Concealed carry isn’t comfortable. Appendix carry is definitely uncomfortable. If this is your choice of carry you push through and deal with the pain. I’ve got a box full of concealed carry holsters – and specifically - appendix carry holsters, each with issues. However, I’ve found five holsters that don’t suck when carrying appendix. It’s important to note that I’ve personally carried each of these CCW holster no less than three months.
We all know the issues concealed carry permit holders deal with when carrying front side—comfort and security being at the top of the list. Look, you're carrying around a hunk of plastic and metal, which isn't going to be ideal in any situation. Kydex IWB holsters have no give, nylon holsters give a little too much, and hybrid inside-the-waistband holsters can't seem to make up their mind. It takes time building up confidence with AIWB carry, but once you do, it’ll seem as natural as .22LR plinking with soda cans.
G-Code INCOG IWB Holster
This is an EDC holster for me and the ol’ GLOCK G19. I’ve owned one for the Sig Sauer P320 as well. The INCOG IWB holster is constructed of Kydex and has multiple mounting points for various options for the concealed carry position and depth of carry. The great thing about the INCOG is the customization options available. It takes a few weeks to get one if you plan on customizing your holster from G-Code. I’ve been carrying this one for two years and have had zero issues with comfort. The INCOG minimalizes bulk and maintains dexterity from start to finish. To learn more about the G-Code INCOG IWB holster CLICK HERE.
Bravo Concealment Torsion IWB
When I want to get minimal on the AIWB carry, I switch over to the Bravo Concealment Torsion IWB holster. This polymer holster houses the G43X. I like the familiarity this holster has compared to my G-Code holster. It has the same belt clips and matches the cant and carry depth I get out of the G-Code rig. If there is one thing that I love, it’s consistency across the board. The lightweight, smooth polymer construction doesn’t allow for clothing to get caught or snagged when carrying or drawing the pistol.
A bonus for the Torsion IWB holster is the price. They're running a sale where you can buy one Torsion IWB holster for $52 and get the second one free. It looks like I'll be purchasing a few more holsters. To learn more about the Torsion IWB holster CLICK HERE.
DeSantis Holsters Variable 87
When temperatures heat up, appendix holster options become limited. In the summer, I am a shorts-and-flip-flops kind of guy. I grow tired of carrying rigid holsters in the heat. The DeSantis Variable 87 is a new, nylon IWB holster for me. I've slowly worked it into my daily carry. Usually, I am cautious when it comes to nylon holsters. The Variable 87 is solidly constructed, and the patented Tuckable 360 clip holds tight, keeping your gun in place no matter what position you find yourself.
When carrying the Variable 87, I found the holster very comfortable. I am guessing this is due to the closed-cell foam. The sweat guard on any Kydex constructed holster is rigid and uncomfortable, but the padding with the Variable 87 is exceptionally comfortable even when driving. This is an excellent hot weather concealed carry holster. To purchase a new DeSantis Variable 87, CLICK HERE.
BlackPoint DualPoint AIWB Holster
This one is a relatively new holster to my lineup. When the Sig Sauer P365 first came out, BlackPoint was the recommended holster for me. I took the advice and purchased my first DualPoint AIWB. Fast forward three or so years, and I just picked up my second BlackPoint AIWB holster for the new P320 X Compact.
A highlight for me is the adjustments of the DualPoint. I adjust the cant, ride height, and tension of the DualPoint. Each DualPoint also has the option of running the holster inside the waistband or outside. This is one of those holsters that you’ll use in cold or warmer months, especially running the smaller, concealed carry guns. WARNING: my order is going to take 7-8 weeks to ship. No problem for me. I’m happy to wait a little bit for one of the best concealed carry holsters out there.
Galco Stow-N-Go
If you’re like me, you’ve got a couple holsters for certain occasions. The Galco Stow-N-Go is my run to the Quickie Mart holster or my lounging around the house holster. If you’re looking for a holster that is light and concealable that you just need to grab and go then this is your holster. Galco is known for its fine gun leather and the Stow-N-Go carry holster is no different.
Galco offers this holster for a wide variety of firearms, but I use it for my slim, GLOCK G43X when it’s not in the Bravo Concealment. Unlike other leather holsters, the Stow-N-Go has a metal, reinforced mouth, which keeps the holster fully open. This becomes critical when re-holstering your appendix carry firearm. To purchase the Stow-N-Go, CLICK HERE.
Holsters are a lot like socks. Now, I’m not saying you’ll throw them in the washing machine and lose a couple now and then. What I am saying is you’ll have socks that are on the daily rotation, and you rarely change. We find what we like and stick to it. Appendix carry holsters are no different. You’re going to go through a couple before you find what doesn’t suck. ~ KJ
Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money from these links.
If you're new to AIWB or just tired of your current setup, here's what actually matters when picking a holster — from someone who has a box full of ones that didn't work out.
Retention: Your holster needs to hold the gun securely with an audible click when holstered. With appendix carry, the muzzle is pointed at things you'd very much like to keep. Passive retention from a properly molded Kydex shell is the standard. You shouldn't be able to shake the gun free, but you also shouldn't have to fight to draw it.
Trigger guard coverage: This is non-negotiable for AIWB. The trigger guard must be fully enclosed by the holster material. No exceptions. A negligent discharge in the appendix position has life-altering consequences. If a holster doesn't fully protect the trigger, don't carry it.
Ride height and cant: Most quality AIWB holsters let you adjust how deep the gun sits in your waistband (ride height) and the angle of the grip (cant). These adjustments make the difference between a holster that digs into you and one you forget you're wearing. Start with the gun riding higher — so the muzzle sits in the natural crease between your thigh and torso — and adjust from there.
The claw/wing: A concealment claw or wing is a small piece that presses against the inside of your belt, pushing the grip of the gun into your body. This dramatically reduces printing. If you're carrying anything larger than a micro-compact, a claw is almost mandatory for effective AIWB concealment.
Wedge: A foam wedge on the back of the holster (between the holster and your body) tilts the muzzle away from you and the grip into you, improving both comfort and concealment. Some holsters come with them; for others, you can add an aftermarket wedge from companies like Dark Star Gear or Mastermind Tactics.
Holster length: This is counterintuitive, but a holster that's longer than your gun's barrel is actually more comfortable for appendix carry. The extra length distributes the pressure point and prevents the muzzle end from digging into your thigh. Many experienced AIWB carriers specifically seek out holsters with added muzzle length.
Belt matters: The best holster in the world won't perform right on a flimsy belt. A quality gun belt — whether a Kore Essentials ratchet belt, a Blue Alpha Gear EDC belt, or a similar purpose-built option — makes AIWB carry dramatically more comfortable and stable. Don't skip this.
To recap the five holsters covered above and when each one makes the most sense:
Hot weather / minimal clothing: DeSantis Variable 87 — the nylon construction and closed-cell foam make it the most comfortable option when you're in shorts and a T-shirt. It's the holster for when rigid Kydex feels punishing in the heat.
Everyday carry workhorse: G-Code INCOG — KJ's daily driver for two years with a GLOCK 19. Multiple mounting points, adjustable depth and position, and proven durability. If you want one holster that works every day, this is it.
Minimal / lightweight carry: Bravo Concealment Torsion IWB — when you want the smallest, lightest possible AIWB rig. Pairs well with a slim gun like the G43X.
Maximum concealment with sidecar mag carrier: Look at options like the Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite or the T.Rex Arms Sidecar if you want your spare magazine integrated into the same rig. These holsters bend in the middle to wrap around your body, keeping everything tight and concealed.
Budget entry point: If you're just getting started with AIWB and don't want to spend $100+ experimenting, the Bravo Concealment Torsion is the most affordable option that still delivers quality retention and comfort. The Vedder LightTuck is another popular starting point.
If you're coming from strong-side (3-4 o'clock) carry or are completely new to concealed carry, here are some things we've learned the hard way:
Practice your draw unloaded first. Before you carry AIWB live, spend time at home with an unloaded gun (triple-check it) practicing your draw and reholster. The reholster part is the most important — you need to build the habit of looking the gun back into the holster every single time. Never blindly reholster in the appendix position.
Size up your pants. Going up one waist size in your pants makes AIWB dramatically more comfortable. The extra room accommodates the holster without creating a belt-line tourniquet. This one tip solves most comfort complaints.
Your body type matters — but not as much as you think. Bigger guys can absolutely carry appendix. The key is ride height, a good wedge, and the right holster. If you've got a gut, look into holsters specifically designed for larger body types — the JX Tactical Fat Guy holster is purpose-built for this and has a strong following.
Carry with a round in the chamber — or don't carry appendix. AIWB carry is predicated on the gun being ready to fire the moment you draw. Carrying without a round chambered defeats the speed advantage of the position. If you're not comfortable carrying chambered, spend more time training and building confidence with your specific firearm and holster before committing to AIWB.
A good belt is not optional. We said it above but it's worth repeating. A purpose-built gun belt is the single biggest comfort upgrade you can make for AIWB carry.
For more on concealed carry, check out our top concealed carry handguns for women and our Taurus 856 Ultra Lite review for a revolver carry option.
Is appendix carry safe?Yes — with a quality holster that fully covers the trigger guard, a modern firearm with proper internal safeties, and good training habits. The concern about muzzle direction is valid and should be taken seriously. That's why trigger guard coverage and disciplined reholstering are critical. Thousands of law enforcement professionals and trained civilians carry appendix every day. The key is the right equipment and the right habits.
What is the most comfortable appendix holster?Comfort is subjective and depends on your body type, gun size, and clothing. Generally, holsters with a foam wedge, adjustable ride height, and a concealment claw tend to be the most comfortable across different body types. From KJ's experience, the DeSantis Variable 87 is the most comfortable for hot weather, and the G-Code INCOG is the most comfortable for all-day daily carry.
Can you appendix carry a full-size pistol?Yes, but it requires the right holster, a good belt, and usually sizing up your pants. A holster with a sidecar design (like the Tier 1 Axis Elite) distributes the weight of a full-size gun more effectively than a single-clip holster. It's not as effortless as carrying a micro-compact, but it's absolutely doable with the right setup. KJ carries a full-size GLOCK 19 in the INCOG daily.
Appendix carry vs. strong-side carry — which is better?Both are valid. Appendix carry offers a faster draw, better weapon retention (the gun is in front of you where you can protect it), and easier concealment under untucked shirts. Strong-side carry (3-4 o'clock) is generally more comfortable for extended sitting, works better with tucked-in shirts, and feels more natural for some shooters. Neither is objectively "better" — it comes down to your body type, wardrobe, training, and personal preference.
Do I need a sidecar/mag carrier with my appendix holster?No, but it's nice to have. A sidecar rig keeps your spare magazine in the same location as your gun, making reloads faster and more consistent. The tradeoff is additional bulk and weight. For everyday carry where you want to keep things minimal, a standalone holster with a loose magazine in a pocket or separate carrier works fine. For duty use or situations where you want maximum readiness, a sidecar setup is the way to go.
What guns work best for appendix carry?Compact and sub-compact pistols are the most common AIWB guns — GLOCK 19, GLOCK 43X, SIG P365, Springfield Hellcat, Smith & Wesson Shield Plus, and similar. Micro-compacts like the P365 and Hellcat are the easiest to conceal. Compact guns like the G19 are the most versatile, offering better shootability while still concealing well. Full-size guns can work with the right holster but require more effort to conceal.
Kevin Jarnagin
Kevin Jarnagin (KJ) hails from Oklahoma but quickly established Louisiana roots after joining the Gun Talk team. KJ grew up as a big game hunter and often finds himself in a bass boat. Whether it’s making his way to British Columbia for elk or training with pistols, Jarnagin always seems to find a gun in his hands and adventure on his mind.
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