Ask Randi Rogers: Inside- or Outside-the-Waistband Holster for Me?

We are delighted to introduce our new advice column on shooting, Ask Randi Rogers. This month, Randi breaks down the difference between an inside- and outside-the-waistband holster.

Dear Randi,

In your opinion do most women wear inside-the-waistband (IWB) or outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters? What is the biggest difference other than in or out? 

Confused in Canton

 

Dear Confused,

In my opinion, most women do neither. Most women actually carry in an off-the-body method, such as a purse or bag. I think that the reasoning behind this is two-fold:  1) most women’s clothing does not lend itself well to concealed carry — as it is tighter and form fitting, which makes carrying a firearm very difficult while still looking and feeling attractive, and 2) another reason women don’t necessarily like to carry on the body is the weight of a firearm. Carrying something all day long even when it is small can make you tired. Most women don’t want to carry the extra weight, especially while they are at home. 

If you are looking at choosing a concealed carry firearm, I am a huge proponent of ON body carry. I think it is important because it seems like it’s always when I don’t have my purse that I really want to have my concealed carry gun. Here are a few situations that I know of where I feel better that I carry on the body:

1. The gas-station: This is one place that I very rarely grab my purse. I usually just step out of the car with my wallet in hand so I am thankful I keep my firearm on my body.
2. Working in the yard: This is another place where I don’t normally carry a purse, but I want to make sure that I have something on my body in case someone just walks up.
3. Loading groceries: This is yet another place that I usually set my purse down and it can be one of the most dangerous places to be.

If you are considering either an IWB or OWB holster, these are the 2 big differences when you compare them: 

1. Comfort: If you are carrying IWB. it is VERY important that the holster be comfortable because it will be touching your skin. You might want to consider something that is leather or fabric so you don’t stick to it. OWB comfort is not as much of a factor because your clothes protect you.
2. Clothing: If you are considering carrying IWB, you will need to give some thought to your wardrobe. Are you prepared to buy bigger pants? I know, that for me  is not something I want to go up, so I prefer to carry OWB. If you are leaning to the OWB side, then you will probably need to consider some additions to your wardrobe in the form of vests, outer shirts or even jackets. Fortunately, there are many cute accessory options for carrying a gun.

Concealed carry is a big choice, but making sure you have the right holster for you lifestyle, body type and needs will make it much easier.

• 

  About Randi Rogers

  Randi Rogers is a shooter from the top of her head down to the tips of her toes. Working as the Sales and Marketing Manager for the holster manufacturing company Comp-Tac, Randi dabbles in hunting, fishing and the great outdoors but at the end of the day she wants to have a gun in her hand. For the last 18 years as a Smith & Wesson and Compt-Tac pro competition shooter, Randi has won over 50 world and national titles in action shooting sports such as Cowboy Action Shooting, IDPA, IPSC, USPSA and 3Gun. Randi fills her days concealed carrying in a Comp-Tac Holster, spending time practicing at the range, writing for different outdoor publications and finding new ways to help other women enjoy the recreation and entertainment of target shooting. View all posts by Randi Rogers →