The Challenges of IWB Carry for Larger-Framed Individuals
Increased Printing
Concealed carry, a right and a responsibility, often presents unique challenges for those of us built a little… differently. The pursuit of discreet firearm concealment shouldn’t be a constant battle against printing, discomfort, or ill-fitting gear. For the larger-framed individual, finding the sweet spot of comfort, concealment, and accessibility is paramount. This article is dedicated to navigating the world of Inside the Waistband (IWB) holsters, offering guidance, recommendations, and crucial considerations specifically tailored for “fat guys.” Let’s equip you with the knowledge to carry comfortably and confidently.
Discomfort
The standard advice and readily available holsters often seem designed for a slender frame. Navigating the world of concealed carry as a heavier individual presents a unique set of obstacles. It’s time to address those directly.
Finding the Right Fit
First and foremost, increased printing is a major concern. Printing refers to the outline of your firearm becoming visible through your clothing. This can be caused by the holster itself, the firearm’s grip, or even the belt loops, which become more pronounced with a larger frame. The combination of a wider waist and potentially more pronounced love handles can make concealment a significant challenge.
Concealment Location Considerations
Discomfort, the constant companion of an ill-fitting IWB holster, can quickly turn carrying into a daily chore. Traditional holsters, especially those with rigid designs or poorly designed belt clips, can dig into the body, press against sensitive areas, and cause chafing. This is often exacerbated by the way a holster interacts with the body contours of someone with a larger build. The result is a constant awareness of the firearm, making it difficult to focus on other tasks.
Finding the right fit is another hurdle. Many holsters are simply not designed with diverse body types in mind. The angle, ride height, and overall design can make them uncomfortable or ineffective for a larger frame. This often leads to frustration and a frustrating cycle of buying and testing, which is expensive and time consuming. It’s important to be aware of options to find a holster with the features that will fit you comfortably.
The location of where you carry is also important. The ideal carry position can vary depending on your body shape, preference, and the type of firearm. Experimentation is important. Appendix carry, for example, can be a viable option for some, while others may find strong-side hip carry more comfortable and concealable. Some might even consider small-of-back carry or cross-draw, which might make more sense for a particular physique. We’ll delve deeper into the specifics of these carry positions.
Key Features to Seek in an IWB Holster for Larger Individuals
Holster Material
To overcome the challenges, you need a holster that considers your build. Here are the key features to prioritize when searching for the best IWB holster for “fat guys”:
The material your holster is constructed from directly impacts both comfort and durability. There are a few primary material options:
Kydex is a thermoplastic polymer known for its durability, rigidity, and excellent retention. It’s often molded to precisely fit a specific firearm model, which helps with secure carry. Kydex holsters are easy to clean and maintain. The downside is that Kydex can sometimes feel less comfortable against the skin, especially during extended wear. However, a good design, including considerations for body contouring, can mitigate this.
Leather holsters offer a classic look and feel. Leather often provides a better “break-in” period where the holster molds more to your body, enhancing comfort. Leather can be more breathable than Kydex, a significant advantage during warmer weather. However, leather requires more care and maintenance to prevent cracking or damage. Retention can also vary.
Hybrid holsters combine the best aspects of both Kydex and leather. Typically, these designs feature a Kydex holster body, molded for retention, attached to a leather backing for comfort against the body. This construction offers a good balance between durability and comfort.
Consider the thickness and flexibility of the material. Thicker materials often provide better support and durability, but a bit of flexibility can help the holster conform to your body shape, leading to improved comfort.
Ride Height and Cant
Ride height refers to how high or low the holster positions your firearm within the waistband. Cant refers to the angle the firearm is tilted, either forward or backward, in relation to your body. Both are crucial for comfort, concealment, and draw speed.
Ride Height: A lower ride height can help with concealment, especially for those with a larger build, as it positions the firearm deeper within the waistband. However, a ride height that is too low can make drawing the firearm more difficult. Look for holsters with adjustable ride heights, allowing you to customize the fit to your body.
Cant: An angled cant can help the grip of the firearm “tuck” closer to the body, improving concealment. It can also aid in the draw stroke. Forward cant is often preferred for appendix carry, while a slight rearward cant might be beneficial for strong-side hip carry. Again, adjustable cant is an excellent feature.
Belt Clip Design
A robust and secure belt clip is the lifeline of your IWB carry. The clip’s primary job is to keep your holster securely attached to your belt. Look for the following features:
Strength: Choose clips constructed from durable materials like steel or strong polymers. They should be able to withstand the weight of the firearm and the rigors of daily wear.
Retention: A well-designed clip will grip your belt firmly, preventing the holster from shifting or coming loose.
Placement and adjustability: Experiment with different clip placements.
Belt Compatibility: Ensure the clip is compatible with your belt width.
Always use a high-quality gun belt. A proper gun belt is thicker and stiffer than a standard belt, providing the necessary support for your firearm and preventing the holster from sagging or pulling.
Sweat Guard
A sweat guard is a small piece of material, usually extending above the holster’s body, that sits between the firearm and your skin. Its main purpose is to prevent direct contact between your body and the firearm, preventing discomfort and minimizing the chance of corrosion from sweat. A well-designed sweat guard adds to the comfort of wearing an IWB holster.
Holster Design
Consider the overall profile and design of the holster, and how it affects your body. A minimalist design may be preferable for some, focusing on essential features. But, a slightly larger design that takes comfort into account may be more comfortable for larger individuals. Look for designs that include features like:
Rounded Edges: Prevent sharp corners from digging into your body.
Body Contouring: Some holsters are designed with curves or cutouts that conform to the body’s natural shape.
Ventilation: Features like cutouts or perforations that allow for airflow can enhance comfort, especially during warmer weather.
Holster Recommendations and Examples
Here are a few brands and specific holster models to get you started. Note that it is important to research, experiment and make sure these holsters fit your body and firearm.
Vedder Holsters: Vedder offers a range of IWB holsters with adjustable ride height and cant. Their LightTuck IWB is particularly popular. They offer good comfort, and options for different body types.
Alien Gear Holsters: Alien Gear’s holsters utilize a hybrid design with a Kydex shell and a comfortable neoprene backing. Their Cloak Tuck 3.0 is an adjustable option.
CrossBreed Holsters: CrossBreed is known for its high-quality leather-backed holsters. The SuperTuck IWB is often praised for its comfort.
JM Custom Kydex: Offers Kydex holsters that are custom built and come in a variety of cant and height options.
Appendix Carry Considerations
Appendix carry, positioned in front of the hip near the groin, can be an effective concealment method. For “fat guys,” appendix carry requires careful consideration:
Advantages: Concealment can be excellent, especially when seated. Drawing the firearm is often fast.
Disadvantages: Can be uncomfortable if the holster and firearm press against the body. Careful consideration of clothing choices is important. A claw or wing attachment on the holster can help “tuck” the grip of the firearm against the body, improving concealment.
Strong-Side Hip Carry Considerations
Strong-side hip carry, positioned on the dominant hip, offers a more traditional approach.
Advantages: Comfort is often good. Often a good option to conceal the firearm.
Disadvantages: Can be more difficult to conceal depending on the firearm size and body shape.
Other Important Considerations
The Proper Gun Belt
Beyond the holster itself, several other factors contribute to comfortable and effective IWB carry:
We cannot overemphasize the importance of a quality gun belt. A proper gun belt is the foundation of concealed carry. It provides the necessary support for your firearm and holster, preventing the rig from sagging or shifting. Choose a belt specifically designed for carrying a firearm, made from sturdy materials like reinforced leather or heavy-duty nylon.
Clothing Choices
Your clothing choices play a significant role in concealment:
Shirt Style: Opt for slightly looser-fitting shirts, especially those that aren’t tucked in. Avoid overly tight clothing, which will make the firearm and holster more visible. Button-down shirts or those with patterns can help break up the outline.
Layering: Layering your clothing can provide an extra layer of concealment. A jacket, vest, or untucked shirt can help disguise the firearm.
Practice and Adjustment
It is vital to practice drawing and re-holstering with your new holster. This will help you become familiar with the placement of the firearm, draw stroke, and re-holstering procedure. You may need to adjust the holster’s position, cant, or ride height to find the optimal configuration for your body and firearm.
Body Type Differences
Remember, what works for one person may not work for another. Everyone’s body shape and preferences are unique. Experimentation is key. Try different holster types, positions, and adjustments until you find the combination that provides the best balance of comfort and concealment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the right IWB holster as a “fat guy” is achievable. By prioritizing features such as material, ride height, cant, belt clip design, and overall design, you can find a holster that offers both comfort and effective concealment. Remember to choose the right gun belt, select appropriate clothing, and practice with your new setup. Safety and responsible gun ownership are paramount, so always handle your firearm with care and comply with all local and federal laws. With patience and the right equipment, you can confidently and comfortably carry concealed.
