The subject matter of this blog asks the question "Which is better, an IWB or an OWB". If you are looking at those letters and scratching your head, unfurl your eyebrows, you already know what they are! IWB are holsters for the inside of a waistband, and OWB are, you guessed it, holsters for outside of the waistband. As far as the question as to which is better; the answer is it depends, either, or both. Depends on how you want to carry and access your firearm, in some cases either one will work for your needs, and one holster is never enough, so why not have both? Let's talk about the function, materials, and benefits for both the IWB and the OWB holsters.

IWB HOLSTERS

Although you could choose either, IWB holsters are the most popular holsters for concealability. These holsters ride along your waistband, and are usually placed between your undergarments and the next layer of clothing; pants, shorts, shirts, and skirts. If concealment is your main objective, look at holsters that fit your body in the desired concealment position. Make sure that you find a comfortable fit. The IWB holster is made to securely attach to your belt. To know that your holster and firearm are secure, the holster should not shift or move once it has been fastened. The holster should fit close to your body to minimize the chance of imaging through your clothing. In addition to comfort, make sure that your IWB holster with your firearm is easily accessible. You should be able to draw your firearm from your holster without obstructions. Your quick access may mean the difference between life and death, so when you are choosing a holster, always make sure you can get to your firearm quickly and draw it on the target with the least amount of movement as possible. Be familiar with your holster, don't wait until something happens to access it for the first time. Just like your concealed carry firearm, make sure that your holster gets some range time. Also just like your firearm, maintain your holsters. The function of a holster is to securely retain your firearm during daily wear. For a retaining function, there must also be a release function. In other words, how easily can you remove your firearm? You can choose the level of retention that you want for your holster. Probably the most popular holsters as far as firearm retention and release go is a Level-1 friction retention holster. More than not, this is the holster feature chosen when selecting an IWB. For all of you fashionistas out there, selecting the right holster fit can conceal your firearm comfortably and fashionably. A lot of IWB holsters have a "tuckable" option. A "tuckable" option IWB holster will allow you to tuck a shirt into your pants with the IWB holster and firearm and still present a tidy, neat, clean, and sharp appearance. If your pants are already snug, you may want to go up and pant size or two when wearing an IWB holster containing your firearm. You should wear your holster in the same position every time you have it on so that it can mold to your body. Holsters come in a variety of materials. Kydex, leather, and multi-material systems that include a Kydex shell with a synthetic or leather backer. All of the material should be comfortable enough for daily, long term wear. For easy re-holstering, make sure to choose a holster that will not collapse when you draw your firearm. It's personal preference as far as the belt position for your IWB holster. Using your belt buckle to represent the 12 o'clock position, the 3 o'clock through the 5 o'clock positions are the most common carry position for right-handed shooters. The 7 o'clock through the 9 o'clock position is the likely placement for left-handed shooters. Check your state's concealed carry laws. Some states require that you keep your pistol hidden at all times. For states with laws like this, in the waistband or IWB holsters are a great choice.

BLACKHAWK! A.R.C. Appendix Reversible Carry GLOCK 19/23/32 IWB Holster

 

OWB HOLSTERS

OWB holsters are great for open carry. As great as they are for open carry, they also offer concealability if worn under loose clothing or a jacket. Outside the waistband, holsters will likely be most comfortable if worn in the same positions as an IWB, 3-5 for right-handers, and 7-9 for lefties. While there are many varieties of the OWB holster, there are three options that are most commonly purchased. These three selections have the highest reviews and recommendations. The three main OWB holsters are pancake holsters, paddle holsters, and belt slide holsters. The traditional pancake holster has three positional slots that suit almost every carrying situation. You can position it strong side with a straight drop, behind the hip, or butt forward to allow for a cross draw. Pancake holsters usually have an open-muzzle to accommodate different slide lengths. So basically, a pancake holster is two pieces of material attached together in order to sandwich a firearm within. Paddle holsters are made with a solid back outfitted with clips that attach to the belt. The holster is attached to the solid backing. Paddle holsters are great for quick donning and removing. These holsters come in a butt-forward cant or a neutral cant. From the two selections, choose the one that is easiest for you to draw from and holster. Paddle holsters are usually very comfortable and great for low profile concealment. Belt slide holsters allow you to do just that; slide your belt through the holster. If your belt is strong and snug, a belt slide holster offers a very secure fit. As with anything, there are pros and cons to OWB holsters. If you do not like the feel or fit of an in the waistband holster, you will likely find a solution for a comfortable concealed carry with an OWB holster. OWB holsters are more comfortable to sit in than IWB's. They are also easier to draw your firearm from. Access to your firearm is much quicker with an OWB instead of an IWB. There are just a couple of cons that I can think of for an OWB holster. They're a tad bit harder to conceal than IWBs, but learning how to dress to conceal the entire holster with your firearm will come quickly through trial and error. The other issue is correctable as well. You just have to make sure that the belt that you select to wear with your OWB is sturdy and fits firm and snug, but also comfortably.

Comp-Tac International Glock 19/23/32 OWB Holster

PERSONAL CHOICE

It all boils down to what feels right to you. It's perfectly acceptable to have several holsters for each gun that you own. My personal favorite is the paddle holster, however, I would not necessarily suggest a paddle holster for everyone. Your personal choice and your go-to holster should be as personal to you as your clothing. Make sure that it fits, and make sure that it's comfortable. Retention of your firearm is of the utmost importance. However you move throughout your day or in a critical situation, your holster should retain your firearm until you make an intentional draw from it. Level 1 friction retention holsters are the most common, for every retention feature added after that such as a strap, the level of retention is increased and therefore will be identified as a level 2 and so on. Shop All Holsters & Belt Gear
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