Tactical Holsters: Comparing IWB, OWB, and Shoulder Holsters

Choosing the right holster is crucial for tactical readiness, everyday comfort, and effective concealed carry. The holster is not just a pouch for your firearm – it affects how quickly you can draw in a defensive situation, how securely your weapon is retained during movement, and whether you can carry discreetly without printing (the gun’s outline showing). In this article, we’ll take a professional yet down-to-earth look at three common types of tactical holsters – Inside-the-Waistband (IWB), Outside-the-Waistband (OWB), and Shoulder Holsters – and compare their advantages, disadvantages, and ideal use cases. Whether you’re a law enforcement officer, military service member, or an armed civilian, understanding these holster options will help you make an informed choice for your carry style.

Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) Holsters

Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) holsters are designed to be worn inside your pants, with the holster tucked between your waistband and your body (usually clipping to a belt). This means the bulk of the firearm sits inside your trousers, with only the grip above the waistband for access. IWB holsters are extremely popular for concealed carry because they keep the weapon close and hidden. Many holster manufacturers explicitly categorize products as “IWB Holsters” for this style of carry.

Advantages:

• Excellent Concealment: IWB holsters excel at concealment since most of the gun is inside your pants. This greatly reduces printing and makes it easier to hide even a mid-sized handgun under a shirt or light jacket. For many concealed carriers, IWB is the go-to method to stay low-profile in public.
• Tactical Retention by Concealment: Because the firearm is tucked against your body, it’s less likely an assailant will see or attempt to grab it. (There’s a saying that concealment is a form of retention – if they don’t know you have it, it’s harder to take.)
• Versatility in Clothing: With an untucked shirt or outer garment, IWB works in a variety of attire. Many IWB designs are “tuckable,” meaning you can tuck a shirt over the holster clip, further hiding the rig.
• Balanced Accessibility: With training, drawing from an IWB can be quick – you simply lift the covering garment and draw. It’s a natural motion from the strong-side hip (or appendix position), similar to an OWB draw once the cover shirt is cleared.

Disadvantages:

• Comfort Trade-Off: The main drawback of IWB carry is comfort. Having a holster and gun inside your waistband can poke, prod, or pinch, especially when sitting or bending. Larger pistols can be uncomfortable to carry IWB for long periods, and you may need to wear pants 1–2 inches looser to accommodate the holster. Even though modern holsters use features like neoprene backing or gel pads for comfort, many people find IWB less comfortable than OWB.
• Slower Draw with Cover Garments: Since IWB is typically concealed, you must clear your shirt or jacket to draw the weapon. This extra step can make your draw slightly slower than an OWB open carry draw. Practice is required to sweep the garment away efficiently.
• Fit and Body Type Dependent: IWB carry can be challenging for some body types. Individuals with larger midsections or those who wear very fitted clothing might find IWB awkward or the printing (visible bulge) more noticeable. The holster’s position (strong side, appendix, etc.) needs to be adjusted to one’s comfort and build.
• Reholstering Caution: Reholstering an IWB can be a bit trickier because the holster is wedged in your waistband. Rigid holsters (like Kydex) help by keeping their shape, but soft holsters could collapse. One must take care to avoid muzzling oneself when reholstering an IWB carry.

Best Use Scenarios: IWB holsters are ideal for everyday concealed carry and plainclothes applications. If your priority is keeping your firearm hidden during civilian carry or off-duty law enforcement carry, IWB is often the top choice. It’s commonly used in concealed carry because you can carry even a compact or full-size handgun discreetly under casual clothing. Many armed citizens use an IWB holster as their default, especially in warm weather when a lighter cover garment is worn. (In fact, some concealed carriers switch to OWB in winter when jackets are plentiful, but prefer IWB in summer for minimal attire.) IWB is also popular among undercover officers or detectives who need to blend in plain clothes.

Examples of IWB Holsters: There are countless IWB designs on the market. Hybrid holsters (combining a soft back pad with a Kydex shell) offer a balance of comfort and rigidity. For example, the Alien Gear Cloak Tuck series and CrossBreed SuperTuck are well-known hybrid IWB holsters praised for comfort and concealment. One Reddit user describes carrying a Glock 26 subcompact pistol daily in an Alien Gear IWB holster – a setup chosen for deep concealment and comfort. Other notable IWB holster makers include Tulster, Tier 1 Concealed, Galco (with their KingTuk hybrid holster), and StealthGear (Ventcore line), among many others. When choosing an IWB holster, look for quality materials, trigger coverage, and sturdy belt clips. A reputable brand’s holster (like those from Alien Gear, CrossBreed, or Galco) will ensure your gun stays secure inside your waistband until you need it.

Outside-the-Waistband (OWB) Holsters

Outside-the-Waistband (OWB) holsters are worn externally on the belt or attached to the outside of your pants. The holster and firearm sit on the outside of your waistband, usually secured by belt loops, paddle attachments, or a thigh rig. OWB is the traditional carry style seen in uniformed law enforcement and military duty use, as well as everyday open carry. Holster manufacturers generally separate these as “OWB Holsters” in their catalogsaliengearholsters.com. OWB can be open carry or concealed carry (with a covering garment), depending on how you dress.

Advantages:

• Greater Comfort: Since the holster isn’t wedged inside your pants, OWB holsters tend to be more comfortable for all-day carry. There’s less pressure on your body and you don’t need extra waistband space for the gun. Many users find they can carry a larger firearm OWB with ease, whereas the same gun would be uncomfortable IWB.
• Fast Accessible Draw: An OWB holster generally allows a faster draw, because the pistol is directly accessible. In open carry or duty use, there’s no garment to clear – you can achieve a full firing grip and draw in one smooth motion. Even when concealed under a jacket or shirt, an OWB holster’s positioning can make for a quicker draw than IWB since it’s slightly away from the body. This quick access is a big reason OWB is favored in tactical and law enforcement settings.
• Better Weapon Retention Options: OWB holsters often come with active retention devices (thumb breaks, hood straps, or locking systems). For example, many Safariland OWB duty holsters feature an Automatic Locking System (ALS) or other retention levels that secure the pistol until released by the user. Such features are easier to integrate into OWB designs due to the holster’s size and position. This makes OWB holsters well-suited for open carry in potentially confrontational environments, as they can thwart grab attempts. (It’s one reason virtually all police duty holsters are OWB with at least Level II retention.)
• Accommodates Accessories: If you have a weapon-mounted light/laser or a larger handgun, OWB holsters are often designed to accommodate these with less bulk. There are OWB holsters for full-size pistols with optics and lights (common in military and police use). They also allow holsters like drop-leg rigs or chest-mounted holsters for tactical gear, which are variations of OWB carry used in military applications.

Disadvantages:

• Reduced Concealment: The obvious downside of OWB is that the firearm is harder to conceal. Since the holster sits outside your clothing, it requires a jacket, coat, or long untucked shirt to cover it. Even then, an OWB gun butt may print more obviously against the cover garment. If you bend over or reach, the holster might become exposed. In warm weather or formal settings, concealing an OWB holster can be quite challenging compared to IWB.
• Bulkier Profile: OWB rigs protrude from the body more than IWB, simply by being outside. This bulk can snag on objects or draw unwanted attention if not concealed. You must be mindful of the holster when moving in tight spaces to avoid bumping the gun.
• Retention Reliance (if concealed carry): While OWB holsters can have great retention features, if you choose to conceal carry OWB without active retention, the fact that it’s less concealed could in theory make it slightly easier for someone to notice and attempt a grab (in an extreme scenario). In practice, most concealed carriers who use OWB mitigate this by wearing proper cover garments and remaining situationally aware.
• Dress Considerations: OWB often dictates your wardrobe. You’ll likely need a jacket or overshirt at all times if concealment is the goal. In casual open carry, you still want a sturdy belt to support the holster. OWB may not work with dresses or outfits without belts (unlike some IWB or alternative carry methods).

Best Use Scenarios: OWB holsters shine in open carry and duty roles. Uniformed law enforcement and military personnel almost universally use OWB holsters on duty belts or tactical rigs for ease of draw and retention (often with brands like Safariland or Blackhawk providing the holsters). If you’re a police officer, security professional, or soldier, OWB is likely part of your standard kit. For civilian use, OWB is great at the shooting range or in competition (where concealment isn’t required and speed is a priority). It also works for concealed carry in cold weather – many civilians will carry OWB under a coat in winter for comfort, switching to IWB in summer. If you find IWB carry uncomfortable, you might opt for OWB with a longer shirt or jacket as a compromise. OWB is also commonly used when hiking or hunting, where open carry is more acceptable and a larger firearm might be carried for defense or sport.

Examples of OWB Holsters: There is a wide range of OWB holsters from simple leather belt slides to high-security tactical rigs. On the concealment end, you have leather pancake holsters (that ride close to the body) from makers like Galco and Bianchi, which are good for hidden carry under a jacket. For duty and tactical use, Safariland is a top-tier brand – for instance, their ALS series holsters are widely used by law enforcement for the added security of an automatic locking retention device. Blackhawk offers OWB holsters like the SERPA and T-Series; the SERPA was popular among civilians and some military for a time (though it sparked some controversy in training circles), and the newer T-Series improved on its design. Blade-Tech and CYA Supply Co. make Kydex OWB holsters, often used in competition or casual carry. Additionally, hybrid holster companies (like Alien Gear) often sell OWB models (paddle or belt slide versions of their designs) for those who want their gun outside the waistband. When considering OWB, think about whether you need active retention (for duty use or peace of mind) or a straightforward open-top design for speed, and choose a reputable brand accordingly.

Shoulder Holsters

Shoulder holsters are a different beast altogether – they consist of a harness that rests on the shoulders (like suspenders), with the holster itself typically under one arm. The pistol is carried either horizontally (barrel pointing behind you under the armpit) or vertically (barrel pointing down), and there’s usually an offside pouch for extra magazines to balance the weight. Shoulder holsters gained iconic status from old detective films and TV (think Don Johnson in Miami Vice with his Galco Miami Classic rig), but they also serve practical purposes for certain users. Many major holster brands (like Galco) offer shoulder systems for popular handguns.

Advantages:

• Comfort While Seated or Driving: A well-fitted shoulder holster can be very comfortable, especially when sitting for long periods. Because the gun hangs under your arm, you’re not getting poked in the waist or hip – an advantage for drivers, pilots, or anyone who spends a lot of time seated. For example, someone who does armed driving or security details in vehicles might prefer a shoulder rig over an IWB on the hip.
• Easy Access in Restricted Positions: In some positions where reaching the waist is difficult (seated in a car with a seatbelt, or if you have an injury), a shoulder holster allows relatively quick cross-draw access. You simply reach across your torso to draw, which can be faster than trying to free a gun from under a tucked shirt while strapped in a car seat. This is one reason shoulder holsters have been popular among pilots and armored vehicle crews – you can draw without twisting your body.
• Good Weight Distribution: The weight of the firearm (and spare mags on the opposite side) is distributed across your shoulders and back, rather than pulling down on your belt on one side. This balanced load can be more comfortable for some users, especially with heavy handguns. It can also be a relief if you have back problems that make the belt painful.
• Works With Certain Attire: If you’re wearing a suit, sport coat, or jacket as part of your daily attire, a shoulder holster keeps your waistline free of gear. Some professionals who wear business attire (and don’t/can’t use a belt holster) choose shoulder carry under their jacket. It’s also an option when you might remove a belt (say, you don’t want a holster on your belt at a long office sit-down but keep your shoulder rig on under your jacket). In plainclothes law enforcement or executive protection, a shoulder holster can allow a discreet draw from under a suit jacket in a formal environment.

Disadvantages:

• Requires a Cover Garment at All Times: A shoulder holster is inherently an off-body carry (not on the waist), so unless you open carry like a 1980s TV detective, you must wear a jacket or coat to conceal it. This makes shoulder carry mostly a cold-weather or indoor jacket-weather method. If you take off your coat, you’ll be literally “wearing” your gun in plain view. For many, this limits shoulder holsters to specific scenarios.
• Slower and Complex Draw: Drawing from a shoulder holster is a cross-draw motion – you must reach across your body, possibly unzip or sweep aside a jacket, disengage any retention strap, and then pull the gun from under your arm. This can be slower than strong-side belt draws. There’s also a safety concern: a horizontal shoulder holster, when drawn from, will have your muzzle sweeping through an arc that could flag someone beside or behind you if not careful. Extensive training is needed to draw from a shoulder holster smoothly and safely under stress.
• Potential Comfort Issues: While good for seated carry, shoulder rigs can be uncomfortable or awkward when standing or moving if not adjusted correctly. The straps can dig into your shoulders if the weight isn’t balanced, and a heavy gun may swing a bit when you move quickly (most have tie-down straps to anchor to your belt, which you’ll want to use). In hot weather, the harness can also feel warm or cause sweating where it rests on your body.
• Retention and Security: Most shoulder holsters rely on a retention strap or snap (often over the trigger guard or hammer) to secure the gun. This is fine for normal use, but it’s generally not as robust as the active retention systems on duty OWB holsters. If someone were to surprise-grab your weapon, a shoulder holster isn’t in the best position for you to defend against a snatch – it’s under your arm (you might instinctively clamp your arm down to guard it). Also, since it’s carried off-body, situational awareness is key to ensure no one spots the holster under your open jacket.
• Limited Popularity and Fit: Shoulder holsters are a bit of a niche today, so there are fewer options and they can be expensive, especially high-quality leather ones. Also, they require fitting – you must adjust the straps to your torso. People with very small or very large body frames might have difficulty getting a perfect fit. If not fitted right, the holster can sag or print. Many find that a shoulder holster is not as universally “easy to wear” as a hip holster once the novelty wears off.

Best Use Scenarios: Shoulder holsters are best used in niche situations. They are particularly useful if you drive a lot or are seated for extended periods (making waist access inconvenient). For instance, some law enforcement detectives and security drivers employ shoulder holsters so they can draw while seated in a vehicle. They are also useful when your dress code involves a jacket but not necessarily a belt (e.g., executive protection with a suit, where an inside-the-waistband holster might interfere with a tucked dress shirt and a tight belt). Military pilots in the past famously carried pistols in shoulder holsters (to avoid obstruction with seatbelts and control harnesses). Additionally, a person with a physical limitation or injury that makes belt carry painful might try a shoulder rig. Enthusiasts sometimes choose shoulder holsters for the “cool factor” or nostalgia on the range, but for daily carry, it’s often about specific need. Keep in mind, shoulder carry usually means you keep your jacket on – so it’s more of a fall/winter or on-duty method than a universal everyday summer carry choice.

Examples of Shoulder Holsters: The classic example is the Galco Miami Classic shoulder holster system – originally famous from Miami Vice, it remains one of the most popular shoulder rigs for semi-auto pistols. This horizontal holster system carries a handgun on one side and double magazine pouch on the other, and is known for its high-quality leather and comfort (by shoulder holster standards). Galco and Bianchi also make vertical shoulder holsters (e.g., for larger revolvers or those who prefer the barrel-down orientation). Modern tactical gear companies like Alien Gear have even introduced modular shoulder holster systems (Alien Gear’s ShapeShift Shoulder Holster, for example) that use Kydex shells and a more contemporary harness design. When selecting a shoulder holster, it’s wise to invest in a well-made rig – cheap knock-offs tend to fit poorly. Stick to known brands like Galco, Safariland (they have some shoulder models in their catalog), or even specialty makers, and be prepared to practice your draw extensively.

Comparing Holster Types: Key Factors

Now that we’ve looked at IWB, OWB, and shoulder holsters individually, let’s compare them across several key factors that matter to carriers: comfort, concealment, accessibility/draw speed, weapon retention, suitability for different body types & clothing, and tactical application scenarios. Each holster type has strengths and weaknesses depending on what you prioritize.

Comfort

When it comes to everyday comfort, OWB holsters generally win for most people. Having the gun on the outside of your pants means less pinching and no need to wear larger-waist pants. If you’re carrying a heavy full-size pistol, an OWB on a sturdy belt distributes weight nicely on your hip. Shoulder holsters can be very comfortable in some situations – especially if you’re seated or if waist carry bothers you – but can feel awkward during vigorous activity or if not adjusted properly. Meanwhile, IWB holsters tend to be the least comfortable because part of the gun is pressed against your body all day. However, comfort is highly subjective: a well-designed IWB with padding (like a hybrid holster with a neoprene or leather backer) can be quite agreeable, and many people get used to IWB carry with no issues. Body shape also plays a role in comfort; for example, someone with a slim frame might find IWB easier than someone with a larger belly, and vice versa.

In summary, if pure comfort is your goal (such as for long hikes or a day at the range), OWB is the easiest on the body. Shoulder holsters can rival OWB comfort if you wear them with the right attire and activity. IWB, while not as initially comfortable, can be made workable with the right holster choice (there are even cushiony holster wedges and foam pads some add to improve comfort). Many concealed carriers simply accept a little initial discomfort with IWB for the benefit of concealment – over time, you often “forget” the gun is there.

Concealment

For staying hidden, IWB holsters are the clear leader. Because the gun rides inside the waistband, your clothing can more easily cover it. Even a relatively large handgun can vanish under an untucked t-shirt when carried IWB at the right position. The profile is slim and tight to your body. OWB holsters, on the other hand, are the hardest to conceal. They tend to require jackets or overshirts, and even then, careful attention to the length and fit of the garment is needed to prevent flashing the holster. OWB carry can work for concealment (many people do it in winter), but the margin for error is smaller – a gust of wind or a stretch movement can expose your sidearm. Shoulder holsters fall somewhere in between. They conceal very well as long as you keep a jacket on; the firearm is under your arm and not protruding at the waist. A properly fitted shoulder rig with a dark-colored shoulder harness can be essentially invisible under a buttoned suit jacket or coat. The issue is, if the jacket opens or comes off, concealment is lost entirely. Also, certain shoulder holster setups can print (for instance, the outline of the firearm or magazine carrier might bulge slightly, depending on jacket fit).

One benefit of shoulder carry for concealment: if you need to access the gun discreetly, you could potentially slip your hand into your jacket (as if reaching for something inside) and get a grip on the pistol without drawing, which might be less conspicuous than lifting a shirt. But overall, for civilian concealed carry in everyday dress, IWB is usually the most consistently concealable option across various outfits.

Accessibility and Draw Speed

In terms of quick access and draw speed, OWB holsters have an edge, especially when openly carried. With no garment in the way, a well-practiced OWB draw from the hip is very fast, which is why it’s preferred in competitive shooting and duty use. Even concealed OWB (covered by a jacket) can be fast since a sweep of the jacket is usually a quick motion. IWB holsters require you to clear your cover garment (shirt or jacket) to draw, which adds a fraction of a second. For an experienced carrier who trains regularly, the difference in draw time between IWB and OWB can be minimal, but it’s still there. Additionally, re-holstering is typically easier with OWB (the holster mouth is accessible and visible), whereas IWB might require looking or adjusting clothing to re-secure the firearm.

Shoulder holsters are typically the slowest to draw from. You have to perform a cross-draw, which is a more involved motion. If wearing a buttoned suit or zipped coat, you must also clear that (either by unbuttoning or sweeping it open) to get to the gun. Drawing from under your arm can be very foreign if you haven’t drilled it extensively. There’s also an increased risk of fumbling under stress due to the unconventional angle. That said, in specific scenarios like a seated draw (e.g., driver in a car), a shoulder holster might be faster than a traditional holster – you don’t have to twist your body or unbuckle to reach it. In summary, for most scenarios, OWB is fastest, IWB is nearly as fast with practice (just remember to clear that cover garment), and shoulder is a bit slower and requires more practice to master.

Weapon Retention

Retention refers to how well the holster secures the firearm, especially during physical activity or if someone tries to grab your gun. Here, OWB holsters (duty types) can be the most secure. Many OWB models made for police and military use are Level II or Level III retention, meaning they have two or three mechanisms (like hoods, thumb levers, or push-button locks) that must be disengaged in sequence to draw the gun. This can significantly prevent an attacker from snatching the weapon out of the holster. For example, a Safariland Level III holster might have both a locking ejection port catch (ALS) and a hood guard, nearly impossible for a stranger to quickly defeat. Even OWB holsters without such devices often have adjustable tension screws or passive retention that you can tighten.

IWB holsters typically rely on passive retention (friction and the tightness of the holster shell) and the fact that the gun is pressed between your body and belt. They usually don’t have active locking devices (since the focus is on concealment and speed). The good news is that concealment itself aids retention – if no one knows you have a gun, a grab attempt is unlikely. And if someone did grapple with you, the gun being inside your waistband gives you some advantage to clamp down or rotate away. However, in a fight where you end up on the ground, an OWB with active retention would keep the gun more secure than an IWB, which could theoretically be yanked out if your cover garment is moved.

Shoulder holsters often have a retention strap (usually a thumb break strap that goes over the rear of the slide or hammer). This provides decent retention for normal activities – the gun won’t fall out even if you jog or climb. But against a determined grab, a strap is only a minor hurdle. If your jacket is open and someone spots the holster, it’s not too hard for them to reach in from the front and unsnap it. Thus, shoulder rigs are generally considered low retention setups, suitable when you don’t expect hands-on encounters. Law enforcement rarely uses shoulder holsters for this reason (and because controlling a handgun near your armpit during a fight is awkward).

In summary, if maximum retention is a priority (e.g., corrections officers, open carry in crowds), a quality OWB holster with active retention is the best choice. For concealed carry, retention is usually “handled” by keeping the gun out of sight (IWB or a covered OWB) and staying alert. Shoulder carry, if used, should be in environments where a surprise gun grab is highly unlikely and perhaps where you can keep some personal space.

Suitability for Different Body Types & Clothing Styles

Every person’s physique and fashion play a role in which holster works best. IWB holsters can be a challenge for those with larger abdomens; appendix IWB (in the front) especially, can be uncomfortable or impractical for some body shapes. However, IWB can be great for slimmer individuals or those who tend to wear their shirts untucked. If you often wear casual attire (jeans, untucked casual shirts), IWB will blend in nicely. On the flip side, if you favor tucked-in dress shirts and no jacket, a classic IWB might print unless it’s a tuckable design (and even then, the belt clips might be visible on your belt).

OWB holsters require that you dress around them. If you have a tall, larger frame, you might conceal an OWB under a loose shirt or blazer more easily than a shorter person could. People who often wear layers (jackets, vests) or live in colder climates can incorporate an OWB holster without much wardrobe change. If your style is a T-shirt and shorts, OWB concealed carry will be tough; you might need to openly carry (where legal) or switch to IWB in summer.

Shoulder holsters demand an outer garment. They work best for those who routinely wear a suit jacket, sport coat, or at least a heavy overshirt. If you’re the kind of person who is always a bit cold or just likes wearing a jacket even indoors, a shoulder rig might integrate well. Body-type-wise, shoulder holsters are quite adjustable, but a very short or very tall person might need to ensure the rig fits (some manufacturers offer different harness sizes). If you have broad shoulders, a shoulder holster might feel more secure (since the straps have a good perch); if you have sloping or narrow shoulders, the harness might shift more without good adjustment. Also, women may find shoulder holsters less accommodating due to how the straps cross the chest – there are some designs specifically for women, but generally, IWB or OWB might conform better to different body contours.

In essence, think about your daily attire and body comfort. If you’re in a business suit all day, a shoulder holster or a very discreet IWB (appendix with a tuckable clip, for example) might suit you better than a bulky OWB on the hip. If you’re in casual wear or a duty uniform, OWB on the belt might be perfectly fine. Many people alternate methods throughout the year (IWB during hot months when wearing minimal clothing, OWB when coats are in season). It’s not one-size-fits-all – you may need to experiment to see which holster type you can comfortably conceal given your body and clothing style.

Tactical Application Scenarios

Different holsters come to the forefront in different tactical contexts:

• Law Enforcement (Uniformed): OWB is virtually the only choice for uniformed police and security officers. A duty belt with a sturdy OWB retention holster (often mid-ride or high-ride on the hip) is standard. It allows open carry, quick draws, and retention in holster wrestling situations. Departments typically issue or specify models (e.g., a Level III Safariland ALS/SLS holster). Shoulder and IWB holsters are not used in uniform due to policy and practicality (imagine an officer trying to handcuff someone with a concealed IWB – not feasible or allowed). However, for plainclothes detectives or undercover officers, we see a mix: many will use IWB holsters to conceal their sidearm under a jacket or untucked shirt. Some detectives, especially in the past, have used shoulder holsters when wearing suits (it used to be a bit of a detective “look”). Modern plainclothes officers might also use OWB holsters but wear a sport coat over them (since they can get away with a bit of a bulge, given they are law enforcement).
• Military Operations: Military personnel use a variety of holsters depending on their role. In combat environments, an OWB holster is common, but often not on the waist – it might be a drop-leg (thigh) holster or attached to a plate carrier (chest holster). Those are essentially OWB variants designed to work with body armor and gear. Concealment is usually not a concern in active military operations. That said, military police or officers on base might use OWB belt holsters similar to law enforcement. Pilots and vehicle crews have historically used shoulder holsters or cross-draw belt holsters so they can access their pistol in tight quarters. For instance, during WWII, American tank crews and aircrew were issued shoulder holsters for their .45 pistols because wearing a hip holster was impractical in a confined cockpit or turret. In modern times, some pilots still use configured shoulder rigs or chest holsters for their survival sidearm. IWB holsters would be rare in military use, except perhaps for special forces or intelligence operatives who need to blend in (essentially using civilian concealed carry techniques during covert operations). In those cases, they’d choose IWB for maximum concealment when operating out of uniform.
• Civilian Concealed Carry: For everyday civilians with a carry permit (or in constitutional carry areas), the choice between IWB, OWB, and shoulder often boils down to lifestyle and threat assessment. The vast majority choose IWB for routine concealed carry because it offers a good balance of concealment and access for self-defense scenarios. For example, a civilian going about their day (work, errands, etc.) can keep a compact pistol holstered IWB and concealed under a t-shirt or light jacket comfortably. OWB is chosen by some civilians who either open carry for deterrence or comfort, or who conceal under heavier clothing. A civilian might use OWB when hiking or in winter with a coat – situations where comfort or quick access outdoors trump deep concealment. Shoulder holsters are the least commonly seen in civilian carry, but there are niche citizens who use them – often drivers (rideshare drivers who choose to be armed, for example), or perhaps someone who just finds waist carry uncomfortable and doesn’t mind always wearing a cover garment. Each civilian must consider their daily activities: if you frequently enter non-permissive environments for guns, a deeply concealed IWB is better; if you mostly stay within gun-friendly settings and value comfort, OWB or shoulder could be fine.
• Home Defense / Tactical Training: While home defense isn’t “carry” in the traditional sense, the choice of holster for a home defense handgun (if you keep one holstered) might lean OWB since concealment isn’t an issue at home. Many also use OWB holsters in training classes or at the range because it’s easier to draw from when practicing. Shoulder holsters are generally not allowed in many training classes for safety reasons (due to the muzzle sweep issue). IWB can be used in training to replicate your carry method, though some find it a bit slower for drills compared to OWB.

In all these scenarios, holster selection is about matching the mission. A police officer on duty has different needs (retention, open draw) than a civilian jogging with a handgun (who might even choose something like a belly band or fanny pack – but that’s beyond our scope). A special ops soldier kicking in doors won’t be using a concealment holster, and a concealed-carrying civilian in a grocery store doesn’t need a drop-leg rig. However, there is overlap – e.g., off-duty cops and armed citizens basically have the same concealment holster market available to them, and many military folks when not in combat will carry concealed for personal protection using IWB/OWB holsters from the civilian market.

Which Holster is Best for You?

In the end, no single holster type is “best” for all users – it truly depends on your needs and circumstances. If you’re a civilian looking for daily concealed carry under casual clothing, an IWB holster from a reputable brand (like an Alien Gear Cloak Tuck, CrossBreed SuperTuck, or similar) is often the top choice for its superior concealment and decent comfort. On the other hand, if you prioritize comfort and quick draws and can dress around it, an OWB holster (perhaps a pancake holster for concealment or a Safariland with retention for open carry) might serve you better – this could be ideal for winter carry, open carry, or range use. For those who have a very specific need (like driving long hours or wearing a suit jacket routinely), a shoulder holster can fill that niche, offering easy access while seated and keeping the weight off your belt. It could be the best solution for a professional driver or someone who cannot use a belt holster due to medical or comfort reasons.

From a tactical/military perspective: if you require active retention and are likely to engage in dynamic situations, OWB with proper retention is the way to go (that’s why it’s the standard for police and military). If you need deep cover and absolute discretion, IWB (or even deeper methods) will hide your sidearm effectively. Shoulder holsters, while not as universal, still have a place for specialized roles and can be very effective when used correctly.

Many experienced carriers actually own multiple holsters and switch depending on the day’s activity – for example, an IWB holster for most outings, an OWB holster for a training class or winter hike, and maybe a shoulder rig for a long road trip. Whichever you choose, invest in a quality holster that covers the trigger guard completely and holds your firearm securely. Also, pair it with a sturdy gun belt if it’s a waist holster, as that makes a world of difference in both comfort and retention.

In summary: If you’re a typical concealed carrier, you’ll likely find an IWB holster the most practical. If you’re in uniform or open carrying, OWB is your friend. And if you have a unique need like prolonged sitting or simply love the classic detective style, a shoulder holster can work well. Assess your daily routine, clothing, and why you carry – then pick the holster type (or types) that align best with those factors. The right holster, worn properly, will ensure your firearm is there when you need it and stays safely out of sight (or firmly in place) when you don’t. Stay safe and carry on, comfortably and tactically!