
How to Choose the Best Holster for Concealed Carry
Jason PineShare
Carrying concealed is about more than just having the right firearm — it’s about having the right holster. The best concealed carry holsters strike a balance between comfort, security, accessibility, and concealment. At Four Brothers Holsters, we believe your gear should work with you, not against you. Here’s what you need to know to choose the perfect setup for your everyday carry.
What to Look For in a Concealed Carry Holster
Choosing a holster isn't one-size-fits-all. Your body type, firearm, lifestyle, and even clothing choices affect what will work best for you. Here are the key factors to consider:
1. Comfort
If your holster isn’t comfortable, you’re less likely to carry consistently, and consistency is the whole point. Look for designs that:
Distribute weight evenly
Minimize hot spots or pressure points
Have smooth edges and clean molding (a Four Brothers standard)
2. Concealability
The best concealed carry holsters keep your firearm tight to the body and reduce printing (the visible outline of the gun through clothing). Factors that help with concealment include:
Adjustable ride height and cant
Slim profile
Proper fitment for your firearm model
Our Inside Waistband (IWB) Holsters are built specifically for deep concealment without sacrificing comfort or access.
3. Retention
A good holster securely holds your firearm without needing active straps or complicated retention devices. Passive retention — shaped precisely to your gun's trigger guard or weapon-mounted light — keeps the gun locked in place until you draw.
Four Brothers Holsters feature adjustable retention so you can fine-tune the draw resistance to your preference.
4. Accessibility
In an emergency, you need fast, reliable access to your firearm. Look for a holster that:
Allows a full firing grip while holstered
Doesn’t obstruct the draw
Stays stable during movement
Every holster we build is designed with a full-grip clearance so you can draw efficiently under pressure.
Common Types of Concealed Carry Holsters
Understanding the major styles can help you choose the best fit for your needs:
Inside Waistband (IWB)
Tucks inside your pants for deep concealment
Great for everyday carry
Works well with slightly oversized clothing
👉 Explore Our IWB Holsters Collection
Appendix Carry (AIWB)
A type of IWB worn at the front of the body (around 1 o'clock position)
Offers faster draw speeds
Popular for smaller-framed firearms
👉 Check Out Our Fat Guy's Appendix Rig
Outside Waistband (OWB)
Rides outside your waistband
Typically easier to access but slightly harder to conceal
Great option under jackets or for range use
👉 Check Out Our OWB Holsters Collection
Choosing the Right Holster for You
When deciding, ask yourself:
What’s my typical daily clothing?
(Jeans and a t-shirt? Business attire?)
Where will I carry on my body?
(Strong side? Appendix? Cross-draw?)
Do I want to carry additional accessories?
(Light, optic, spare magazine?)
How important is all-day comfort to me?
Four Brothers Holsters offers custom-fit options for popular concealed carry firearms like the Sig Sauer P365 series, Glock 19, Springfield Hellcat Pro, and many more — whether you’re running a stock gun or a fully built-out EDC setup.
Final Thoughts
The best holster is the one you’ll wear, day after day, without second-guessing it. At Four Brothers Holsters, every design we create is focused on real-world performance: fast access, lasting comfort, durable build quality, and a fit you can trust.
Stay Sharp. Stay Ready.
🔗 Shop Custom Concealed Carry Holsters