Concealability

[reh1966]

I am looking at various holster options and was wondering what to buy as to IWB vs OWB. Under normal casual dress, shirt untucked, is an OWB as concealable as IWB. I have an inexpensive IWB but was thinking I may like another option. BTW, I have a Firestorm Mini 9 that I carry. Just curious as to thoughts of those in the know. Thanks.

Rex

[DefensiveCarry.com]

[BamaSteve]

I can't speak for OWB, haven't done that yet. But my supertuck conceals exceptionally well, comfortable and all. I've heard a high ride OWB can be really nice, might be worth a try.

[nitrohead]

I have a crossbreed supertuck IWB for my Glock 21, and it conceals nicely.

[grady]

Under my clothes, an IWB is more concealable than an OWB because the OWB hangs below the belt some, and closer to the bottom of my shirt.

If you meant how do they compare as to showing through the clothes, a good OWB may hug your side tight like an IWB, but all OWB's don't hug tight. It depends on the holster.

Note: I have somewhat limited holster experience, but I am up to 3 holster boxes now.

[MP45Man]

Note: I have somewhat limited holster experience, but I am up to 3 holster boxes now.

That's "boxes" of holsters not holsters?

[grady]

That's "boxes" of holsters not holsters?

Yep. Three boxes of holters, each box holding multiple holsters.

I know, I know--I'm a lightweight, right?

[Bowie]

I use both IWB and OWB and still find IWB carry to be easier to conceal especially when I carry a larger gun. There are many good OWB holsters out there but IWB holsters still pull the gun in closer for me and I can usually wear a bit slimmer fitting cover shirt. For IWB I use Milt Sparks VMII and for OWB I use K&D Eagle Defenders.

[MP45Man]

Yep. Three boxes of holters, each box holding multiple holsters.

I know, I know--I'm a lightweight, right?

I suppose as compared to some on here you'd be classified as a lightweight. However, u da man in my book. Heck, I only have three holsters.

[fotomaker57]

I think most here will tell you that IWB conceals better. Due to the fact that half the pistol is inside your pants and can't be seen. Having said that, I find myself carrying OWB more often just because it is more comfortable for me. With the right selection of cover garments OWB can also be a very effective means of concealing a handgun.
Mike

[grady]

I think most here will tell you that IWB conceals better. Due to the fact that half the pistol is inside your pants and can't be seen. Having said that, I find myself carrying OWB more often just because it is more comfortable for me. With the right selection of cover garments OWB can also be a very effective means of concealing a handgun.
Mike

That's a good summary on all points. I don't carry IWB much anymore either unless I'm stuffing a car gun IWB (with a holster) while I go in a store, just so I don't leave the gun in the vehicle unattended.

Heck, I only have three holsters.

No worries. They'll multiply before you know it.

[dagace]

Carrying a S&W 4516 3rd gen in a Bianchi ATB (attached thumb break) , it is a nice soft leather holster with a nice belt clip. Conceals very nicely at the 1:00 position.Thumb snap is easy to opperate, and holds gun secure in all positions and activities so far. Got the size just under the recommended application on accident, but am satisfied because of the nice tight fit (amost seems tailor-made)Covers great with a light cover-shirt, and makes for smooth fast draws, even when using the thumb-break.

[BradyM77]

You should definitely have one of each for any gun you're using. What it comes down to for me is comfort. Some of my pants are a little tighter than others so for comfort's sake I wear OWB and match with a longer shirt.

[reh1966]

Thanks for all the input. I really wish I could see more of the IWB options in person. My LGS has more OWB stocked. I will keep researching online until I make the final choice.

[dukalmighty]

That's a good summary on all points. I don't carry IWB much anymore either unless I'm stuffing a car gun IWB (with a holster) while I go in a store, just so I don't leave the gun in the vehicle unattended.

No worries. They'll multiply before you know it.

You ain't kidding I put a kydex holster and a leather holster in a drawer and ended up with a crossbreed

[sass20485]

For me, IWB conceals better and easier. OWB rides below the belt and is more easily exposed.