Appendix Carry Holsters – Fast, Concealed, and Built for Real-World Carry
Appendix carry holsters—also known as AIWB holsters—are a preferred choice for concealed carriers who demand speed, concealment, and comfort in one package. Positioned at the front of the waistband, typically between the 12 and 2 o’clock positions, this carry style places the firearm in a natural, accessible location.
The result is faster draw times, improved retention of your weapon in close-contact situations, and excellent concealment under a variety of clothing styles.
AIWB Holsters Designed for Everyday Comfort and Accessibility
Carrying in the appendix position requires a holster that balances all-day comfort with readiness. AIWB holsters in this collection are shaped to follow the contours of your body, reducing pressure points when seated or bending.
Features like adjustable ride height and cant allow fine-tuning for your unique body shape and preferred draw angle. Soft edges, breathable materials, and options for padded backers help make even extended carry sessions comfortable—whether you’re on the move, driving, or sitting at a desk.
Precision Fit for Popular Handgun Models
Each appendix carry holster is molded for exact firearm dimensions to ensure secure retention and consistent performance. This collection covers a wide range of handguns, from full-size duty pistols to ultra-concealable subcompacts. Popular fits include:
- Glock Series: Glock 17, Glock 19, Glock 19X, Glock 26, Glock 43, Glock 43X, Glock 45, Glock 48, and more
- Sig Sauer: P365, P365XL, P320 Compact, P320 Full Size, P320 M17, P320 M18
- Springfield Armory: Hellcat, Hellcat OSP, XD Mod.2 Subcompact, XDM 3.8, XDs Mod.2
- Smith & Wesson: M&P Shield, Shield Plus, M&P9 2.0, M&P40 2.0
- Other Leading Brands: H&K VP9, Walther PPQ, Ruger LCP II, Kimber 1911, CZ P-10 C, Taurus G2C
Model-specific molding ensures a positive lock-up when the firearm is holstered, with a fully covered trigger guard for safety.
Concealment Without Compromise
A properly designed appendix holster minimizes printing—the visible outline of the firearm—so you can carry discreetly even under lightweight or fitted clothing. Many AIWB models incorporate concealment claws that press against the belt to rotate the grip closer to the body.
Wedge systems or muzzle pads adjust the holster’s angle for better concealment while also relieving abdominal pressure, improving comfort for both slim and larger body types.
Top Appendix Carry Holsters Compatible With Lights, Lasers, and Optics
Modern concealed carry setups often include weapon-mounted lights, lasers, or red dot optics. This appendix holster collection includes light-bearing options for popular accessories such as the Streamlight TLR-7A, Surefire X300, and Nightstick TCM series. Optics-ready holsters maintain retention and trigger guard coverage while providing the clearance needed for red dot sights.
Safety and Retention You Can Trust
Safety is non-negotiable in concealed carry. Each appendix carry holster in this lineup is built with rigid, non-collapsing shells to ensure a safe reholster every time. Adjustable passive retention lets you control the exact level of hold, giving you both security during movement and a smooth, predictable draw when it counts.
For those carrying in dynamic environments, retention tuning is critical to balancing speed and weapon security.
Adaptable for Different Carry Environments
Appendix carry holsters excel in a variety of everyday carry scenarios.
- Urban concealed carry: Slim, tuckable designs disappear under untucked shirts or business-casual attire.
- Active lifestyle carry: Secure retention and ergonomic shaping allow comfortable wear while walking, cycling, or traveling.
- Vehicle carry: The forward position keeps the firearm accessible without obstruction from seatbelts.
Appendix Holsters Made of Materials that Enhance Performance
Holster construction materials play a direct role in durability, comfort, and concealment. Many appendix models in this collection use Boltaron or Kydex shells for structural integrity, paired with neoprene or padded textile backers for body comfort.
These hybrids deliver the rigidity needed for reliable retention while maintaining a body-facing surface that reduces hot spots during extended wear.
Modular Options and Sidecar Systems
For those who carry extra ammunition, appendix sidecar holsters integrate a magazine carrier alongside the pistol, creating a streamlined and balanced front-of-body loadout. Modular designs allow you to remove or reconfigure the mag carrier, adapting to your daily needs without changing holsters.
Purpose-Built for Appendix Carry Excellence
From compact 9mm pistols to full-size defensive handguns, this collection of appendix carry holsters delivers the combination of concealment, comfort, and quick access that AIWB users demand. With precision fits for dozens of popular firearm models, compatibility with lights and optics, and comfort-driven features like claws, wedges, and ride height adjustability, these holsters are built to keep your firearm secure and accessible no matter where the day takes you.
