How to Conceal Carry OWB
Outside the Waistband (OWB) carry is a favored method for its accessibility and comfort. Though often associated with open carry, OWB can be a practical option for concealed carry when paired with the right holster and clothing.
Many gun owners choose OWB for its ability to distribute weight evenly, reducing discomfort during extended wear. With proper setup, it offers excellent concealment while allowing a natural and efficient draw.
Read Ultimate Guide To Concealed Carry
Choosing the Right OWB Holster
Holster Material
The material of your OWB holster greatly impacts its comfort, durability, and concealment. Kydex is a popular choice for its rigidity and ability to maintain consistent retention over time.
Leather holsters, on the other hand, offer a more flexible fit that molds to your body for added comfort. For those seeking a balance, hybrid holsters combine Kydex with leather or other soft materials, offering durability where it’s needed and flexibility where it matters most.
Fit and Retention
A holster designed specifically for your firearm ensures a snug and secure fit, preventing unnecessary movement or accidental dislodging.
Adjustable retention is a key feature to look for, as it allows you to fine-tune the tension to match your preference. This ensures your firearm is securely held but still easy to draw when needed.
Body Type and Comfort
The right holster should accommodate your body type and daily activities. Features like adjustable cant and ride height help you find the perfect balance between accessibility and concealment.
A holster that fits well minimizes printing and makes carrying more comfortable, even during extended wear.
Recommended OWB Holsters
- Gun make & model engraved in Kydex.
- Designed for discreet and concealable carry.
- Optic-compatible to accommodate red dots.
- Adjustable ride height and retention for a personalized fit.
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- Available in Brown or Black Leather
- Four Layers of premium leather for maximum durability
- Inner layer offers protection against wear on your firearm
- Each leather holster is custom-tailored to your specific handgun for perfect fit and strong retention
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OWB Holster Placement and Positioning
Read Best Holsters for Concealed Carry
Optimal Carry Positions
The most common OWB carry positions are 3 o’clock, 4 o’clock, and 5 o’clock. Each position offers different benefits depending on your body type and daily movements.
The 3 o’clock position places the holster directly on your hip for easy access, while 4 o’clock and 5 o’clock positions angle the firearm slightly behind the hip, enhancing concealment.
Adjusting Cant
Cant refers to the angle at which the holster sits on your belt. Adjusting the cant can make a significant difference in both comfort and draw efficiency.
A forward cant often works best for concealment, as it aligns the grip closer to your body while allowing a more natural wrist position during the draw.
Balancing Accessibility and Concealment
Finding the right balance between accessibility and concealment is key. Positioning the holster too far forward can make concealment harder, while placing it too far back may limit your draw speed.
Experiment with placement to find the sweet spot where your firearm is both easy to access and effectively hidden.
Vedder Holsters has some great information about OWB holster placement if you are looking for further reading.
Dressing for OWB Concealed Carry
Clothing Choices and Concealment
The clothes you wear play a critical role in concealing an OWB holster. Look for garments that are slightly loose-fitting and made of thicker or patterned fabrics to minimize printing.
Longer shirts, jackets, or vests can provide excellent coverage without sacrificing style.
Layering Effectively
Layering is one of the easiest ways to conceal an OWB holster. Lightweight jackets, flannel shirts, or casual blazers can effectively cover your firearm while blending into your everyday wardrobe.
Choose layers that are easy to remove if needed, while still maintaining concealment.
Choosing the Right Cover Garment
Your cover garment should not only hide your firearm but also allow for a smooth draw. Shirts with longer tails, jackets with adjustable hems, or untucked casual button-ups are great options.
Opt for clothing that moves naturally with your body to avoid drawing attention to your holster.
Practice and Training for OWB Concealed Carry
To carry an OWB holster effectively, regular practice and training are essential. Concealed carry isn’t just about having the right gear—it’s about being proficient and prepared to access your firearm quickly and confidently when necessary.
The more you practice, the more natural and comfortable your concealed carry routine will become.
Incorporating specific drills and situational awareness into your training will help you refine your draw, improve your reaction time, and ensure you are carrying safely and effectively.
Below are key training tips to help you master OWB concealed carry.
Train for Real-Life Scenarios: Consider tactical training courses to prepare for real-world situations where you may need to draw your firearm. Practicing in dynamic, stress-inducing environments can improve your performance under pressure.
Regular Draw Practice: Consistent practice with your OWB holster is key to building muscle memory. Focus on smooth, fast draws to ensure you can access your firearm quickly in a real situation.
Dry Fire Drills: Dry firing is a great way to practice your draw and target acquisition without using live ammunition. Set up a target and practice pulling your firearm and aiming at it.
Focus on Situational Awareness: Carrying OWB requires you to stay aware of your surroundings and ensure your holster stays concealed. Practice scanning your environment and adjusting your posture if necessary to keep your firearm hidden.
Rehearse in Different Clothing: Practice drawing while wearing the clothing you plan to wear every day. This will help you understand how your cover garment interacts with your holster and allow you to adjust for the most comfortable and concealed draw.
Test for Concealment: Have someone check for printing or visibility in various positions—sitting, bending, or lifting your arms. Make adjustments to your carry setup if any part of your firearm becomes noticeable.
Tips for Comfortable OWB Concealed Carry
To ensure your OWB concealed carry is comfortable for long periods, proper adjustments and setup are crucial. The following tips will help you maintain comfort, reduce irritation, and make carrying your firearm feel more natural throughout the day.
- Use a Sturdy Gun Belt: A strong, reinforced belt specifically designed for concealed carry is essential to support the weight of the holster and firearm without sagging.
- Adjust Holster Height and Ride: Experiment with holster height to find the most comfortable position. A higher ride can prevent discomfort around the hips, while a lower ride may improve stability and concealment.
- Ensure Proper Fit: Your holster should fit snugly against your body without being too tight. A good fit prevents shifting, which can cause discomfort or make your firearm harder to access.
- Wear Looser Clothing: Avoid tight-fitting clothes that can press against your holster and cause discomfort. Opt for looser shirts or jackets that offer more room to carry comfortably without printing.
- Consider Comfort Padding: Some holsters come with added padding or comfort layers. These can reduce friction against your body and make extended wear more comfortable.
- Check for Movement: When walking, sitting, or bending, check if the holster stays in place. Adjustments may be necessary if it shifts or digs into your body during certain movements.
Conclusion
Carrying OWB for concealed carry can be a comfortable and effective option when set up correctly. By selecting the right holster, adjusting your positioning, dressing appropriately, and practicing regularly, you can enhance both concealment and accessibility.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be better prepared to carry your firearm safely and confidently in any situation.
Check out IWB vs OWB For Concealed Carry for more info about the two most popular ways to carry concealed!
