your waistband. Call it the Goldilocks of sidecar rigs (meaning there’s an attached magazine carrier).

    I’ve found the Axis Elite to be super comfortable and almost print-proof. Once you try it on, I recommend ordering a set of foam wedges to perfect the holster’s fit.

    Optional foam wedges help create a better fit and reduce printing.

    Tier 1 Concealed supports a ton of pistols. Design a custom AIWB holster for your EDC gun, light and magazine size (standard or extended), and add some personal flair with a unique color — it is my understanding that plaid is the most cozy holster color.

    Of course, you can always save time and money by ordering a common configuration with the quick-ship option.

    How to Choose the Best AIWB Holsters

    Most people don’t have a holster; they have a collection — there’s a reason for that.

    Choosing the best AIWB holster depends on the day more than your body type or preferred pistol.

    The choice is yours gif

    Do you want to keep the lowest profile possible? Would you rather stack the deck with a red dot, weapon light, and some extra ammo? Those questions will point you toward very different holsters.

    We recommend keeping a few AIWB holsters on hand. That way, you can stay focused on what’s going on around you instead of what you can or cannot carry.

    Other Relevant Information

    Still confused about what sets AIWB holsters apart? Let’s clear that up.

    Appendix inside the waistband, or AIWB, carry is a method of carrying a pistol inside inside your pants and in front of your body — either right in the middle or slightly to your strong side. The gun covers the appendix, hence the name. We cover all the other positions over here.

    So, why has appendix carry taken over the CCW market?

    Concealed Carry AIWB Holster
    Appendix carry is quickly becoming the default concealed carry method for many shooters, both new and experienced.

    AIWB holsters make it very easy to conceal a firearm, more so than any other holster options that sit on the waist.

    That’s partly because it keeps your body looking symmetrical, unlike strong-side carry. By positioning the gun in front of the body, there are no odd lumps off one side.

    Concealment Express G19 AIWB, Front
    Hey, where’d that Glock 19 go?

    Pistols adorned with weapon lights or red dots benefit from the extra real estate available in the appendix position.

    Appendix carry also lends itself to a fast draw. The position of the gun is natural and easy to reach, and drawing and presenting are intuitive. Defeating your garment and drawing your pistol both happen at your midsection, so you can get both hands involved easily.

    Having the firearm at the front of your body also makes the gun tougher to take in many circumstances. This means better weapon retention.

    Sean's EDC C&G AIWB
    Multiple people on the Pew Pew Tactical staff carry AIWB. This is Sean Curtis’s EDC rig.

    Why Trust Pew Pew Tactical

    Taking the lead on this round-up is Travis Pike, a Marine Corps infantry veteran, NRA-certified instructor, and concealed carry instructor teaching CCW courses in Florida. Travis has been testing, researching, and writing about guns and gear for several years for several publications, including Pew Pew Tactical. Using his instructor background combined with his experience as a product reviewer, Travis evaluates all his recommendations using specific standards like retention, comfort, ease of draw, availability, and overall value.

    PHLster Floodlight AIWB Concealed
    Travis using a PHLster Floodlight

    Editing this article is freelance editor Scott Murdock. Scott is a Marine Corps veteran who qualified as a rifle and pistol expert while in service. Scott enjoys using his expertise to help readers find the best gear for their favorite guns.

    Our experienced staff of freelance writers and editors is run by Editor-in-Chief Jacki Billings. Jacki has a bachelor’s degree in mass communications and has worked as a media professional for close to 20 years, specializing in gun media for almost 10 years. She uses her professional journalism and editing experience to set testing protocols and editorial standards across Pew Pew Tactical.

    FAQs

    What makes a good AIWB holster?

    There are several factors to consider but, for starters, the right AIWB holster is the one that's secure and comfortable enough for you to carry every day.

    Where do you carry AIWB?

    An AIWB holster sits on the front of your abdomen, inside your waistband.

    Can you sit down with an appendix holster?

    Yes! Appendix carry actually makes the pistol easier to access than, say, strong-side carry while seated.

    Final Thoughts

    I wasn’t sold on appendix carry at first. I found the holsters downright uncomfortable and painful at times. But once I discovered that good AIWB holsters existed, I was hooked.

    PHLster Floodlight AIWB Seated
    You’ll probably never have to draw your pistol from the classic ready position, so get creative!

    As always, the technique is only as valuable as your training. Grab one of these holsters and learn how to effectively conceal, comfortably wear, and quickly draw from it. Practice starting your draw from as many positions as you can think of.

    Train like your life depends on it because one day it might.

    Do you have an appendix holster you like that isn’t listed here? Let us know in the comments below! Looking for an EDC pistol? We have you covered with our guide to the best guns for appendix carry.

    Latest Updates

    September 9, 2024: Removed the CrossBreedRogue and Dark Star Gear Orion, added the Safariland Incog X, added more details to product selections, and provided supporting content.

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    53 Leave a Reply

    • FunkMonster

      I wish it had a claw or mod wing on it. Even the option. Mine is ok, but the grip still sticks way the hell out.

      October 29, 2024 4:52 am
    • Mike

      I have been using a JM4 magnetic holster for years and love it. Comfortable leather, easy on/off, great retension. P365 with EPS Carry and thumb safety.

      September 12, 2024 7:39 pm
    • Jim

      I tried appendix carry once - at home, with an empty gun. I COULDN’T DO IT!

      September 12, 2024 12:41 pm
    • Dunne

      NO WAY I'm carrying that close to the family jewel-box!

      April 25, 2024 12:06 am
    • Josh

      Not only should Keepers holsters be on the list. They should be at the very top of it.

      Website : keepersconcealment

      December 5, 2023 8:31 pm
    • Greg

      No mention of Tier 1? Interesting...

      November 17, 2023 1:24 pm
    • Scott

      I completely agree with the Tenicor Velo4 appendix holster being on this list! I have one for all my carry pistols and I’ve tried several others before trying the Velo4 from Tenicor and I’ll never go back to anything else! Do yourself a favor and try them out, you won’t be disappointed!

      October 27, 2023 8:07 am
    • MLANDERS

      JX tactical Fat Guy is a perfect AIWB holster for us bigger dudes. I've been wearing mine for 2 years every day, love it

      September 19, 2023 12:02 pm
      • FunkMonster

        I wish it had a claw or mod wing on it. Even the option. Mine is ok, but the grip still sticks way the hell out.

        November 4, 2024 7:37 am
    • Brad F

      I’m a Lefty, but put that aside for a moment. I carry my Beretta PX4 Compact AIWB, between 1 o’clock and 2 o’clock, depending on the belt and shirt I’m wearing. In other words, cross-draw AIWB. It just felt natural to me with my first AIWB holster and his since become a habit. For you right-handed shooters, it’s like carrying at 10 or 11 o’clock. There was no mention of cross-draw AIWB carry in the article, so I am wondering if it is inherently less safe. One advantage is that with the butt facing in toward my belly button, the muzzle is a bit farther from my junk. On the other hand, it’s closer to my femoral artery. Take your pick, I suppose. The PX4 is DA/SA, and I have trained to the habit of keeping my thumb on the hammer when holstering, as an additionally safety measure. As far as comfort goes, I don’t even notice it when I’m standing, but it sometimes requires me to adjust for comfort when I am sitting in the car for long periods (basically just hiking it up a bit).

      August 8, 2023 8:29 am
    • Dennis

      It may be just my body type, but even with my little P365, the 3 different appendix carry holsters I have purchased, (priced $65, $89, & $106) all manage to jam into my groin whenever seated. Tried all the adjustments….no help. I’m 6’ at 185lbs. I definitely find the appendix carry to be the best all around position for fast access for me. I wish someone would come up with a front of body inside holster similar to the s.o.b. holster worn in the back. It would cant the pistol much closer to horizontal and could eliminate the sitting issue. It might even work for my 1911.

      February 26, 2023 7:29 pm
      • Josh

        Try keepers holsters. For me personally, when I sit down I just give the front of my belt a small lift so the holster sits on my thigh. Most AIWB holsters are made with thick Kydex. Spend the money on finding one that is formed leather or thiner material like the keeper holsters. The keeper holster are created by what most in the firearms world consider the godfather of AIWB, Spencer Keeper. They are unlike any other holster that I've ever used. Hope this helps you out, friend.

        December 5, 2023 8:40 pm
    • Krush

      Some things to remember when carrying a firearm. They are both derivative of the rule to never point your firearm at anything you don't want to destroy: 1. Never point your pistol at your genitals. 2. Never point your pistol at your femoral artery. 3. Never point your pistol at yourself. Appendix carry violates the rule. You wouldn't carry your AR or shotgun pointed at your genitals, femoral artery, or at yourself. So, you shouldn't carry your pistol that way either.

      December 4, 2022 7:36 pm
      • Paul

        I own one of the very, very good AIWB holsters by Hidden Hybrid, and I rarely carry with it for the very reason described by this commenter.

        September 20, 2023 9:23 am
    • sulko

      Hi,

      what do you think / or tried, carrying combined appendix holster with attached magazine compartment (CrossBreed Rogue) at 3 o'clock?? For supercompact gun.
      Thanks for any opinions.

      October 28, 2022 10:45 am
    • Benjamin

      I would have included at least 1 high-speed holster company for people to choose from. When I say "high speed", I mean companies that have options to add lights, optics, compensators, that have combo options, and that use better materials and QC than companies like Crossbreed. A few examples:
      -tier1concealed
      -Legacy Firearms Co
      -McKinatec
      -Fury Carry Solutions (a bit cheaper, but one of the biggest selections and fastest shipping)

      October 21, 2022 5:19 am
      • Marty

        Black Rhino Concealment.

        May 22, 2023 11:32 pm
    • Wiz

      That one pic looks more like DIWB carry than appendix (if you catch my drift). Dude better not have an ADC!!!

      October 20, 2022 4:52 am
    • Butch

      I was surprised to see that Alien Gear wasn't mentioned by anyone. I have appendix carried a Glock 43 daily with mine for about 3 years and it is the most comfortable AIWB holster that I have ever used. From walking around, to office work, to 600+ mile days on a motorcycle, it is as comfortable as I can reasonably expect it to be. I've never been called out as far as printing and even people who know that I always carry have asked me why I'm not carrying while I was wearing jeans and a t-shirt. I'm not trying to convince anyone that it should be in the top 10, I am wondering if there are drawbacks that I am not aware of or haven't experienced. Thank you in advance for all comments.

      October 19, 2022 3:40 pm
      • Jason

        I've had Alien Gear as my setup for well over 6 years and carry regularly. I've never known myself to print and my wife has numerous times came up and wrapped her arm around me only to act surprised that I had my pistol on me. Super comfortable and numerous 4-8hr drives where I forget I even have it on.

        January 18, 2023 9:48 pm
    • Jogo

      Tulster oath keeper review article states "I use the Oath with my P365, which comes in handy when wearing clothes that tend to print more. If I’m wearing dress pants instead of jeans and tucking my shirt, then the Tulster Oath is perfect. Its small, thin design allows it to disappear." how can it dissappear and print less if shirt is tucked in?

      October 19, 2022 10:36 am
      • Old Sailor

        It has a clip that allows your shirt to be tucked behind it, much like my Alien Gear Cloak 2.0 holsters. That allows only the clip to show once your shirt is tucked in.

        November 24, 2022 2:06 pm
    • Evan

      I found a bunch of AIWB holsters (for my 365XL) on Amazon. Many (Kydex) can be easily modified for use with red dots and have a comfortable "backing" (side against skin) that keeps the pistol from digging in (especially when sitting). They are adjustable for angle as I prefer my grip to be parallel to my belt.
      And - They are priced right (less expensive).

      October 19, 2022 9:31 am
    • PB

      This breaks Rule 3 for me. Never allow the muzzle to cover anything your not willing to destroy. Junk included.

      October 19, 2022 7:17 am
    • Makarovii

      I AIWB a G48 or G19.5 with Vedder LightTuck holster with claw. Yes, I can carry the G19 all day comfortably. Perhaps it’s my body type, but at 62 years of age it can be done.

      October 18, 2022 9:25 pm
    • Chuck Cochran

      In my 30's and 40's I appendix carried. Now, in my 60's, I've just enough of a gut it's uncomfortable. Realistically, the guy's not going away, so AIWB just isn't an option for this Auld Fart.

      October 18, 2022 9:07 pm
      • TRAVIS BIRD

        Try the Fat Guy holster from JX Tactical. It's great for low-riding, deeper concealment, even if you don't have the gut like me!

        October 18, 2022 9:25 pm
        • FunkMonster

          I wish it had a claw or mod wing on it. Even the option. Mine is ok, but the grip still sticks way the hell out.

          November 4, 2024 7:40 am
    • John

      Raw Dog Tactical makes a comfortable one, leather backed kydex... carrying M&P 2.0 4.25"

      October 18, 2022 7:04 pm
    • FFSigBro

      Hmmm. Maybe I will have to give this AIWB carry another try. WE used to joke about appendix carry as the "soprano" carry - if you had a ND, you would be - "singing soprano". Usually soprano carry was accomplished by just stuffing the firearm in your trousers, with maybe a shoelace loop ( looping a shoelace around your belt providing loops to insert your pistol through, leather preferred) to keep the gun somewhat in place. This is a viable practice when no holster is available, but I don't recommend it for soprano carry.
      Enter the IWB holster. I think I have five or six - none of which lend themselves to comfort, concealment or secure carry. Most that stayed where they were supposed to printed terribly. Or were just plain miserable to use.
      I used to carry a Sig 220 in an owb holster (Galco Concealable) and use a cover shirt - Hawaiian in the summer, wool in the winter. Worked well - never got called on it and was very fast. Now I carry a Sig 365xl the same way - but am looking for a new option. Of course I still carry a backup in an inside the pocket holster, but pray I will never have to use it! Especially when seated!
      You guys have renewed my hope!
      Thanks!
      FFSigBro/Art

      October 18, 2022 7:01 pm
    • Holding Low

      Is there an honorable mention for the Urban Carry G3?

      October 18, 2022 6:08 pm
    • Steve

      No mention of JM Custom Kydex. One of the best holster makers and they make them for most pistols.

      October 18, 2022 5:58 pm
    • Josh

      LAS is worth a look. Run one with my Staccato C2

      October 18, 2022 5:37 pm
    • Chris

      I love my Incognito Concealment holsters. They’re custom made kydex holsters and best of all they’re local to me in Sterling Heights, Mi.

      October 18, 2022 4:47 pm
    • Matt

      Usually don’t comment but however they ant dam holster in world better than Tier 1 axis elite,I carry Glock 19 or 43x with extra mag carrier,I’m telling u u will not even think of your gun with this holster,I’m sorry but no way on earth they’d anything better

      October 18, 2022 4:18 pm
    • Moose

      I like the JX Tactical Fat Guy Holster myself. But when you are fat you have to find something that works and doesn't stick out. Love,how it rides under my gut next to the ole boom stick and no one is the wiser.

      October 18, 2022 4:12 pm
    • Lee Keller King

      I had a Tulster OATH for my Glock 48 MOS and I currently have a Philster Pro holster for the same pistol. I also have basic AIWB holsters for my Glock 19 and my Bul Armory SAS II Ultralight. None of these holsters is as comfortable as my Tier 1 Concealment Axis Elite (I have 3 - one for each of the pistols listed above). Note that I wear my EDC G48 MOS for about 12 hours a day, during much of the time being stuck behind a desk or driving.

      In fact, the reasons I have a more traditional AIWB holster for each of these pistols is (1) I didn't want to wait for Tier 1 Concealed to build my Axis Elite holsters, and (2) the Axis Elite is not well suited to using with a tucked shirt.

      Not to knock any of the other holster builders, but in my book, Tier 1 Concealed is the best.

      October 18, 2022 4:09 pm
      • Aaron Taylor

        How do you like your Bul? I have wanted one for a while now, but I am a touch hesitant. There isn’t a shop near me that has one to pick-up let alone shoot.

        October 19, 2022 2:26 am
    • Erik Hansen

      How do y'all find Appendix carry while seated? I can't get comfortable while driving or sitting at my office.
      Thoughs?

      October 18, 2022 3:59 pm
      • Lee Keller King

        For me, the answer is to carry in a Tier 1 Concealment Axis Elite (although other sidecar holsters may work, too, I just don't have any experience with them).

        On those rare occasions when I need to wear a tucked shirt, I fall back on my G48 MOS in a Philster Pro, but it is simply not as comfortable as my Axis Elites.

        October 18, 2022 4:12 pm
      • Matt

        With Teir 1 exis elite I’m telling u,u will not ever buy nothing else ,if I owned the Company I’d garentee it.I have a gun with extra mag and never adjust getting in or out car,I don’t know how or what difference is but they got it down pat,also I have beer belly too.

        October 18, 2022 4:24 pm
    • Jeffrey Colvin Nesbitt

      I normally have no desire to leave comments on reviews. However, I must ask why one of the most popular AIWB holster manufacturers was never mentioned. Tier1 Concealed makes one of the best rigs among the plethora of other suppliers of AIWB holsters, if not the best. My wife and I carry 10+ hours/day 24-7 and both train and teach with Tier1 exclusively now. The quality, fit & finish is perfection but most importantly they provide the necessary concealment and comfort many only dream of. Perhaps you people should expand your searches and consider such reputable companies such as Tier 1 Concealed and others who make premium equipment by professionals for discerning consumers?

      October 18, 2022 3:18 pm
      • Josh r

        I used to love pew pew tactical but recently I've realized most of there reveiws are on mid tier gear and guns for the poor lol tier 1 is one of the best for sure I came here to mention them.

        October 18, 2022 4:09 pm
        • Jacki Billings

          Hey Josh, thanks for the comment. We try to hit a variety of price points, but most of our audience is in that mid-tier range; therefore, we tend to offer more options within that price range. That said, we'll do our best to bring you more products at a variety of levels. Thanks for the feedback!

          October 19, 2022 11:54 am
      • André Scott

        Thank you for typing my words for me so I didn't have to. I agree wholeheartedly.

        October 19, 2022 6:30 am
      • Jacki Billings

        Hey Jeffrey, thanks for the feedback. Our writers write and recommend products they've hands-on tested and liked. If a manufacturer isn't on here, that just means the author or editors haven't tested it out yet. As we get our hands on more products, we toss them into the list. So check back often as we tend to update our Best Ofs quite frequently. Thanks for reading!

        October 19, 2022 11:57 am
      • Dan

        Just like the time they put out a list of the best AR triggers and did not even mention Geissele. Made me realize that pew pews “best of the best lists come with an *. (* items that we can get affiliate money from recommending)

        October 19, 2022 7:14 pm
    • George

      While crossbreed is my usual go-to because of the fantastic hybrid holsters, they usually take a bit longer to come out with customizable options like a setup for my p365-xl with recover tactical rail and Olight pl2 mini Valkyrie. I was able to get this setup with mckinatec holsters and their Talon appendix holster and I am beyond satisfied with it. The fit was perfect and retention was amazing.

      Another company with nice customization options I just ran into was Blackpoint Tactical. I got their dual point aiwb holster and can definitely say it also is a solid choice.

      October 17, 2022 5:57 pm
    • Dan A

      I have yet to find a functional holster that accommodates trigger-guard lasers (ArmaLaser, Viridian) - all the contoured models snug right up to the trigger guard... and I don't necessarily want a pancake the size of Rhode Island, that's large enough to fit a Maglight-sized pistol light. Any suggestions?

      October 17, 2022 4:36 pm
      • George

        Blackpoint Tactical holsters can accommodate Viridian and Crimson Trace. I just received a dual point aiwb for my p365 xmacro and Olight Valkyrie and it fits perfectly.

        October 17, 2022 5:47 pm
        • Dan A

          Thx, much. I'll check them out.

          Cheers!

          October 17, 2022 6:19 pm
    • NoSigforSid

      Tenicor. The best. End of discussion.
      And nothing looks better in a Tenicor than "perfection" (Glock).
      //Signed (with love),
      No Sig for Sid!

      October 17, 2022 3:04 pm
    • John

      Ya seen one holster review you've seen them all.

      Seriously, the market is so glutted with sheets of Kydex wrapped around a gun with the same old friction retention. Just different names and different ways to attach it to a belt (or pants).

      October 17, 2022 1:15 pm
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