Understanding the Challenges
The Body’s Shape
The reality is that carrying concealed as a larger individual presents some unique hurdles. The shape of your body plays a significant role in how a holster fits, how it conceals, and how comfortable it ultimately is. Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations:
Pressure Points
IWB holsters sit directly against the body. This can lead to pressure points, particularly in areas like the lower back, hip bones, and even the abdomen itself. For larger individuals, these pressure points can be exacerbated by the added pressure from the holster and firearm. Recognizing potential pressure points allows you to choose a holster and carrying position that minimizes discomfort. It’s important to be aware of what is comfortable for you and what is not.
Clothing Considerations
Your wardrobe choices are directly linked to your ability to carry concealed comfortably and effectively. Clothing plays a crucial role in both concealment and comfort. Baggy clothing is not always the answer, in fact, it can sometimes reveal the firearm even more. Consider the following:
- Shirt Length: A longer shirt is generally necessary, one that can extend far enough below the holster to prevent printing.
- Shirt Material: A stiffer, more structured fabric can help provide a barrier against printing.
- Pant Size: Pants that are too tight can put undue pressure on the holster and cause discomfort.
- Pants Type: Some pants styles work better than others. Sturdy pants with a good belt loop arrangement will perform better than lightweight shorts or pants with poor construction.
Heat and Sweat
Carrying a firearm against your body, especially in warmer climates or during physical activity, will lead to sweat. This can lead to discomfort, corrosion of the firearm, and potential issues with holster fit. The right holster materials and design features can help mitigate these challenges.
Key Features to Look For in an IWB Holster for Fat Guys
Holster Design
Ride Height Adjustment
The ride height refers to how high or low the holster sits inside your waistband. This is critical for comfort and concealment. A holster with adjustable ride height allows you to experiment to find the position that best suits your body type and clothing. If your holster sits too low it can cause the firearm to dig into your body and cause discomfort. If it rides too high, it can make the holster print and draw more difficult.
Cant Adjustment
Cant is the angle at which the firearm sits in relation to your body. Adjustable cant allows you to tilt the firearm forward or backward, affecting how it conceals and how easily you can draw it. A forward cant can help tuck the grip of the gun closer to the body, improving concealment, especially when worn at the appendix position. A backward cant may make the gun more accessible for a smooth draw, especially for those with a larger waistline.
Sweat Guard
A sweat guard is a piece of material that extends upwards along the slide of the firearm. It provides a barrier between the firearm and your skin, minimizing the risk of corrosion from sweat and preventing the slide from rubbing directly against your body. It can also help with reholstering, acting as a guide to aid you in returning the firearm to the holster.
Open Bottom
An open-bottom design means the bottom of the holster is open, and not closed off. This offers versatility, allowing you to carry firearms with slightly longer barrels or those that have attachments like compensators. Open bottoms also help to reduce weight.
Materials
Kydex
Kydex is a popular thermoplastic material known for its durability, impact resistance, and ability to be molded to precise specifications. Kydex holsters are waterproof and resist sweat. The custom moldability is ideal for creating holsters that fit specific firearm models perfectly. Kydex provides excellent retention and provides a smooth draw. The downside is that Kydex can sometimes be less comfortable than other materials, especially against bare skin.
Leather
Leather holsters offer a classic feel and can be very comfortable. Leather molds to the shape of your body and the firearm over time, making them potentially more comfortable than Kydex. Leather offers a natural feel. Quality leather can also be very durable. Leather can be prone to sweat absorption if the leather is not properly treated and can require a break-in period.
Hybrid (Kydex/Leather)
Hybrid holsters combine the benefits of both Kydex and leather. Typically, these holsters have a Kydex shell that holds the firearm securely, mounted to a leather backing that rests against your body. This combination offers the retention and durability of Kydex with the comfort of leather.
Belt Clips
Clip Type
The type of clip is crucial for ensuring the holster stays securely in place on your belt. There are a few different types, and each has its pros and cons:
- Steel clips are generally very strong and durable.
- Plastic clips can be lighter and less likely to scratch your belt, though they may not be as durable as steel over the long haul.
- J-hooks curve over the belt, offering good retention.
Placement
The placement of the clips influences the stability and concealment. Holsters with multiple clips are typically more stable and less prone to shifting. However, a single, well-designed clip can work perfectly well. The number of clips will affect the price of the holster, in general.
Holster Positioning & Concealment Tips
Common Carry Positions
- Appendix Carry (AIWB): Carried in front of the hip, near the appendix. Provides excellent concealment, good accessibility, but requires careful consideration of safety.
- Strong-Side Carry (3:00-4:00): Carried on the dominant side, either at the hip or slightly behind it. A widely used position that’s relatively comfortable.
- Small of the Back Carry (5:00-7:00): The firearm sits in the small of your back. Can be comfortable while sitting, but drawing can be difficult. Not generally recommended for those with larger waistlines, or for those who frequently drive.
Choosing the Best Position for Your Body Type
Consider your body shape, your activity level, and the clothing you typically wear. For those with larger midsections, appendix carry can be challenging due to the potential for the grip of the gun to dig into the abdomen while sitting. Strong-side carry may be a better option, and you might experiment with different positions along the hip line. Take some time to assess how the firearm feels in different positions while you move around and sit down.
Concealment Tips
- Choosing the Right Shirt Type and Size: Loose-fitting shirts will provide better concealment than tight-fitting shirts. Try a few different cuts and sizes to get the best fit for your build.
- Belt Selection: A sturdy belt is crucial for supporting the weight of the firearm. Look for a purpose-built gun belt made of reinforced leather or synthetic materials. The belt should be wide enough to accommodate your holster clips.
- Pants Selection: Choose pants with sturdy belt loops, made of a material that provides good support, such as jeans, tactical pants, or pants designed specifically for concealed carry.
Other Considerations
Holster Retention
Proper retention is absolutely essential for safety. Ensure the holster holds the firearm securely, preventing it from falling out during movement. Make sure that the holster has a solid fit that allows the firearm to be retained even during a physical struggle.
Break-in Period
Some holsters, particularly leather holsters, may require a break-in period. Be patient and allow the holster to conform to the shape of your body and your firearm.
Practice and Training
Regular practice with your holster is crucial. Practice drawing and reholstering the firearm safely and efficiently. Familiarize yourself with your holster’s retention and release mechanisms. A qualified instructor can help you optimize your draw stroke and address any issues with your setup.
Considerations for Different Body Types
No one-size-fits-all solution exists. Consider your specific body shape. Someone with a larger belly might prefer a different carry position or holster style than someone with wider hips. Experimentation is key.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect IWB holster as a fat guy involves understanding your unique needs, and exploring the options available. Focusing on comfort, concealment, and choosing quality products is essential for a successful and safe experience. Remember to research different holsters, consider the key features we’ve discussed, and test out different positions and setups to find the best fit for you. Take your time, be patient, and don’t be afraid to try a few different holsters before settling on the one that feels right.
(Optional) FAQ Section
Q: Will it print?
A: Printing is the outline of the gun showing through your clothing. It’s common, and the degree of printing varies depending on your body shape, clothing, and holster choice. Choosing the right holster, carry position, and clothing are key.
Q: What size belt do I need?
A: Measure around where you plan to wear your belt, and then add a few inches to accommodate the holster.
Q: Is Kydex better than leather?
A: Both materials have their pros and cons. Kydex is durable and offers excellent retention, while leather can be more comfortable. Hybrid holsters provide a compromise between the two.
(Optional) Resources
Consider providing links to reliable resources like reputable holster manufacturers and concealed carry training providers.
