There is no single best way to carry concealed. The right method depends on your body shape, daily activities, wardrobe, and the size of the firearm you carry. Understanding the major carry options — and the tradeoffs each involves — lets you make an informed choice rather than defaulting to whatever the gun shop recommends. These five carry methods cover the full range of practical concealed carry configurations available in 2026.
| Carry Method | Firearm Size | Concealment | Draw Speed | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IWB Strong-Side Hip | Full to compact | Excellent | Fast | 4.9/5 |
| Appendix IWB | Compact to subcompact | Excellent | Fastest | 4.8/5 |
| OWB with Cover Garment | Full to compact | Good | Fast | 4.6/5 |
| Ankle Carry | Subcompact | Good | Slowest | 4.3/5 |
| Pocket Carry | Subcompact | Excellent | Moderate | 4.5/5 |
IWB Strong-Side Hip — The Standard Carry Position
Strong-side hip IWB carry at 3 to 5 o’clock is the baseline method most training courses teach because it is consistent, fast, and works across a wide range of body types and firearm sizes. The gun sits inside the waistband at the dominant hand side, covered by an untucked shirt, jacket, or overshirt. A quality IWB holster with a rigid backing and at least one solid belt clip is required. This method works with full-size, compact, and subcompact pistols. Most holster manufacturers offer their widest selection in IWB strong-side configurations.
Appendix IWB — Fastest Draw, Best Concealment
Appendix carry positions the firearm at the front of the waistband, typically between the 12 and 2 o’clock position. This placement keeps the gun directly in front of the carrier, shortening the draw stroke and making the firearm easier to monitor and protect. Concealment under a t-shirt is often better than strong-side carry because the front of the torso is flatter than the hip. AIWB requires a purpose-built holster with a long sweat shield and a claw or wing that tucks the grip inward. Body type matters: carriers with a larger abdomen may find AIWB uncomfortable.
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OWB with Cover Garment — Maximum Comfort for Long Carry Days
Outside-the-waistband carry keeps the firearm outside the pants, held by a belt-mounted holster. This eliminates the gun-against-torso contact that makes IWB carry uncomfortable after several hours. The tradeoff is that a cover garment — an untucked button-down, a jacket, or a vest — is required for concealment. OWB carry is popular with carriers who spend most of their time in environments where a jacket is appropriate. For larger body types or anyone who finds IWB painful during seated work, OWB is a practical primary method.
Ankle Carry — Backup Gun Position or Light Carry Option
Ankle carry is typically used as a backup gun position rather than a primary carry method because the draw is the slowest of any standard position. Accessing an ankle holster requires bending, kneeling, or reaching down — none of which is practical in a high-stress situation. That said, ankle carry works well for subcompact revolvers or pistols as a backup to a primary IWB gun, and it conceals entirely below the pants hem without any holster printing at the waist. Ankle holsters with calf strap retention prevent the holster from sliding.
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Pocket Carry — Maximum Discretion for Subcompact Firearms
Pocket carry requires a pocket holster that orients the firearm correctly, covers the trigger, and breaks up the outline of the gun so the pocket prints as a wallet rather than a pistol. The draw is a two-step motion — establish a master grip, break the retention or holster, and present — which is slower than belt positions. Pocket carry works best with very small subcompact pistols or revolvers in .380 ACP or .38 Special. It is a practical method for casual dress where a belt-mounted holster is not appropriate.
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How to Choose a Concealed Carry Method
Start by identifying your daily environment. Office workers in business attire have different constraints than people who work outdoors. Then consider your body type — IWB and AIWB work differently depending on waist size and abdomen shape. Match firearm size to carry method: full-size pistols can be carried IWB but are challenging in pocket or ankle rigs. Whatever method you choose, invest in quality holster and belt gear for that method rather than compromising with a universal solution. Training matters as much as equipment.
Your carry method shapes every other gear decision. See best concealed carry holsters for fat guys for body-type-specific holster guidance, and best concealed carry magazine holder for spare ammunition options that work with each method. Detailed evaluation criteria are at /methodology.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular concealed carry method?+
Inside-the-waistband carry at the strong-side hip (3 to 5 o'clock position) is the most widely used method because it balances concealment with a natural draw stroke. IWB positions the firearm against the body where clothing drapes over it easily. Most carry holsters, accessories, and training courses are designed around this method, making it the most supported choice for new carriers.
Is appendix carry safe?+
Appendix inside-the-waistband (AIWB) carry is safe when done correctly with a quality holster that fully covers the trigger guard. The risks come from improper holstering technique or using holsters without rigid trigger protection. AIWB offers faster draw times for many body types and excellent concealment under a t-shirt. Proper training and a dedicated AIWB holster are essential before adopting this carry position.