Fat Guy Holster - Concealed Carry For Fat Guys

Let’s be real — if you’ve got a little more mass around the middle, carrying concealed isn’t always comfortable. You’re not just packing a pistol... you’re already packing a spare tire, a tactical muffin top, and maybe a set of love handles that don’t love IWB holsters too much.

But here’s the good news: carrying concealed as a big guy can be done comfortably and effectively — no daily digging, shifting, or printing through your shirt like a wrinkled blueprint.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• The best concealed carry positions for larger frames (including appendix carry without regret)

• Which holsters actually work for fat guys — and which ones will ruin your day

• How to deal with printing, seatbelt pressure, and sweaty waistband syndrome

• What gear, belts, and clothes actually help (and what just adds to the discomfort)

Whether you call it “husky,” “full-figured,” or just “big guy life,” this guide cuts through the fluff and gives you real answers that work with real bodies.

What’s the Best Carry Position for Fat Guys? (Ranked & Explained)

If you’ve ever strapped on a holster, sat down, and felt like your pistol was trying to tunnel into your kidney, you already know: carry position makes or breaks your day — especially if you’ve got a bigger frame.

We’re not talking theory here. We’re talking about sitting in traffic with your seatbelt fighting your rig, your grip printing through your shirt at the BBQ, or bending over at the gas pump and feeling your slide stab you in the gut.

For bigger guys, waistline distribution is everything. That soft zone around your beltline isn’t just fluff — it’s terrain. And certain spots on that terrain work way better for concealment and comfort than others.

Here’s the real-world breakdown of the best carry positions — what works, what doesn’t, and why:

2 O’clock Carry: Comfort in the Valley

This one’s a sleeper hit — especially if you carry right-handed. The area between your belly and your love handle forms a natural groove — we call it “the valley.”

Placing an IWB holster at the 2 o’clock position fits snug in that valley, rides low, and avoids direct pressure when sitting. It also reduces printing, because your gut helps smooth the profile. Sounds weird, but it works.

• Pros: Easy to conceal, works sitting or standing, fast draw angle

• Cons: Doesn’t work as well for lefties unless mirrored at 10 o’clock

3 O’clock Carry: Fast Draw, But Watch the Bulge

Classic hip carry. Feels natural, especially if you’re used to OWB or duty-style carry. Your hand falls right onto it. But here’s the thing: when you’ve got more girth, 3 o’clock tends to push the grip outward, which makes printing worse, especially with tighter shirts or thinner materials.

• Pros: Fast draw, feels natural

• Cons: Tough to conceal without overshirts or layers, may dig when seated

Works best if your gear is ultra-slim — or you’re carrying OWB with a longer shirt or jacket.

5 O’clock Carry: Behind the Handle, But Not Behind the Curve

This is a go-to for a lot of big guys. The 5 o’clock position — right behind your love handle — gives you a sweet concealment pocket. Printing is minimal, especially if you wear a longer shirt or flannel.

But there’s a trade-off: it’s harder to reach quickly, and if you sit for long hours (truck drivers, desk jobs), the holster can start to feel like it’s poking your spine. Also not great if you’ve got lower back issues.

• Pros: Super concealable, easy to hide under casual clothes

• Cons: Slower draw, annoying if you’re sitting all day

Appendix Carry (AIWB): Yes, Even for Big Dudes

Let’s squash the myth — big guys can appendix carry, you just have to do it right.

The trick to appendix carry for fat guys is to avoid putting the holster in that “middle dead zone” — the place where your belt cuts between your belly and your lower pooch. That’s the no-go zone. The answer? Shift your holster slightly toward your pocket and adjust ride height based on position.

When you stand, let it ride lower and tuck into your lower belly. When you sit, shift it slightly upward or outward for comfort. Use a wedge behind the holster to tilt the grip inward and kill the printing.

• Pros: Lightning-fast draw, incredible concealment with the right setup

• Cons: Takes adjustment, needs the right holster and belt setup to be viable

Look for holsters with adjustable ride height, cant, and built-in wedge compatibility. If you do it right, appendix carry becomes one of the most comfortable, secure options even with a larger frame.

Quick Recap – Carry Positions for Big Guys

Position	Comfort	Concealment	Sitting Friendly	Notes
2 o’clock	⭐️⭐️⭐️	⭐️⭐️	⭐️⭐️⭐️	Great for IWB in the valley
3 o’clock	⭐️⭐️⭐️	⭐️	⭐️⭐️	Easy access, but may print
5 o’clock	⭐️⭐️	⭐️⭐️⭐️	⭐️	Best with long shirts
Appendix	⭐️⭐️⭐️	⭐️⭐️⭐️	⭐️⭐️	Needs dialing in, but high payoff

 

Can Big Guys Appendix Carry? Absolutely — Here’s How

Most bigger guys give up on appendix carry early — not because it’s impossible, but because no one showed them how to adjust it for their body. If you've tried it and felt like your holster was trying to perform an impromptu medical procedure every time you sat down, you're not alone.

Here’s the real reason it hurts: you’re likely placing the holster in the worst possible spot for your body shape.

Let’s fix that.

Where Should Big Guys Place Their Appendix Holster?

The key is avoiding the midline — that deep space between your belly and your lower gut, right above the button of your jeans. That’s what we call the dead zone. When your holster rides there, it gets compressed from both top and bottom when you sit or move, causing sharp pressure and limited concealment.

Instead, shift the holster off-center, around the 1 to 2 o’clock position (11 o’clock if you’re left-handed). This puts the gun along the natural curve of your waistline — where there’s less direct compression and more room for the grip to ride clean.

How Can Big Guys Sit Comfortably With Appendix Carry?

This is where most appendix carry setups fall apart — sitting down. But the problem isn’t your belly. It’s rigid placement and lack of adjustability.

Here’s how to sit without pain:

1. Loosen your belt tension slightly when sitting – just enough to let the holster shift with your body, not fight it.

2. Raise the ride height of your holster just a touch — so the muzzle clears your groin angle and the grip doesn’t press against your thigh.

3. Use a concealment wedge (foam pad or wedge backing) to tilt the grip toward your body and prevent it from tipping outward under pressure.

These three steps alone eliminate 80% of the discomfort guys experience with AIWB. You’re not compromising safety — you’re just giving your gear room to work with your movement instead of against it.

What Is the “300th Parallel” in Appendix Carry?

The "300th Parallel" refers to an insight coined by trainer Jacob from Evolving Daily — and it’s dead-on accurate for guys with larger waistlines.

The idea is this: if you’re over 300 pounds, the sweet spot for appendix carry shifts based on your position.

• Standing: Let the holster ride lower, so it tucks naturally into the lower belly curve. This helps with concealment and reduces printing.

• Sitting: Shift the holster slightly upward and outward — where the waistband starts to rise toward the ribs — to prevent pressure from folding your holster inward.

Think of it like pivoting your rig along your body’s geometry. You're not just placing the holster — you're positioning it dynamically throughout your day.

What Holster Features Make AIWB Work for Big Guys?

If you're serious about appendix carry and you’ve got a larger frame, you need gear that gives you control, flexibility, and forgiveness.

Here’s what to look for:

• Adjustable ride height and cant – lets you tailor the holster’s angle and depth to your waist shape and movement.

• Minimal footprint – bulky shells dig in faster and are harder to conceal. A slim profile is essential.

• Wedge compatibility or integrated wedge – this subtle addition solves both printing and comfort without adding size.

• Dual-clip stability – keeps the holster from shifting too far under your gut while walking or sitting.

Holsters like the Alien Gear Photon or the ShapeShift Appendix Carry system hit all of these marks — and they’ve got customization built-in. If your current holster doesn’t check these boxes, that’s likely why AIWB hasn’t worked for you.

Is Appendix Carry Safe for Big Guys?

Yes — if the trigger is fully protected and the holster doesn’t collapse. The idea that appendix carry is inherently unsafe for large-framed individuals is based on poor gear or bad technique, not reality.

Use a rigid holster with positive retention and always reholster slowly, deliberately, and preferably with the holster off-body until confident. The margin for error is slim — so your setup has to be tight.

Most Comfortable Holsters for Big Guys (IWB, OWB, Hybrid)

The holster you use will either make your carry setup feel like second nature — or like you’ve strapped a plastic shovel to your ribs. And if you’ve got a bigger frame, the margin for comfort is tight. Sweat, sag, digging edges, and a grip that wants to print every time you bend forward? Been there.

For concealed carry to work long-term, especially inside the waistband, your holster needs to check three boxes: comfort, concealability, and adjustability. Miss any one of those, and you’ll stop carrying. Guaranteed.

What Should Bigger Guys Look for in a Holster?

Here’s what matters — and why it matters more when you’ve got a wider waistline or carry extra up front:

• Dual-clip support: A wider stance distributes weight and prevents twisting or sagging across the belly curve.

• Adjustable ride height and cant: Lets you tune the gun’s angle so it doesn’t jab or bulge under layers.

• Neoprene or padded backing: Reduces skin irritation and helps contour against your body. Essential for all-day wear.

• Sweat shield: Keeps the gun off your gut and your gut off the slide. Sounds crude, but it’s exactly what it does.

• Retention that’s adjustable — and audible: You want to feel and hear the click. No guessing, no soft retention.

Alien Gear Holsters That Actually Work for Big Guys

Not all holsters are built with larger carriers in mind — but a few are clearly engineered for body types that don’t fit the “standard” template.

Here are four standout options that balance adjustability, comfort, and retention — with real-world usability for larger frames:

Alien Gear Photon

A slim, minimalist AIWB/IWB rig with ride height and cant adjustability, optic-ready clearance, and modular clip options. It works especially well with a wedge, giving you better concealment around the gut without needing extra layers.

Ideal for: Appendix carry with minimal printing

Why it works: Narrow footprint, deep concealment, supports sidecar add-on for mags

Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB

The gold standard for hybrid holsters, and a fan favorite among guys with more midsection to manage. The neoprene base pad is soft against the skin, flexes naturally with your waist, and the dual clips spread weight across your belt to reduce pressure points.

Ideal for: 3 o’clock or 5 o’clock IWB carry

Why it works: Custom-molded Kydex shell + flexible backer = secure + forgiving fit

ShapeShift Appendix Carry Holster

A fully modular appendix rig with adjustable ride height, positive retention, and a contoured base that helps tuck the grip toward the body — especially important for larger carriers trying to prevent printing at the front waistband.

Ideal for: AIWB carry with added support

Why it works: Custom ride + tight footprint + compatibility with wedges or pads

Rapid Force Duty Holster (OWB)

For those in law enforcement, security, or open carry states, this OWB holster delivers unmatched retention and draw control, with solid mounting options and high-ride setups that work well even with tactical or larger frames.

Ideal for: Open carry, range, duty use

Why it works: Retention lever system + adjustable height + rugged build for serious wear

Holster	Comfort	Concealment	Adjustment Features
Photon	Slim build, light and flexible	Excellent for AIWB with wedge	Ride height, cant, optic-ready
Cloak Tuck 3.5	Neoprene backer, dual clips	Very good with loose shirts	Retention, cant, ride height
ShapeShift Appendix	Contoured pad, AIWB-specific	Great concealment with wedge	Ride height, modular shell
Rapid Force (OWB)	High-ride, rigid OWB setup	Best for open carry or range	Retention lever, mounting systems

 

Concealed Carry for Big Guys – FAQs Answered

Can overweight guys appendix carry safely?

Yes — if you’re using the right holster and carrying it in the correct position. The key is avoiding the dead zone directly over your belt buckle and instead placing the holster just off-center at the 1–2 o’clock position. Use a rigid holster with a full trigger guard, and always reholster carefully. A wedge or foam pad can help with grip angle and comfort.

What if my gun digs into my belly when I sit?

That’s a sign your ride height or cant angle is off — or your holster is sitting too central. Raise the ride height slightly and use a cant that allows the grip to contour with your body. You can also loosen your belt slightly when seated, allowing the holster to pivot naturally. This eliminates most of the pressure.

Should I buy bigger pants for IWB carry?

Yes. Go up at least one size in the waist. Trying to squeeze your EDC setup into normal-fit pants will create discomfort, poor concealment, and limited draw access. The extra space gives you room for the holster, keeps your grip from sticking out, and helps reduce printing.

What’s the most comfortable concealed carry position for plus-size men?

For many larger carriers, the 2 o’clock IWB position hits the sweet spot. It sits in the natural groove between your stomach and side, making it easier to conceal and more forgiving when seated. Appendix carry also works well with proper setup, especially if you use a wedge and adjust your ride height.

What’s the best holster for sitting all day?

A hybrid IWB holster with a padded or neoprene backing like the Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5 is ideal for long hours behind a desk, in a vehicle, or anywhere sitting dominates your day. The soft backer cushions your waist, while dual clips distribute pressure evenly to prevent hotspots or digging.

Can a fat guy use a belly band holster?

Yes — but it depends on the design and your activity level. Look for belly bands with reinforced holster compartments  that securely retain the firearm. These work well under athletic wear, in hot weather, or for minimalist carry setups. Just make sure the gun sits at a stable height and doesn't shift under pressure or movement.

How do I stop my grip from printing through my shirt?

Add a holster wedge or choose a rig with adjustable cant. This tilts the grip inward toward your body. Also, wear shirts with a loose drape, dark colors, or patterns — they hide bulges far better than tight, light-colored fabric. A properly fitted gun belt also keeps your firearm from sagging outward.

Is outside-the-waistband (OWB) carry realistic for big guys who want to conceal?

It can work, especially at the 3 or 4 o’clock position, with a low-profile OWB holster like the Alien Gear Cloak Mod or Rapid Force. Pair it with a long shirt, flannel, or jacket for concealment. OWB carry offers excellent draw access and is easier on the lower back — just plan your wardrobe accordingly.

Do I need a gun belt, or can I use a regular leather belt?

Use a dedicated gun belt. Standard belts sag, flex, and shift under the weight of a firearm. A gun belt, especially one with a polymer core or reinforced spine, keeps your holster tight, improves retention, and reduces movement — especially important for larger frames dealing with extra leverage around the waistline.

Are You Carrying Comfortably — Or Just Putting Up With It?

Most bigger guys who carry every day are still trying to make their gear work instead of using gear that works for them.

We’ve spent this whole article talking about what it really takes to carry concealed with comfort and confidence when you’re built differently — and it’s not about settling or suffering. It’s about smart adjustments, better equipment, and a setup that fits your real body, not someone else's body type from a product photo.

What You’ve Learned:

• The best concealed carry positions for larger frames — and how to adapt each one for sitting, standing, and movement

• Why appendix carry isn’t off-limits for fat guys — if you use the right ride height, placement, and support gear like a wedge

• Which Alien Gear holsters work with real-world waistlines (Photon, Cloak Tuck 3.5, ShapeShift Appendix, and more)

• How to fix the top pain points: printing, digging, seatbelt pressure, poor grip angle, and lack of concealment

• What features actually matter: ride height, cant adjustability, dual clips, sweat protection, and belt support

• Real answers to questions most carriers are too frustrated to ask — like whether OWB can conceal, or if belly bands are worth it

Now Here's What to Do Next:

1. Evaluate your current setup — If it digs, sags, prints, or makes you constantly adjust, it’s time to upgrade.

2. Pick a holster that works with your size, not against it — Prioritize ride height, comfort backing, and adjustability.

3. Grab a real gun belt — This is not optional. It's the foundation that holds your entire carry system together.

4. Test your setup sitting, standing, walking, and driving — If it doesn’t work in all four, it won’t work long-term.

5. Don’t be afraid to tweak placement — There is no “perfect spot” for everyone. Learn your body’s pressure points and concealment sweet zones.

6. Use what works — Wedges, padded backers, neoprene, high-ride OWB — if it helps you carry every day, it’s the right choice.

Concealed carry is about being ready, every day, no matter your size. Get your gear right, and carrying becomes invisible, automatic, and comfortable — just like it should be.

You’re not stuck. You’re just one adjustment away from carrying like it was built for your body.

 

 

About The Author James England (@sir_jim_england) is the contributing editor for Alien Gear Holsters. He is a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom and private defense contracting in Afghanistan.