How to Wear an Appendix Holster: A Complete Guide for Comfort and Safety

Appendix carry (AIWB) has become one of the most popular and effective concealed carry methods—offering fast access, enhanced concealment, and excellent firearm retention. However, successfully and safely carrying this way requires the right gear, correct positioning, and consistent training.

Many gun owners prefer the Appendix Holster for its accessibility.

This guide draws on expert best practices to walk you through everything you need to know—from holster selection and belt setup to body-type adjustments, draw techniques, and safety myths. Whether you’re new to AIWB or fine-tuning your setup, this comprehensive guide delivers clear, actionable insights.

What Is Appendix Carry?

Appendix carry places your firearm inside the waistband (IWB), generally between the 12 o’clock and 2 o’clock position (or 10–11 o’clock for left-handed shooters). It’s named for its proximity to the appendix and is praised for:

Using an Appendix Holster provides an extra layer of comfort and accessibility.

• ✅ Faster draw times (sub-1-second draws for trained users)
• ✅ Better concealment under fitted or minimal clothing
• ✅ Stronger firearm retention (harder for others to access)

Historically, appendix carry was widely used (think 20th-century detectives and early concealed carriers), but safety concerns caused it to fall out of favor—until respected trainers like Todd Louis Green helped reintroduce it with modern gear and techniques.

With modern designs, the Appendix Holster is now safer than ever.

Is Appendix Carry Safe? Debunking Common Myths

Myth 1: “You’ll Shoot Yourself in the Groin”

It’s a common fear—but it’s largely unfounded if done properly:

• A properly positioned holster doesn’t point directly at vital areas. In most setups, the muzzle angles slightly outward when standing or seated.
• Most negligent discharges (NDs) occur during reholstering, not while carrying.

Safety Tips:

• Use a quality holster with full trigger coverage (e.g., rigid Kydex).
• Lean back slightly and clear garments before reholstering.
• For extra caution, consider a striker-fired firearm with a manual safety, or a DA/SA hammer-fired pistol.

Myth 2: “Appendix Carry Is Less Safe Than Hip Carry”

Having the right Appendix Holster can improve your overall safety.

Both AIWB and strong-side hip carry involve some degree of muzzle coverage over the body. The difference lies in training and holster design:

• Hip carry can also sweep the femoral artery or thigh, especially if the holster lacks a muzzle wedge.
• AIWB is safe with the right equipment and disciplined handling.

✅ Verdict: Appendix carry is safe when following protocols:

• Never reholster with clothing in the trigger path.
• Practice your draw with dry-fire drills to build muscle memory.
• Always use a rigid, non-collapsing holster—Kydex is ideal.

How to Wear an Appendix Holster (Step-by-Step)

When selecting an Appendix Holster, consider your body type.

Step 1: Choose the Right Holster

Key Features:

• Material:
  • • Kydex: Best for retention and quick draw (e.g., Tier 1 Concealed, Vedder).
    • Hybrid (Kydex + Leather): Combines comfort and rigidity (e.g., Vedder A908).

  Investing in a good Appendix Holster can enhance your carrying experience.

  • Avoid nylon-only holsters, which lack proper trigger protection.
• Adjustability:
  • Cant (angle): A 10–15° forward tilt can improve draw and comfort.
  • Ride Height: Higher positions reduce printing; lower helps with seated comfort.
  • Claw/Wing Attachment: Presses the grip closer to your body for better concealment.

Top Picks:

• Tier 1 Concealed AXIS Elite – Modular, with shock cord flex
• Vedder LightTuck – Minimalist, adjustable
• PHLster Pro Series – Great for various body types and deep concealment

Step 2: Optimize Your Belt

A proper belt is just as important as the holster.

• Use a rigid gun belt (e.g., Kore Essentials, Blue Alpha Gear) to prevent sagging.
• Offset the belt buckle (e.g., to 11 o’clock) to reduce holster bulk.
• Consider ratchet-style belts for micro-adjustments while sitting or driving.

Step 3: Position the Holster Correctly

The proper positioning of your Appendix Holster is crucial for comfort.

• Standing: Place the holster between 12 and 2 o’clock, with the grip slightly above the belt line.
• Sitting:
  • Shift the holster slightly toward 1 o’clock.
  • Pull it upward before sitting to reduce pressure on your abdomen.

Step 4: Dress for Success

• Shirts: Loose, dark-colored, or patterned shirts help minimize printing.
• Pants: Stretchy or flex-waist jeans work best to accommodate the holster.

Advanced Tips for Comfort & Concealment

Driving with AIWB

• Pull the holster slightly upward before sitting.
• Some prefer seatbelt over the holster for quick access; others choose under the belt for added crash safety.

‍♂️ Bending Over

• • Push your hips back like a squat to avoid printing the firearm.

When bending over, adjust your Appendix Holster to avoid printing.

Bathroom Breaks

• At a urinal: Undo one clip and rotate the holster upward slightly.
• In a stall: Remove the holster entirely and secure it under your arm or inside your waistband when re-seated.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Poor holster placement (too high, low, or misangled)
• ❌ Using a flimsy or non-rigid belt
• ❌ Ignoring trigger guard safety
• ❌ Neglecting draw practice

Pros and Cons of Appendix Carry

Many find Appendix Holster carry helps with quick access in emergencies.

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
Fastest draw with natural motion	Can be uncomfortable when sitting
Excellent concealment (minimal printing)	Draw may be more obvious in confrontations
Strong retention (gun is in front)	May not work for some body types

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do you choose the best Appendix Holster for your needs?

Is appendix carry safe?

Yes—if done properly. Always:

• Use a rigid holster with full trigger protection
• Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire
• Reholster slowly and deliberately

Can you sit comfortably while appendix carrying?

Yes. Adjusting cant and ride height, or using a ratcheting belt, can dramatically improve comfort. Micro-adjustments while sitting help even more.

What guns work best for appendix carry?

Compact and subcompact pistols are ideal:

• • Glock 19
  • SIG P365
  • S&W Shield

Many compact firearms pair well with an Appendix Holster.

Their slimmer profiles help reduce printing and discomfort.

How do I prevent printing?

• Use a claw attachment
  
• Wear patterned or darker shirts
  
• Adjust cant and ride height for better concealment

Can I appendix carry a full-size pistol?

Using an Appendix Holster can also help with printing reduction.

Yes, but compact/subcompact guns are easier to conceal and more comfortable for seated carry.

How should I practice drawing safely?

• Use an unloaded gun
• Clear your shirt with your off-hand
• Rotate the muzzle safely downrange during the draw
• Practice dry-fire drills regularly

What if I have a bigger belly or “dad bod”?

Look for holsters designed for larger frames:

Consider an Appendix Holster for added versatility and comfort.

• PHLster Enigma
  
• Belly bands for deep concealment and comfort

Final Thoughts

Appendix carry is a high-performance method that rewards proper setup, gear, and discipline. By using an adjustable Appendix Holster, a rigid belt, and practicing regularly, you can enjoy fast access and solid concealment—without sacrificing safety.

Pro Tip: Start with short daily carry sessions to get comfortable. As always, prioritize safety over speed.

Got questions or tips of your own? Drop them in the comments below!