More and more people are carrying appendix inside the waistband (AIWB). What was once considered an uncomfortable, risky position has become the go-to choice for many serious carriers.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about appendix carry. We’ll cover the real benefits, address safety concerns honestly, and give you practical advice on gear selection, positioning, and techniques that actually work.
Why AIWB is Gaining Popularity
Speed and Accessibility
Your hands simply have less distance to travel when drawing from the front of your body. From most natural hand positions, AIWB provides the fastest access to your firearm. This speed advantage becomes even more pronounced when you’re seated in a car, restaurant, or other confined space.
Concealment Benefits
For many body types, AIWB conceals better than strong-side carry. The gun sits under your natural drape, and daily movements are less likely to cause printing or inadvertent exposure. You can conceal a full-size pistol with just a t-shirt—something that’s much harder with strong-side carry.
Retention and Control
During a physical altercation, AIWB offers better weapon retention. The gun is positioned where you can see it, protect it, and maintain control. Someone approaching from behind can’t easily access your firearm, unlike with strong-side carry where an attacker could potentially grab your gun without you seeing it coming.
Safety: It’s Not Black and White
Any discussion about AIWB carry eventually turns to a safety debate. Some consider appendix carry inherently unsafe because of “flagging”. However, it’s misleading. First off, the muzzle direction rule applies to actively handled guns, not holstered ones.
Second off, safety isn’t a binary concept. It’s a spectrum that changes based on your situation, skill level, and equipment.
Every carry position involves some level of risk. Strong-side carry points the muzzle at your leg. Small of back carry points at your spine. AIWB points toward your lower abdomen and upper thigh. The key is managing these risks through proper gear (belt and holster) and skills.
Most NDs happen during holstering, not while the gun is already in the holster. This is true regardless of carry position. The difference with appendix carry is that when you’re holstering, you’re pointing the gun toward your body rather than your leg.
Here’s where technique matters. When holstering AIWB, step back with your support-side leg and lean forward slightly. This angles the muzzle away from the vitals. Take your time, visually inspect the holster, and never rush the process.
Those carrying striker-fired pistols might want to consider gun upgrades like the Langdon Tactical Striker Control Device for Glocks. This allows you to feel if the striker is moving during holstering, which is a clear indication that something is contacting the trigger. Double-action pistols offer similar feedback through the hammer.
Which Guns Work Better for AIWB
Not all guns work equally well for AIWB carry. The ideal AIWB gun is relatively compact, has a rounded or smooth profile, and fits your hand well for a confident grip.
Handgun Size
While you can carry full-size pistols AIWB (many do), compact and subcompact options are generally more comfortable. The Glock 19, Sig P365, and similar-sized pistols represent the sweet spot for many carriers. However, body type matters significantly here.
Handgun Profile
Guns with aggressive texturing, sharp edges, or protruding controls can be uncomfortable against your body. Rounded trigger guards and smooth profiles work better. Some carriers modify their guns slightly, removing sharp edges or replacing aggressive grip textures.
Action and Trigger
While modern striker-fired pistols are very safe, some carriers prefer double-action handguns for AIWB. The heavier, longer trigger pull provides an additional margin of safety during holstering. DA/SA pistols like the Sig P229 or revolvers can be good options for those concerned about trigger weight.
Gear That Makes AIWB Work
Success with appendix carry depends heavily on having the right equipment. Generic holsters and department store belts won’t cut it.
AIWB Holster
Your holster is the foundation of successful AIWB carry. First off, look for holsters with adjustable ride height and cant like the GRITR APX appendix carry holster series or options from Tenicor, PHLster, Tier 1, and JX Tactical. Make sure the holster in question completely covers the trigger guard. Also, consider a longer holster design – contrary to popular believe, it can enhance concealment and comfort by controlling gun movement.
Claws and Wedges
These can make or break your AIWB setup. A claw (or wing) tucks the grip inward, reducing printing. Wedges, placed on the backside of the holster, near the muzzle, lift the muzzle away from your body.
Gun Belt
A quality gun belt is non-negotiable. It needs to be stiff enough to support the weight but not so rigid that it’s uncomfortable when sitting. Some carriers prefer belts with slight stretch for comfort when seated. Consider offsetting your belt buckle to around 11 o’clock to reduce bulk at the centerline.
Holster Positioning for Appendix Carry
The gun doesn’t sit directly center. Most carriers find the sweet spot between 12 and 2 o’clock, with 1 o’clock being popular. This positions the muzzle between your thigh and genitals rather than pointing directly at either.
Clothing and Concealment
Appendix carry requires some thought about your wardrobe, but it’s generally less restrictive than strong-side carry. Here’s how to dress around your gun.
Shirt
Patterns and textures help break up any printing. Avoid thin, tight-fitting shirts. Shirts with a bit of drape work well – you don’t need to size up dramatically. A well-fitted shirt with the right cut often conceals better than an oversized one.
Additionally, a tucked-in undershirt can improve comfort and help with concealment. Some carriers use compression shirts for similar effect.
Pants
You might need to go up one size in waist measurement to accommodate the gun comfortably. Pants with a bit of stretch are more comfortable when sitting. Consider the rise of your pants too – mid-rise works better than low-rise for AIWB.
Working with Different Body Types
AIWB doesn’t work the same for everyone. Your body type significantly affects how well this carry method will work.
Larger Midsection
Contrary to popular belief, having a gut doesn’t automatically disqualify you from AIWB carry. The extra mass can actually help with concealment by providing drape.
Placing the holster slightly off-center or experimenting with the angle can help avoid discomfort from the gun pressing against the abdomen or thighs when sitting. Larger individuals may also benefit from holsters with more pronounced claw attachments, as these help tuck the grip of the gun closer to the body.
Slimmer Builds
Thinner carriers often find AIWB easier initially, but may struggle with printing since there’s less natural drape to hide the gun. A larger chest and shoulders help create the drape needed for concealment.
Height Considerations
Taller individuals generally have more room to work with and can often carry larger guns comfortably. Shorter carriers may need to stick with more compact options or use deeper concealment techniques.
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Making AIWB Work While Sitting
The gun will naturally want to push into your abdomen when you sit, and poor positioning can make this quite uncomfortable.
Lower the Ride Height
Most people initially set their holster too high. Lowering the ride height distributes the gun’s weight better and reduces the pressure point when sitting. The grip should sit just above your belt line, not several inches above it.
Adjust the Cant
A slight forward cant (muzzle angled forward) can help with comfort and concealment. This positions the gun to follow your body’s natural curves better. Too much cant, however, can slow your draw and create printing issues.
Clothing Considerations
Looser-fitting pants and shirts help accommodate the gun when sitting. Avoid tight-fitting clothes that will outline the gun or create pressure points. An undershirt can help with comfort and prevent the gun from contacting your skin directly.
Practical Tips for Success
Here are some field-tested tips that can make the difference between struggling with AIWB and making it work seamlessly.
Start Small
Don’t jump straight to carrying a full-size gun. Start with a compact pistol and work your way up if desired. Learn the fundamentals with a more manageable package.
Quality Over Quantity
It’s better to have one really good holster than three mediocre ones. Invest in quality gear from reputable manufacturers rather than trying to save money on critical components.
Practice Dry
Spend time practicing your draw stroke at home with an unloaded gun. AIWB requires slightly different mechanics than strong-side carry, and muscle memory takes time to develop.
Listen to Your Body
If something hurts or feels wrong, adjust it. AIWB should be comfortable enough that you forget you’re carrying. If you’re constantly aware of your gun, something needs to change.
Gradual Transition
Don’t switch overnight. Carry AIWB for short periods initially, gradually increasing the time as you become more comfortable with the setup.
Making the Decision
AIWB isn’t for everyone, and that’s perfectly fine. Some people will never be comfortable with the muzzle direction, while others find it the most natural carry method. The key is honest self-assessment about your comfort level, body type, and carry needs.
If you’re curious about AIWB, start with quality gear and realistic expectations. Don’t expect it to be comfortable immediately—there’s a learning curve. But for those who make it work, AIWB often becomes their preferred carry method for good reason.
The most important thing is that you carry consistently with whatever method works for you. A gun at home doesn’t help anyone, regardless of how it’s carried. Whether you choose AIWB, strong-side, or another method, the key is finding something that works with your lifestyle and sticking with it.
Remember, what works for one person might not work for another, and that’s okay. The goal is helping everyone find a carry method that keeps them safe and allows them to protect themselves and others effectively.
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AIWB stands for “Appendix Inside the Waistband” carry. It means positioning your holster and firearm at the front of your body, roughly between your belly button and hip, usually around the 1 o’clock position.
Faster access: Drawing from the front is often quicker, especially while seated or driving.
Better concealment: Clothing moves less and the gun stays hidden, reducing printing.
Weapon retention: The gun is less exposed to grabs from behind.
Comfort varies greatly by body type, holster, and firearm. Some find it uncomfortable, especially with a larger stomach or carrying a full-size gun.
Comfort can be improved with:
- A high-quality holster designed for appendix carry (with wedge or claw)
- Belt tension adjustments
- Wearing pants slightly higher than usual
It can, especially if you have a bigger stomach or use a large gun/holster. Many users adjust by:
- Lifting pants a bit before sitting
- Loosening the belt when seated
- Positioning the holster and gun barrel so they rest along the thigh, not into the abdomen
Safety depends on:
- Strict trigger discipline
- Using a rigid holster that fully covers the trigger guard
- A careful, deliberate reholster (never rush!)
Reholstering accidents are the main worry, since the muzzle points at sensitive areas. Many find AIWB carries are safer for beginners because people are extra cautious when holstering in this position.
Look for features like:
- Adjustable ride height and cant
- A “claw” or “wing” that presses the grip inward to reduce printing
- Smooth, rounded edges for comfort
- Secure, adjustable belt clips
- Full trigger guard coverage
- Optional foam wedge or pad for better comfort
Slimmer people tend to have less trouble with printing and discomfort. People with a “dad bod,” larger waistline, or short torso may need more experimentation with holsters, positioning, and clothing. Sometimes, AIWB just isn’t a good fit for certain body shapes, and that’s fine.
It’s possible, but less comfortable for most and tougher to conceal well. Plus, larger guns can dig into the body more when sitting. Many prefer compact or subcompact models for AIWB.
With a good holster (with claw/wedge) and the right clothes, printing is minimal. Untucked or looser shirts help a lot.
Some people are more self-conscious about it than others; in reality, most bystanders don’t notice subtle printing.
Draw by keeping your support hand clear and pulling straight up. When reholstering, look the gun back into the holster and never rush -remove the holster if needed. Keep all fingers, shirts, and drawstrings away from the trigger guard path when holstering.
- Slightly higher rise pants help. Avoid super-tight or low-rise waistbands.
- Sturdy belts with micro-adjustment (ratcheting or with more holes) make a big difference.
- Looser or untucked shirts minimize printing.
- If belt comfort is a struggle, try padded or flexible options designed for concealed carry.
