We are long gone from the time when the only types of concealed carry holsters available were mostly leather belt slides outside the waistband (OWB) that had loops or slots through which you slid the belt and then positioned it where you wanted it . In the 1970s, the pancake style of holster (flat, with widely spaced belt loops to hold the gun firmly to the body) was also popular. It still sells today, but they have now got more competition. 

 Let's talk about some of the most popular types of concealed carry:

 

Advantages and disadvantages of each type of holster:

IWB - Holster (inside the waistband)

The IWB holster has become increasingly popular in recent decades. This holster usually has a clip that attaches to the belt, with the holster itself hidden between your waistband and skin or vest. It is a very good way to hide the fact that you are carrying a weapon if you use the right combination of weapon and holster.

Advantages:

• The weapon is well concealed
• With the exception of the handle, everything is inside the holster so you can place your hand firmly on the handle
• The trigger is covered
• The best IWB holsters allow for one-handed repositioning
  
• This is the "deepest" concealment you can use unless you choose a belly band
  
• Access is relatively quick, depending on which cover garment you are wearing
  

Disadvantages:

• If your trousers are not the right size, the holster may be dented or at least uncomfortable
• Some IWB holsters must first be removed before the weapon can be holstered again.
• The belt clip of some cheap inner holsters can easily slip or break
• The carrying angle of many IWB holsters is fixed and cannot be adjusted

The main advantage of an IWB holster is that you don't need a big coat or jacket to conceal the weapon. The holster is like an iceberg - most of the weapon is "below the surface" of your belt line and concealed, so a large T-shirt can be all that is needed to conceal the weapon, which can also be an advantage in summer when temperatures are hot.

OWB – Holster (outside the waistband)

The OWB holster has a lot to offer. The weapon is exposed, the full grip is ready for your hand. If you are wearing a larger garment, such as a large hoodie, jacket, coat, etc., an OWB holster can work well for you. People who live in colder climates are more likely to wear this holster than people who live in temperate climates. You could also hide a large weapon under a coat or parka.

Advantages:

• The full grip of the weapon is exposed to your hand instead of possibly being partially covered.
• Drawing may in some cases be faster than with an IWB holster, especially if a cover garment is not required.
• The holster can be made of leather, cordura, nylon or plastic (polymer, kydex) as desired.
• You have the choice of attaching the holster either with belt loops / belt clip or with a paddle between belt / trousers and shirt, which has "claws" that catch on the belt when pulled. The advantage is that holsters with paddle or clip attachment can be put on and taken off more quickly than models with belt loops.
• There are OWB holsters in many price ranges for hundreds of different weapons, from cheap nylon to expensive grain leather.

Disadvantages:

• The OWB holster tends to be somewhat bulkier than an IWB model due to the attachment system. 
• The gun and holster may "stick out" more than an IWB holster because the gun is not tucked into the pants but is fully exposed. 
• The holster and pistol grip tend to rub against objects as they are exposed

Ankle holster

The ankle holster is a special tool for a special job. These holsters are attached to the ankle of the weak side with some kind of strap. New designs usually use Velcro or some other fastener, while others consist of a strapless elastic band that tightens like a sock and is held in place by friction. Some of the more expensive models have a garter-style top strap that "locks" the holster in place and does not allow it to slip. These holsters are usually intended for small spare weapons and are sometimes carried in that role - as a spare. They are not normally used to carry the primary CC weapon (unless you are going to a place where fashion dictates the use of an ankle holster).

Advantages:

• These holsters are truly invisible unless your trouser leg is lifted for some reason
• Once in the holster, the weapon is firmly connected to the ankle holster - it holds the weapon firmly even if you have to run.
• Most people are not conditioned to look for ankle holsters (or shoulder holsters). You may well recognise a "gun-shaped lump" at your waist, but usually do not consider an ankle holster to be present. Most people have only seen one in the movies or on TV, but not in real life.
• They are inexpensive and provide just one more way to carry an additional weapon along with your main CC weapon.

Shoulder holster

A shoulder holster is a very handy (and famous) item. There are two basic styles - either a vertical or horizontal draw. The vertical draw holds the pistol muzzle down and is preferred for revolvers with longer barrels, as it keeps the barrel out of the way with the muzzle pointing down. Drawing is normally done by loosening the safety strap (if fitted) and pulling the gun out through the open front of the holster. The horizontal position is normally used for short barreled guns, usually as semiautos, but not always. The barrel of the pistol holster is parallel to the ground with the muzzle pointing to the rear. To draw, simply disengage and pull the gun straight forward. Both have their uses, with the horizontal one being used more for the smaller semi-autos carried for protection.

Pocket holster:

A pocket holster is a great way to have a weapon with you without much preparation or effort. Just put the weapon in the holster and then in your pocket. If you want to carry your weapon in your pocket, you only need to do two things: don't just put the weapon in the pocket. First use a holster. This has two functions: It covers the trigger and aligns the weapon with the handle up for easy drawing. Secondly, do not carry anything else in the pocket containing the weapon. There must be no objects, pens, etc. in this pocket that could get stuck in the holster and possibly cause an accidental discharge by being pressed against the trigger. Keep the trouser pocket reserved for the weapon only.

Belly band holster

The belly band (so called because it is a wraparound band of synthetic material that fastens around the midsection under your shirt) is one of the best ways to carry a weapon concealed. With the band under your shirt (unless your body shape is not conducive to such a rig) hardly anyone can see the weapon you are packing. This holster style has become increasingly popular over the years.

So here we have listed the main types of concealed holsters, with their advantages and disadvantages. Only you can determine which type is suitable for you. Different holsters perform different tasks. Regardless of which holster you choose, make sure that the following conditions are met: