When it comes to concealed carry or open carry, your holster is as important as the firearm you choose. The decision between IWB (Inside the Waistband) and OWB (Outside the Waistband) can dramatically impact your comfort, concealment, accessibility, and even your wardrobe choices. At Havok Holsters, we craft high-performance holsters for both carry methods, but helping you choose the right one starts with understanding the key differences.
What Is IWB Carry?
Inside the Waistband (IWB) holsters are designed to be worn inside your pants, typically secured to the belt with a clip. They position the firearm closer to your body and offer superior concealment, making them a popular choice for daily concealed carry.
Benefits of IWB:
- Maximizes concealment under shirts, hoodies, or jackets
- Ideal for civilian CCW permit holders
- Minimizes print (the outline of the firearm under clothing)
- Pairs well with smaller-frame handguns
- Comfortable for all-day carry with the right holster fit and cant angle
Havok IWB holsters come with customizable retention, sweat guards, and multiple clip options, allowing you to tailor your carry to your exact body shape and clothing style.
What Is OWB Carry?
Outside the Waistband (OWB) holsters attach to the outside of your belt, with the holster resting outside your pants. OWB carry is often preferred by open carriers, competitive shooters, or those who carry in colder climates where a jacket or long shirt can aid concealment.
Benefits of OWB:
- Faster draw access, especially in emergency or tactical scenarios
- More comfortable for larger handguns and long-term wear
- Easier to put on and remove
- No waistband pressure
- Compatible with more gear (molle, duty belts, tactical vests)
With Havok OWB holsters, you can select from Tek-Lok mounts, paddle systems, belt loops, or QLS-compatible hardware to match your tactical setup.
Factors to Consider When Choosing
Lifestyle and Daily Routine
Do you carry at work? Around family? In public spaces? IWB is ideal for discreet carry, while OWB suits open carry or home defense.
Body Type and Clothing
Slim builds often prefer IWB with a claw or wing attachment to tuck the grip in. OWB works well for larger individuals or those wearing jackets or overshirts.
Firearm Size
Compact and subcompact pistols fit well IWB. Larger firearms like full-sized Glock 17s or 1911s may feel more natural OWB.
Training and Draw Practice
OWB holsters offer quicker access for high-stress draws—especially for law enforcement or range use. But with practice, IWB draw speed can become just as efficient. Havok Holsters: Built for Every Carry Style
At HavokHolsters.com, we design each holster to balance comfort, retention, concealment, and aesthetics—no matter your carry method. Here’s what you get:
- Precision-molded Kydex for exact firearm fit
- Options for cant angle, sweat guard, clip type, and belt size
- Tactical and everyday-ready accessories (Mod Wings, Soft Loops, Mag Pouches
- Multiple finishes and prints to match your style
- Lifetime warranty on all holsters