Best IWB Holster for Glock 43X: Adding a Wedge for Deep Concealment

The Glock 43X has earned its reputation as one of the most popular concealed carry pistols on the market. As part of Glock’s Slimline series, it strikes an ideal balance between shootability and concealability: a slim slide that hides easily and a full-length grip that feels secure in the hand.

However, even the best IWB holster for Glock 43X can struggle with a problem many owners don’t anticipate—grip tipping. Because the 43X pairs a relatively short barrel with a longer grip, the gun often leans outward, causing noticeable printing under a shirt.

The good news? You don’t need a new gun or a new wardrobe. By adding a holster wedge pillow, you can fix the physics of your carry setup and achieve true deep concealment—comfortably.

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Why the Glock 43X Can Be Harder to Conceal Than Expected

When shopping for a Glock 43X holster, most people prioritize slimness and minimal bulk. That makes sense. But in concealed carry, smaller doesn’t always mean easier to hide.

The Grip-to-Barrel Ratio Explained

The Glock 43X has what many instructors refer to as a challenging grip-to-barrel ratio. The slide and barrel are short, while the grip is long enough to accept a 10-round magazine.

Inside the waistband, that means there isn’t much length below the beltline to counterbalance the weight above it. Gravity pulls the loaded grip outward, and without enough leverage below the belt, the gun tips—causing visible CCW printing.

This same concept is discussed frequently in concealment education resources from companies like
PHLster,
which emphasize leverage and rotation as the foundation of concealment.

Why Overtightening Your Belt Makes It Worse

Many carriers try to solve tipping by cranking down their belt. While a quality belt is important, excessive tension often forces the holster into your hip or pelvis, exaggerating the angle and making the grip stick out even more.

The real solution isn’t more pressure—it’s a better angle.

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How a Holster Wedge Pillow Fixes Short-Barrel Tilt

A holster wedge pillow is a small but powerful upgrade. It’s a foam cushion that attaches to the back of your holster near the muzzle end, and it changes how the holster rotates against your body.

Creating Leverage Where You Need It

When added to the bottom of the best IWB holster for Glock 43X, the wedge gently pushes the muzzle end outward. Because your belt anchors the holster at the waistline, this outward push forces the top of the gun to rotate inward.

The result is immediate:

• The grip tucks into your body
• Printing is dramatically reduced
• The gun feels more stable and secure

This principle—often called the “keel effect”—is the same reason wedges are recommended by many concealed carry educators and organizations like
USCCA
for appendix and strong-side carry.

Why Soft Foam Matters for Slim Pistols

The Glock 43X is lightweight and thin, which means it tends to shift more than heavier pistols. Hard plastic wedges can create painful hotspots on the pelvic bone or thigh, especially during long periods of sitting.

A soft, foam-based holster wedge pillow provides the leverage needed for concealment while acting as a cushion. This makes all-day carry far more realistic—especially for average builds and slim carry guns.

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Choosing the Best IWB Holster Setup for the Glock 43X

The wedge works best when paired with a quality holster. When evaluating the best IWB holster for Glock 43X, look for these features:

• Flat back surface for secure hook-and-loop attachment
• Adjustable cant to fine-tune concealment angle
• Wing or claw compatibility to pull the grip inward laterally

Using a wedge and a claw together is widely considered the gold standard for hiding a Glock 43X. The claw handles side-to-side grip pressure, while the wedge manages vertical rotation.

For additional holster education and carry concepts, the
Lucky Gunner Lounge
offers excellent articles on concealed carry mechanics and comfort.

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Why Comfort Determines Whether You Carry Every Day

The number one reason people stop carrying isn’t concealment—it’s discomfort. A Kydex holster is a rigid object worn against your body for 10–12 hours a day.

If your Glock 43X holster digs into your leg, causes skin irritation, or creates pressure points, you’ll eventually leave it at home. A holster wedge pillow solves more than just printing—it softens the entire interface between holster and body.

Cloudster Pillow wedges use breathable, moisture-wicking bamboo fabric and premium foam to stay cool and comfortable, even in hot weather. When your setup feels lighter and less intrusive, daily carry becomes second nature.

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The Cloudster Pillow Difference

Cloudster Pillow is a family-owned, USA-based company dedicated to making concealed carry more comfortable and more realistic for everyday people.

We specialize in the holster wedge pillow because we believe comfort is just as important as concealment. Our wedges are designed to:

• Fix grip tipping and printing
• Eliminate painful hotspots
• Adapt to real body types
• Work with appendix and strong-side carry

If you’re unsure which size is right for your Glock 43X setup, our team is always happy to help. You can contact Cloudster Pillow for personalized recommendations.

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Final Thoughts on Glock 43X Concealment

The Glock 43X is one of the best concealed carry pistols available—but its short barrel and longer grip mean it needs a little help to disappear completely.

If your current setup prints, don’t assume your holster is junk. In most cases, the issue is angle, not equipment quality. By adding a holster wedge pillow to the best IWB holster for Glock 43X, you correct the rotation that causes printing and dramatically improve comfort.

Dial in your setup, adjust placement, and enjoy the confidence that comes from a truly concealed, all-day-comfortable carry.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Glock 43X print more than the Glock 43?

Yes. The longer grip of the 43X creates more opportunity for printing. That’s why combining the best IWB holster for Glock 43X with a wedge is so effective.

Can I use a wedge at the 4 o’clock position?

Absolutely. Wedges help angle the grip inward for strong-side carry and prevent the handle from flaring out when bending forward.

Will a foam wedge damage my holster?

No. Wedges attach with hook-and-loop fastener and can be removed cleanly with rubbing alcohol if needed.

How does a wedge eliminate hotspots?

It spreads pressure over a larger surface area, preventing sharp edges of Kydex from digging into bone or skin.

Why is bamboo fabric better?

Bamboo is naturally moisture-wicking and antimicrobial, keeping the holster area cooler and reducing irritation during daily wear.