Finding the best appendix carry holster can be difficult. But if you know what they are, the search process might be a bit easier for you.
Knowing exactly what kind of appendix carry holster is right for you will come down to a few deciding factors. They are really popular holsters for those who are able to conceal carry their pistols for the purpose of personal protection and home defense.
While there are a lot of holsters designed for appendix carry, only ten have made our list of the best holsters currently on the market. Before we go to the list itself, we’ll talk about what an appendix carry holster is and the characteristics of our favorite models, and how they stand out on the list.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Appendix Carry Holsters
Comparison Chart of the Best Appendix Carry Holsters
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What is an Appendix Carry Holster?
An appendix carry holster is a concealed carry holster that is typically an IWB design. These holsters are better positioned to give you closer access to your concealed carry pistol. An appendix carry holster will likely be positioned at the one or two o’clock positions as opposed to the usual three o’clock position that most concealed carry users are accustomed to.
Characteristics of Our Favorite Holsters
We didn’t choose these holsters by complete random. There are some characteristics and features that stood out the most for each and every holster. You can use a similar formula as we have used to find holsters to add to the list for your own personal decision making. You’ll need to look for the following characteristics in a holster:
Price
The price tag will definitely be a deciding factor but it shouldn’t be the only reason why you buy it. As a rule, you’ll need to invest in the best appendix carry holster you can afford, in terms of quality and performance. Don’t go for cheap and settle for anything that will disappoint you in the long run.
Materials
We made sure that high-quality materials were included in our holster of choice. The reasons being are as follows: first, durability is important. You don’t want a holster that wears, tears, or falls apart. Materials like Kydex, polymer, and nylon are among some of the best when it comes to holsters. Another reason high-quality materials are a must is longevity. You’ll want a holster that will last you for the long term.
Size (For Specific Pistols)
Finding the right size holster for your pistol is key. And we made sure that we chose holsters for certain pistols due to their size (Glocks, S&W, etc.) At the same time, we made sure they had the right measurements to ensure the best concealability possible. Speaking of that, you’ll want a holster that will not only be secure for pistols but which also creates less of a noticeable bulge if you carry in public.
Review of the Best Appendix Carry Holsters
The following is a list of the ten best appendix carry holsters currently on the market. As you go through each item, you should make a note of the features and characteristics so you can decide whether or not it fits your preferences. You may find your perfect holster for appendix carry just by going over the list we have drawn up.
Remember, close enough is a lot better than nothing at all. Now, let’s take a look at the first overall appendix carry holster on our list — our best overall choice:
Best Overall:
BLACKHAWK
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Many report having no issues with the concealability of the holster. They were able to clip this on their belts or waistband with no struggle at all. They were quite satisfied with the overall durability and security of the holster and reported no wiggle room. One user even said the holster allowed him to draw his pistol much quicker than his previous concealed carry holster. Overall, there were many who relied on this holster for EDC purposes.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This proves itself as the best overall for a few good reasons. For one, it’s super-durable due to the polymer material. It’s scuff-free and is not going to snag, as you often see with some soft-material holsters. It’s also at the right size for pistols like Glocks. So if you own a Glock or similar-sized pistol, this holster has the right measurements to ensure a perfect fit.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be a great concealed carry holster for those who want excellent durability and snag-free reliability that is second to none. It will be a holster you can easily attach to your waistband, add a pistol of your choice, and you'll be prepared for dangerous situations that might be a threat to your safety. Simply put, it’s a textbook example of what a holster should do.
Bottom Line
The Blackhawk Ambidextrous Appendix Carry Holster might be exactly what you’re looking for if you want something that’s high in quality, excellent in reliability, and will simply just get the job done in any given everyday carry situation. If you want the best in concealability in an appendix carry, this bad boy might just be what you need.
Runner-up:
Blade-Tech Klipt Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This holster was pretty impressive for a lot of users. They said the overall sturdiness confirmed their decision to go with this holster. They didn’t have a single complaint about the overall quality and were impressed with how well the retainer clip held up. One user even said that even though his pistol was a great fit for this holster, he was even more satisfied with how sturdy the holster was each time he used it. He’s fairly confident it will last him years.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster is perhaps one of the best in the business for a few good reasons. Of course, one of them is the sturdiness. Another one is the ability to fit a good variety of concealed carry pistols. Simply put, it’s perhaps the closest thing you can find to a universal holster. And it’s at the right size to carry your pistol without making it look obvious that you are carrying something.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be used by concealed carry users in search of security and sturdiness in a holster. The sturdier it is, the better the chance it will last you a really long time. If you want the long-term solution to be a high-quality holster that won’t wear and tear so easily while providing excellent concealability, this is the best option.
Bottom Line
The Blade-Tech Klipt Holster might be one of the best on the list. Ads runner-up, it might change its status fairly quickly between now and the next year (and perhaps become a good best overall choice). But for now, if you want excellent durability and a holster that will be perfect for all kinds of concealed carry pistols, don’t sleep on this holster.
Best for the Money:
Relentless Tactical The Defender Leather
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most new buyers were quite satisfied with the holster as it was specifically made for revolvers. They said the overall durability was quite solid and had the ability to fit so many small revolvers that were perfect for appendix or concealed carry. One user even said his .38 Special revolver was a great fit for this holster and stayed nice and snug, for the most part.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The leather is genuine and the sturdiness is pretty impressive, to say the least. And it’s going for a price that many can afford. The holster, by the looks of it, appears to be one of those classic lawmen holsters that they use for their own revolvers. So, if you’re a sucker for the old-school classics, this holster might be something you’ll appreciate. But looks probably won’t matter. The performance however, will. It’s perfect for revolvers and allows for bulge-free carrying and is affordable for most.
Who Will Use This Most
If you have a revolver and plan on conceal carrying, you’ll have a holster that will fit it perfectly. With its leather material, it’s durable and aesthetically sharp. And it’s a holster that won’t suck the soul out of your bank account. If you want a holster that will be reliable, sturdy, and great for long-term use, this is the go-to choice for you.
Bottom Line
The Defender Leather IWB Holster is obviously the more affordable choice for revolvers. You can maximize your revolver’s concealability with the help of a holster like this. And even better, it’s pretty comfortable when it comes to fitting (and for those with sensitive skin). All and all, it isn't bad for a budget holster.
Best Appendix Carry Kydex Holster:
Concealment Express IWB KYDEX Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This holster has quite a lot of sturdiness to it, which explains why so many users were quite happy with it. The overall quality was pretty solid and had the potential to last new buyers many years (provided they take great care of it). One user said the holster was lightweight and didn't weigh him down, even with the addition of his concealed carry pistol.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Kydex is a material that has been rising in popularity over the years. It’s proven to be a really durable soft material on the market. In fact, it just might be one of the best alternatives to nylon holsters that are infamous for ripping apart after short-term use. Kydex, for its part, remains sturdier than pretty much any high-quality nylon holster (especially for years down the road). So if you’re interested in checking out a holster made from some pretty serious material, then this holster will be great for you.
Who Will Use This Most
If you are a concealed carry user in the market for a holster but have never tried out anything made from Kydex, this is your opportunity to check it out. A lot of concealed carry users and even law enforcement officers will likely put this bad boy to good use, given that it’s durable and sturdy like a rock. If you want a holster that can handle high-stress situations, you’d be hard-pressed to find a holster quite like this anywhere else.
Bottom Line
The Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster is perhaps one of the most popular choices you can probably come across for sturdy appendix carry holsters. It’s nice and tough all over, but the comfortable fit might just be one of the many things you’ll want to get out of a holster. Give this a try and there’s a good chance you’ll love it.
Best Concealed Carry Appendix Holster:
CYA Supply Co. IWB Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most new buyers were pretty happy with the overall comfort and quality of this holster. What was even more impressive was the ability for their pistols to stay locked in place without ever having to compromise any quick draws that may occur. One user said he is confident in carrying this because his pistol won’t slip out of his holster. He added that even if he wore it OWB, the pistol would stay in place and prevent anyone from trying to swipe his pistol from him.
Why it Stands Out to Us
If you want a holster that is perhaps one of the best in the business when it comes to maximum concealability, there’s a good chance this holster might just fit the bill. Considering the fact that it is made from polymer, it will deliver excellent comfort and won’t irritate the skin. Meanwhile, this stands out for one of its main features: the security lock. This will prevent your pistol from slipping out of the holster (which is great for the purpose of gun safety so no one can access it, like children or potential attackers).
Who Will Use This Most
This will be a great starter holster for those looking for something that’s great for newbies. If you want something that’s solidly built and able to fit so many pistols, this holster can definitely be your best friend in a concealed carry application. And best of all, it won’t bulge on you at all. You’ll get a considerable amount of concealability with a holster like this, especially in the appendix carry position.
Bottom Line
Concealing your pistol is important if you want to protect yourself from danger. The CYA Supply Co. IWB Holster is, by far, one of the best when it comes to concealability and sturdiness. In fact, it might be also one of the most comfortable in terms of appendix carrying. Don’t overlook this holster while you’re looking for something that will give you max concealability.
Best Appendix Carry Holster for Glock 19:
Relentless Tactical
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of new buyers were Glock 19 users in search of a holster that was just as reliable as the pistol itself. They were not disappointed with this holster, in particular. They added their Glock 19 pistols in the holster and were able to carry it wherever they went without any discomfort or bulging. One user even said it was one of the best holsters he had invested in and it fit his Glock 19 pistol perfectly.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster was designed specifically for Glock 19s for the purpose of making it more secure and easier to carry. As mentioned, this Glock pistol is said to be one of the most reliable concealed carry pistols out there. With the leather material, it prevents snagging from ever happening. So if you do a quick draw, you won’t have to worry about it getting stuck. That is the true definition of a reliable holster. When reliability meets reliability (pistol and holster), you know it’s going to be a thing of beauty.
Who Will Use This Most
This holster would be perfect for many Glock owners. There is no holster on the market that could match the superior reliability of those types of pistols. So, if reliability is something you hold near and dear, this holster will be exactly what you are looking for. It’s sturdy, it’s a good fit for your waist, and it will definitely prepare you for any danger ahead.
Bottom Line
If you own a Glock, you have a holster that will fit perfectly. The Relentless Tactical Defender Leather Holster will stand out as the best choice for those who love their Glock pistols for the purpose of appendix carry. It’s at the right size for the purpose of concealed carry. No bulges, no heavy carrying, no problem.
Best Appendix Carry Holster for Glock 26:
Galco Stow-N-Go
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This holster was great for many buyers. They were quite satisfied with the excellent quality. For them, sturdiness and the ability to fit most Glock 26 pistols (and even some other models) were two of the top things they were impressed with. One user said he was also able to get superior comfort out of the holster itself. He also said that for cross-body carry, it was quite easy to draw from such a position.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster is another example of how reliable holsters behave when it comes to handling Glock pistols. It’s made from high-quality leather that makes it look sharp in terms of aesthetics. Aside from the looks, the leather proves itself to be one of the most durable on the market. So if you have tried holsters that have fallen apart on you in the past, you should no longer deal with such a struggle. This holster is perhaps your best possible option if you want something that keeps your Glock pistol intact with the best security possible (with little to no wiggle room to work with).
Who Will Use This Most
This will be another holster for Glock users. However, they will not only be for the 26 model but also for those who own a 27 or 33 model. Either way, you have a holster that is pretty solid in quality and will do a superb job of making sure your pistol is on you at all times in the appendix carry position. If you want a reliable holster for your Glock pistol, this might be a good one to have.
Bottom Line
The Galco Store-N-Go is another good-looking holster that excels in performance when you use Glock pistols. If you are serious about concealed carry and you rely on a Glock to get you out of a dangerous situation, you’ll want to give a holster like this a closer look. You’d be insane to pass up the opportunity to try out a holster that can give you superior stability and a nice, snug fit.
Best Appendix Carry Holster for Glock 43:
Vedder Holsters LightTuck
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of new buyers were satisfied with the holster. They were quick to call it one of the most durable holsters for a Glock on the market. Even better, they managed to install this on their belts or waistbands without any issues or the clip falling off. One user said it was a nice, snug fit that allowed for quick and easy drawing if and when the situation were to arise where using the pistol was a possibility.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster is a good fit for some of the later Glock models like the 43 (or similar). And once again, this is a holster that sets the bar in terms of durability and stability. If you want a tough, no-wiggle holster for your Glock 43, then you can consider this your best choice. Also, if you wear it under your shirt and have a bit of a skin issue, this holster won’t aggravate it in the slightest.
Who Will Use This Most
This will be the kind of holster that is great for any other Glock owner who wants a holster with superior sturdiness and reliability. After all, it’s a holster for one of the best brands in pistols. And if Glock is known for its reliability, shouldn't it have a holster that’s just as good? You bet.
Bottom Line
The Vedder Lighttuck Holster is one of the many holsters on our list for Glock users. At this point, it’s up to you to decide which holster will be a better fit for your Glock pistol of choice. If it’s a 43, then this might be the best possible option. If you own anything else, you may want to consider one of the previous two above.
Best SIG Sauer P365 Appendix Carry Holster:
Alien Gear ShapeShift
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most new users say this holster was great for its durability and comfort. Most users even report that it provides a whole lot of IWB/under the shirt comfort compared to some of the other holsters. One user said he once had a nylon holster, which only irritated his skin each time he wore it. Once he switched to this holster, that issue was resolved.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The SIG Sauer P365 is one of the most reliable concealed carry pistols endorsed by the United States Government. In fact, any government agent, whether in military or civilian law enforcement, will likely have a SIG P365 or similar sidearm. The reason is that they are proven to be quite reliable in tactical and self-defense situations. If you carry a SIG P365 for that purpose, this holster will definitely handle high-stress situations where drawing your pistol quickly won’t damage the holster or cause any kind of snagging. On top of that, this has excellent security, making the pistol hard, if not impossible, to slip out of the holster.
Who Will Use This Most
If you are in law enforcement or are a civilian that practices concealed carry, there is a good chance you’ll need an appendix carry holster that will be durable, secure, and trusted by many law enforcement and military personnel in the United States. This holster will certainly be a great addition to your arsenal if you want the best in quality and security.
Bottom Line
Law enforcement and tactical users rely on a brand like Alien Gear for their holsters because of its hardcore durability and ability to excel in tactical situations. This holster is exactly what you’ll want on hand if you are looking for a holster that will come in handy when the stuff hits the fan. Concealed carry means defending yourself when necessary and you need a holster you can depend on to ensure you’re ready to defend yourself. This appendix carry holster for SIG P365s is the real deal.
Best Appendix Carry Holster For Shield:
CYA Supply Co. IWB Holster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This holster was a hit with many users. They were able to call it one of the perfect appendix carry holsters on the market because of its ability to be more concealable than some other holsters. One user said upon adding his pistol to the holster, he didn’t feel or see any bulges after covering up his shirt. He added while it felt like he wasn’t carrying at all, he was well aware that he was ready to draw his pistol, if and when a situation were to arise.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This holster is exclusively fit for Smith and Wesson and M&P pistols. These two are known for making really great concealed carry pistols for the purpose of self-defense and competition. They shoot fast, smooth, and won’t jam on you in the times when you absolutely need it most. It’s also a holster made from Bolatron, a material that is a mix of polymer and Kydex. It’s tough, easy on the skin, and makes the appendix carry experience a positive one.
Who Will Use This Most
This will likely be used by a lot of new concealed carry users. If you plan on appendix carrying, you should consider a holster that will handle an ultra-concealable pistol like a Smith and Wesson 9mm. If you don’t want your holster to bulk up, this will work in your favor.
Bottom Line
The CYA Supply IWB Holster is hardcore in quality and reliable in many of its applications. If you want an appendix carry holster that will make concealing your pistol easy, you’d be insane to pass up the opportunity to give this holster a better look. While it’s compact and easy to conceal, it will make preparing yourself for dangerous situations a lot better.
Pros and Cons of Appendix Carry Holsters
Let's take a look at some of the biggest ups and downs of these holsters.
Pros
There are some pretty sweet advantages you get to enjoy with an appendix carry holster. If you invest in one, you’ll be able to enjoy them. Here are the following pros:
Better Concealability
As if we haven’t stressed this enough, these concealed carry holsters are made not so much for carrying at the hip. However, you can conceal this in a position where people may least expect a pistol to be. The smaller the pistol and the holster, the better chance you can conceal it without looking like you’re obviously carrying something.
Perfect For Tactical and EDC Applications
It’s good to have an advantage over your attackers. They may not know that you’re armed with a pistol until it’s too late for them. With appendix carry, no one will ever know you are carrying until you actually draw your pistol. If that isn’t a sneaky and impressive reason to get an appendix carry holster, maybe this next pro will be the cherry on top.
Affordable Compared to Other Holsters
Whether you are on a budget or have some money to play around with, you can get a holster that is of the best quality. In terms of holster types, appendix carry holsters are overall more affordable than regular IWB or OWB holsters that are the best fit for the hip.
Cons
The cons are obviously a couple of areas where the appendix carry holsters fall short. It’s important to know these, since they are paramount to your safety. They are as follows:
Not Suitable For Pistols With Light Trigger Pull
If you have a pistol known for its light trigger pull (below three pounds), then it might not be a smart idea to use an appendix carry holster. The thing is that you risk injuring yourself in the event of an accidental shooting. If the trigger pull is a bit heavier (three to four pounds), you may get away with using such a holster.
You May Need to Go up a Pant Size
Yes, it’s true. The one good reason you should get pants of a bigger size is so you can fit the holster inside your waistband. Now, you may breathe a sigh of relief knowing that you’re not gaining weight. You need slightly bigger pants in order to accommodate the holster and pistol you plan on carrying.
Conclusion
Finding the best appendix carry holster will take some time and a bit of detective work. But once you do find one, you’ll be appreciative of what it can do for you. You’ll get maximum concealability and peace of mind knowing you are prepared for any threats that may endanger your life. Holsters are very much required for concealed carry use. So find one that is ideal for you and be sure to carry every day in order to get some good use out of your holster.
People Also Ask
Below is a list of five questions that are frequently asked by potential buyers. You should consider this a guide to help you make a more informed decision on appendix carry holsters. These are the questions:
Where Do You Wear an Appendix Holster?
You should consider wearing your appendix holster at either the one or two ‘o clock position of your waist. It should be close to where your appendix is located.
Can You Appendix Carry a Full-Sized Pistol?
Believe it or not, you can appendix carry a full-sized pistol. That’s why it’s important to know the measurements of both the pistol and the holster you may be eyeing, so you are able to get a good fit.
Can Big Guys Appendix Carry?
Contrary to popular belief, heavyset guys are able to appendix carry. You’ll need to find a holster that is actually longer in length so it can accommodate you (assuming you are of a larger size). This way, you can easily access the pistol without having to look for it.
Is Appendix Carry Uncomfortable?
The answer here varies. It might be comfortable for some and won’t be for others. So it never hurts to give it a try. Some holsters may also give you a bit of skin discomfort (depending on the materials). So pay attention to what a holster is made of while searching for one yourself.
Is Appendix Carry Dangerous?
It can be, depending on a specific circumstance. As mentioned, a light trigger pull may be a bit dangerous for those who appendix carry. That’s why you should consider getting a pistol that has a bit of a heavy trigger pull to ensure that you are not injured in an accidental discharge.
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