Appendix carry has grown popular among people who carry concealed guns. This method puts your gun at the front of your waistband for quick access. It hides your weapon better than other positions. The right holster makes a huge difference in how comfortable it feels all day long. A bad choice might end up unused in your drawer.

A good AIWB holster needs to balance three main things. It must keep your gun secure at all times. It should feel comfortable against your body. Your draw should be smooth every time you need it. Many companies now sell these holsters. This guide helps you pick the best one for your specific needs.

What is AIWB Carry?

AIWB stands for Appendix Inside the Waistband carry. This method places your holstered gun inside your pants at the front of your body. You can position it directly center or slightly to your strong side. The name comes from its location near your appendix when carried on your right side.

This carry method offers several advantages over traditional positions. 

• First, your gun remains within your line of sight and natural workspace, making it harder for someone to grab unexpectedly. 
• Second, drawing from the appendix position typically requires less movement and awkward reaching than from behind the hip. Third, while the front of your waistband often has more space for a firearm, this can vary depending on the user's body shape or posture, especially when seated. It’s not universally true that the front offers more space. 
• Finally, many people find AIWB provides better concealment with fewer clothing restrictions than other carry methods.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an AIWB Holster

Comfort

Comfort ranks as perhaps the most important factor in choosing an AIWB holster. If your holster digs into your stomach or pinches when you sit, you'll quickly abandon carrying altogether. Look for designs with rounded edges and options for adding wedges or pads that conform to your body shape. The best holsters distribute pressure evenly and remain comfortable during extended wear.

Concealment

A good AIWB holster should minimize printing—the visible outline of your gun through clothing. Features like claw attachments push the grip of your firearm closer to your body, reducing the telltale bulge. The holster's thickness and overall footprint also affect how well it disappears under clothing. Consider how the holster works with your typical wardrobe and body type.

Retention

Your holster must securely hold your firearm until you deliberately draw it. Most quality AIWB holsters provide adjustable retention, allowing you to set the perfect balance between security and draw speed. The holster should firmly grip the trigger guard area without requiring excessive force to draw.

Accessibility

The whole point of carrying a firearm is having access to it when needed. Your holster should allow a clean, consistent draw without snagging on clothing or requiring awkward movements. The cant (angle) and ride height affect draw efficiency and should match your body proportions and typical clothing.

Material and Durability

Most modern AIWB holsters come in Kydex, polymer, leather, or hybrid combinations. Kydex and polymer offer consistency, water resistance, and durability. Leather provides comfort but may require more maintenance. Hybrid designs try to combine the best of both worlds. Consider your priorities when selecting materials, as each option presents different trade-offs between comfort, durability, and concealment.

Best AIWB Holsters

Safariland Incog X

The Safariland Incog X stands out as a premium option for serious carriers who need maximum functionality. Despite its large footprint, this holster somehow manages to disappear inside your waistband while packing impressive capability. The Incog X is a collaboration with Haley Strategic. While designed for concealment, its ability to support optics and weapon-mounted lights (WMLs) may vary slightly depending on the model. Some setups are bulkier than others, yet it maintains a high level of versatility. 

What makes the Incog X special is its thoughtful engineering. Both belt clips attach directly to the holster portion, allowing you to remove the magazine carrier when desired. This modularity gives you options based on your daily needs without sacrificing stability. The holster comes with three shims to fine-tune the fit, addressing one of the biggest challenges in appendix carry—getting the angle just right.

The integrated claw does its job effectively, pushing the grip of your pistol toward your body to minimize printing. You can adjust retention for both the gun and magazine independently, giving you personalized control over the setup. Most impressively, despite its bulk, the Incog X remains comfortable enough for all-day wear.

For those times when you need maximum capability, few holsters match what the Incog X offers. The build quality justifies the price tag, making this a top choice for anyone who carries a fully equipped pistol and wants one spare magazine on their person. The adjustability means you'll likely find a comfortable setup regardless of your body type.

Price: $92

Specs

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

Features

• Removable magazine carrier
• Adjustable belt clips
• Includes three shims for fit adjustment

Pros

• Extremely durable and versatile
• Comfortable for daily wear, even with larger setups
• Capable of concealing multiple accessories

Cons

• Higher price point compared to other models
• Bulkier setup may not suit all users

Tenicor VELO4

The Tenicor VELO4 represents holster design stripped down to its essential elements. This holster eliminates unnecessary bulk while maintaining complete functionality. The minimalist approach results in one of the most comfortable AIWB options on the market today.

Tenicor clearly put serious thought into the body contour of this holster.The VELO4 does feature a built-in camming bar that functions like a claw; it’s a mechanical rotation aid that gently rotates the grip of your pistol toward your body, even if not a “claw” in the traditional sense.  This design choice reduces bulk while still effectively preventing the dreaded "printing" issue that plagues many concealed carriers.

The metal clips deserve special mention as they rank among the best in the industry. These clips provide rock-solid attachment to your belt without adding unnecessary bulk or complexity. The "Trucise" fit system gives you a perfect balance of retention and draw smoothness right out of the box.

The VELO4 particularly shines during extended wear. Many holsters feel fine for an hour or two, but the VELO4 remains comfortable during all-day carry sessions. The open-ended design accommodates threaded barrels and compensators, while still allowing for red dots and tall sights. For minimalists who prefer carrying just their pistol without a spare magazine, the VELO4 offers an excellent balance of comfort, concealment, and functionality.

Price: $99

Specs

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

Features

• Integrated shim for a perfect fit right out of the box
• Customizable fit with some of the best belt clips in the industry

Pros

• Highly comfortable for long-term wear
• Minimalist design effectively reduces bulk
• Supports red dots and tall sights

Cons

• Does not come with a magazine carrier
• Lacks a claw attachment, which might affect concealment for some users

Hidden Hybrid Holsters

Hidden Hybrid Holsters offers a compelling middle ground for those torn between traditional leather comfort and modern Kydex security. This hybrid design places a precisely molded Kydex shell onto a leather and suede backing. The result combines the rigid retention of thermoplastic with the body-conforming comfort of natural materials.

The single clip design keeps the profile slim while providing adequate stability for most carry situations. Adding the optional claw attachment significantly improves concealment by rotating the grip closer to your body. This simple addition makes a substantial difference in how the gun disappears under clothing.

The leather backing serves a dual purpose. First, it creates a comfortable barrier between your skin and the harder components of your firearm. Second, it distributes pressure more evenly across your waistline, reducing hot spots during extended wear. This makes the Hidden Hybrid particularly appealing for all-day carry situations.

Many users find the hybrid design strikes an ideal balance for everyday carry. The construction quality suggests excellent durability, with the Kydex portion maintaining consistent retention while the leather backing molds to your body over time. For carriers who find full Kydex holsters uncomfortable but want more security than traditional leather, the Hidden Hybrid represents a practical compromise.

Price: $89

Specs

• Material: Leather, molded Kydex
• Belt Clips: 1
• Claw Attachment: Yes
• Magazine Carrier: No
• Supports Optics: Available on select models, depending on the firearm 
• Supports Weapon Lights: Available on select models, depending on the firearm 

Features

• Claw attachment to minimize printing
• Single clip design for simplicity and comfort

Pros

• Comfort of leather with the security of Kydex
• Supports a wide range of pistols
• Effective at minimizing printing

Cons

• Less stable than full-Kydex holsters
• Supports fewer features for weapon lights and optics

Safariland Model 17 IWB Holster

The Safariland Model 17 IWB holster offers simple, practical concealment for daily carry. It's made from super-thin Boltaron material for a tiny footprint. This inside-the-waistband design holds your gun securely in place. You get deep concealment without losing quick access to your firearm.

The Model 17 stands out with its special SafariLaminate construction. This keeps the holster opening rigid after you draw your weapon. No more awkward fumbling when you need to put your gun back. The tall sweat guard creates a barrier between your gun and skin. Your firearm stays dry and protected from damaging body oils throughout the day.

The retention system centers around a precisely placed detent that clicks onto the trigger guard. This creates positive engagement with an audible "pop" when properly holstered. Despite its lightweight construction, the Model 17 holds firearms securely through various movements and positions. The thermoformed material adds minimal bulk to your firearm's profile, making it disappear under even light clothing.

One limitation worth noting is the simple clip design, which some users find less robust than other Safariland products. The holster also lacks adjustability options for cant or retention found on more expensive models. However, for carriers seeking an affordable, no-frills IWB option from a trusted tactical brand, the Model 17 delivers exceptional value. It strikes an effective balance between concealment, access, and protection at a price point that won't break the bank.

Price: $50.00

Specs

• Material: Boltaron thermoform/SafariLaminate
• Belt Clip: Heavy-duty spring-steel
• Fits Belt Width: Up to 1.75" (45mm)
• Sweat Guard: Full
• Retention Type: Passive/Friction with trigger guard detent
• Color: STX Tactical Black

Features

• Open-top design for swift draw
• Firm construction keeps holster open for easy reholstering
• High sweat guard creates barrier between firearm and body
• Trigger guard detent system for positive retention

Pros

• Ultra-thin profile minimizes printing under clothing
• Durable construction from proven tactical manufacturer
• Open-mouth design makes reholstering safe and efficient
• Fits various firearm models including popular Glocks and SIG models

Cons

• Some users report sharp edges requiring break-in period
• Limited adjustability compared to more premium options
• Spring clip may feel less robust than other Safariland products

Tulster Oath

The Tulster Oath excels with smaller pistols and in situations where minimal bulk takes priority. This holster adopts a no-frills approach that pays dividends in concealment and comfort. Its slim profile disappears even under fitted clothing, making it ideal for formal attire or summer wear.

Constructed from durable polymer, the Oath features a single metal clip that provides surprising stability for its minimalist design. The built-in claw effectively pulls the grip toward your body, eliminating the telltale printing that often gives away concealed carriers. Despite its simplified design, the holster includes a raised sight channel and accommodates red dot optics.

The open-ended muzzle design gives you flexibility with threaded barrels or compensators. Adjustable cant and ride height let you fine-tune the position for your specific body type and draw preference. These thoughtful touches reflect Tulster's understanding that even a minimalist holster needs proper customization options.

The Oath particularly shines in challenging concealment scenarios. When wearing dress pants or tucking in shirts, this holster's thin profile maintains discretion without sacrificing security. For carriers of the P365, Hellcat, Shield, or similar subcompact pistols, the Oath represents an excellent balance of minimalism and functionality. The ambidextrous design makes it equally suitable for right or left-handed users.

Price: $74

Specs

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

Features

• Adjustable cant and ride height
• Cut for red dots and allows for suppressor-height sights

Pros

• Minimalist design maximizes concealment
• Metal clip ensures durability and strength
• Compatible with red dots and suppressor-height sights

Cons

• Single clip may not provide enough stability for all users

PHLster Floodlight

The PHLster Floodlight solves a common problem for carriers with multiple handguns or less mainstream models: finding quality holsters. There are two versions of the Floodlight. The first option by Floodlight is designed to accommodate virtually any pistol equipped with either a TLR-1 or Surefire X300U. The second option for the Floodlight, on the other hand, is tailored for compact light-bearing pistols like the TLR-7A or PL-350. . This universal approach opens up quality AIWB carry to guns that rarely get dedicated holster options.

The latest Floodlight2 features an improved ribbed design that enhances both concealment and comfort. The shock cord tension system allows precise adjustment of retention without tools. This innovative approach lets you fine-tune how tightly the holster grips your light while maintaining a consistent draw.

Modularity defines the Floodlight experience. You can adjust ride height, cant, tension, and swap between different clip styles to find your perfect setup. This adaptability means the holster works across different body types and clothing styles. Taking time to dial in these adjustments pays off with exceptional carrying comfort.

The universal design does create one inevitable trade-off: bulk. The Floodlight is noticeably larger than holsters custom-molded for specific firearms. However, this downside is outweighed by the versatility for those who carry multiple light-bearing pistols or own less common firearms. For carriers of CZs, Walthers, or other brands with limited holster support, the Floodlight represents an excellent solution without compromising on quality.

Price: $138

Specs

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

Features

• Light-based indexing for universal fit
• Adjustable tension via shock cord

Pros

• Universal fit for a variety of pistols and lights
• Highly adjustable for personal comfort and retention
• Durable construction for long-term use

Cons

• More expensive due to its universal compatibility
• Bulkier design as a trade-off for universal fit

Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite

The Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite takes the sidecar concept and refines it for maximum comfort and concealment. This holster combines your pistol and spare magazine into a single unit that distributes weight evenly across your waistband. The design strikes a perfect balance—not as fancy as some premium options but more refined than basic offerings.

What separates the Axis Elite from other sidecar rigs is its flexible center section. This design allows the holster to conform to your body's natural curves instead of forcing a rigid piece of plastic against your midsection. The result feels surprisingly comfortable, even during extended periods of sitting or moving.

Customization options abound with the Axis Elite. You can design a rig for nearly any popular handgun model with options for weapon lights, optics, and extended magazines. Tier 1 also offers foam wedges that further enhance comfort and reduce printing. These small additions make a big difference in daily carrying comfort.

Despite carrying both a pistol and spare magazine, the Axis Elite conceals remarkably well under normal clothing. The holster's design pushes the grip close to your body while positioning the magazine in a natural spot that follows your body's contours. For those who want to carry a reload without adding a separate pouch, the Axis Elite provides an elegant solution that remains comfortable throughout the day.

Price: $135

Specs

• Material: Kydex
• Belt Clips: 2
• Claw Attachment: Yes
• Magazine Carrier: Yes
• Supports Optics: Depends on user customization 
• Supports Weapon Lights (WML): Depends on user customization 

Features

• Sidecar design integrates weapon and magazine for quicker access
• Axis Elite offers foam wedge options at checkout, and modular upgrades are available for most modern pistols. 

Pros

• Print-proof design maximizes concealment
• Extremely comfortable with customization options
• Supports a wide range of pistols

Cons

• More expensive and bulkier than other options
• Might be too large for some users' preferences

AIWB Holster Accessories

Appendix carry works best when properly equipped with the right accessories. Claw attachments (sometimes called wings or camming bars) work by leveraging against your belt to rotate the grip of your pistol closer to your body. This simple mechanism dramatically reduces printing and makes carrying larger firearms much more practical. However, it's worth noting that some people find appendix carry uncomfortable when sitting for long periods, especially with certain body types or large pistols. Look for holsters with built-in claws or the ability to add them later.

Wedges are another game-changing accessory for appendix carry. These foam or rubber attachments mount to the back of your holster, filling the space between the muzzle end and your body. Wedges serve two purposes: they improve comfort by distributing pressure more evenly, and they tilt the grip inward for better concealment. Many carriers find wedges transform an uncomfortable holster into an all-day option.

Magazine carriers complete an effective AIWB setup. Whether integrated into a sidecar design or carried separately, having a reload handy makes sense for everyday carry. When selecting a magazine carrier, prioritize the same qualities as your holster: secure retention, comfort, and minimal bulk. Some carriers prefer the simplicity of a single unit like the sidecar designs, while others appreciate the flexibility of separate components.

Tips for Wearing AIWB Holsters

Clothing choices dramatically impact your appendix carrying experience. Pants with some stretch in the waistband provide more comfort than rigid materials. Size up slightly in your pants or choose models with adjustable waistbands. Your belt should be sturdy enough to support your gear without being unnecessarily rigid. Purpose-built gun belts distribute weight better than fashion belts but don't need to look tactical.

Positioning makes all the difference in comfort and concealment. Most carriers find the ideal spot is slightly off-center toward their strong side rather than directly at 12 o'clock. Experiment with different positions and ride heights until you find what works for your body. When trying a new position, wear it around the house for several hours before making judgments. Small changes in height or angle can completely change how comfortable your setup feels. A tiny adjustment might turn an annoying rig into one you barely notice throughout the day.

Draw practice is essential with any new holster. Start slow with an unloaded firearm, focusing on a consistent grip every time. Pay attention to garment clearing and establish a repeatable process. Gradually increase speed only after establishing proper technique. Many new AIWB carriers find they need to modify their draw stroke compared to other positions, particularly in how they clear their cover garment.

Conclusion

Choosing the right AIWB holster transforms concealed carry from a chore into a habit. The best holster for you depends on your specific firearm, body type, clothing style, and personal preferences. Don't hesitate to try different options until you find the perfect match. Remember that minor accessories like wedges and claws can dramatically improve comfort and concealment.

Safety remains paramount with appendix carry. Select a holster with complete trigger guard coverage and proper retention. Practice your draw stroke regularly, always following the fundamental rules of firearm safety. With the right equipment and training, appendix carry offers an excellent balance of accessibility, concealment, and comfort.

The holsters reviewed here represent some of the best options currently available, but the market continues to evolve. Focus on finding a holster that fits your specific needs rather than simply choosing the most popular option. Your ideal AIWB holster should become such a natural extension that you almost forget it's there—until you need it.

Ready to start carrying AIWB? Check out our stock here.

FAQs

Is appendix carry safe?

Yes, appendix carry is safe when done with proper equipment and training. A quality holster must completely cover the trigger guard and maintain adequate retention. Follow the fundamentals of safe handling, especially keeping your finger off the trigger during holstering.

What's the difference between a "claw" and a "wing" on AIWB holsters?

These terms refer to essentially the same feature with slight design variations. Both are attachments that press against your belt to rotate the grip of your pistol closer to your body. This rotation significantly reduces printing and improves concealment.

Can I appendix carry with a larger body type?

Yes, people of all body types can successfully carry appendix style. The key is finding the right holster with proper adjustability and possibly adding wedges for comfort. Many larger individuals find appendix carry more comfortable than traditional positions once properly set up.

Do I need a special belt for appendix carry?

A purpose-built gun belt improves any carry method but isn't strictly required. The ideal belt provides consistent support without excessive rigidity. Many modern "low-profile" gun belts offer excellent support without looking tactical or drawing attention.

Why do some AIWB holsters cost so much more than others?

Higher-priced holsters typically offer better materials, more adjustability, and additional features like optic cuts or light compatibility. More complex designs like sidecar rigs naturally cost more due to additional materials and manufacturing complexity. Quality retention and comfortable edges also increase production costs.

Can I appendix carry a full-size pistol comfortably?

Yes, many people comfortably carry full-size pistols in the appendix position. The key factors are a well-designed holster with features like a claw and wedge to improve concealment and comfort. Clothing choices also play a significant role in successfully concealing larger firearms.