Everyone is different, to be sure.
Just throwing some observations out there. I've found that comfort and concealment, even though somewhat inter-related, require different pistol characteristics.
A comfortable handgun tends to have the following characteristics:
1) a narrow slide usually 1 inch or less None of my current carry guns have a slide width less than 1 1/4", and all carry quite comfortably.
2) light weight. Less than 30 oz loaded for most people but ymmv. Same experience here. None of my my carry guns are lightweights.
3) smooth edges and textures on the grip/handle. Most IWB holsters don't shroud the handle to facilitate draw so it tends to dig into your flesh. The smoother the betterNope. My grips have textures ranging from moderate to extreme, and my undergarment removes any and all discomfort.
4) barrel length plays a part when you're attempting to sit down or drive for long periods. I've found 4 inches or less offers very little intrusion when trying to sit downClose on this one. I have one with a 5" barrel, which I would consider maximum with my holster design.
5) grip thickness affects comfort a little but not appreciably Yes, I have found thicker grips to carry slightly more comfortably.
Concealment somewhat follows the same requirements as comfort but with a few exceptions:
1) grip texturing, weight and barrel length has a lot less importance for concealment Agreed
2) handle length is THE most important factor in concealment. IMO unless it's a pistol with a 2 finger grip you're going to be prone to printing. The smallest grip I carry is an M&P9c. The largest is the ful-sized M&P, which is slightly more prone to printing, but nothing unmanageable. I have found holster cant/position and ride height to be more important factors in printing than grip length alone. My 15-round Glocks never print in my Brommeland and Midworld holsters at 3:00.
3) Grip thickness matters for concealment. A narrower grip width helps hide the handle against your body better. Again, this simply has not been my experience.
Slide width (narrower) and pistols grip shape (smoother) benefit both comfort and concealment. You'll print less and feel more comfortable with it inside your waistband and against your skin. I never carry directly against my skin.
Just thoughts to share. Feel free to add!
