A concealed carry holster is the best way to discreetly carry your gun and have quick access for self-defense. We have thousands of concealed carry holsters from top brands like Safariland, Galco, TXC Holsters, and more to ensure you find the right fit and style. One classic option is the ankle holster, which has been seen in countless movies and used by police officers and soldiers for decades. If you'd rather have your pistol a little closer to your hand, an inside-the-waistband concealed holster may be better. These IWB holsters are super comfortable and won't show when properly worn, allowing you to prepare your draw at a moment's notice.
Whether a timeless leather holster is more your style or a locking molded polymer, we have every kind of CC holster available for you to choose from. Not sure what you're looking for just yet? Take a look at our handy How to Choose a Holster Guide to get an idea of the different types, then inspect some of our other Holster Resource Guides for additional assistance—still, stuck? Our product experts are waiting by the phone and are eager to answer any questions you have to ensure that you get the best match for your lifestyle.
When wearing a concealed carry holster, inside the waistband is one of the most popular ways to carry a handgun. It is easily concealable without the need for clothing that covers it. The downside is that it offers a tougher draw compared to outside-the-waistband holsters, especially when sitting. OWB holsters offer the benefits of enhanced comfort and a quicker draw, but you usually need to wear a jacket or clothing that will cover up the firearm on your hip. Check out our guide on The Best Concealed Carry Positions for more tips to help you choose the right option.
When it comes to wearing a concealed firearm, there are many types of holsters and carry positions. It all depends on the safest option that works best for you. One safest and most convenient places to carry a firearm is on the solid side of your hip. This position is beneficial because your gun is easily accessible. It's natural to want to pull your hand down by your hip to draw your firearm.
If you choose a strong-side hip holster, you will have two primary options: OWB or outside-the-waistband and IWB or inside-the-waistband. OWBs are held outside your pants (usually either to your belt or a paddle holster that snugs into your pants). At the same time, IWB has the firearm inside the waistband with the gun grip sticking out the waistband. The gun wearer can secure a full firing grip before drawing the handgun.
IWB and OWB holsters protect your trigger guard from preventing the chance of accidental discharge while keeping the gun secured in one place. Concealed carry holsters also protect and finish the firearm from the outside elements.
As stated in the name, an IWB holster is more concealable than an OWB holster. IWB holsters are more stable due to having three contact points: two on the waistband and against the torso. There are also more carrying positions available to the wearer: the strong side of the hip, the appendix carry (AIWB), or at the small of the back. However, IWB holsters may not always be the most comfortable, depending on the person or what is worn. A trick is to wear a larger size at the waist to accommodate the firearm. Of course, everyone is different, and a litany of different IWB holsters are available. You can test out different ones and find that many IWB holsters are far more comfortable than others.
OWB holsters are the main alternative to IWB holsters. They are designed to be worn on your belt outside your pants.
The main alternative to an OWB holster over an IWB: OWBs are considered more comfortable strapped or secured to the outside of the waistband. Because it is on the outside, firearms secured in an OWB are a faster draw and are more accessible. Gun owners that want to conceal carry may overlook an OWB because they feel it is not as concealable as an IWB. However, if with a long enough t-shirt, sweatshirt or jacket, a firearm can be concealed by wearing an OWB.
While any concealed carry holster will usually work for both men and women, we carry several women’s holsters like concealed carry purses, thigh holsters, and fanny pack holsters. Most women carry a purse or similar bag, and this can be used to your advantage, giving the appearance of an innocuous object but possessing the ability to discreetly carry a firearm and other protection within.
Shop holster brands such as Alien Gear Holsters, Fobus, Galco and more! We have holsters for practically every gun make: Sig Sauer, Glock, Ruger and different holster options including shoulder holsters, pocket holsters, belly band holsters, Kydex holsters, and more! OpticsPlanet has everything you need from gun parts to optics! Gear up with us today and get Free Shipping on most orders over $49!