AIWB Holsters - Claws vs. Pads vs. Standard

[Navy87Guy]

I’ve come to the conclusion that, for a variety of reasons, appendix carry is still the best for me. My EDC gun is an M&P 9C. I currently carry it in a Side Guard leather holster, but it has a “quick clip” and it has come to close coming off for me to be co for table.

I'm looking at a couple of options (Comp-Tac, JM Custom, some others). I’m looking for feedback on the use/function of some of the AIWB “methods” for reducing printing. JM Custom includes a wedge to push the grip back. The Comp-Tac (and some others) use a “claw” that extends to perform the same function. And then there are “traditional” IWB’s with no special features. I’m not a big fan of the idea of increasing the size of a holster, but if it really works well then I’m willing to consider it.

if anyone has pros/cons of any of the various systems, that would be helpful. We all know that choosing a holster is a very personal decision, but hearing from owners of various models will be appreciated!

 

[JTQ]

I'm not an AIWB guy, but I pay attention to holsters and holster trends.

As far as the "claws" go, think of what a trailing loop does for a OWB concealment holster, it pulls the grip to the body. The claw does that for the AIWB holster. Some holsters may need this feature, and some may have a shape that doesn't require it.

The wedge pushes the back of the gun, rear sight area, back of the slide, and grip towards the body.

All of this is body/individual dependent. There really is no way of telling what will work for you. You can list your general shape, and gun, and somebody who is similar in build can give you their input on what works for them, but even then you may feel differently when you try it yourself.

From what I've seen on various forums, the guys at some of the big name AIWB holster makers like JM Custom Kydex, Custom Carry Concepts, Keepers Concealment, and DarkStarGear are pretty knowledgeable and helpful. Calling and asking or sending an e-mail may be worth your efforts.

 

[JTQ]

My EDC gun is an M&P 9C. I currently carry it in a Side Guard leather holster, but it has a “quick clip” and it has come to close coming off for me to be co for table.

Note short barreled guns have a tendency to roll over the belt since there isn't enough barrel below the belt to provide stability. Many of the folks that carry AIWB use a holster for the longer version of the gun to provide stability. For instance using a G17 holster for a G19 or G26. I believe Spencer Keeper, of Keepers Concealment, uses a G34 length holster feeling it is more comfortable and stabile.