Isn't The Waistband Carry Terribly Uncomfortable?

[Phriend]

I really like the waistband carry.... but isn't it uncomfortable??? I mean, having a gun inside my pants between my belt and I certainly doesn't sound very appealing!

Oh.... and wouldn't that require me to buy pants with a larger waist size?

[Jimmie]

A good holster will ease all your fears.

And you might need to get a size larger. I always wore mine loose, so I don't have to.

[Ford]

It all comes down to right gun, right holster. A size bigger pants isnt required but I do find that it can help a little. Also many will say a good gun belt. I have never bought a "gun belt" but I did buy the thickest firmest one I could find at a local department store since I have never seen one in any of the gunshops here.

[brett30030]

A size bigger pants isnt required....unless you want to be comfortable:neener:

[The Lone Haranguer]

There is always a feeling of pressure, but a good holster and belt will minimize the poking and prodding from the edges and corners of the gun. I got used to it.

If your pants stay up firmly about your waist without a belt, they will be too tight when you add a holster and gun. You may want to add an inch to the waist size, or purchase pants with an elastic waistband. I also always wear an undershirt to keep the gun's butt and exposed frame parts away from my bare skin. If your handgun has a protruding safety or decocking lever, you may want a holster with a body shield to keep said lever from rubbing on you.

[Ford]

lol..... I guess I have alwayse pretty much wore my pants a size bigger than I need becasue I dont like them tight so another size bigger for me is If I undo my belt they hit the floor :what:

[enfield]

Carrying a gun inside the waistband isn't bad at all. Hedgehogs are otherwise.

[jwxspoon]

Some holsters are terribly uncomfortable. I spent $$ on a kramer IWB holster and found it to be unbelievable uncomfortable - even gave me a bruise after wearing it for one day.

On the other hand, there is a holster made by crossbreed holsters called the 'supertuck' that is simply amazing, I can even forget I am carrying until I lean against something.

jw

[Technosavant]

Carrying a gun inside the waistband isn't bad at all. Hedgehogs are otherwise.

You know, I REALLY don't want to know how you figured out the latter.

But yeah, it's all in the holster, belt, and pants size. If you wear tight pants, you'll need ones a size larger, you need a REAL gunbelt (you can't buy these at retail unless you have a specialty leatherworks nearby), and you need a high quality holster. DO NOT skimp on the belt or holster.

I can haul my 1911 around IWB all day long in my Milt Sparks VM2 without a problem. Sure, it feels nice to take it off when I get home, but if I ever lost some weight, that would be fixed.

[JesseL]

I've found that wearing a tucked in undershirt, keeps my gun from getting too uncomfortable with IWB carry. A whole day of rubbing from sharply checkered grips can really start wearing your hide.

[45crittergitter]

#1: SD handguns are supposed to be comforting, not comfortable.

#2: They work for me, more so with a flat auto than a round revolver.

#3: I'm much happier with 1" or so larger waisted pants when carrying IWB.

#4: Careful placement and orientation (not on the hip bone, etc.) helps a lot also.

[NG VI]

agreed with 45critter, put it right behind the hipbone at the four o'clock or four thiorty position and see how that feels, it works very well. and a forward cant makes a lot of difference for me too.

[The Bushmaster]

You must be easy to bruise...I carry a compact 9mm X 19 at 4:00 in a #3 Kramer IWB holster and after the initial "gettin' use to it" I sometimes have to remind myself that I'm armed. It's a good thing that my carry gun has some weight to it or I would forget...If it's any help. I'm 5' 7" and 145 lbs.

[spwenger]

I carried in an IWB holster for many years ago. About a dozen years ago I decided to carry a J-frame revolver on each side, Even though I had had limited experience with occasional left-hand carry in an IWB holster, when I added the left-hand holster to my daily carry I experienced pain under it. I examined the area carefully and confimred that the new holster was not pressing against any bony prominence and was not over any major nerve. :rolleyes: I did the grin-and-bear-it routine for three days and the pain went away. I comfortably carry two J-frame revolvers in IWB holsters on a daily basis. If I didn't, I'd be buying pants with a 32" wasit instead of a 34" waist.

[NAK]

IWB carry works great for me.

I'm one of those guys that just does not have an ass. Add to that a couple of extra pounds around the middle, and I have trouble keeping my pants up without suspenders.

Once I found the right holster, I found that both my S&W Sigma and my Beretta P4X were both comfortable. With the gun on my strong side, riding right above the hip bone, it helps keep my pants from sliding down.

[Mad Magyar]

Isn't The Waistband Carry Terribly Uncomfortable?
YES!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oh.... and wouldn't that require me to buy pants with a larger waist size?
YES!
I never could see the value or advantages of IWB...My opinion, please.
I've seen some of the worst holsters in that variety, especially the ones with the cheap metal clips that want to unholster in the most inopportune times.:rolleyes: It's enough to carry the weight of your firearm, but to have it so close-up against your body isn't for me. Like it has been mentioned, if you go that route, acquire a good-secure holster...:)
SD handguns are supposed to be comforting, not comfortable.


No, but it should be bearable....I need to talk to Clint Smith about......

[Nikdfish]

On the other hand, there is a holster made by crossbreed holsters called the 'supertuck' that is simply amazing, I can even forget I am carrying until I lean against something.


+1 (& I'm using it with a P95 ... )

Nick

[Gunz]

Here is MY devalued-2-cents of the American dollar:

IWB is something for people who prefer to do it to conceal the gun barrel length, while covering the handle and such with a short-waisted jacket, vest, or other outer garment.

OWB with a pelvis-curved pancake style holster is my final resting spot on comfort and carry.

The new Galco Concealable, and newer versions of the Fletch Glaco copy some custom makers' design of the flat, curved side to the body, and the contoured, molded shape of the gun on the outside. I love this style for pure support, balamce, comfort. The FBI forward cant really balances the gun weight, and my bending and stooping motions.

I have a bin full of IWB holsters, and I have not gone back to them. Same with the shoulder rigs, Small of Back, Cross Draw, thigh rigs, paddles, clips-ons, roto-tilt, etc.

By the way, I use the new contour Fletch to carry a Bobtail 1911 everyday, comfortably. I have even done the same with a more bulky gun, such as the HK USP45.

The only guns which barely worked IWB for me, are the slim slides like the 1911, Kahr, and similar thickness guns. The thin but stiff materials like bullhide and Kydex worked best for me.

[Haywood]

Us fat guys have to move them around till we finde a good spot. Mine is about 2 O' clock.

[Myrdhyn]

Quote:
On the other hand, there is a holster made by crossbreed holsters called the 'supertuck' that is simply amazing, I can even forget I am carrying until I lean against something.

+1 (& I'm using it with a P95 ... )

Nick


+2 with a P85

[A man with a gun!]

Years ago I had the same question about IWB. comfort. An old salt suggested that I try placing my wallet inside my waistband at the 3:30 position and go that way for awhile. Simple test, it convinced me.

Winter weather (With jackets and such) I still carry OWB but once the warm weather arrives it's IWB. baby.

[Mainsail]

I wear OWB almost all the time now. I rank comfort much higher than concealment.

[grimjaw]

The larger the gun, the worse it is. Also, some types are worse than others.

Glock 19 is just about the limit for me on IWB carry. Kahr PM9 in the right holster is very friendly unless I'm laying down on it.

jm

[Avenger]

I've never really had a problem, other than the one time I sat down in the van without pulling my Crossbreed a little forward to accommodate the seatbelt buckle. It pushed the magazine tightly up into the mag well, and pinched me pretty good. It left a 3/4in long blood blister on my side, and got me a weird look from my GF when I started cursing. I wear a tucked-in undershirt now, even when I'm just wearing casual Ts. But I've always bought jeans and shirts an extra size large, I just don't like tight fitting clothing.

[Pilot]

I think IWB is uncomfortable and I'm a thin guy, and I wear relatively loose fitting pants. I prefer OWB in a belt holster with a sweater or untucked shirt hiding the pistol. I just don't like the gun digging into me no matter what holster I use.

[Juna]

I routinely carry IWB, and I had the same fears as you. I still wear the same size pants, and I've found the spot that is most comfortable to carry. Any kind of carry feels weird at first, but then it feels like an extension of your body. I don't mind carrying at all now. I use a High Noon holster and love it.

Remember, the key is finding where you carry most comfortably. IWB gives you 360 degrees of options. Some like appendix carry. Some like right or left hip. Some like carrying in the small of the back so that the body's natural curvature conceals the gun more. All of these have advantages and disadvantages. SOB carry is uncomfortable when you sit down and lean back against a seat. Appendix carry can have the same problems if the barrel is long. Hip carry looks more asymmetric and may be slightly harder to conceal.

Find a holster you like. Buy it. Then start carrying, and you'll quickly figure out what works and doesn't work for you.

[P97]

What works great for me: I carry a Ruger P90DC in a Milt Sparks IWB holster at 2:00. I also carry a extra magazine, flashlight and Knife on the other side. I wear pants loose enough to be comfortable around the waist and wear suspenders under a untucked shirt. It is very comfortable and most the time I'm not aware that I am carrying. Getting in and out of a vehicle is about the only time I notice them. :)

[CPshooter]

I would never carry anything IWB that is thicker than a Kahr P-series. The 9s are .90" wide (including the frame width) and even the .45s are only 1" at the widest point. Not to mention they are very very lightweight guns. This makes them perfect for IWB carry if you ask me...anything thicker and heavier just doesn't fly with me.

As for the belt. No, you don't need a "gun" belt. Any decent quality casual belt that has some rigidity to it (somewhat stiff) will do just fine. But that's assuming you are carrying something light and thin like a Kahr. I don't know what it's like to carry a 2 pound 1911 in my waistband or what kind of belt it would take to support the weight of the gun and holster.

I do agree, though, that a IWB holster that was made for your particular gun IS essential for comfort. That's always priority #1 after you choose your pistol..and upgrade to night sights of course:)

[Alan Fud]

Bellybands allow you to conceal firearms more effectively.

[BigMike66]

I've always bought my close to fit; who would anticipate needing an extra 1-2 inches on the waistband. But when I considered CCW of a 4" 1911, I found that it was in no-way possible to carry IWB comfortably.

I'm going to have to consider OWB, or buy a new wardrobe. Kinda obvious which would be cheaper.

So, for me, the search continues for the best method of CCW.

Mike

[Green Lantern]

A good holster will ease all your fears.

And you might need to get a size larger. I always wore mine loose, so I don't have to.

+1! And let me add that I'm a fairly "big boy:"

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y193/KyleFayar/geekposter1-1.jpg

But I can carry my Glock 19 in my waistband day in and day out with no discomfort whatsoever. You may notice it there on my right side? ;) BTW, when carrying 'for real' I usually do more in the 3 or 4 o clock range depending on wardrobe.

No upgraded wardrobe either, though I always liked my pants loose. With the lightweight Glock, I can get away with an off-the-rack belt as well.

However, I'm trying to get in the habit of carrying a spare mag in a Fobus paddle carrier. Maybe it's the +2 factory extension on the spare, but THAT is driving me nuts...

FWIW, my holster is an RM Holster works "Low Rider" model. You may need to try some different types till you find one that works, I got lucky with that one - the first I tried so far works GREAT! Can't really say "the best" as I don't have much to compare it to, but I can't ask for any more improvement...

[Green Lantern]

I've always bought my close to fit; who would anticipate needing an extra 1-2 inches on the waistband. But when I considered CCW of a 4" 1911, I found that it was in no-way possible to carry IWB comfortably.

I'm going to have to consider OWB, or buy a new wardrobe. Kinda obvious which would be cheaper.

So, for me, the search continues for the best method of CCW.

Mike

To answer your first question - maybe us guys that like to eat? :o :p

Now, I have and sometimes still do carry OWB - does your current wardrobe provide for adequate COVER GARMENTS for carrying thus?

I have a vest, a long coat, and one or two shirts I MIGHT wear if I really had to and was feeling lucky, but other than that...?

And the first two look a lil' bit out of place on a HOT summers day here. ;)

[Eyesac]

I love IWB. I think w/ a good holster they're very comfortable. Carrying anything heavy on your belt is going to bring a little discomfort, but it all depends on what you're working w/. If you're going to lug around a fullsize 1911, maybe not, a G27 IWB, no problem for me. I'd say try out IWB and OWB and see what you like.

[jad0110]

As for the belt. No, you don't need a "gun" belt. Any decent quality casual belt that has some rigidity to it (somewhat stiff) will do just fine. But that's assuming you are carrying something light and thin like a Kahr. I don't know what it's like to carry a 2 pound 1911 in my waistband or what kind of belt it would take to support the weight of the gun and holster.

Right you are. When I carry my 17.6 oz 642 (loaded) IWB, a decent leather belt does just fine. That same leather belt has difficulty supporting and distributing the weight of a 2 1/2 lb 686 OWB.

I have a bullhide belt from The Beltman that will be used to carry the heavier guns. I tried it out just this morning with a 5" 1911, carried in a Brommeland MaxConV. Hardly noticed the weight at all. I'll have to experiment around the house a bit, but I can see this setup being reasonably comfortable, if a bit of a PIA to strap on each day.

[51Cards]

A lot of this stuff depends on how you're built. :D

It also depends on which gun is going on what holster.

Personally, I have discovered the "joys" of the XD9SC in a Don Hume IWB. It's only about $32, and snugs right in behind my hip. Your "hippage" and "snuggage" may differ wildly. :D

Personally, I find the XDSC a little top-heavy, and it's a nuisance to hang it on a belt. OWB, it pretty much requires a thumb break --- it's kinda small to stay put without help.

A Walther PPK/S works nicely with a De Santis IWB --- but the same "model" IWB is not-so-hot for the XD.

All of this is the reason most folks with guns have a lot more holsters than guns. :D

I have some used leather, if you're interested ...

[toopercentmlk]

I'd have trouble feeling completely comfortable concealing with an OWB holster just covered by a shirt or jacket. Wouldn't you be very limited with your movement in fear of printing?

[Mainsail]

Well, you had the option in your profile of telling where you live, but you didn’t. The whole ‘printing’ nonsense is of little relevance in most states. You are, if you have a permit, legally carrying, so you don’t need to make your handgun 100% undetectable, just concealed.

[3rdpig]

I had a bad time finding the right IWB holster for comfort. What I wound up with was a Crossbreed Supertuck (the leather backing goes a long way towards comfort), a good stiff leather gun belt and Perry Suspenders. I wear a t shirt under the holster, put the suspenders on over the t shirt, adjust the belt one notch under "tight", adjust the suspenders so the gun/holster/belt/pants kind of "floats", then put on my top shirt and tuck if necessary. Even with a good sized gun like a Glock 29, it's all day, and I mean till bedtime, comfortable.

[meef]

Speaking for myself, when I wear a size or so larger pants to accommodate an IWB rig (and I've tried some good ones), they're big enough on me I look like some kind of freaking banger wannabee, or just some dork with really baggy pants. Looks like I have absolutely no butt.

Not appealing.... :o

I'll take OWB and whatever necessary to make it work anytime.

[Zach S]

I prefer IWB, and being as skinny as I am, it works a lot better than OWB.

Besides, I have a 29 inch waist. 29x32 jeans are nearly impossible to find, on a good day 30x32 is much easier. So when I started CCing, I already had the right size pants.

The only time IWB got on my nerves was in a long trip in my fairmont, which had 89 mustang seats. It got really uncomfortable after about an hour or so of the side bolster trying to push the pistol into my kidney.

[Stevie-Ray]

Tight jeans suck. But I have 2 pair of Levi camos that are greatly comfortable for IWB carry.

[Bo]

My wife tells me, at my age, comfort is more important than fashion. Being oversize, IWB is uncomfortable for me, always has been. Whether I'm carrying a J-frame or a full size 1911, I use a OWB. I always wear my t-shirt out or wear a sweat jacket or something similar. I have no problem covering. I have several Don Hume products. He makes good inexpensive, (not cheap) holsters. I have about 3 of the Jit Slide holsters, the ones with the tension screws. Very comfortable.

[Eagle1899]

A good holster, a real gun belt and common sense can make IWB very comfortable.

[wnycollector]

The only gun that I can choose to carry IWB is my Mak. It fits well and is comfortable for long periods! All the others go on my belt or inside a pocket (gotta love those S&W airweights!)

[KenW.]

It might surprise someone who doesn't carry that way; but my 5" 1911 is more comfortable IWB than my 3" 1911. The Defender's muzzle jabs me on the backside of the hip (glutius maximus), whereas the muzzle of the full-size does not.

[Lonestar49]

...

With the right gun, and right belt, and right holster, it then just becomes a matter of a short time to "get used too" the new weight and feel.

Just like wearing a hat, when you first put it on, you know, and feel, it's there but, after awhile, you really don't "think about it" or notice it.

Many a time I have gone to take of my hat, and it's not there.. lol


Ls

[DerbyDale]

KenW wrote: It might surprise someone who doesn't carry that way; but my 5" 1911 is more comfortable IWB than my 3" 1911. The Defender's muzzle jabs me on the backside of the hip (glutius maximus), whereas the muzzle of the full-size does not.

I'm planning on getting my CCW this spring. I thought I was a little crazy for wanting to use my XD-9 5" Tactical as my primary carry weapon. The main reason is I don't have the "extra" money to go out and buy an XD-9 subcompact for a while (have to put the Family's needs first).

What IWB Holster are you using? I was really considering the Crossbreed Super-Tuck for my 5" XD. I'm tall and slim 6'2" and 200lbs and was hoping it would work. If not, I will have to trade the 5" Tactical in and get either the 4" service or the 3" subcompact. I don't really see how going down 1" to the service would make that much of a difference.

[KenW.]

For the fuill-size I use a Galco summer comfort. Less cost than a Milt Sparks of the same design. Does the same thing. The pistol rides pretty high and the gun doesn't dig into me a bit.

http://www.usgalco.com/HolsterT3.asp?ProductID=1173&CatalogID=7

For the Defender I use a G&G. It doesn't let the pistol ride quite high enough.

[DerbyDale]

Bummer... For the XD line they only support the 4" service models. :(

Its looking more and more like I may have to trade in my 5" XD for a smaller version. :banghead:

[KenW.]

For the XD line they only support the 4" service models.

The XD line is still quite new. Be patient and don't get rid of a gun because a holster is hard to find. The line of leather will catch up.

[Mad Magyar]

One important point in this discussion being overlooked. How quickly can you unholster from IWB compared to OWB SS, and also CrossDraw?
I know the answer, do you?:rolleyes:
If you say there is no difference, you never tried all three options...:)
I've left out shoulder-rig, b.o.b., ankle, etc. for now....

[Crow1108]

It must be a personal preference thing, because I carry IWB and I have no problems with it. I'm a fairly skinny guy (5'11, 170 lbs). I carry my P229 in a Galco summer comfort at about 4:00 and barely even notice it is there. I like that holster so much, that I ordered one for my 1911, for once the break-in period has passed.

[KenW.]

IWBs are obviously not a quick-draw setup. But they do offer more concealment than belt holsters.

The question of the OP was about comfort, not speed.

[DerbyDale]

KenW wrote: The XD line is still quite new. Be patient and don't get rid of a gun because a holster is hard to find. The line of leather will catch up.

I wont get rid of my XD tactical because of a holster (Crossbreed says: "Add some cant and it should be fine behind the hip.") I'm more worried if I can actually carry the larger 5" pistol or not. I will wait and see before I actually trade it for something smaller.

I was hoping that if you were successfully able to carry a 5" 1911, then I might be able to pull of the 5" XD. You don't hear many people carrying full frame pistols unless its in a shoulder holster during the winter and under a jacket.

[KenW.]

My agency specifically forbids shoulder holsters.

[351 WINCHESTER]

I think most will benefit from a good pair or suspenders too. Walmart sells the ones that hook onto your belt. No clips to slip or break.

[easyg]

What do you think of her carry method?

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n165/allenXdog/Glock2008/3.jpg


Photo borrowed from the net.


Easy.

[tegemu]

Not with a good holster and belt worn with correctly fitting britches.

[pbearperry]

I wear 38X27 jeans.IWB carry is not an option.lol

[Flopsy]

No.


Ahem, four characters.

[owlhoot]

Thankfully in my state nobody is going to get upset if your weapon prints now and then. I find that with the proper holster an owb conceals almost as well as an IWB. And I find the OWB to be far more comfortable. My favorite mode is OWB crossdraw at 9 o'clock. I sorta admire you folks who carry in areas where concealed means concealed. I'd probably wimp out and get a little bitty gun and pocket carry.

[DawgFvr]

Somebody once mentioned to me that, "all real men carried full size metal revolvers/pistols OWB." Well, I have both...and will agree with you owlhoot...they really are more comfortable. Still...one must dress around the weapon and holster so it doesn't hurt to have all options covered. Oh...if one really must carry IWB...you really do need a sweat/side guard or wear a T-shirt which protects not only you...but also the weapon.

[SSN Vet]

carried IWB for ~6 mos.,

got a "bruised kidney" feeling,

had to transfer piece to/from center counsole every time I got in/out of my truck.

"flipped" to a Don Hume Pancake and I aint lookin' back.

Maybe if I get a skinny little Kahr some day, I'll try it again with a good horse hide holster......

[TBT]

I carry IWB everyday. Glock 19 behind the right hip in a Blade Tech UCH. I never bought a "gun belt" either. For IWB I've never found the need. A good thick sturdy retail work belt will do the trick just fine.

Honestly, it's very comfortable. I know its there but it isn't bothersome at all.

[NWdude83]

3 Gs

Good holster, good location, good fitting pants.

[SDG]

I carry in the appendix position and I find it to be very comfortable. It took a little getting used to but now I hardly notice it.

Also, my Walther P99c conceals quite nicely there and my S&W 637 practically disappears. I use the same holster for both. It is a cheap nylon holster made for a 4" revolver but I am quite happy with it and don't plan on changing.

[NWdude83]

I carry where my back meets my side. So not on my side, but not completely on my back either.

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c83/NWguy83/New002.jpg

[papajohn]

I carry a Bersa UC (Ultra Compact) 45 in an IWB all day, every day, and like it just fine. OWB would probably be even more comfortable, but I can't wear high-ride holsters, openly or concealed. I'm too long-limbed and short-waisted, and I'd have my thumb in my armpit trying to get the gun out of the holster.

As for ease of drawing, I don't have any problems with the Alessi IWB, the Bersa magazine is hooked, and I can easily drag it out with one finger, then assume my grip and wipe off the safety as I bring the gun up on target. No one solution works for everyone, it pays to experiment!

PJ

[Lucky Strike]

I IWB carry an XD subcompact in a Crossbreed Supertuck....once I got it dialed in (4:30 with full cant) it became extremely comfortable.....standing up, sitting down, whatever, hell i played a game of HORSE with my little brother while wearing it and the gun stayed put.


I already bought my pants a little bigger then what my waist actually is so I didn't have to buy a new wardrobe.

Plus the Supertuck has a full leather backing so you don't have to worry about parts of the gun pinching you or your sweat getting on the gun.

[gullyfoyle45]

I use a desantis IWB for my SAXD 45 and love it. Not sure if they make them for the 5 inch models. Nice and comfortable in the 4:30 position - as with any leather holster it took a while to really break in.

I got one of their insider models for my 637 and brought it back, kept the grip below the belt too far to get and It wasn't molded to the gun at all so it felt sloppy to me. I am still on the lookout for a comfortabe iwb for that gun

[bikerdoc]

like many others i have a draw full of hosters, finally found cmfort with JBP #217. leather iwb or belt. I use iwb at about 4 o clock position and my 9mm CZ compact rides real comfortable. 5foot 7 inch 155 lbs, 32 waist

for my j frame again a JBP iwb

[fiddletown]

I'm 5'7" and 200+ pounds. I buy my pants a little large because I like it that way. And I have no trouble carrying IWB. When I carry, my usual set up is a steel Commander size 1911 in a Milt Sparks Versa Max 2 at about 3:30. I use a stout belt, and can comfortable carry all day.