Complete Buyer’s Guide [2022]: The Best Appendix Carry Holsters

| Last Updated:
July 28, 2023

With the rising trend towards concealed carry permits, fresh gun owners have “discovered” and embraced the new concealed carry practice called appendix carry. Because the typical placement is often close to the location of the appendix - hence the name - appendix carry.

In this review, we have suggested several good and fairly mainstream AIWB models on the market.

To find the right appendix holster and make sure it’s the right fit for you and for your activities, check out our top picks and find one that fits your preferences and experience.

Best Appendix Carry Holsters Comparison Chart

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Ambidextrous Reversible Appendix Carry Holster
  • Available for Multiple Handguns and Frame Sizes
  • Offers Good Value for Money at an Affordable Price
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  • Protective IWB Holster With Double Clips
  • Super Strong Kydex and Comfortable Design
  • Integrated Magazine Pouch for Extra Ammo
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  • Adjustable Retention and Comfortable Base for Easy Carry
  • Waterproof Neoprene Backing Layer to Resist Sweat
  • Made in U.S.A. Trial Period and Lifetime Warranty
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  • Covered Magazine Release Button to Prevent Accidental Release of Magazine
  • Reliefs on Slide Release for Quick Draw and Reholster
  • Fits All Generations of Glock 19, 23 and 32
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  • Specially Designed for Beretta 92 and 96
  • Adjustable and Made from Leather for Durability
  • Can Be Carried at Multiple Positions
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  • Modular Adjustable Belt Clips for Steady Mounting
  • Kydex Doesn't Collapse for Faster and Easy Reholstering
  • Unlimited Lifetime Warranty for Customer Satisfaction
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  • IWB Holster Made from Kydex for Durability
  • Easily Adjustable Cant and Retention
  • Made in USA and Unconditional Lifetime Warranty
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What is Appendix Carry?

The appendix carry is a viable and very effective way for armed citizens to carry a firearm.

Appendix carry, also referred to as “center-line carry”, positions a handgun in front of the hip bones, at the twelve to two o’clock position on the body, placing it roughly over the appendix area.

This concealed carry is also known as the AIWB holster, (an acronym for appendix-inside-the-waistband). This type of carry has some distinct advantages over the traditional IWB carry.

Man Wearing AIWB (source)

The AIWB placement is slightly off-center of the belly button near centerline, allowing for more convenient insertion into the waistband and an easier draw from concealment.

Due to the trending popularity of appendix carry, a number of holster manufacturers have rebranded their standard behind-the-hip holster designs as appendix carry by simply adding an "A" to the description.

Most behind-the-hip holsters actually should not double as AIWB holsters due to the fact that they are designed be used behind the body and the soft tissue of the front of the body requires a different ergonomic design, available in a true AIWB holster.

What Makes a Great Appendix Carry Holster?

The newly developed designs and innovations of purpose-built appendix holsters are endless.

As the first major concern of any conceal carry is safety, the AIWB holster also must have a completely covered trigger guard and good passive retention. Besides that, you should look for a few other important features in a good appendix holster like an adjustable cant, tuck, and wedge.

A cant feature refers to the gun’s tilt to the left or right while remaining flush against the body. If the appendix holster has a vertical or neutral cant, it will be more comfortable and the gun will be easier to index due to natural body mechanics.

To enhance concealment, a good, purpose-built appendix holster should have some sort of built-in tuck and wedge placed beneath the waistband or somewhere near the muzzle-end of the holster.

Others can use wings, claws, or offset loops, but the only function they have is to angle the grip horizontally into the belly.

Is Appendix Carrying Ideal for Carrying Concealed?

Experienced AIWB carriers find they can reach the gun much faster than from traditional IWB holster.

Appendix carry facilitates speed and ease of access while offering an increase in concealability. Carrying your sidearm in an AIWB position against soft abdominal tissue might also feel more comfortable. Concealment is much easier and more discreet, as the natural drape of even a t-shirt easily covers the gun.

Although carrying a large service handgun is a lot easier at the appendix position than carrying a full-size pistol with an IWB holster around four o'clock position, the best-suited guns to appendix concealed carry are compact and subcompact handguns.

Also, striker-fired pistols are generally preferred over hammer-fired pistols, which are a little less suited to AIWB.

The smaller frame, hammerless revolvers or six-guns with shrouded hammers will also be a bit more comfortable in this carry position.

Striker Fire Pistol in AIWB CCW (Source)

Carrying appendix-style weapons make discovery a bit more challenging since people typically check the sides, small of the back, chest, and ankles. The appendix region is usually avoided and very little attention is paid to this location.

As for comfort, carrying an AIWB holster is quite comfortable when standing up and walking around.

While everyone’s comfort level is different, the most glaring of the drawbacks of CCW appendix carry is the comfort issue when seated behind a desk or steering wheel.

In addition, bending straight down can be uncomfortable depending on the size of weapon you are carrying.

In the following chapters, we will try to help consumers understand what features they should look for in a purpose-built AIWB holster and what drawbacks they should be aware of.

Review of the Best Appendix Carry Holsters

Now that we've covered a little bit of background in regards to appendix carry holsters, let's switch gears and take a look at some of our favorite models. We're going to breakdown each holster's main features, pros, and cons so you have all the details to make a well-informed purchase. Let's get started!

Best Appendix Carry Holster:
BLACKHAWK! Ambidextrous Appendix Reversible Carry Inside-the-Pants Holster

No products found.

Pros

  • Made in the U.S.A.
  • Ambidextrous carry
  • Suitable for red dot optics
  • Flexibility is the strongest selling point
  • Soft and durable molded polymer material
  • Passive retention detent with adjustable screw
  • Includes two cant and ride height adjustment belt clips for 1.5” or 1.75” belts

Cons

  • Fit only for some models
  • Not comfortable in seated positions
  • Belt attachment screw loosens slightly over a period of time

What Recent Buyers Report

A lot of new buyers were quite happy with this holster for a few good reasons. For one, it allows for excellent concealability of most pistols. And there was no bulging to speak of when users were carrying pistols of different sizes. One user even said this holster was a lot more comfortable to wear compared to his previous IWB holster.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This holster is perfect for not just right-handed shooters, but also left-handed shooters, as well. Not only that, it’s reversible, so you can carry this both IWB or OWB, whichever is best for you. Since it’s made from high-quality polymer, you can expect this to be really durable and impossible to cause any snagging. After all, this isn’t soft material. It’s tough enough to take on the bumps and bruises, as well. 

The Blackhawk A.R.C. (Appendix Reversible Carry) holster is an inside-the-waistband rig specifically designed for appendix carry and is particularly suitable for the one o'clock position.

The first Blackhawk AIWB holster was constructed from soft, yet durable, injection-molded polymer material. This material provided comfort similar to leather and a sturdy construction that would not buckle beneath the weight of the body and belt pressing together. As a result, re-holstering the firearm could easily be accomplished one-handed.

Currently, the A.R.C is only made for some Glock and Smith & Wesson models and is touted as a good option for concealed carry.

The BlackHawk Appendix Reversible Carry holster is adaptable to both left and right-handed users, and comes with two cant and ride adjustment belt clips for 1.5” and 1.75” belts.

The holster body has an oversized sight channel capable of adjusting to iron sights of nearly any size and features a passive retention detent with an adjustment screw, making the A.R.C far superior to its competitors.

This inexpensive AIWB holster may be uncomfortable when seated, especially with longer barreled guns.

Who Will Use This Most?

This will be an excellent concealed carry holster for those who are looking for something with maximum concealability. At the same time, it’s a holster that will be much more fitting for left-handed shooters since they are able to use this rather than struggle with another right-handed holster. If you want something that will accept most pistols and provide a comfortable fit, this might be the holster you’ll want at your side. 

Bottom Line

The Blackhawk Ambidextrous Appendix Reversible Carry Inside The Pants Holster might just be the go-to option for many concealed carry users. If appendix carry is your intention and you need a holster that will make maximum concealability more of a reality, this could be the one you’ll end up using for the long term. It’s rugged, lightweight, and won’t fall apart on you like some cheap and flimsy holster.

The versatile Blackhawk Appendix Reversible Carry IWB holster is a popular, reasonably priced holster.

This polymer-made A.R.C holster provides gun carriers with flexibility at several different levels, and offers unexpected comfort that results in a substantially faster draw than other, more common concealment positions.

Best Appendix Carry Holster Runner-up:
 Advanced Performance ELROD, Appendix-Inside-the-Waistband Rig

No products found.

Pros

  • Tuckable design
  • Made of strong Kydex
  • Hand orientation: Right
  • Has every day carry ability
  • Integrated magazine pouch
  • Backed by lifetime warranty
  • Comfortable in every position

Cons

  • A bit pricey
  • Not designed to fit guns with red dot optics

What Recent Buyers Report

New buyers said this holster was quite impressive. One user even said it was an EDC user’s dream. Not only was this perfect for concealed carry users, but it was the perfect holster for carrying an extra magazine, as well. They were also quick to point out that this was probably one of the most durable holsters they have owned to this point. Plus, it stayed in place while attached to belts or waistbands. No sliding, no problem according to one other user.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This holster is made from Kydex. This kind of material is gaining steam in popularity and it’s clearly obvious as to why that is. It’s super-tough, doesn’t wear or tear, and it doesn’t cause any snagging when you quickly draw it out. It’s even more comfortable for users who wear IWB holsters. The reason being is because it is unable to irritate the skin. So if you want reliable concealed carry while wearing one of the most comfortable holsters out there for appendix carry, why settle for anything less? 

An appendix carry holster should be a simple accessory, without complicated design features. The appendix carry holster rig from Advanced Performance Shooting is exactly that, slim and most importantly, simple.

The Protective Services ELROD holster is made of sturdy, thick Kydex, and comes with a pair of tuckable hooks that are large enough to manipulate easily, allowing you to use with your shirt tucked in or untucked.

The ELROD Holster Rig incorporates a built-in magazine pocket, center ventilation for comfort, and features five height adjustment levels.

This two-clip AIWB holster keeps the handgun grip at 90 degrees and is high enough to quickly and easily obtain a solid purchase while unholstering.

The Advanced Performance Shooting ELROD Holster offers several adjustable positions to achieve a comfortable fit, making it suitable for everyday carry.

The only real qualm with this holster is the inability to accommodate pistols with red dot optics.

Who Will Use This Most?

If you want a holster that rises above the rest of the pack when it comes to durability, this might be the one you’re going to end up using for the long term. If you have never owned a Kydex holster, you have no idea what you are missing out on. This might be the last holster you ever buy, at least for a while (assuming you plan on carrying just one pistol). Simply put, this might just be top dog among the appendix carry holsters on the market right now. So if you want something that will dominate the competition within a year’s time, this holster is the one to look out for. 

Bottom Line

The Advanced Performance ELROD Appendix-Inside-The-Waistband Rig is reliable, spacious, and will carry almost any pistol you can think of securely. Even better, it’s one of the most durable holsters you’ll ever come across because of the material. You will enjoy using this holster to your advantage when you carry your pistol every single day. And it makes preparing for dangerous situations even easier. Why settle for a holster that will snag or cause trouble in a life and death situation?

This appendix-style holster is just as comfortable sitting as it is when standing. Also, the ELROD  is a durable, safe holster with a very nice trigger cover.

Superior retention keeps guns in position regardless of conditions and provides good concealment even in casual type clothes.

Second Runner-up Appendix Carry Holster
Alien Gear Holsters ShapeShift Appendix Carry Holster

No products found.

Pros

  • Adjustable retention
  • Hand orientation: Right
  • Trigger guard fully covers the trigger
  • 30-day trial period and lifetime warranty
  • Reinforced base with stainless spring-steel Core
  • Made of improved CoolVent Waterproof Neoprene

Cons

  • Very bulky
  • NOT adjustable

What Recent Buyers Report

The new users of this holster were members of law enforcement and civilians looking for the perfect holster that not only provided excellent appendix carry but also provided security for their pistols so they won’t slip out easily. They came across this holster and were impressed with the overall construction and secure locking mechanism that worked well with most service pistols. This was also able to attach to belts and waistbands with ease without falling apart or failing. One user said it was an excellent EDC holster that allowed him peace of mind knowing that if anyone dared to try and steal his pistol from him, they would pay the price. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

The Alien Gear holsters are known for being pretty hardcore in quality. But they don’t stop there. They also provide the best security for most pistols, which means you won’t have to worry about any wiggle room or the pistol slipping out, in general. That’s because it has a locking mechanism that can be disengaged by you and you alone when the time comes to use your pistol. It’s a lock that won’t fail you in the times that you need to use your pistol most. It will also deter those who are stupid enough to attempt to steal your pistol (and will deter children from trying to access the pistol). If safety is paramount for a concealed carry holster, make no mistake about this holster. It’s durable but will make security a priority when it comes to keeping your pistol close by. 

The Alien Gear ShapeShift Appendix Carry Holster represents a new standard in appendix carry systems. The Alien Gear appendix IWB holster uses a comfortable base made of a new CoolVent neoprene layer, which ventilates the skin while wearing the holster.

Unlike counterparts made of materials that sag and lose shape over time, the ShapeShift Appendix Holster Base contains a stainless spring-steel core that anchors the holster to the wearer and maintains constant shape after relentless usage.

Although it is designed for centerline carry, the manufacturer states that you can wear the ShapeShift at any position inside the waistband.

The Alien Gear Appendix Holster has a trigger guard which fully covers the trigger and the locks the firearm into place with a fully adjustable retention. A tool for retention adjustment also acts as a part of the holster. However, besides retention, this holster does not include any other adjustable features.

Like many other holster makers, the ShapeShift Appendix Carry Holster comes with a forever warranty and a 30-Day test drive period.

This holster is thicker than other Kydex holsters and the larger plastic clips also increase its bulk.

Who Will Use This Most?

This will be a great appendix carry holster for law enforcement and EDC carry users. This will not only provide the best in security for your pistol, but you get a pretty good amount of concealability out of the whole shebang. It’s a holster that is a force to be reckoned with and a reliable sidekick to have on hand wherever you go. If you love your pistol, you’ll need a holster that will keep it safe when you are not using it.

Bottom Line

The Alien Gear Shapeshift Appendix Carry Holster is no joke, especially if you are looking for a holster that is tough, easy to use, and will be suitable for high-stress situations. Appendix carry has never been easier than with this holster. And you’d best believe it will give some of the other tactical holsters a run for their money. 

The Alien Gear Appendix Holster is custom-molded for a particular make and model of pistol. It also features a modular design, meaning you can purchase a ShapeShift Appendix Carry Expansion Pack, an affordable option for daily carry and unmatched comfort with an additional retention.

Best Appendix Carry Holster Third Runner-up:
Fast Draw USA - Compatible with GLOCK 19/23/32 IWB Kydex Holster

No products found.

Pros

  • Full sweat guard
  • Multiple carry positions
  • Carries a lifetime warranty
  • Comes with 1.5-inch nylon belt clip
  • Adjustable positive click retention
  • Covered trigger and magazine release button
  • Features 0-15 degrees adjustable carry angle
  • Made of .08" (2mm) Kydex, thermoplastic material

Cons

  • Rounded clip does not grip belt aggressively and is less secure
  • Holster may dig into the hip/stomach in larger body types

What Recent Buyers Report

This was a hit with most of the new users who were GLOCK owners. They were able to draw their pistols quicker than with some of the other IWB and OWB holsters they have used in the past. One user said this holster was a perfect fit for his GLOCK 19 that he has relied on for years as his primary concealed carry pistol. The clip was sturdy and showed no signs of any flimsiness and did not fall apart easily. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

If you are looking for a holster that’s as reliable as a Glock pistol, you’re in luck. This is made from Kydex. And of course, that means it’s pretty sturdy. The excellent sturdiness will always equal the best in reliability. If the holster isn’t sturdy at all, how are you going to rely on it as something that will hold onto your pistol? The design itself is quite simple and allows for easy and quick drawing. When you need to access your pistol in a time when you need it most, you need a holster that will won't snag and has plenty of concealability so you won’t attract any undue attention. 

Sunsmirh Holster has released recently their Fast Draw USA Inside Waistband (IWB) Concealed Carry series holsters molded to specific gun models to ensure a proper fit for any firearm.

Undoubtedly, Kydex holsters are the best for carrying safely, as this rigid thermoplastic is waterproof, scratch-resistant, has low friction resistance, and is practically maintenance-free. 

The Fast Draw holster is built from is .08" (2mm) Kydex that is thick enough to maintain rigid structural integrity and adds only 3 oz. in weight. Due to the minimal overall size, the holster is barely noticeable, making it the perfect low-profile choice.

Fast Draw IWB holster comes with a 1.5” polymer belt clip, allowing it to be used in multiple carry positions, including the classic inside waistband position, small of back carry, or the trending appendix carry position.

Unlike traditional leather holsters, Kydex does not need to be broken in. It features a full sweat guard, which protects the weapon from moisture and sweat. The "Full Sweat-Shield" also helps guide the weapon for single-hand reholstering.

The trigger area on each Fast Draw series holster is fully covered for your safety. As another plus, it boasts coverage of the magazine release button, which most counterparts do not have.

The retention pressure is easily adjustable and when your gun is inserted, it gives an audible click, assuring you that your weapon is properly holstered.

Besides the Posi-Click Audible Retention Lock system, the holster's carry angle (or cant) is easily adjustable from 0-15 degrees to your preference, as well. This allows you to carry your firearm in a wide variety of positions, specific to your preference, body type, and/or tactical requirements.

Who Would Use This Most? 

If you want the perfect appendix carry holster that will work for most Glock pistols, then you certainly want to get this one for yourself. This will prove beyond a doubt that it can hang with the big boys when it comes to durability and reliability. And yes, it can provide no-bulge concealability for all your Glock pistols. If you own a pistol that is trusted by many military and law enforcement personnel around the world (and even concealed carry owners like yourself), it deserves a holster worthy to keep such a pistol at your side.

Bottom Line

The Fast Draw USA IWB Kydex Holster is the best kind of holster for your Glock pistol. It’s super-durable and won’t steer you wrong in an every day carry situation. This could be the only Glock-compatible holster you can depend on for maximum concealability and getting the best out of appendix carrying. So if you want bulge-free carrying at a price that is affordable for most budgets, you’d be insane to pass up the opportunity to give this holster a closer look. 

This well-made, sturdy American product is very reasonably priced. Fast Draw U.S.A. holsters are built tough for everyday use, available in two finishes, and have left or right draw options.

Best Leather Appendix Carry Holster:
BLACKHAWK! Leather Inside-The-Pants Holster

No products found.

Pros

  • Angle-adjustable belt loop
  • Made of quality italian leather
  • Conforms well to gun and body
  • Reholstering is easy, even one-handed
  • Shirt shield protects clothing, keeps holster opening unobstructed
  • Allows for appendix, cross-draw, middle-of-the-back, or strong-side carry

Cons

  • Thicker than Kydex IWBs
  • The tension screw doesn’t work as it should

What Recent Buyers Report

New users were mostly Beretta 92 and 96 owners that were in search of a holster that was compatible with their pistols and allowed for superior comfort, among other benefits. This was the holster that won out. Not only did it fit Beretta pistols like a glove, it certainly gave appendix carry users a lot more to rave about. One user said the leather material was easy on his skin and didn’t even cause a single bit of irritation.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This holster is sturdy and provides excellent stability for appendix carry (and other carrying positions that are most comfortable for other users). It’s made of genuine leather, so it will certainly hold up its end of the bargain as far as durability goes. So it will hold strong to your pistol without any wiggle room or allowing it to slip out accidentally. It’s really comfortable for appendix carry, as well, which is a godsend for those who are getting tired of dealing with discomfort from their soon-to-be old holsters. Attach this to your belt or waistband and you will be ready for any dangers that might lie ahead if they are close by. Survival comes down to being prepared and being able to defend yourself if need be. And this appendix carry holster will definitely be your best friend for as long as you carry your Beretta 92 or 96 pistol. 

Unlike plastic Kydex, leather has charm and power of appeal. It is  branded as leather inside-the-pants. This holster offers a typical inconspicuous Blackhawk design, making it the perfect choice for a backup weapon or deep concealment.

While this IWB rig features a strap with snap to secure to the belt and can accommodate a variety of belt widths, it is angle-adjustable to accommodate your preferred carry positions including three 3 o’clock, behind the hip, middle-of-the-back, or appendix carry, while still deeply concealed.

Besides the adjustable cant, the Velcro-secured belt loop, and a screw to reinforce upper body stability, it boasts a shirt shield that protects clothing while keeping the holster opening unobstructed.

Additionally, it has an adjustable tension-screw to set the level of retention but some users stated that the screw did not function well.

Utilizing quality stitching, the Blackhawk Leather Inside-The-Pants Holster is constructed from relatively thin Italian leather that remains rigid, though it may require a breaking-in period.

Although less bulky than most leather inside-the-pants holsters, it does not conceal larger handguns since the belt loop protrudes away from the body, resulting in extremely high holster rides.

Who Will Use This Most?

A holster that is built to last and easy on the skin, this will be the holster for those who want superior stability and comfort. No other holster will deliver on the promise quite like this one if you own a Beretta 92 or 96. It fits those pistols as snugly as a glove and will be useful for EDC carry or simply carrying it around while you are at the range. If you want a holster that will last you years or maybe even decades, this might be one of those you can consider purchasing if you think it’s the best fit for your pistol.

Bottom Line

The Blackhawk Leather Inside-The-Pants Holster is the perfect appendix carry holster for most of your Beretta pistols or anything similar in size. It’s tough, comfortable, and will definitely provide you with years of faithful service. Both newbies and seasoned concealed carry users alike will appreciate this holster in so many ways. But if durability is your number one “make or break” thing you look for in a holster, this could be what you need. 

Since the Blackhawk Leather Inside-the-Pants Holster is molded for specific pistol models, it creates the perfect compromise between retention, ease of draw, and reasonable concealment.

Best Appendix Carry IWB Holster:
Bravo Concealment IWB DOS Gun Holster

No products found.

Pros

  • Unlimited lifetime warranty
  • Modular adjustable belt clips
  • Made of quality .08-inch thick Kydex
  • Dedicated AIWB deep concealment holster
  • One of few IWB holsters offering retention
  • Does not collapse for one-hand reholstering
  • Drops out of sight and erases your weapon’s visual signature

Cons

  • Lack of cant adjustment
  • Not comfortable for people of larger sizes

What Recent Buyers Report

Most new users were looking for a holster that was tough, easy to adjust, and perfect for various concealed carry positions. This holster checked off all the boxes they were looking for. It was sturdy in quality and able to fit a good number of compact pistols in the process. It was also accepting of multiple calibers and delivered a good amount of comfort for those who appendix carry.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The design is simple and doesn’t have any complexities that would hinder its use. This means you can be able to quickly draw the pistol out of the holster if and when you need to. Are you worried that it will slip out or wiggle around? Nonsense. It won’t. Simply put, it’s a holster that is near-universal and will certainly be a good thing to have if you intend to conceal carry for as long as possible. Most importantly, it’s built like a tank, so you can expect this to go a long time without any wear or tear. 

Bravo Concealment has designed the IWB series of holsters specifically for appendix concealed carry. This model belongs to the Bravo first generation Drop Out of Sight (DOS) family holsters.

An IWB DOS Gun Holster is built of .08-inch (2mm) thick Kydex, which adds minimal mass to the weapon and does not collapse for efficient one-handed re-holstering.

The Bravo Concealment DOS holster is a dedicated appendix concealed carry holster specifically designed for that type of carry and is less comfortable in the 4 and 5 o'clock carry positions. If necessary, this holster can be adjusted to rise higher out of your waistband.

Unfortunately, it does not support angle adjustment. Though not necessary for the appendix carry, it would be useful for other positions. In fact, the Bravo DOS Holster conceals to its fullest potential when worn in appendix carry position.

The DOS IWB concealed carry holster comes with standard double IWB belt clip configuration, but for more flexibility, can be carried with a single belt clip.

Depending on your carry location, a single clip offers an easy belt line adjustment, as well as quick attachment and removal from your belt.

Whereas, Bravo DOS 1st Gen opened up the option for other carry positions, it is not comfortable for full-size pistols and larger-sized people.

Who Will Use This Most?

If you are a beginner who is looking for an appendix carry holster for training purposes (and also as a first holster for when training is said and done), this might be the best possible option for you. After all, it’s pretty durable and adjustable for all kinds of carrying positions. So you can find a position that is most comfortable for you. And it can be attached to belts and waistbands without any additional struggle. If you need a newbie-friendly holster without spending a lot of money, this might be it. 

Bottom Line

The Bravo Concealment might be one of those holsters that flies under the radar. But you can trust it for all your appendix carrying needs for your compact pistol. You may use this for many years or up until you find a holster that is much better for you. Either way, it’s the kind of holster that will give you reliable and faithful service no matter how long you end up using it. 

Whether you appendix carry or carry around your waistline, a DOS Kydex Honcealment holster is tough and durable without the added hassles of buttons, thumb breaks, or thumb releases. Also, the manufacturer provides an unlimited lifetime warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Best Appendix Carry Kydex Holster:
 Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster

No products found.

Pros

  • Built of .08" Kydex
  • Lightweight at only 2.5 oz.
  • Unconditional lifetime warranty
  • Suitable for other carry positions
  • Integrated full-length sweat guard
  • Appendix carry purpose-built holster
  • The retention pressure is easily adjustable
  • Posi Click Audible Retention Lock System 
  • Easily adjustable carry angle (cant) 0-15 degrees

Cons

  • May be uncomfortable in sitting position
  • Cant of the holster has quality control issues

What Recent Buyers Report

Most of the new users found this holster to be super-sturdy in quality and provided bulge-free concealability. This was a perfect fit for most compact and even subcompact pistols, as well. The applications were not just regular concealed carry for the purpose of self-defense, but also it was a holster that most people have used for keeping their pistols safe while at the range. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This is a Kydex holster that will pretty much guarantee you durable and reliable concealed carry. On top of that, it’s easy to attach and won’t move around as much if you want to keep it in the appendix carry position. In other words, it won’t slide from the appendix position and wind up clear to your hip. It’s sturdy, reliable, and fits most compact and subcompact pistols without any issue. 

Florida-based Concealment Express Company entered the CCW arena with their minimalistic design Kydex holsters and simple, yet effective, IWB options.

Concealment Express utilizes thin Kydex that stands-out in appendix-inside-the-waistband (AIWB) carry holsters. Made of .08-inch (2mm) thick material, this holster is very light at only 2.6 ounces for the G19 (larger) one.

The Concealment Express Holster features adjustments on retention with Posi Click Audible Retention Lock System and an easily adjustable carry angle (or cant).

The cant angle can be adjusted between 0 and 15 degrees by loosening the two Philip screws on the 1.5" ABS belt clip. However, some owners say the adjustable slant is closer to 0-5 degrees.

Each holster has an integrated Full-Length Sweat-Shield that protects your weapon against moisture and sweat from your body. This shield remains inside your waistband and helps guide the weapon upon reholstering.

The trigger area on each holster is completely covered for your safety, though the magazine release is uncovered. This carrying rig has nicely molded smooth edges with a very deep channel to ensure higher sights don’t get snagged when drawing.

Whereas this small-scale holster is much easier to conceal, there is one small drawback. The top part of the holster that sits against the body is kind of sharp and may be uncomfortable, especially when sitting.

Who Will Use This Most?

This holster will be a great one for those who care about durability and concealability the most. It can deliver both and since it’s made from Kydex, you know what that means. Longevity is what it means. And we are talking years or even decades. Once again, this is a reminder that Kydex is a material that should never be underestimated. 

Bottom Line

If you want an IWB appendix carry holster that will keep your compact or subcompact pistol in place until you need to use it, the Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster will not disappoint. It’s tough, reliable, and will certainly give EDC users a holster they can depend on for years to come. This is one holster you should not write off for no reason. 

The Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holsters are specifically molded to each handgun model and are available for a wide variety of guns.

Featuring the perfect custom fit, they are purpose-built to be worn in appendix position inside-the-waistband with a belt and with an untucked shirt.

Concealment Express Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) Carry Holsters are great for beginners and don’t break the bank.

Conclusion

Wearing a single-attachment appendix-inside-waistband (AIWB) holster with a mid-size gun isn't for everybody, because everyone has a different body shape. You'll have to experiment and wear it around the house for a while to get used to it.

When looking for an appendix carry holster, look for a retailer who offers a trial period so you can return it if you find it isn't for you.

Nesa

He is a military historian enthusiast and hobbyist, war veteran and an avid hunter with more than 30 years of experience. He began reviewing firearms for publications in the mid -1990s and have been fortunate to make many friends in the industry. He has improved continuously his firearms skills and knowledge, which is a never ending journey.

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