IWB holsters offer a multitude of different methods to attach to the belt or pants, including velcro, metal clips, kydex clips, or leather straps. Just like the various carrying attachments, IWB holsters also offer a number of various carrying styles. IWB holsters can be worn as a cross draw, behind the hip, on the strong side, or even small of the back (commonly called SOB).



While IWB holsters are produced for nearly every make and model , they tend to be the most effective with small to mid-size weapons. By choosing a compact pistol, you'll find it much simpler than trying to conceal a full size weapon like a Beretta 96 or a Glock 20. Although larger weapons are more difficult to conceal, single action, single stack designs like John Browning's 1911 are the lone exception to that rule. The minimal grip of the single stack design makes those pistols far easier to conceal that a double stack handgun like a Glock or H&K.

WB holsters can also have some additional benefits that make them even more attractive for concealed weapons. Some of those options include:

Holster Cants - A cant refers to the angle that the holster rides on the hip or body. Some IWB holsters have a zero cant and ride straight up and down on the waist, while others have a forward cant ride. Typically, the forward cant ride usually rides at 15 degrees.

Body shield or sweat guard - This term refers to a piece of the holster that is built to keep the weapon from touching the shooter. Most bodyshields or sweatguards are part of the holster creation, and are considered a nice feature to have.

Retention Strap - This is a strap that fits over the rear slide or grip of the handgun and serves to keep it in place. Most retention straps require some type of activation so the weapon can be drawn. In most cases, the retention strap can be released via a snap or button. Retention straps are beneficial for shooters who are active or off duty law enforcement officers.

Tension screw - This refers to a screw or set of screw adjustments that allow the draw tension to be adjusted. The tension screw or screws give the shooter the ability to tighten or loosen the tension of the draw.

IWB holsters provide a good, stable platform for concealed carry as they allow the weapon to remain concealed within the waistband.