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Best Guns for AIWB Appendix Carry

Glock G43X Concealed Draw
We run through a handful of our favorite handguns for appendix carry. From Glock to Sig, we have you covered. Come see what made the cut!
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    Though appendix carry can be a hot topic within the gun community, it’s the preferred method of carry for a lot of gun folks.

    Pair the right gun with the right holster and add in some quality training, and it’s a great method of concealed carry.

    Mastermind Womens Belt

    But with a myriad of guns to choose from…how do you know which one to pick? No worries, we here at Pew Pew Tactical are here to help!

    We have narrowed down our favorite guns specifically for AIWB concealed carry in the hopes that it makes your selection process a little easier.

    So, keep reading as we dive into the specs and features of our recommendations!

    THE QUICK LIST

    1. Best Lightweight AIWB Pistol

      Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus

    2. Best for Bigger Hands

      CZ P-10C

    3. Best Budget Pick

      Taurus G3C

    4. Best AIWB Revolver

      Ruger LCR

    5. Best for Red Dots

      Mossberg MC2c

    Table of Contents

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    AIWB Guns Comparison

    CaliberBarrel LengthOverall LengthWidthWeightCapacityPrice
    Sig Sauer P3659mm3.1″5.8″1″17.8 oz10+1 / 15+1$499
    Glock G43X MOS9mm3.41″6.5″1.1″18.7 oz10+1$485
    Smith & Wesson Shield Plus3.1″6.1″1.1″17.9 oz13+1$399
    Springfield Armory Hellcat9mm3″6″1″18.3 oz11+1 / 13+1$541
    CZ P-10C9mm4.02″7.3″1.26″26 oz15+1$379
    Taurus G3C9mm3.2″6.3″1.1″22 oz12+1$212
    Ruger LCR9mm (other calibers available)1.87″6.5″1.28″17.2 oz5 rounds$621
    Mossberg MC2c9mm3.9″7.1″1.1″21 oz13+1 / 15+1$245

    How We Chose the Best AIWB Guns for Concealed Carry

    For this article, we gathered a bunch of pistols we’ve personally shot, reviewed, and owned here at Pew Pew Tactical. All guns that made this list had to have a few things in common to earn a spot on our best AIWB handgun recommendations:

    • Must reliably fire
    • Easy to conceal in an appendix holster
    • Ergonomics must work for most shooters
    • Have a price tag that the average consumer can stomach
    4. Sig Sauer Rose Conceal
    We tested out every gun we recommend on this list

    The entire Pew Pew Tactical team, as well as freelance writers, contributed to this review to offer different opinions based on hand size and body type. Everyone on our team has tested and carried every gun on this list in the appendix (AIWB) position.

    For guns we have reviews on, we’ve linked those so you can read more. Every review gun undergoes a strict testing protocol that requires a minimum of 500 rounds of both FMJ and JHP ammo through it at 5 and 7 yards. Most of the guns listed have seen 1,000+ rounds through them at longer distances and have been used for everyday concealed carry with a member of our staff.

    Best AIWB Guns for Concealed Carry

    1. Sig Sauer P365 – Editor’s Pick

    $499
    at GrabAGun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Large capacity
    • Excellent grip
    • Controllable given the size
    • Tritium night sights

    Cons

    • Tight fit with full magazine
    • Thumb may rest on slide stop negating last round hold open

    Specs

    • Caliber: 9mm
    • Action: Semi-Auto
    • Barrel Length: 3.1″
    • Overall Length: 5.8″
    • Width: 1″
    • Weight: 17.8 oz
    • Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
    • Features: Modular polymer grip module, optics ready slide, X-RAY3 Day/Night Sights

    The Sig Sauer P365 is a 9mm pistol that challenged the micro compact industry when it was launched in 2018. Offering an impressive capacity (up to 15+1 with extended mags), this series of pistols revolutionized the carry market. So much so that nearly every staff member at Pew Pew Tactical carries some version of the P365.

    Sig P365

    It boasts impressive features such as tritium night sights, a comfortable and ergonomic grip, and a commendable trigger system. Not to mention, there’s a plethora of models to choose from.

    On the downside, there’s a tight fit when it’s fully loaded, and there’s a chance the thumb might rest on the slide stop, potentially affecting its functionality.

    P365XL with Hidden Hybrid Holster
    The nice thing about the P365 is there are lots of variants, so you can choose what works best for you. Eric, our founder, carries a P365XL

    Despite its small stature, the gun handles well and doesn’t feel as snappy as you might expect in a small platform. In our testing, it fits most of our hands well. The downside to the P365 is that loading it to full capacity can sometimes be a challenge – you’ll definitely want to utilize a mag loader to make life easier.

    P365 Comparison
    P365

    For those interested in AIWB, the P365 stands out as a strong contender due to its compact size, plenty of aftermarket holster options, and ability to conceal easily.

    Read more on the P365 in our review or find a version that works for you in our round-up of pretty much all of the P365 lineup.

    2. Glock 43X MOS – Most Reliable

    Most Reliable
    $485
    at GrabAGun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Very reliable
    • Simple controls & easy to shoot
    • Compact & great for CCW

    Cons

    • Snappy due to shorter barrel
    • Slight offset on rear sight
    • Stiff trigger
    • 10-rd standard capacity

    Specs

    • Caliber: 9mm
    • Action: Semi-Auto
    • Barrel Length: 3.41″
    • Overall Length: 6.5″
    • Width: 1.1″
    • Weight: 18.7 oz
    • Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
    • Features: nDLC finish, Glock Marksmanship Barrel, front slide serrations

    We couldn’t list a group of guns and not mention Glock…seriously, the Glock fanbois would hunt us down.

    The G43X MOS is a newer take on the G43 design with some nice features like a 10-round capacity and optics-ready slide. But a heads-up: if you’re adding a red dot, remember to secure it well with Loctite to avoid any movement.

    RMRcc Mount on Glock 43x MOS
    Glock 43x MOS

    Its grip has also been improved, with Glock adding an extra inch to the area, giving you slightly more to hold onto.

    Shooting-wise, it’s pretty solid! Running a few hundred rounds at the range went smooth, even with Winchester white box 9mm.

    Glock G43X Concealed Draw

    All in all, if you’re on the fence about this one, the G43X MOS is a pretty reliable choice for concealed carry. It’s got the trusted Glock name, some design improvements, and it shoots reliably.

    We’ve got more details on the Glock 43X MOS in our full review.

    3. Smith & Wesson Shield Plus – Best Lightweight AIWB Pistol

    Best Lightweight AIWB Pistol
    $399
    at GrabAGun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Large capacity
    • Good grip texture
    • Reliable

    Cons

    • Slightly difficult to field strip
    • A little snappy
    • Challenging for larger hands

    Specs

    • Caliber: 9mm
    • Action: Semi-Auto
    • Barrel Length: 3.1″
    • Overall Length: 6.1″
    • Width: 1.1″
    • Weight: 17.9 oz
    • Magazine Capacity: 13 rounds
    • Features: Flat trigger bow, extended magazine

    The Smith & Wesson Shield Plus unseated our original pick from S&W, the Shield EZ. (Still a good option if hand-strength is an issue.)

    Why?

    Shield Plus Shooting
    Also comes in .30 Super Carry if you want to step outside of the 9mm realm

    The Plus offers a better shooting experience and better fit for a larger portion of hand sizes. It operates in a nice mid-range where it’s not too big and not too small. In a sea of micro compacts that leave your pinky handing, the Plus is a nice alternative.

    During our testing, we found it to be extremely reliable, running through both practice and defensive ammo with ease. Ergonomics were good — accessing controls was fairly easy. Accuracy was solid, and the price point is also in a good area that most consumers can access.

    M&P Shield 9 Plus holstered
    M&P Shield 9 Plus holstered

    Only downside is a lack of aftermarket support.

    All in all, if you want a lightweight pistol that works with mid to large hands, this is a winner.

    Make sure to read our full review of the Smith & Wesson Shield Plus.

    4. Springfield Armory Hellcat – Best AIWB Pistol for Small Hands

    Best for Small Hands
    $505
    at GrabAGun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Great for concealment
    • Aggressive texturing
    • Easy to shoot
    • Great iron sights

    Cons

    • May be too small for larger hands
    • Less aftermarket support
    • Snappier than some other micro-compacts

    Specs

    • Caliber: 9mm
    • Action: Semi-Auto
    • Barrel Length: 3″
    • Overall Length: 6″
    • Width: 1″
    • Weight: 18.3 oz
    • Magazine Capacity: 11+1 standard, 13+1 extended
    • Features: Picatinny rail, Hi-viz U rear sight and yellow high viz front sight, adaptive grip texture

    The Springfield Hellcat is another micro-compact firearm that does well for AIWB carry.

    Offering an 11+1 capacity – with 13 and 15-round extended mags for those that want it — the 9mm Hellcat comes optics-ready straight from the factory.

    Springfield Armory Hellcat
    Springfield Armory Hellcat

    The Hellcat features a unique “adaptive grip texture,” which becomes grippier the harder you hold it, and iron sights that include a rear sight with a high-visibility U and a yellow high-viz front sight.

    It also opts for a flat-faced trigger and does away with the grip safety commonly seen on Springfield’s XD series. The controls are user-friendly, though users with bigger hands might experience issues with the slide not locking back due to thumb placement and might need to adjust their grip when reloading.

    Shooting the Springfield Armory Hellcat
    Shooting the Springfield Armory Hellcat

    On the range, the Hellcat performed well. Its sights are easy to use and allow for rapid target acquisition. The gun’s recoil is mild, and its grip texture ensures it remains firmly in the user’s hand.

    Overall, it’s a robust concealed carry pistol that brings enough features to make it a worthwhile consideration for potential buyers.

    Check out the full review on the Hellcat for more of our range experience.

    5. CZ P10C – Best AIWB Gun for Bigger Hands

    Best for Bigger Hands
    $384
    at Kygunco

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Good trigger for the price point
    • Great ergonomics
    • Proven track record

    Cons

    • Grip texture is very sharp and may be too aggressive for some.
    • Front serrations are too shallow/short for some
    • Slide catch tough to reach for smaller-handed shooters

    Specs

    • Caliber: 9mm
    • Action: Semi-Auto
    • Barrel Length: 4.02″
    • Overall Length: 7.3″
    • Width: 1.26″
    • Weight: 26 oz
    • Magazine Capacity: 15 rounds
    • Features: 3 interchangeable backstraps, 4.5-5 lb trigger pull, fiber-reinforced polymer frame

    Could we create a gun list without a CZ? We don’t think so. That’s why we chose the CZ P-10C. This compact version of the P-10 offers the same shooting experience as its bigger brother but in a slightly smaller package.

    CZ P10 C

    While testing this one out, we immediately noticed that the CZ P-10C shoots extremely well! We had no issues in the 500 rounds of practice and defensive ammo we used. Not to mention, the CZ also is quite accurate…I dare say it’s more accurate than the shooter.

    CZ P10 C

    While it lacks in the aftermarket (you won’t see Glock-level sights, holsters, etc.), it makes up for in ergonomics. It feels great in the hand, which, in turn, makes it easy to shoot. Overall, this is a great gun at a good price that you shouldn’t pass up.

    Want more? We have a full review of the CZ P-10C.

    6. Taurus G3C – Best Budget AIWB Handgun

    Best Budget Pick
    $212
    at Palmetto State Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Reliable across different ammo we tested
    • Right amount of grip for CCW
    • Easy to access controls
    • Affordable

    Cons

    • Comes with manual safety that requires training
    • Not optics ready

    Specs

    • Caliber: 9mm
    • Action: Semi-Auto
    • Barrel Length: 3.2″
    • Overall Length: 6.3″
    • Width: 1.2″
    • Weight: 22 oz
    • Magazine Capacity: 12 rounds
    • Features: 3 included magazines, Glock sight compatible, metal front/rear sights

    The Taurus G3C is a compact and affordable concealed carry weapon (CCW) with significant improvements over its predecessor, the G2C.

    Taurus G3C in some hand
    Taurus G3C

    A budget-friendly pick, the G3C boasts a reliable design with 10 or 12-round magazine options. Its sights are Glock sight compatible, so you can swap those out if you want, and its controls are easy to access and manipulate.

    At the range, we noticed it’s accurate and has a decent trigger with a crisp, short reset. It does come with a manual safety, so if that’s not your thing, you might want to pass.

    Taurus G3C

    We’ve noticed the G3C is frequently priced less than the G2C, and with the added features and upgrades, it’s worth picking up!

    If you’re on the hunt for an affordable AIWB handgun that works well in a holster and is compact for carry, the G3C fits the bill.

    Read more about the Taurus G3C in our full review!

    7. Ruger LCR – Best Revolver for AIWB Carry

    Best AIWB Revolver
    $621
    at GrabAGun

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Specs

    • Caliber: 9mm & others
    • Action: Double-Action Revolver
    • Barrel Length: 1.87″
    • Overall Length: 6.5″
    • Width: 1.28″
    • Weight: 17.2 oz
    • Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds
    • Features: DAO trigger, Moon clip cuts, Hogue tamer grips included

    Designed for concealed carry, the Ruger LCR is a small, compact, and lightweight revolver that easily nestles into a holster.

    Ruger LCR 9mm
    Ruger LCR

    Available in a variety of calibers, including 9mm and .38 Special, the LCR opts for a DAO trigger. Surprisingly, it feels really nice and is, dare say, one of the best DAO revolver triggers on the market.

    In our time testing it, the LCR proved reliable — though crimp jump can be an issue. Though your customization options are a bit limited, you’ll likely be fine with its stock configuration. Ergonomically, it’s tiny, and that means some large-handed folks will have a really tough time holding onto that tiny grip. So make sure to train with it so you know what you’re dealing with.

    Ruger LCR

    On that note, since it’s a snub-nosed revolver, the recoil is snappy. Again, this is where training comes in. Practice makes perfect, and practice is essential to be accurate with this gun.

    But if you’re looking for a small, concealable revolver that’s proven itself, then the LCR is a good option.

    Read up on the LCR in our full review!

    8. Mossberg MC2c – Best Red Dot Compatible AIWB Pistol

    Best for Red Dots
    $245
    at BattleHawk Armory

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Prices accurate at time of writing

    Available Coupons

    Pros

    • Good value
    • Compact design
    • Reversible slide release and thumb safety

    Cons

    • No lifetime warranty
    • No backstrap inserts

    Specs

    • Caliber: 9mm
    • Action: Semi-Auto
    • Barrel Length: 3.9″
    • Overall Length: 7.1″
    • Width: 1.1″
    • Weight: 21 oz
    • Magazine Capacity: 13 rounds (15-round magazine available)
    • Features: Swappable sights, flat-faced trigger, red dots can co-witness with stock sights

    Mossberg is traditionally known for its shotguns, but the MC2c is a decent option for those looking to appendix carry.

    Mossberg MC2c

    The MC2c comes with features like a flat-faced trigger, swappable sights, and an optics slot that allows co-witnessing with stock sights.

    This pistol fits comfortably in hand and worked well with various ammunition types during our testing….in fact, we did a 1,000-round burn down to see how far we could push this gun, and it didn’t disappoint.

    Potential downsides are the lack of a lifetime warranty, a possibly steep MSRP for some, and the absence of backstrap inserts. Despite these cons, its array of features, such as no-trigger-pull takedown, good factory sights, and a textured grip, make it a noteworthy consideration for buyers.

    Mossberg MC2c shooting

    Overall, the Mossberg MC2c provides another option for those who want a smaller gun that will reliably eat ammo.

    Want to know more? We have it all in our MC2c review.

    Advantages of Appendix Carry

    Why would someone want to carry in the appendix inside the waistband (AIWB) position? Well, there are a few reasons.

    Direct access to the gun: Appendix carry positions the firearm at the front of your body. This front position can lead to a quicker drawstroke if you’re training regularly and putting in those reps.

    Ferro Bison Belt Concealed Carry

    Can accommodate bigger guns: Due to the positioning at the front of the body, individuals are not limited to carrying only compact or subcompact firearms. I know that seems counter-intuitive, but with the right holster (wedges and wings are helpful), you can carry just about anything…For instance, I’m 5’2”, weigh about 114 pounds, and comfortably carry a Glock 19-sized pistol in the AIWB position.

    Womens Concealed Carry AIWB
    AIWB with a Glock-19 sized firearm

    Versatility in clothing: AIWB can be more accommodating to different types of attire. Clothing patterns can help in concealing the weapon’s outline. Especially for women, jewelry can also help divert attention away from an AIWB-carried firearm.

    Reholstering: With AIWB, you can look your gun into the holster…meaning you can maintain a visual on the gun as it is reholstered. That’s a plus in the safety department. While we’re on that topic, let’s address the elephant in the room. While there are myths surrounding the dangers of AIWB, with proper training, practice, and firearm safety observance, the risks associated with this carry method can be mitigated.

    Concealed Carry AIWB Reholster Side
    AIWB reholster

    All that said, like any carry method, there are pros and cons, risks and benefits, and body types that work better than others with this style. The biggest suggestion we have is get a good holster and belt combo and get trained!

    Why Trust Pew Pew Tactical

    Editor-in-Chief Jacki Billings runs our experienced team of gun reviewers. She is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, ACES: Society for Editing, and the Professional Outdoor Media Association. Jacki has a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications and has worked as a media professional for close to 20 years, specializing in gun media for almost 10 years. She uses her extensive professional journalism and editing experience to set testing protocols and editorial standards.

    Womens Concealed AIWB
    Jacki carrying a Shadow Systems Glock 19 clone AIWB.

    Additionally, Jacki has experience as an NRA and concealed carry instructor and has been carrying in the AIWB position for 5+ years. She started with a Glock 19 and now carries a Sig Sauer P365 Rose. She uses her knowledge to bring good recommendations that accommodate a variety of consumers.

    Sean Curtis and Preston Hughes also contributed to this article.

    Final Thoughts

    Ultimately, the best gun for AIWB is the one you feel most comfortable carrying but, hopefully, we’ve given you a good starting point.

    P365XL with Hidden Hybrid Holster
    P365XL with Hidden Hybrid Holster

    Whether you’re after a larger handgun or a tiny compact, remember that AIWB carry is most successful when backed by a good holster (we’ve got recommendations) and training!

    What’s your preferred AIWB gun? Let us know below! For more concealed carry guns, check out our list of the Best Concealed Carry Guns.

    Latest Updates

    • November 2024: Removed the Smith & Wesson Shield EZ & CZ P-01. Added the Smith & Wesson Shield Plus, CZ P-10C, and Ruger LCR.
    • October 2023: Rewritten with all new picks and recommendations.

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    52 Leave a Reply

    • Jim

      The nice thing about pocket carry is that you can have your hand on your gun, ready to shoot it, and no one will know - you will never be accused of brandishing.

      December 3, 2024 7:41 am
    • Jim

      You correctly stated that "crimp jump can be an issue" with the Ruger LCR. However, you didn't say what "crimp jump" is, nor which LCRs are affected by it.

      "Crimp jump", also known as "bullet creep", is when the shell casing is not crimped tightly enough around the bullet, resulting in the possibility of the bullets in the gun creeping forward within their shell casings as the gun is shot. (Obviously this is not a problem for the bullet you are shooting; it is only a problem for all of the other bullets in the gun.)

      Crimp jump is not a problem for magazine-fed guns: the rounds in the magazine are not held in place within the magazine; so any forward motion will affect the entire round, not just the bullet; also, the front wall of the magazine prevents the bullets from moving forward, so they can't creep forward within their shell casings.

      It is a different story for revolvers: the shell casing is held firmly in place by the rim on the bottom of the shell casing; however, there is nothing to block the bullet from creeping forward when the gun is shot. As a result, the bullets can creep forward within their shell casings whenever a revolver is shot. For this reason, revolver ammunition must be crimped tightly enough to prevent crimp jump.

      9MM rounds are designed and intended to be shot from a magazine-fed gun, not from a revolver. For this reason, they may not be crimped tightly enough to prevent crimp jump when shot from a revolver. If there is any crimp jump, the round may jamb the revolver from cycling, because the round will now be longer than its original length. And who knows what other dangerous things might happen if a round is shot after the bullet has crept forward within its shell casing.

      Right now, almost no one is talking about this issue, let alone certifying 9MM ammunition as being safe for shooting in a revolver. So for now, I will not shoot a 9MM revolver.

      November 28, 2024 12:58 pm
    • Douglas Reichwein

      Ya, not going to break the first rule of firearm safety with appendix carry. Most of the time in my sleepy country life, my 3 oclock is plenty accessible. If I'm in a dodgy parking garage or similar my Ruger LCR is already in my hand discreetly covered by an over shirt.

      October 28, 2023 8:44 pm
    • J. D. Ray

      Two of the most underrated brands in firearms: Mossberg and Savage. Having some of each, including a 54 Y.O. 500 twelve gauge, are rock-solid and problem-free. This Mossberg pistol should be a winner; if I wasn't mired deep with Glock, I would own one.

      October 28, 2023 9:59 am
    • Jim Hurley

      I'd stay away from the S&W, I bought two of their guns in the last several months and they both had to be sent back for repair. A model 25 45 Colt revolver that the cylinder was almost impossible to open and an M&P 5.7 that fails to go into battery frequently. There is a magazine problem, but there is also a problem with the ejector hanging up against the round. * weeks to get the revolver back and 4 or 5 weeks to get new magazines. I also recently read a comment that a 5.7 that was returned was sent back and was not fixed. Seems that S&W is having some quality problems.

      October 27, 2023 12:05 pm
    • Scott

      To not have the Shield Plus on this list is just wrong! I have the Hellcat, P365, G43X and the Shield Plus is what I choose every time over the others!

      October 27, 2023 7:47 am
    • L Otwell

      Let’s not forget a good snubbie like a J-frame or LCR. With most civilian “social encounters “ occurring at contact distance and requiring 2 rounds or less, “ 5 for sure” is pretty comforting. And you’d have to work hard to shoot your own goods

      October 26, 2023 8:23 pm
      • Thomas Chesko

        I carry the LCR 38 that takes a Plus-P round. It's very comfortable carrying AIWB and very safe given that it is a revolver with a smooth trigger pull. The trigger won't pull itself.

        October 26, 2023 11:16 pm
    • Drkoopman

      I have both a Glock 43x and the Ruger Max 9. Both are solid options. Surprised the Ruger Max 9 didn't make the list.

      October 26, 2023 7:30 pm
    • Jim

      I tried appendix carry once WITH AN EMPTY GUN! I couldn't do it!

      October 23, 2023 10:06 pm
    • Barak

      Why width not mentioned for every gun? You state length and height but no width for most of them. It is mentioned for only 2 of the guns in this article. When carrying IWB, this is an important spec.

      October 23, 2023 3:25 pm
      • Jacki Billings

        Sometimes we don't have those stats on hand. We're working to include more data in our articles, so keep checking back. Thanks!

        November 17, 2023 10:25 am
    • Krush

      Appendix carry violates two of the basic rules of fiream safety: it points the muzzle in an unsafe direction, and it points the muzzle at things you absolutely don't want to destroy: femoral arteries, genitalia, and legs to name a few. That makes no firearm a good choice for appendix carry. Full disclosure: I'm a volunteer EMT and an electrical engineer that has spent over 20 years focused on safety in dangerous working environments that include semiconductor manufacturing, electrical substation distribution, US Air Force flight line operations, High Intensity Radio Frequency (including radar and plasma), power supply electronics, and avionics. Safety is no accident.

      August 28, 2023 5:26 pm
      • Fred Albumin

        I agree with you Krush. I am a 3 o'clock carry (hidden with outer garment) or a vest carry. I don't like the idea of shooting my junk off. When do many negligent discharges happen? When holstering a firearm, or when drawing a firearm. Appendix carry is just too risky for me. PS, I have an MS in engineering and worked in the defense nuclear industry for many years. There, a safety violation could get you either fired or killed.

        October 26, 2023 6:58 pm
    • John

      "When it comes to speed, the name of the game is economy of motion."

      Something I've seen a lot of people not understand. Ill say something an instructor once told me after he encountered a bad guy who was already in process of aiming at him- i had heard about it on the news-in reference to that situation he said- "if you're sights are not on the bad guy and u are ready to pull the trigger before an eye blink is done your survival from then on out until the encounter is done is just pure blind luck" - he survived the encounter, the bad guy did not. He was the fastest person i have ever seen and when he demonstrated there was zero wasted motion and if u blinked u missed it.

      April 19, 2021 12:18 pm
    • Timothy L Travis

      Carrying the Hellcat AIWB 13 & 1 no problem

      April 19, 2021 9:08 am
    • Michael Sanchez

      How come you never mention the CZ-75 P01? I like G-19 but jeez the CZ is better out of the box in my opinion!

      April 19, 2021 5:09 am
      • Blake

        While how well the gun shoots or feels (which is pretty subjective) its also about the availability of parts and accessories. Everyone makes a glock holster and if you have a light your much more likely to find a holster for a glock. I imagine P320s are gonna be popular too with military adoption. I like CZs but they just aren't nearly as common.

        April 19, 2021 5:46 am
      • Noel

        That's my next EDC. Gonna get the Omega and run it decock.

        April 20, 2021 12:25 pm
    • Leonard

      Am I the only one that does this?
      I carry appendix, I clip the holster to my belt but outside my pants. It stays dry and clean, and doesn't dig into my skin.
      I've done this for years

      April 19, 2021 4:12 am
    • Phil

      Check out MagGuts for your Carry gun. They give you a 14 round capability in the 12 round and 12 rounds in the 10 count magazine for the Sig P 365. Increases most magazine capacity by two with minimal extension of the base.

      April 19, 2021 3:56 am
      • Frankie

        MagGuts! Love my lil M&P Shield 9 for AIWB in a Tier 1 with extra mag carrier. But, hate the mag spring in this model as they can bind. No bueno! Went with MagGuts to solve the issue and turned an 8+1 into a 10+1 and added feed reliability! If you run the M&P Shield 9, cycle rounds through. If the follower doesn't lock the slide back after the last round once in a while, pull out the spring and you'll see it's bound over itself. It'll be tough to pull out. Then, get MagGuts! Solved!

        April 20, 2021 12:14 pm
    • Mike D

      The CZ 75-P-01 is a GREAT option. Being a DA/SA, having that 1st shot set for DA, w/a hammer, IS the safest option to re-holster your gun in appendix carry(put thumb over the hammer as a safety pre-caution while re-holstering). Fool-proof. Family jewels will have peace of 'mind'. :P

      April 18, 2021 9:07 pm
    • Dumplin McSwaggin

      Hey y’all should do an article for us who want to carry who are alittle on the fluffy side.

      April 18, 2021 8:18 pm
    • Glock dude

      What about the M&P Shield Plus?

      April 18, 2021 7:10 pm
      • Scott

        This is my choice every day, I own the Hellcat, P365 and the Glock 43X and pick the Shield Plus 97% of the time! Great pistol and I use the Tenicor Velo4 appendix holster for all my guns!

        October 27, 2023 7:56 am
    • Mike7329

      Another vote for the Taurus G2C. I also switch out with a Ruger LC9s

      April 18, 2021 6:39 pm
    • john schroeck

      sig 365xl w romeo or a czp10s w holosun 507 x2 both in tier1 axis slims and carry very comfortably.

      April 18, 2021 6:36 pm
    • PCB

      Springfield 911 (terrific weapon); Beretta Cheetah; CZ83

      April 18, 2021 6:03 pm
    • BigW

      Hellcat

      April 18, 2021 5:46 pm
    • Don Griffin

      I rely on the SIG SAS. This was specifically designed for carry without a holster, thus the front and rear sights have been removed. Having said that, the SAS still has a green dot built into the gun and it is as good as many on a small pistol.

      April 18, 2021 5:40 pm
    • Bill Geiger

      Personally I would take the G48 over the 43x,as it is a more accurate weapon, which is only 3/4" longer.

      April 18, 2021 5:16 pm
      • Scott Monroe

        I carried the Glock 43X then went to the Glock 48 which is a superior pistol in many ways.
        The G 48 is a great CCW as well as an open carry for drills at the range.
        A year ago I started carrying the Springfield Hellcat as my everyday carry and love it, especially with the 13 round flush fit mag.

        April 18, 2021 5:49 pm
    • Rob

      Interesting, two out of five are Glocks. Someone once said, "Diamonds are forever" , so are Glocks!

      April 18, 2021 5:16 pm
    • Darin

      I carry a Mossberg MC2c and absolutely love it. Wife carries a Sig P365. Both are in the AIWB location and we wouldn’t carry any other way.

      April 18, 2021 5:14 pm
      • LazrBeam

        I love my Mossberg MC2c. Great shooter. BTW, Mossberg has 13 and 15 round mags back in stock. As I’m sure you’re aware, they are proprietary mags made by Mec Gar and, at present, Mossberg is the only place that offers them. Max of 2 each (13 and 15 rd) right now. So, that’s what I did, 2 of each.

        April 18, 2021 6:18 pm
        • LazrBeam

          P.S. Update: Looks like Gun Mag Warehouse has them in stock now, also.

          April 18, 2021 7:48 pm
    • Robert Wiggs

      Glock 27 with extended mags... Better caliber, just as much capacity, easier to conceal

      April 18, 2021 5:14 pm
    • Mike Thomas

      What about the 3.8" Springfield Xdm, or Hellcat? I would take either over a Glock any day

      April 18, 2021 5:13 pm
      • Doug Dickettz

        I have the Springfield 3.8 xdm and love it but weren't all these guns a little big for appendix carry. Standing up you could carry a howitzer but sitting down is a pain with a big gun.

        April 20, 2021 8:56 pm
    • Arthur Normandeau

      Springfield Armory Hellcat I would carry any day.

      April 18, 2021 5:11 pm
    • IAN CAMERON

      You missed the best concealed carry weapon... I love my Walther PPK. Some will say it's underpowered, but as you say... shot placement, and you can hide it anywhere. And in a good shoulder rig it's readily accessible for either hand.

      April 18, 2021 5:05 pm
    • copper

      How about cross draw. I have some disabilities that require the use of a cane to walk and an arm that is maimed. My current CCW is a Ruger Security 9 and a Bullard Leather (I highly recommend) cross draw holster. This is a great combo that really works well for me. I have meat many closet cross draw carriers and wonder why it is rarely discussed. My only desire is I would prefer a pistol no larger than my RS9 or smaller but in 45 ACP. Also my only income is SSDI. so budget is a big thing. Any suggestions.

      April 18, 2021 4:48 pm
      • Jim

        Ruger EC9S. You should be able to get one for $250 out the door. Very thin, very reliable. No frills, just a great quality small handgun.

        November 28, 2024 1:04 pm
    • Jake

      What gun is the gal in the first pic bolstering? Looks like a beretta bobcat?

      April 18, 2021 4:43 pm
    • ARMED CITIZEN

      You failed to mention the Taurus G3, G3C, or G2C!!!

      April 18, 2021 3:31 pm
      • Kevin

        Jacki- first of all, you rock that G19. My EDC carry goes between my G26 9mm and my G32 in .357Sig. Both conceal great in appendix carry especially driving which I do a lot.

        April 18, 2021 5:16 pm
      • Robert Wiggs

        Gotta love the new 20-round magazine!

        April 18, 2021 5:18 pm
    • Rick Stevens

      Ive had a .380SmithEZ since it first came out. Since the 70's I carried many models of .357 Smith Magnum. No autos until my .380 EZ. I LOVE it. It's my daily carry and I can put 60 rounds in a target within 2.5 inches. Most revolvers and autos have around an 11 lb. trigger pull. My EZ came out of the factory with a 6.5 lb. So I can put more rounds faster and stay on target better.

      April 18, 2021 3:06 pm
      • Jack

        Completely agree on the EZ 380. Long time qualifier with 1911 in 45 cal. and will take the accuracy.

        April 18, 2021 5:20 pm
    • J

      Thank you for another great article. I saw your aftermarket Glock slides article and noticed no front sights on the pistols with the red dots. Do you recommend this? I got an aftermarket slide that I am planning on putting a red dot on and debating putting a front sight on it. Planning on using it for carry/competition.

      April 18, 2021 11:28 am
      • George Collins

        I am left handed. My right shoulder is messed up. S&W 380 EZ works for me. Ez to rack, good carry gun trigger.

        April 18, 2021 6:05 pm
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