Is an AIWB Holster Uncomfortable?

Introduction

Time to read: 8 minutes

Date: April 6, 2023

As more and more gun clubs require their members to use an appendix inside the waistband (AIWB) carry, some members are finding themselves at a loss. Many gun owners are used to carrying their firearms in a traditional holster, and may not be familiar with the proper way to re-holster their gun when using an AIWB.

This can pose a serious safety hazard, as it is easy for someone to accidentally discharge their weapon while trying to re-holster it in an AIWB. In fact, some gun clubs have even banned AIWB carry altogether, to avoid any potential accidents.

However, there are ways to safely re-holster a gun in an AIWB, as long as you take the time to learn the proper technique. With a little practice, you can safely and confidently carry your gun in an AIWB

In this blog post, we will discuss the definition of an AIWB holster, its advantages and disadvantages, factors that affect comfort levels, tips for improving comfort, different types of AIWB holsters and their comfort levels, and popular brands and models of IWB holsters and their comfort levels. We’ll then conclude with some helpful resources.

What is an AIWB Holster

AIWB (Appendix Inside the Waistband) holsters are a popular choice for concealed carry that is designed to be worn inside the waistband of your pants or shorts, with the gun tucked against your body. 

The holster is typically secured with a belt and clips, allowing for easy access when needed. AIWB holsters can be made from leather, nylon, or Kydex, and come in a variety of styles and colors. 

Some AIWB holsters are designed to minimize printing, while others may offer more comfort or better retention. When choosing an IWB holster, it is important to consider your gun and personal preferences as there are many great companies out there that make quality products.

Difference Between an IWB and AIWB Holster

AIWB Holsters have a smaller wingspan, a single clip, and a claw-type attachment pushing against the belt to help conceal the weapon and holster. AIWB holsters are also typically fixed at a 0-degree cant.

A conventional IWB holster will be wider than an AIWB with some complaints of it being too uncomfortable.

Advantages of AIWB Holsters

IWB holsters offer many advantages over other holster types. They also allow for a greater range of motion when drawing and re-holstering a gun. 

Other Advantages:

• Provide a secure and comfortable fit for the user, allowing them to carry their firearm in a concealed manner.
• Designed to be worn inside the waistband, which makes them ideal for concealed carry.
• Typically made from durable materials such as Kydex or leather, making them long-lasting and reliable.
• Can be adjusted to fit different body types and sizes, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
• Designed to be comfortable and unobtrusive when worn, allowing the user to move freely without feeling restricted or uncomfortable.
• Provide quick access to the firearm in an emergency situation, allowing the user to draw their weapon quickly and efficiently.

Additionally, IWB holsters can be adjusted for cant, which helps to keep the muzzle of the gun pointed away from the user’s leg when holstered. 

Furthermore, some IWB holsters are designed with safety in mind and have features such as longer screws that help to reduce the chance of canting. Ultimately, it is important to choose the right holster for your needs and regularly check your equipment for potential safety issues.

Disadvantages of IWB Holsters

IWB holsters have some potential safety issues that should be taken into consideration. The cant (angle) of the holster can cause the muzzle of the gun to point toward the user’s leg when holstered, which can be dangerous if not done properly. 

To avoid this issue, longer screws can be used to attach the holster to the belt and push it further away from the body. 

Additionally, it is important to regularly check your equipment for any potential safety issues when using an IWB holster. 

The Port Malabar Pistol and Rifle Club in Florida has prohibited AIWB during matches, which some shooters argue is unsafe as it discourages them from using a position that is widely considered to be safer when drawing and re-holstering a handgun. 

Ultimately, when choosing a holster, you should consider your gun and personal preferences as there are many great companies out there that make quality products.

• IWB holsters can be difficult to conceal due to their size and shape, making it difficult for some users to keep their firearm hidden from view.
• Limited Comfort when carrying a firearm, making it important for users to find a holster that is designed with padding or other comfort features such as breathable fabrics or ergonomic designs.
• May not be suitable for all body types due to their design, making it important for users to find a holster that fits properly before purchasing one.
• May not provide enough support or stability when carrying a heavy firearm, making it important for users to find a holster that is designed specifically for their firearm’s weight and size.
• Limited protection against sweat or moisture, making it essential for users to find a holster that is designed with moisture-resistant materials or features such as sweat guards or moisture barriers.

Factors that Affect Comfort Level of AIWB Holsters

When it comes to the comfort level of an AIWB holster, there are several factors to consider. The cant (angle) of the holster is one of the most important factors as it affects how close the muzzle of the gun is to the user’s leg when holstered.

To reduce this issue, some holsters are designed with a longer screw to attach to the belt and push it further away from the body. 

Additionally, the type of holster should also be taken into consideration as different organizations have different regulations regarding which types of holsters are allowed. 

For example, USPSA allows OWB sports holsters while IDPA allows AIWB holsters. Personal preferences should also be taken into account when choosing a holster as there are many companies that make quality products. 

Ultimately, it is important for you to select a holster that offers both safety and comfort for the user.

Tips for Improving Comfort Level of IWB Holsters

When using an IWB holster, it is important to regularly check your equipment for potential safety issues. The cant (angle) of the holster can push the muzzle downwards towards the user’s leg, which can be dangerous. 

To avoid this problem, consider using a longer screw to attach the holster to the belt, which will push it further away from the body and reduce the chance of canting. 

When choosing a holster, consider your gun and personal preferences as there are many great companies out there that make quality products. USPSA allows OWB sports holsters while IDPA allows AIWB holsters but USPSA is more common with them both. 

Lastly, practice re-holstering your gun in an AIWB to ensure you do it safely and correctly.

Different Types of AIWB Holsters and Their Comfort Levels

When it comes to AIWB holsters, there are a variety of styles and materials available. Leather is a popular choice for its durability and comfort, while Kydex is a lightweight option that offers more flexibility. Some holsters also come with adjustable cant angles, which can help you find the perfect fit for your body type and gun. 

Some holsters are designed to reduce the risk of muzzle sweep when re-holstering, by using longer screws to attach the holster to the belt or using a different angle. It is important to consider your preferences and needs when choosing an AIWB holster, as different styles can have different levels of comfort.

Popular Brands and Models of AIWB Holsters and Their Comfort Levels

When considering an IWB holster, it is important to consider the comfort level that each model offers. Popular brands such as Alien Gear, Crossbreed, and Blackhawk offer several models with varying levels of comfort. Alien Gear’s Cloak Tuck 3.0 is a popular option for those looking for an IWB holster that is both comfortable and secure. 

It features adjustable retention, adjustable cant angle, and a neoprene backing for extra comfort. Crossbreed’s SuperTuck Deluxe is another popular choice that features a leather backing for extra comfort and an adjustable cant angle. 

Blackhawk’s Serpa Sportster is also a great option for those looking for an IWB holster with adjustable retention and cant angle. All three of these holsters are designed to provide maximum comfort while still securely holding the gun in place.

Conclusion

In this blog post, we discussed the comfort level of an IWB holster. We defined what an IWB holster is, the advantages and disadvantages it provides, and the various factors that affect its comfort level. 

We then provided some tips to improve its comfort level and discussed the different types of IWB holsters and their comfort levels, as well as some popular brands and models of holsters and their comfort levels.

Overall, it is clear that IWB holsters have many advantages, but also a few drawbacks that can make them uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time. 

However, by making sure you choose the right size and type of holster for your body type, as well as taking measures to improve the comfort level such as wearing an undershirt or selecting a softer material for your holster, you can make your IWB holster more comfortable and bearable to wear. We hope that after reading this blog post, you have a better understanding of how to select a comfortable IWB holster for yourself or for someone else.

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