Quickies - Inside vs Outside Holster

Published on March 22, 2022
Duration: 2:11

This video from Top Guns compares Inside the Waistband (IWB) and Outside the Waistband (OWB) holsters for self-defense carry. IWB holsters offer better concealment by tucking the holster inside the pants, making the garment contour hide the firearm. OWB holsters can be more comfortable but are prone to silhouetting and require more effort to clear the garment for a draw.

Quick Summary

Inside the Waistband (IWB) holsters offer better concealability by tucking the holster into pants, letting the garment hide the firearm. They also ride lower, requiring less garment clearance for a draw. Outside the Waistband (OWB) holsters can be more comfortable but are prone to silhouetting and require more effort to clear clothing.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: IWB vs OWB Holster
  2. 00:11Inside the Waistband (IWB) Holster Advantages
  3. 00:36IWB Holster: Rides Lower for Draw
  4. 00:53Outside the Waistband (OWB) Holster Discussion
  5. 00:58OWB Holster Comfort
  6. 01:08OWB Holster Downsides: Bulk and Silhouetting
  7. 01:27OWB Holster: Garment Clearance
  8. 01:38OWB Holster: Exposure When Reaching Up
  9. 01:51Maintaining Element of Surprise
  10. 02:02Conclusion & Viewer Engagement

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main advantages of an Inside the Waistband (IWB) holster for concealed carry?

IWB holsters offer superior concealability because they are worn inside the pants, allowing the garment's natural shape to hide the firearm. They also ride lower, requiring less effort to clear your clothing for a draw.

What are the primary drawbacks of an Outside the Waistband (OWB) holster?

OWB holsters can be less concealable, leading to 'silhouetting' where the firearm's outline is visible through clothing. They also require more space to clear the garment for a draw and can be exposed when reaching upwards.

How does garment clearance differ between IWB and OWB holsters?

Drawing from an IWB holster generally requires less upward movement of your garment compared to an OWB holster. This can potentially make the draw from an IWB faster and more accessible.

Can OWB holsters be more comfortable than IWB holsters?

Yes, OWB holsters can be more comfortable for some individuals because they are not pressed directly against the body inside the waistband, potentially reducing pressure points.

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