IWB vs. OWB?

[LRB45]

What are the pros/cons of the different holsters for IWB vs. OWB?

Which do you like and why? Or do some people use one and switch to the other at other times?

Thanks

[RRVII]

I can't speak to OWB, because I have never carried that way. I do, however, carry daily IWB. My set up is a S&W M&P 9c in a Comp-tac Minotaur holster with c-clips at about 3:30 - 4:00. I have found this set-up very comfortable and concealable either tucked or untucked. My typical dress for work is a pair of dress slacks or cotton khakis with either a tucked dress shirt, polo, or untucked "camp" type shirt. I have been using this setup for several months and have never been "made" or had anyone question the c-clips on my belt. I will say, that if I had it to do over, I may have ordered the standard clips, because I don't think they would be much more noticeable than the c-clips. Comp-tac also makes v-clips, but you need to put a peice of velcro on the inside of your belt, so I haven't tried those.

The only con for me on this setup would be that a tucked shirt does make for slower and more cumbersome access to your firearm.

Randy V.

[jc75754]

+1 for the comp tac. I carry this with the regular clips and usually carry in jeans and t-shirt. Easily conceals my glock 19 at 4:00 or SOB. My wife does not even notice around the house.

[WillBrink]

What are the pros/cons of the different holsters for IWB vs. OWB?

Which do you like and why? Or do some people use one and switch to the other at other times?

Thanks

OWB for me. As far as I know, the only major pro for IWB over OWB is concealment. Others may have other pros I'm failing to consider for IWB vs OWB. I'd rather dress around the gun as needed, then have a gun stuck down my pants all day which I don't find comfortable or as accessible as a good OWB set up.

However, for some, OWB is simply not an option for them as it is for your self employed types like me, so IWB is a must for them. For me, IWB is last resort of ways to CCW if I can't figure out another option.

Currently, I'm using Garret Industries Silent Thunder belt slide holster, which is a great product in my view.

[romanowe]

As a rather slender individual, 5'9" 160, I could not find an OWB holster that would not require me to purchase a new wardrobe. IWB is much easier for me to conceal and holds the weapon much tighter to my body.

[markm]

I haven't carried IWB in so long, I can't remember what it's like.

[Magsz]

I haven't carried IWB in so long, I can't remember what it's like.

You also live in AZ where you can ride the main turret of a tank around town and no one bats an eyelash.

This really boils down to your own individual comfort level. 99% of people in the civilian populace arent looking for guns nor would they even be able to identify or associate a bulge on someones hip line UNDER a shirt with a gun.

Choose a method of carry that is discreet, comfortable and retains the weapon well during your daily functions.

[hk45ctp30]

I agree with Will Brink 100%. I only carry OWB, since I carried a pistol there with the govt. for 38 years. Plus, I have a large amount of jeans, slacks, etc. which fit me just fine. If I went IWB, I would have to replace all of my pants in order to allow me to carry IWB. As some posters said, I dress around having the pistol OWB, plus I carry an HK45CT which is pretty much a full size pistol. With the right shirts, though, I can carry it under the shirt while wearing shorts, pants, etc. Hope this helps clarify why I carry the way I do.

[WillBrink]

I agree with Will Brink 100%.

I'm going to forward that to the base CO, ergo, the GF...

[Stangman]

Put me down for IWB, with a MTAC holster as my carry of choice.