Finding the Right Equipment
Choosing the Right Holster
The holster is arguably the most critical component. It’s the interface between your firearm and your body, directly impacting comfort, concealment, and safety. Several considerations are vital:
Material: Holsters come in various materials, each with its own set of pros and cons.
Kydex: Kydex is a thermoplastic material that’s exceptionally popular. It’s durable, rigid, and molded to the exact specifications of your firearm. Kydex offers excellent retention, meaning your gun stays securely in place. It is also easy to clean. A significant benefit of Kydex is its resistance to water, sweat, and other environmental factors. However, Kydex can feel less forgiving against the body compared to other materials, and the initial break-in period may involve some adjustment.
Leather: Leather holsters offer a classic aesthetic and a break-in period that allows the holster to conform more closely to the shape of the firearm and the wearer’s body. Leather can be very comfortable. Leather is generally quieter when drawing and reholstering. However, leather can absorb moisture (sweat) and require more maintenance (e.g., oiling, cleaning). Leather also tends to be thicker than Kydex, which could make concealment slightly more challenging.
Hybrid: Hybrid holsters combine the best of both worlds. They often have a Kydex shell for firearm retention and a leather backing that sits against the body. This offers the rigidity and protection of Kydex with the comfort of leather. They may require a longer break-in period than Kydex holsters and may need some initial adjustment to achieve a comfortable fit.
Holster Design
Beyond material, specific design features can make a significant difference in comfort:
Concealment Devices: These are specifically designed features to help reduce printing, or the outline of the firearm showing through clothing. Common concealment devices include:
Claw: A claw is an extension on the holster, usually near the trigger guard area, that pivots outward. This pushes the grip of the gun into the body, rotating the gun’s grip and concealing it more effectively.
Wing: Similar to a claw, a wing is an extension that uses the pressure of the belt to rotate the grip of the gun inward.
Ride Height: Ride height refers to how high or low the holster sits on your waist. Adjusting ride height can drastically impact comfort. A higher ride height can make the draw easier, but might dig into your side when sitting. A lower ride height might be more comfortable when seated, but can make the draw a little slower. Experimentation is key.
Belt Clip Type and Adjustability: Look for a holster with a durable and adjustable belt clip. The clip’s design should securely attach to your belt and allow for adjustments to cant (angle) and ride height.
Choosing the Right Belt
Your belt is equally crucial. It’s the foundation that supports the weight of the firearm and holster. A flimsy belt will not distribute the weight evenly, leading to discomfort, sagging, and difficulty with concealment.
Belt Construction:
Leather: Leather belts are a classic choice known for their durability and ability to conform to the body over time. Look for thick, high-quality leather belts.
Nylon: Nylon belts, particularly those reinforced with stiffening materials, are also a good option. They tend to be more resistant to stretching and wear. They may come with additional features.
Reinforced: Many dedicated gun belts are reinforced with steel or other rigid materials to provide maximum support.
Belt Width: The belt’s width should match the holster’s belt clip. Wider belts distribute weight more effectively, reducing pressure points. A good gun belt will typically be 1.5 inches or 1.75 inches wide.
Undergarments – An often overlooked aspect of comfort
The undershirt can significantly impact your appendix carry comfort. It provides a layer between your skin and the holster, reducing chafing and helping to wick away moisture. Compression garments can also provide a helpful layer of support and comfort.
Undershirt Considerations: Choose undershirts made from soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking materials. Fabrics like merino wool, athletic blends, or bamboo are excellent choices. Avoid rough or scratchy fabrics. A slightly longer undershirt can also help create a more comfortable barrier between the holster and your skin.
Compression Garments (If applicable): While not for everyone, compression shorts or undershirts can provide extra support, reduce movement of the firearm, and potentially improve comfort, especially during physical activity.
Adjusting the Carry Position and Setup
Holster Placement – Finding the Right Spot
The exact position of your holster along your waistband is highly personal. Factors like body type, build, and activity level will influence the ideal placement.
Experimentation: The key is experimentation. Start by placing the holster slightly off-center from your actual appendix, then adjust it forward or backward.
Consider Your Body Type:
Larger builds: May benefit from positioning the holster slightly further to the side.
Slender builds: Might find the most comfort closer to the midline.
Test it out: Once you’ve adjusted the holster position, test it out through daily activities. Observe the positioning of the gun while you’re sitting, standing, bending, and moving around.
Ride Height Adjustment
Ride height refers to how high or low the holster sits on your waistband. This is another critical adjustment.
Balancing Concealment and Comfort: A higher ride height (closer to your armpit) might make the draw faster but could dig into your side when you sit. A lower ride height could be more comfortable when seated but may make the draw slightly slower.
Adjusting The Clips: Most holsters have adjustable belt clips allowing for ride height adjustments. Experiment with these adjustments to find the sweet spot.
Using Carry Accessories
Wedging or Using a Pad: Many people find that using a wedge or pad can dramatically improve comfort. A wedge is a small, angled piece of material (often foam or rubber) that attaches to the holster. The wedge pushes the grip of the gun inward, preventing it from digging into your stomach and reducing printing. Pads can be used for a similar function and offer a bit more cushion.
Material for the Pad or Wedge: Be sure to use a breathable pad or wedge.
Addressing Specific Discomfort Issues
Dealing with “Digging” or Pressure
Appendix carry often involves pressure points, where the holster or gun digs into the body.
Holster Placement Refinement: Re-evaluate your holster placement. Shifting the holster slightly can often alleviate pressure.
Consider the Wedge/Pad and Angle: Wedges and pads can help by distributing the pressure more evenly, and adjusting the holster’s angle.
Clothing Choice: Loose-fitting clothing helps create a buffer and prevents the gun from digging into your body.
Material Choices: Pay attention to material selections as well. Consider the types of material that are touching your skin for the best results.
Managing Printing
Printing, the outline of the firearm showing through your clothing, is a common concern.
Choose The Right Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting shirts that drape over the gun. Thicker materials, like flannel or heavier cotton, are more effective at obscuring the outline of the gun. Avoid overly tight clothing.
Use a Concealment Device: Consider using a claw or wing on your holster. These devices are specifically designed to rotate the grip of the gun inward, minimizing printing.
Choose Your Firearm Carefully: A smaller firearm, or a firearm with a rounded grip, may print less than a larger one.
Handling Irritation
Skin irritation, chafing, or rubbing can occur, especially with direct contact between the holster, gun, or belt and your skin.
Choosing Softer Materials: Choose a holster material that is comfortable and has a softer backing that comes into contact with your skin.
Use Undershirts and Other Layers: An undershirt acts as a barrier, preventing direct contact between the holster and your skin.
Anti-Chafe Products: Consider applying anti-chafe products (e.g., body glide) in areas prone to irritation.
Lifestyle Adjustments and Practice
Daily Activities
Appendix carry impacts everyday activities. Be mindful of how your carry setup interacts with sitting, bending, and other movements.
Adapting to Movements: Pay attention to how your body feels when you sit, bend, or twist. You may need to adjust your posture or the position of the gun.
Clothing Choices for Different Situations: Be mindful of your clothing choices. Tailor your clothing to match the environment and activity.
Practice and Training
Practice is essential for comfortable and safe appendix carry.
Dry Fire Practice: Dry fire practice involves practicing your draw, reholstering, and presentation without live ammunition.
Live Fire Practice: Progress to live fire practice when you are proficient with the draw and reholstering. Safety first is paramount.
Listen to Your Body
The most crucial advice is to listen to your body. Be attentive to any discomfort, pain, or signs of irritation.
Immediate Adjustments: If you experience discomfort, make immediate adjustments. Try different positions, clothing, or equipment choices.
Addressing Issues Proactively: Don’t ignore problems. The sooner you address any issues, the more comfortable your carry experience will become.
Safety Considerations
Safety is paramount in any discussion of firearm carry. Appendix carry, in particular, demands a high level of attention to safety protocols.
Proper Trigger Guard Coverage: Ensure that your holster provides complete and secure coverage of the trigger guard. This will prevent accidental discharges.
Safe Draw and Reholstering Technique: Practice a safe draw and reholstering technique.
Gun Handling: Maintain diligent gun handling.
Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain your holster and firearm. Look for wear and tear, and replace any components that are damaged.
Conclusion
Making appendix carry comfortable involves a personalized approach. There’s no single solution. It requires patience, experimentation, and a willingness to adapt. By carefully considering the right equipment, fine-tuning your setup, and incorporating lifestyle adjustments, you can transform uncomfortable appendix carry into a comfortable and practical everyday solution. Remember to try different holsters, belts, and accessories until you find the combination that works best for you. Be patient and continue to improve your setup until the process is second nature, both in comfort and safety. Consider sharing your experience, which will hopefully encourage a safe and comfortable carry solution for all.
