Trends in Concealed Carry: Appendix Carry is the New Favorite
By Corey Ritter
Advances in holster design and construction have made using an appendix concealed carry holster infinitely more comfortable.
When I first started carrying a concealed handgun over a decade ago, strong-side carry ruled the roost. CCW courses were centered around strong-side draws, and it seemed that most IWB holsters were designed for strong-side or cross-draw positions. I remember seeing a smattering of “appendix carry” holsters advertised in those early days, but they seemed to be the outlier, and I was admittedly rather skeptical of them. I had no interest in carrying a handgun in a position that was entirely too close to sensitive areas; it just seemed like an accident waiting to happen.
I imagine that I wasn’t alone in this thinking, as it seemed to be a common gripe among many of my peers. Some folks worried about potential injuries, while others—especially those with a law enforcement background—believed that those new-fangled appendix holsters were only for reckless bad guys who were already accustomed to carrying a gun tucked carelessly in their waistband. It was likely the fear of the unknown and the lack of quality appendix holsters in those early days that turned so many of us off to appendix carry.
However, this attitude has drastically changed over the course of the last 10 years or so, and appendix carry has become the new norm with strong-side carry now comfortably sitting in the second-place spot. I think this shift is driven, in part, by advances in holster design and construction, making appendix carry infinitely more comfortable. But, not surprisingly, it's also due to the explosive surge in micro-compact pistols and the desire for deeper concealment with a minimal risk of printing, especially among younger CCW permit holders.
A Surge in Concealed Carry
Recent statistics show that there are more than 20 million concealed carry permit holders in the United States, and that number continues to rise. More American citizens are realizing the importance of self-defense and being prepared as rising crime rates, open borders, and a shortage of peace officers and 911 dispatchers have become an unfortunate commonplace occurrence in many of our communities. Folks are starting to understand that the old adage “when seconds matter, help is only minutes away” carries a lot of weight, especially in areas where violent crimes are all too common. As such, we’re seeing more individuals take a more proactive approach in ensuring their safety and security.
There is also a growing sense of community among shooters who are interested in appendix carry. Not surprisingly, there are also tons of online forums, discussion boards, and a host of video and blog reviews that offer a variety of tips, tricks, and insights into how to make appendix carry more comfortable and effective. I've even heard of some CCW courses centered around appendix carry as the primary carry method, helping shooters navigate the nuances of appendix carry earlier in their training.
Further, and perhaps most exciting, the significant number of female shooters who are obtaining CCW permits and carrying concealed weapons as a means to protect themselves has undoubtedly contributed to the recent surge in concealed carry. I'd even venture to say that women have done more than simply contributing; they've led the way and driven a shift in the market toward better and more comfortable carry options that fit more uniformly against different body types.
What Is Appendix Carry?
So, what exactly is appendix carry and why has it become the primary carry position among younger shooters? Appendix carry is an inside-the-waistband (IWB) position that involves carrying a concealed firearm at the lower front of your torso, typically between the navel and hip. Unlike traditional strong-side or cross-draw carry methods, appendix carry offers unique advantages that are rather appealing, even to a once-skeptic like me.
For starters, the appendix position offers deep concealment with minimal printing—especially with micro-compact and sub-compact pistols such as the Springfield Hellcat. Further, because this position places your firearm at the front of your body, it allows for easier access and a smoother draw, which I'd argue is absolutely critical in self-defense situations. Many people, myself included, find that carrying in this way feels more natural, and it can be especially comfortable when using a well-designed holster like the Safariland IncogX—a personal favorite.
There are, of course, some downsides to appendix carry, including the time it takes to get used to an appendix holster and learning to wear it comfortably when seated. This position can feel uncomfortable for some, especially men, as it may push the edges of the holster into the groin or abdomen when sitting. It can feel a bit cumbersome, and I often remove my holster when riding or driving in a car. That's just my preference, but with a small adjustment and a bit more practice, it would likely be a non-issue.
Innovations in materials and ergonomics are leading to holsters that enhance comfort and security, potentially swaying preferences among carriers. While appendix carry remains the preferred carry method for many due to its quick access, the discomfort associated with prolonged wear—especially when sitting or driving—could lead the newest generation of shooters to explore alternatives or serve as a catalyst for some new and improved design or carry method we've not yet seen.
Shooters are finally feeling empowered to experiment with different carry positions, assessing which best suits their lifestyle and body type. I wouldn't be shocked to see the return of cross-draw or strong-side carry to the number-one spot over the next few years, but it's no secret that holster companies are constantly investing in new designs and materials, further driving concealed carry trends toward new, innovative solutions.
So, while appendix carry is likely to remain a favored choice for its many advantages, it may only be a matter of time before its current reign is challenged or it's forced to coexist with some new and improved carry method that better meets the evolving needs of concealed carry permit holders. And if recent history has taught us anything, we'd best be ready for anything and embrace the future of concealed carry. I have a feeling we're just getting started.
The L.A.G. Tactical Appendix MK II adjustable holster is pressure formed, CNC cut, and hand finished.
Crossbreed Holsters offers a variety of appendix carry holsters for numerous makes and models of firearms.