IWB means inside the waistband: the holster goes between your body and your pants, and only the clip touches the belt. OWB is outside the waistband, on the belt, over the pants. AIWB is appendix inside the waistband, an IWB holster worn in front of the hip instead of behind it. Those three letters cover almost every holster sold, and choosing between them is the first decision in concealed carry. This guide explains each, when to use it, and which we make.
IWB: inside the waistband
The concealed carry default. The pants cover most of the holster and the shirt covers the grip, so IWB hides a gun under an untucked t-shirt. The cost is a little pants room; buy an inch bigger in the waist. Worn at 3 to 5 o'clock, strong side, with 15 degrees of forward cant. Every Clip & Carry IWB holster, like the Glock 19 and the P365, is this type. Every Clip & Carry IWB holster is molded in .08-inch kydex to one gun with no excess material, so it seats with an audible click, has a full-length sweat shield and folded edges, a belt clip that cants 20 degrees either way, adjustable retention screws whose spacing accepts a claw, and comes right- or left-handed. Handmade in the U.S.A. by a military veteran, lifetime guarantee, $44.99.
AIWB: appendix inside the waistband
The same holster worn at 12:30 to 1:30, in front of the hip. Faster draw, easier to protect the gun, and better concealment with a claw, since the grip tucks into the body's natural hollow. Harder when seated for some body types. Set the clip near neutral cant and add a claw; our IWB holsters accept one on the retention screws.
OWB: outside the waistband
The holster rides on the belt over the pants, which is more comfortable, faster, and easier to reholster, and harder to conceal; it needs a jacket or an overshirt. OWB is the range, competition, open-carry-where-legal and winter-coat holster. The paddle holsters we carry, like the Bodyguard 2.0 paddle, slide over the belt without unthreading it.
Quick comparison
| IWB | AIWB | OWB | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Position | 3 to 5 o'clock | 12:30 to 1:30 | 3 to 4 o'clock |
| Concealment | Good, untucked shirt | Best, with claw | Needs a cover garment |
| Comfort seated | Good | Depends on body | Best |
| Draw speed | Good | Fastest | Fast |
| Best for | Everyday carry | Everyday carry, fast access | Range, open carry, winter |
Frequently asked questions
What does IWB stand for?
Inside the waistband. The holster sits between your body and your pants.
What does AIWB mean?
Appendix inside the waistband: an IWB holster worn in front of the hip.
Is IWB or OWB better for concealed carry?
IWB. OWB needs a jacket to hide.
Can the same holster be used IWB and AIWB?
Yes. Adjust the cant to neutral and add a claw for appendix.
Do I need a bigger pants size for IWB?
About an inch in the waist.
The bottom line
IWB for everyday concealment, AIWB if you want the fastest draw and your body allows it, OWB when a cover garment is guaranteed. Start with a molded IWB holster for your gun.
Related reading
Best appendix carry holsters
What makes a good concealed carry holster
What is a level 2 holster?
