Looking for a more comfortable AIWB holster

[1911-A1]

I decided to transition to AIWB after 15 years of 4 o'clock IWB began to give me lower back problems. I have tried Bladetech, Raven, ZCS, and similar kydex holsters, and have found that each one digs into my upper thigh when seated, and irritates my abdomen when moving.

I'm looking at Crossbreed holsters, since the IWB I have for my 228 is very comfortable, but I'm not crazy about how imprecisely the kydex fits the pistol.

What are my other options here?

[donlapalma]

I've been using the Custom Carry Concepts Shaggy for about a year now. I chose the leather snap loops, with backing for a Glock 19. Ride height is adjustable and never had the issues that bothered you. I have a medium build at 5'10" 190lbs (minimal beer gut, but certainly there). Note that this was my very first AIWB holster so I don't have much else to reference. I am happy with it though.

[TAZ]

For starters make sure you're using a dedicated holster rather than a standard IWB moved to the new position.

I've used CCC Shaggy with success as well as a JM Custom unit. Both have served well, but neither was universal. By that I mean that for my MP9 the shaggy worked the best. For my P30 the JM was the most comfy.

[1911-A1]

For starters make sure you're using a dedicated holster rather than a standard IWB moved to the new position.

I've used CCC Shaggy with success as well as a JM Custom unit. Both have served well, but neither was universal. By that I mean that for my MP9 the shaggy worked the best. For my P30 the JM was the most comfy.

Yes, I made sure to buy a dedicated AIWB rig. That's actually the problem with AIWB gear, I've found. Often times many of them don't seem to be much different than the standard IWB offerings. They're basically the same holster with the forward cant removed.

[donlapalma]

Yes, I made sure to buy a dedicated AIWB rig. That's actually the problem with AIWB gear, I've found. Often times many of them don't seem to be much different than the standard IWB offerings. They're basically the same holster with the forward cant removed.

So, just to clarify, is this for your 228? Also, can you pinpoint what specifically about the kydex design features that have made AIWB uncomfortable for you? For example, is the heat shield / backing on the holsters you have tried the reason for your abdomen irritation? Where exactly do you wear your holster when carrying AIWB?

[jwinch2]

Have you considered not going with kydex?

http://www.hbeleatherworks.com/

I bought from HBE several years ago and am more than satisfied with the product, as well as the process. He had several questions for me prior to starting on the project in terms of how I carried, etc. Depending on your answer to my question, it may be worth looking into. From the website:


My belief is my end product must last for years and function at its best. A holster is only as good as its materials are. I use the best materials, hardware, dyes and techniques I can find when making holsters. A few examples of this are: Herman Oak Cowhide, Angelus dye, Dot fasteners and CDL springs. I am always trying to improve the holster making process but wont compromise things that simply work as they should.

Ill briefly explain how my website and holster production work. I simply don't believe "one holster/model fits all" and my work is directed by that line of thinking. My goal is to produce a holster that will match your needs the first time. Not to sell you what you don't need or want.

First off, please take a minute and look around the site. Get familiar with the different styles, colors and such and see what suits you. Typically, people have an idea of what will work for them and a few may need a little information to finalize their decision. Others, who are new to CCW, may need more help and I will help you in your decision making process. There are a lot of choices when choosing the best holster for you and it can be frustrating at times. Simply email or call me when you need assistance.

First off determine what is the best carry method for you, your environment and your gun. OWB or IWB? Many factors will help you determine what is best for you. Then check out the styles of holsters that fit those requirements. What style of OWB or IWB appeals to you? Each holster is designed to offer its own benefits and may suit you and your carry needs. From this point a couple of different choices are offered to you. The cant/angle, the ride height, color and other details may be chosen in your quest for a better CCW holster. Again, if you need help, just yell!

Pricing is not on the website as most holsters are made just for you and the cost will vary slightly. Simply contact me for an approximate cost and we can go from there.

All H.B.E. products are guaranteed to be what you want or I will remake it for free!

I carry everyday without exception and realize that a holster that doesn't work can cost you your life. I take what I do seriously. I will not sell ANY product that I would not wear myself.

Thanks for taking the time to stop by and look around. I know you have A LOT of choices for your gun leather needs and if I can help you in any way, contact me anytime.

Peace, prosperity and prayers..... Eric Larsen

[RIDE]

For a gun the size of a 228, I'd highly recommend the Comp-Tac Minotaur MTAC Holster http://www.comp-tac.com/product_info.php?products_id=95

I went through a lot of holster prior to finding the Minotaur MTAC.

It is awesome, super comfy, very high quality.

[1911-A1]

So, just to clarify, is this for your 228? Also, can you pinpoint what specifically about the kydex design features that have made AIWB uncomfortable for you? For example, is the heat shield / backing on the holsters you have tried the reason for your abdomen irritation? Where exactly do you wear your holster when carrying AIWB?

Sorry, I'm carrying a chopped G17. The 228 holster was from a while ago, I just liked how comfortable it was.

I have tried carrying at 1 and 2 o'clock. I'm 6' and 200lbs, so a G17 shouldn't be an issue for me to conceal. I think the issues are ride height and the lack of a sweatguard/body shield on the holster.

[Up1911fan]

JM Custom, followed by a shaggy.

[4DAIVI PAI2K5]

Sorry, I'm carrying a chopped G17. The 228 holster was from a while ago, I just liked how comfortable it was.

I have tried carrying at 1 and 2 o'clock. I'm 6' and 200lbs, so a G17 shouldn't be an issue for me to conceal. I think the issues are ride height and the lack of a sweatguard/body shield on the holster.

My personal fav. is a med cut back, as with a high cut when you start doing drills with movement or position changes, a high cut will poke more. I prefer a single soft loop, with strut, so that when I sit I can cant the holster to stop any poking in my leg by the end of the holster. Plus it offers easy on/off.

Adjustable retention, ride height, belt loop size.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2904/14101501534_a6221c9f2a_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nu6T7N)_MG_5660 (https://flic.kr/p/nu6T7N) by 4DAIVIPAI2K5 (https://www.flickr.com/people//), on Flickr
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7385/14097840892_6ecc8fed30_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/ntM7Wh)_MG_5659 (https://flic.kr/p/ntM7Wh) by 4DAIVIPAI2K5 (https://www.flickr.com/people//), on Flickr

[Chameleox]

4DAIVI PAI2K5 makes good stuff.
I have one of Adam's AIWB holsters for my S&W Shield. Very comfortable and adjustable.

I also have a Dale Fricke Archangel for my G17. Not tuck able, but very comfortable. Also does OK as a behind the hip holster.

[titsonritz]

I am only 5'9 so a G17 digs into my thigh but a G19 works great for me in a Dale Fricke Archangel.

[calicojack]

i hate to say this, but a full sized 5" barrel is never going to be fun to aiwb. i can barely stand my g19 in that position and im 6'4.

ETA: as long as kydex has been around, NO ONE is putting out anything new an innovative. i'm not about to drop $95 on a heated piece of plastic, that was put in a press, rivited together and trimmed with a dremmel. especially not when i know they are paying so little for the materials.

etam: especially not when my edc search stopped when i picked up my comptac minotaur, which was only significantly more work (leather is a bitch to work with) to put together in such an exquisite manner.

[SkyLine1]

Darkstar Gear makes an outstanding AIWB. I have been using a G34 length for a G17 equipped with rmr02. Very comfortable even on 5+ hour drives.

JM Custom Kydex also makes a great AIWB holster as well.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N900A using Tapatalk

[bighawk]

Check out Veil Solutions.. http://www.veilsolutions.com/

I've beein carring my G19 AIWB in an Apex holster with a spare mag AIWB on the other side daily for about 5-6 weeks. Its a very compact and sturdy package with great retention. Customer service is top notch too!

[old grunt]

Just received my G-Code INCOG for my G19(works for my G26 as well)....really like it. I have always been an OWB 4 o'clock carry guy. Never enjoyed IWB with the exception of a rig I have for my SP101. Now I'm sold on AIWB because of this holster. I did remove the mag carrier...a little too much up front for my build, but holster works great
Maybe look into it

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk