Best AIWB Holster Options for Appendix Carry: Reviewed

When it comes to choosing an appendix inside-the-waistband (AIWB) holster for concealed carry, there are several important factors to consider. Various materials are available, prices vary with quality and popularity, and there are mission/wardrobe factors to account for.  Should you get the cheapest? Kydex, leather, nylon, or a hybrid? Is there something else to be factored in?  What is the best AIWB holster, and what makes it the best?

Well, in this article, I’m going to show you what I believe are the best appendix holsters on the market and even help break down what you should be looking for when purchasing one. 

Read on.

What’s AIWB Carry?

For those who don’t know, appendix carry is when you wear your handgun inside the front of your waistband, typically around the 1 o’clock position for right-handed shooters or 11 o’clock for lefties. It keeps your firearm close and easily accessible, which is why many people prefer it for quick draws. While it does require attention to detail when reholstering, with proper technique, it can be just as safe as other carry positions.

How I Chose the Best AIWB Holster

As a shooter and gun reviewer, I’ve tested plenty of AIWB holsters to find the best ones. I considered my personal favorites and consulted industry experts for their top picks. After weighing factors like firearm type, attire, and personal preferences, I put together this list of the best AIWB holsters.

To make things easier, I sorted them into categories so there’s something for everyone. I also included a buyer’s guide to help you understand what to look for when shopping for an AIWB holster.

These recommendations come from my own experience and expert input, and I’m confident they’ll meet your concealed carry needs. While my rankings reflect my hands-on testing, the final decision is up to you.

Now, let’s dive into the list of top AIWB holsters.

Top AIWB Holster Rundown

1. Craft Clip IWB
2. Tier 1 Axis Elite
3. ShapeShift AIWB
4. Galco Scout 3.0
5. PHLster Floodlight
6. Dara Slick Side
7. We the People AIWB
8. Bianchi Professional

Best Appendix Carry Holsters

Our Top AIWB holster picks

1. Author’s choice Craft Holsters Clip AIWB Rig		Classy look Fitted to your gun’s specs Excellent carry comfort	Check Price
2. Tactical Choice Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite		Highly customizable Gun & mag carry combo Tactical choice	Check Price
3. Most comfortable Alien Gear ShapeShift Appendix Carry		Great passive retention Soft holster platform Very well balanced	Check price
4. Most adjustable Galco Scout 3.0		Adjustable draw angle Highly versatile Ambidextrous design	Check Price
5. PHLster Floodlight Most versatile		Incredibly versatile Light compatible (for multiple guns) Quasi universal	Check Price
6. Best Concealable RDS Dara Holsters Slick Side		Red dot friendly Very low profile Easy access to your gun	Check Price
7. Best WML+RDS Combo We The People IWB Red Dot Light Holster		RDS friendly WML friendly Custom colors and textures	Check Price
8. Best Basic Design Bianchi Professional IWB		Comfortable – huge sweat guard Ride allows immediate good grip Suede lined back	Check price

AIWB Holster Reviews

Anyone can say they market the best appendix holsters you’ll ever see. And there are a number of companies who actually offer really great options. However, if you’re like me, you don’t really want to buy a pig in a bag, right? That’s why I’ll take you through several different kydex and leather appendix holsters and share my personal experience with each.

I won’t tell you to buy this particular rig or that one, but hopefully, my likes and dislikes will inform and help you decide what your next go-for CCW appendix holster should be.

Craft Holsters Review

Let’s start with what’s recently become my favorite AIWB holster – Craft Holsters’ AIWB Clip Holster. To be honest, I’d never heard much about the brand. But when I spotted my friend using one of their shoulder rigs a couple of months ago, I realized I needed a comfortable holster that was not only functional for concealment and access but also stylish and had a traditional look.

That’s really what this leather appendix holster is all about.

I was pleasantly surprised when I opened the box. Craft Holsters’ presentation is just remarkable, especially for someone like me who appreciates old-school craftsmanship. The holster was neatly packed inside a bag, cushioned with straw-like material. It even included a leaflet detailing benefits for return customers, like a 10% discount on future orders. That’s a nice touch if, like me, you end up loving their holsters.

Initially, I was a bit concerned about the included guide on leather holster break-in; most of my holsters have never required any break-in work. However, my worries quickly faded when I found the holster fit my P365 like a glove from the get-go. Sure, I had to put in a bit of effort to latch the safety strap at first, but that’s to be expected with fresh leather. After some use, drawing and re-holstering has become effortless.

I really appreciate the clip-on design, allowing me to easily slip it on without removing my belt. While there’s just one attachment point, the clip is wide enough to provide excellent balance. Overall, if you’re into leather, impeccable craftsmanship, and concealed carry, this AIWB holster from Craft Holsters is a must-try.

Pros and Cons

Tier 1 Concealed Review

As much as I love my Craft Holster, my preferred appendix carry material will always be Kydex. Why? Well, I simply grew so fond of the satisfying clicking sound when holstering my pistols. And I’m quite convinced the Axis Elite, an AIWB kydex holster and mag pouch combo by Tier 1 Concealed, rightfully deserves one of the top spots on today’s list.

The Axis Elite is surprisingly slim for a 2-in-1 rig, making it a breeze to conceal without any noticeable imprint. I typically skip tank tops, so I really appreciate the plastic sweat guard featured on both the holster and the mag pouch. As with most Kydex holsters, the draw is smooth and quick, and reholstering feels intuitive.

My only reservation is the limited compatibility with handguns. While it’s designed for semi-autos, I wish it had options for some of the less mainstream carry guns. Thankfully, the most popular tactical EDC choices fit well, even with various handgun optics.

What I truly love about Tier 1 is the customization. You can select the holster color, belt clip style, wedge style, and shock cord color. Plus, the Axis Elite accommodates extended mags. Sure, if you add all the upgrades, the default MSRP of $135.99 climbs by nearly a hundred bucks, but for me, the personalization makes it worth it.

Tier 1 Concealed Holster Pros and Cons

Alien Gear Shapeshift Review

Talking about the best holsters for appendix carry, one can’t omit Alien Gear Holsters and their ShapeShift Appendix Carry Holster. The first thing I love about this holster is the belt clip that’s wide enough to deliver exceptional balance on the belt. Now this might not sound as a ground-breaking feature, but I can’t tell you how many inside-the-waistband holsters I’ve bought over the years ended up in my holster drawer just because they tended to wiggle a lot due to balance issues.

If you’re like me and hate the feel of plastic digging into your side, you’ll appreciate the comfort the perforated neoprene base provides. The breathable foam platform makes a world of difference in everyday carry. And that’s why I’ve ranked it as the most comfortable. Yes, it adds a little bulk and might print slightly, especially if you’ve got a bit of a belly, but I don’t mind because the lightweight design compensates for it.

Another bonus is that it’s part of Alien Gear’s ShapeShift Modular Holster System, meaning you can easily switch between carry styles. The “Alien Skin” material and adjustable passive retention make sure your gun stays secure, and at $62.88, it’s a great budget-friendly option.

Alien Gear Shapeshift: Pros and Cons

Galco Scout 3.0 Review

Despite the fact that Galco’s Scout 3.0 is the first steerhide leather holster in the so-called “rough-out” design I’ve carried, shortly after I’ve unboxed it, I noticed a number of features that made me include it on this list. First and foremost, the holster possesses something most other appendix holsters don’t – fully adjustable cant. This makes it more versatile than most appendix holsters, which are traditionally carried in the 1 or 11 o’clock belt position. At the same time, it sort of lets you adjust it for either strong-side or even cross-draw carry, making it one of the most versatile holsters on the market.

Another feature I appreciate is how easily it converts for right or left-hand use. I shoot with both hands, so this kind of versatility is something I love. Plus, it comes with two tuckable clips—the UniClip for over-the-belt carry and the Ultimate Stealth clip for direct attachment to your pants for maximum concealment.

I also like the “rough-out” construction. The rough exterior keeps it stable, while the sleek interior allows for a smooth draw. My only concern is the potential for reduced draw resistance over time, but the reinforced leather opening makes me confident it’ll hold up well in the long run.

Galco Scout 3.0 Pros and Cons

PHLster Floodlight Review

Unlike other holsters on the list, the Floodlight by PHLster is meant exclusively for appendix carry of pistols equipped with selected tac lights. At first, I was quite reserved about the holster’s semi-universal fit, but I quickly realized it goes hand in hand with a number of benefits. Most importantly, if your arsenal includes several service-grade semi-autos, it should fit most of them (but make sure to check out the holster’s fit list, available on PHLster’s website).

What makes this the most versatile holster for me is its ability to work with multiple guns, all while maintaining consistent retention. I didn’t have to keep buying a new holster for each of my handguns, which saves a lot of hassle. However, you do need to select the right tac light since the holster’s fit depends on that geometry. It works for only three light models, but I understand the limitations from a design perspective.

To be honest, when I first saw it online, I thought it looked a bit cheap. But once I had it in hand, my opinion changed. The construction is solid, with adjustable retention through the shock cord, allowing it to handle various pistol sizes. I also like that it works for strong-side IWB carry when appendix isn’t the best option, and the soft belt loops are a nice bonus.Another thing I like about the Floodlight is that I can use it for strong-side IWB carry, which is useful mainly when you’re in a situation when appendix carry is not the best choice (more on that later). And if you’re not a fan of clip attachments, I’ve got great news for you; the holster also comes with a set of evenly spread soft belt loops.

PHLSter Floodlight Pros and Cons

Dara Holsters Review

I’m not saying red dots are an absolute must, but as I’ve been lately testing some of the hottest optics-ready carry guns, I needed a solid red dot holster for appendix carry. That’s why I decided to try out Dara’s Slick Side AIWB Holster. Just like the rest of their rigs, this one also accommodates a red dot, RMR, or reflex sight attached to one of the models it can be made for. But what I actually like most about it is that the holster is true to its name and is indeed rather slick-looking.

But holsters aren’t about looks, so let’s talk function. This holster has a slim, narrow profile, making it one of the best for concealment, especially for RDS setups. The clip placement is moved to the side, which reduces bulk—a brilliant design choice. That placement also pulls the gun a bit closer to the body, improving access.

I also love that, despite the optics cut, the kydex shell fully covers the trigger guard and mag release without pressing on them. That’s a huge plus for safety and usability. While it didn’t work as well for strong-side carry, it’s perfectly balanced for appendix use. Overall, it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a concealable RDS holster.

Dara Slickside Pros and Cons

We The People Kydex AIWB Review

The final Kydex AIWB holster that made it onto my list was made by the good folk at We The People Holsters. While it doesn’t bear any particular name, it’s a holster meant for appendix, strong-side IWB carry. However, like with most rigs on the list, it works better when used as an appendix holster. I had mine made for the G34 equipped with a light and red dot, and I’m quite pleased with what the holster offers.

First and foremost, despite the fact it’s a light-bearing and optics-friendly holster, its design is very, very basic. Now, this isn’t a negative, really, as the simpler a holster looks, the simpler it usually is to conceal it, which is what WTP holsters are all about. What’s not basic about this appendix carry holster, though, is its functionality. This AIWB lets you adjust the retention level, ride height, cant, and even placement on the belt. Furthermore, the holster comes with a full sweat guard, protecting your skin from abrasion and your pistol from moisture.

While the holster can’t really be customized in any major way, you can opt for a custom color or, better said, texture. For example, you can go for the Gadsden Flag, which is great, but it’s just laserwork. It doesn’t really make my heart beat faster.

We the People IWB Holster Pros and Cons

Bianchi Professional Review

Now that I think about it, exploring appendix holsters made me fond of leather. Let’s wrap this up with another full-grain cowhide holster. This one is called Professional, and it’s made by Bianchi, a brand made in Mexico and is now marketed by Safariland. Though this leather AIWB holster looks like it could be made by my dad in his backyard shed, it stays true to its name. It has a really professional touch.

What makes this holster stand out is its basic but incredibly effective design. It rides at the perfect angle, allowing me to get a proper firing grip immediately, and the trigger guard is well-covered for safety. While the mag release is exposed—a common issue with leather holsters—it’s not something that bothers me too much.

The full-grain leather is backed with suede, which helps keep the holster secure without shifting around, even with abrupt movements. It also has the largest sweat guard I’ve seen on an appendix holster, making it surprisingly comfortable for extended wear. I love the weathered tan finish, which gives it a rugged, worn-in look.

It’s not made for every gun, but for those it fits, the Bianchi Professional delivers reliable, no-nonsense performance.

Bianchi Professional Pros and Cons

AIWB Buyers Guide

Holster Principles – Buyers Guide:

I hope my experience with the holsters above has helped you find your new rig for appendix carry. However, if you feel like you want to explore the world of concealed carry some more and perhaps check out some other brands that haven’t made it onto the list, be my guest. Just keep in mind that there’s a number of things to consider before you buy your new appendix holster (these also apply to most other carry styles, so if you’re not after AIWBs, I’d still read on).

Safety

Safety comes first. Yeah, it does sound like a cliche, but come on, why do you carry? I bet it’s primarily because you want to stay safe. So why not keep safety in mind when selecting your holster too?

I believe the safest holsters are those that are always molded on the replica of your firearm, in other words, those that provide a custom, glove-like fit. If your holster is made like that, its natural retention is quite high and your firearm will be at no risk of falling out of the holster and anyone who tries will have a hard time snatching it away from you.

Also, make sure that the holster you’re about to buy completely covers the trigger (I believe you don’t need me to talk about accidental discharge and health risks it might cause). I also recommend you to make sure your intended purchase comes custom molded for all the safeties on your pistol as well as for the mag release button (the last thing you want is a holster pressing on the clip release, trust me).

Construction & Draw Speed

Generally said, it takes much less time to draw your gun from an open-top holster. Opposite to these are so-called closed-top holsters, which come with a strap attached to the holster’s opening (the side of the holster where the butt of your pistol is). If there’s no strap (by many called a thumb break or latch), nothing gets in your way when accessing and drawing your pistol, and the same goes for eventual reholstering. Also, holsters with a slightly forward-leaning cant often referred to as FBI cant, ensure you’ll be quicker at drawing; your pistol sits in the holster at a much more favorable angle. Holsters canted like this are an excellent choice not only for Law Enforcement members but also for dynamic shooting competitions.

While thumb-break holsters are slower to draw from, the strap increases the safety of your firearm when holstered and they also prevent your pistol from being easily snatched away from you. I’d recommend these mainly for the type of carry that makes it impossible to keep an eye on your gun (such as small of the back or shoulder carry) or if you frequently engage in abrupt movements.

Concealment, Comfort, Access

Now you came to check out the best appendix holster choices hoping to learn which one to get, right? Well then, you surely know what appendix holsters are good for. Not only are they a perfect choice for super-deep concealment, but they also let you quickly access your firearm. However, there are situations when appendix carry isn’t the best choice. If you’re like me and have a set of well-nurtured muffin tops, the butt of your pistol will be sticking in your gut (a very unpleasant experience if you need to duck, bend over, etc.). I’d say appendix holsters are one of the least comfortable carry choices (even though some definitely deliver more comfort than most).

If you’re looking for more convenient carry options, get yourself an outside-the-waistband (OWB)holster. Carrying like this is super comfortable as the pistol and holster rarely get in your way. However, rigs carried outside the belt (belt side, cross-draw, middle of the back) are sometimes cumbersome as far as concealment goes. It’s not impossible to conceal an OWB holster, though. Plenty of pancake holsters with a low and slimline profile are available, al designed for high comfort that doesn’t compromise their concealability.

I find shoulder holsters to be the most comfortable choice. While these are difficult to conceal when it’s hot outside, they represent one of the best concealed carry choices come wintertime. If you get an entire shoulder holster system (shoulder holster & counterweight mag or speedloader pouch), it should also grant you superb balance and quick access to both your gun and extra ammo.

Holster Materials & Retention

Based on the list, you might have guessed that I most commonly wear kydex holsters (sometimes pejoratively referred to as plastic, even by me, sorry!), but I’ve recently grown quite fond of leather too. Then there are nylon holsters, or so-called soft holsters. Honestly, I’ve never been a fan, but they do have their perks. And let’s not forget hybrid holsters—perfect for those who can’t decide on just one material or want a mix of everything.

If you’re looking for maximum retention, kydex is your best bet. Most kydex AIWB holsters on my list allow you to adjust the retention, and some even come with gadgets to pass Level III retention tests. That adjustability means you can use the same holster for multiple similarly-sized handguns, saving you from buying a separate rig for each carry pistol. Plus, kydex is ideal if you have tactical attachments like red dots or lights. However, they don’t make much sense for revolvers. And one big no-no: don’t leave your kydex holster on the dashboard in extreme heat!

Leather holsters are perfect for those who love traditional craftsmanship and a classic look. A properly molded leather holster (like my AIWB from Craft Holsters) fits like a glove, providing high natural retention. The downside? Leather holsters aren’t ideal for law enforcement agencies requiring Level III holsters. But, if well-maintained, a good leather holster can last a lifetime. Just remember, many will need a break-in period, which can be tedious but worth it in the long run to achieve the perfect fit.

As for nylon and hybrid holsters, I’m not a huge fan. Nylon holsters are affordable and comfortable, while hybrid holsters combine the pros (and cons) of multiple materials. They have their place, but they’re not for me.

Conclusion

If you wanna carry appendix-style, then make sure you select your new holster from the options above as these simply are the best you can currently get. I’ve already shared my new personal favorite with you, but any of the holsters on the list will bring you a great and, most importantly, safe concealed carry experience. And if you were brave enough to read through the buyer’s guide section, you now know what you should base your shopping decision on. And if you got here by accident and you’ve never tried appendix carry, don’t frown upon it and give it a chance. After all, concealed carry is all about practice and even the weirdest looking or previously untried carry style can result in an ultimate holster experience.

Suggested Reading

• Learn about 9mm carry ammo options.

Best AIWB Holster – FAQs

What’s the best material for an appendix carry holster?

The best material depends on personal preference. Kydex is durable, rigid, and provides good retention, while leather offers comfort and a traditional aesthetic but may require a break-in period. Hybrid holsters combine both materials, offering the comfort of leather with the retention of Kydex.

Can I use an appendix holster with a red dot sight?

Yes, many appendix holsters, such as the Dara Slick Side or Tier 1 Axis Elite, are compatible with red dot sights (RDS) and weapon-mounted lights (WML). Be sure to select a holster that specifically accommodates your red dot or light setup.

How do I practice drawing from the appendix carry position?

Practice drawing from the appendix carry position using a safe, unloaded firearm or a training tool. Start slowly to ensure you’re familiar with the motion, focusing on maintaining control and accuracy throughout the draw. Regular practice will help build muscle memory.

How can I avoid printing with an AIWB holster?

To reduce printing (visible outline of the gun through clothing), choose a low-profile holster and wear looser-fitting clothes. Look for holsters with adjustable cant or ride height to position the gun in a way that minimizes printing. Adding a foam wedge or using a holster with a built-in claw can also help tuck the grip closer to the body.