Pocket, Shoulder, IWB or Carry Clothing: Picking a CCW Holster

The short version: Dennis Adler's guide for Athlon Outdoors breaks concealed carry into four approaches (pocket holsters, shoulder rigs, inside-the-waistband holsters and carry clothing) and argues the right one depends on your gun, body and wardrobe, not on what's popular.

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Carry gear has moved well past the belt and shoulder rigs of the old detective-revolver era, but Adler says the core requirements haven't budged: a holster has to hold the gun securely, cover the trigger, stay where you put it and let you draw safely. Having more options, he notes, hasn't made the choice any simpler.

For shoppers, the useful part is the tradeoffs. Pocket carry suits small revolvers and micro-compacts but gets awkward when you're seated, especially behind the wheel. Shoulder holsters move weight off the belt and can be comfortable for people who sit a lot, yet they need a jacket and careful muzzle awareness. IWB holsters, in leather, rigid thermoplastic or hybrid builds, can hide a gun without an outer layer, but comfort depends on body shape, carry position, ride height and cant.

Carry clothing gets the most caution. Adler warns that a fabric pocket or elastic sleeve alone may not shield the trigger, so these garments should be judged as a complete system and practiced with an unloaded gun before you depend on one.

Key takeaways

• Pocket holsters should fully cover the trigger guard, stay in the pocket on the draw, and share the pocket with nothing else
• Shoulder rigs often add an opposite-side magazine carrier to balance weight and need careful adjustment to limit movement
• Strong-side hip and appendix IWB both work, but neither suits everyone
• A secure clip or loop keeps an IWB holster from coming out with the gun
• Reholster slowly and keep shirts and drawstrings clear of the holster mouth
• With carry clothing, verify trigger protection, retention and access before trusting it

Summary by GunWinner based on reporting by Athlon Outdoors. Deal links are affiliate links; GunWinner may earn a commission. Prices change quickly, so confirm at checkout.