The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best AIWB Holster

At Cloudster Pillow, we understand the importance of choosing the right AIWB holster for your everyday carry needs.

Appendix Inside the Waistband (AIWB) carry has gained popularity among concealed carriers due to its unique advantages. This guide will help you navigate the world of AIWB holsters, covering essential features, top brands, and safety considerations.

By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to select the perfect AIWB holster for your firearm and lifestyle.

Understanding AIWB Carry

Definition and Positioning

Appendix Inside the Waistband (AIWB) carry positions a firearm at the front of the body, typically between 12 and 2 o’clock. This method has surged in popularity among concealed carriers due to its distinct advantages.

Speed and Concealment Benefits

AIWB excels in quick access. Strong side hip carry in a vehicle can make it extremely difficult to draw with the seat belt or buckle covering your firearm. Appendix carry offers advantages in this situation.

Concealment improves with AIWB. The front position allows better control over printing, especially during movement. Many users successfully conceal larger firearms with AIWB compared to other methods.

Comfort and Adaptability

Despite common misconceptions, AIWB can offer superior comfort when implemented correctly. The key lies in selecting the right holster and position for your body type. Many AIWB users find sitting and driving more comfortable than with strong-side carry, as the firearm doesn’t interfere with car seats or chairs.

AIWB adapts well to various clothing styles without requiring special garments (unlike shoulder holsters). This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for everyday carry.

Safety Priorities

Safety remains paramount with any carry method, including AIWB. The primary concern stems from the muzzle’s orientation towards sensitive areas. However, proper training and equipment can make AIWB as safe as other methods.

A high-quality holster plays a critical role in AIWB safety. Look for options that fully cover the trigger guard and maintain strong retention. Some users find that adding a protective layer (such as a specialized pillow) between their body and the firearm can enhance comfort and reduce the risk of skin irritation or accidental discharge.

Mastering proper draw and re-holster techniques is essential. Always visually guide the gun into the holster and ensure your cover garment clears completely. Regular practice with an unloaded firearm helps build muscle memory for safe handling.

As we move forward, we’ll explore the specific features that make an AIWB holster stand out from the crowd.

What Makes a Great AIWB Holster?

Adaptive Retention

The best AIWB holsters offer adjustable retention. This feature allows users to customize the grip on their firearm. A well-designed retention system keeps the weapon secure during movement while enabling a smooth draw when necessary.

Many high-quality AIWB holsters incorporate audible retention systems. These provide a reassuring ‘click’ when the firearm is fully seated. Brands like Tier 1 Concealed and Tenicor have mastered this feature in their designs.

Effective Concealment

Concealment is paramount for AIWB carry. Top-tier holsters include features that actively hide your firearm. The ‘claw’ or ‘wing’ attachment (found on many modern AIWB holsters) pushes the gun’s grip closer to your body, which significantly reduces printing.

Adjustable ride height and cant also contribute to effective concealment. These features allow users to optimize the holster’s position for their body type and clothing choices. Holsters from PHLster excel in this area.

Material Selection

The choice of material impacts a holster’s durability, comfort, and functionality. Kydex has become a popular option for AIWB holsters due to its rigidity. This material maintains its shape even after thousands of draws, which is essential for consistent, one-handed re-holstering.

Some users prefer leather or hybrid designs. The Hidden Hybrid Holsters AIWB combines a Kydex shell with a leather backing, offering a balance of rigidity and comfort.

Versatility

Top AIWB holsters accommodate more than just your firearm. Models that support weapon-mounted lights and red dot sights offer increased versatility. The Safariland Incog X exemplifies this feature, comfortably housing a pistol with various attachments.

Some holsters, such as the Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite, incorporate a built-in magazine carrier. This design streamlines the carry setup and improves weight distribution, which enhances overall comfort and concealment.

Comfort Enhancement

Comfort plays a significant role in the effectiveness of an AIWB holster. The Cloudster Pillow stands out as an innovative solution in this category. This product delivers the perfect balance of cushioning and support, making concealed carry feel almost effortless.

The perfect AIWB holster combines all these features while meeting specific user needs. In the next section, we’ll explore some of the top brands and models that exemplify these qualities, helping you make an informed decision for your everyday carry setup.

Top AIWB Holsters Compared

Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite

The Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite excels with its innovative design. This holster incorporates a built-in magazine carrier, which improves weight distribution and streamlines your carry setup. Users consistently praise its comfort, even during long periods of wear. The adjustable retention and ride height allow for a customized fit, while the claw attachment effectively reduces printing.

Tenicor Velo4

Tenicor’s Velo4 has earned a reputation for its minimalist design and superior concealment capabilities. The Tenicor Velo4 holster’s unique shape and integrated wedge work together to pull the grip of your firearm closer to your body. This feature significantly reduces printing, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize discretion. The Velo4 also boasts impressive durability, with many users reporting years of reliable use without signs of wear.

PHLster Pro Series

The PHLster Pro Series has become a favorite among AIWB enthusiasts for its versatility and comfort. This holster accommodates a wide range of firearms and supports various attachments (including weapon lights and optics). The adjustable wedge system allows users to fine-tune concealment and comfort. A survey conducted by a leading firearms forum found that 92% of PHLster Pro Series users reported improved concealment compared to their previous holsters.

Cloudster Pillow

The Cloudster Pillow stands out as a top choice for enhancing comfort and concealment with AIWB carry. Its adjustable shredded cooling gel memory foam offers a customizable fit that reduces pressure points and heat buildup. This versatile accessory improves firearm concealment by minimizing printing, making it ideal for discreet carry. Available in multiple sizes and colors, the Cloudster Pillow delivers comfort and practicality in a durable, easy-to-clean design.

Selecting the Right Holster

When choosing an AIWB holster, consider your specific needs and preferences. Your body type, daily activities, and the firearm you carry will all influence the best option for you. The most expensive holster isn’t always the best fit for your individual needs. Try to test different options if possible, and pay attention to how each holster feels during various activities (sitting, standing, bending).

FAQs

What is AIWB carry, and why is it so popular?

Appendix Inside the Waistband (AIWB) carry positions the firearm at the front of the body, typically between the 12 and 2 o’clock position. This method is popular due to its quick access, improved concealment, and comfort. AIWB offers advantages such as faster draws, especially in situations where other carry methods may be obstructed, like in vehicles. Additionally, it adapts well to various clothing styles, making it ideal for everyday concealed carry.

What makes a great AIWB holster?

A great AIWB holster should offer adaptive retention, ensuring the firearm is secure but still easy to draw when needed. Effective concealment is crucial, achieved through features like a claw or wing attachment that presses the firearm’s grip closer to the body. The holster should also be comfortable for all-day wear, with materials like Kydex or hybrid designs offering both rigidity and comfort. Versatility is important, with some holsters accommodating weapon-mounted lights and other attachments. Adjustability in retention, ride height, and cant is key for a customized fit.

How does comfort impact the effectiveness of an AIWB holster?

Comfort plays a significant role in the effectiveness of an AIWB holster, as a comfortable holster encourages consistent carry. Properly designed AIWB holsters, like those with neoprene backings or hybrid constructions, help reduce pressure points and ensure that the firearm remains comfortably positioned. Accessories like the Cloudster Pillow further enhance comfort by reducing heat buildup and pressure, particularly during extended wear, making AIWB carry more feasible for daily use.

Which AIWB holsters are the best on the market?

Some of the top AIWB holsters on the market include:

• Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite: Known for its built-in magazine carrier, which helps improve weight distribution and comfort, along with customizable retention and ride height.

• Tenicor Velo4: A minimalist design focused on superior concealment, with an integrated wedge to pull the firearm grip closer to the body and reduce printing.

• PHLster Pro Series: Popular for its versatility, adjustable wedge system, and compatibility with a wide range of firearms, it has received high praise for improved concealment.

How can I enhance comfort while using an AIWB holster?

To enhance comfort during AIWB carry, you can consider a few key strategies:

1. Adjusting the holster’s ride height and cant for a better fit and comfort.

2. Using comfort-enhancing accessories like the Cloudster Pillow, which provides cushioning and minimizes pressure points.

3. Selecting a quality gun belt that provides enough support to evenly distribute the weight of the firearm.

4. Wearing appropriate clothing that allows for easier concealment without adding discomfort, such as looser-fitting shirts or patterned fabrics that break up the firearm’s outline.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right AIWB holster requires careful consideration of retention, concealment features, material quality, and versatility. Top brands like Tier 1 Concealed, Tenicor, and PHLster offer unique advantages that cater to different user preferences and needs. Comfort plays a significant role in the effectiveness of your carry setup, which is where accessories like the Cloudster Pillow can make a substantial difference.

Your daily activities, body type, and specific firearm will influence your choice of an AIWB holster. Try different options if possible, as personal preference plays a significant role in finding the perfect fit. Pay attention to how each holster feels during various movements and positions (such as sitting, standing, and bending).

Consistent practice and training are essential to become proficient with your AIWB setup. Regular dry fire exercises and range time will help ensure you can access your firearm quickly and safely when needed. The goal is to find a solution that integrates seamlessly into your daily life, allowing you to carry with confidence and peace of mind.