IWB Holsters May Not Be For Everyone

As you are shopping for a gun holster, you will undoubtedly come across advertisements in gun magazines and videos on the internet advertising some type of IWB holster as being the "ultimate" in concealment. While the IWB holster in question may in fact be a very effective way to carry a concealed handgun, it may not be a good choice for you.  Why is that, you say?

The answer is actually pretty simple: body type. Let's face it, not everyone who carries a handgun concealed or for self defense has the body type to make an IWB holster work. Folks (like myself) with some spare area around the mid-section, may find that IWB holsters are:

• Not comfortable - Comfort is everything in concealed carry. Show me an uncomfortable holster and I'll show you one that doesn't get used.

• Not concealeable - Like the name implies, IWB holster are worn inside the pants. For certain body types, even an IWB holster can be worn, it simply won't conceal at all. A key feature with IWB holsters involves the bulk of the weapon being carried inside the pants, while the butt or grip remains above the waistline for access. If you have a "thick" waist, you really can't conceal the weapon.

In the same breath, there are very thin people that simply don't have enough girth to conceal an IWB holster as well. Carrying the holster inside the pants isn't an issue, the problem comes in keeping the weapon and holster concealed.

If you fall into this category, what are you alternatives? Well, you have a few:

• Belt Holster - While size of the handgun will play a role on both IWB and OWB carry, a smaller handgun can usually be concealed fairly well using a high riding belt holster. While it may not be invisible, you can get by with a loose fitting, longer shirt.

• Pocket holster - One of my personal all time favorite carry methods. Granted, you can't carry a large weapon, but you can easily carry a very compact handgun that will carry enough rounds to defend yourself.

• Ankle holster - Probably one of the most underused carrying methods I've seen in this day and age. Again, handgun size and caliber plays a role, but I can carry a small revolver on my ankle under my khaki's, and no one can tell. It's not the quickest way to draw a weapon, but it certainly beats not carrying anything at all.

If you don't have the body type to carry IWB, it's not the end of the world in terms of carrying a concealed weapon. You may have to make some adjustments, but it can certainly be done.