Appendix Carry — Watch Where You Put That Thing!

Traditionally, most people who carried a concealed handgun carried on the hip at the 3 or 4 o’clock positions or a shoulder holster, kept discreet under an outer garment. Over time, carry methods change. Over the past few years “Appendix Carry” has become more popular, especially among younger shooters, because it offers quick access to your pistol or revolver and reduces the risk of printing on the side of a shirt or sweater.

Appendix Carry, however, is not without its critics. After all, having the business end of a gun pointed at your junk can cause some anxiety and a wrong move can leave you seriously wounded (or worse) for life. In this blog, we’ll take an in-depth look at appendix carry—exploring its advantages, drawbacks, and practical considerations.

What is Appendix Carry?

Appendix carry refers to carrying a concealed handgun in front of the person, typically inside the front of their pants. This method is often referred to as Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) or Appendix Inside the Waistband (AIWB). Many consider this the ideal method for conceal carry because it positions the firearm close to the body and with a good holster, easy to retrieve quickly. But is it ideal?

Why has Appendix Carry Become So Popular?

Appendix carry has gained significant popularity in recent years, especially with younger and more tactically minded shooters. Positioned at the front of the waistband, typically around the 1 o’clock position, this method offers faster draw time and better concealment under clothing. Additionally, advances in holster design such as adjustable cant, claw attachments, and wedge systems, have made appendix carry more comfortable and safer than ever before. As more Americans adopt everyday carry (EDC) practices, appendix carry has become a preferred method for those seeking both readiness and concealment in a wide range of daily scenarios.

Advantages of Appendix Carry

Here are some of the key benefits that make appendix carry a preferred choice for many gun owners.

1. Speed. Offers a fast draw time given the handgun will be on your body, centrally located, and with a good holster, easy to establish a good grip and draw.
2. Concealment. Allows for deep concealment, less printing (the visible outline of a concealed firearm showing through clothing) which is especially helpful when wearing tighter fitting clothing.
3. Accessibility. Makes your firearm very accessible, whether seated, standing, walking, etc.
4. Control and Retention. Provides for significant control and retention of the firearm as it’s always in front of you.

Disadvantages of Appendix Carry

Despite the strong advantages of appendix carry, there are downsides to it as well.

1. Risk of Negligent Discharge. One of the most cited concerns of appendix carry is the risk of negligent discharge (ND), particularly when re-holstering the firearm. AND, in appendix carry the muzzle is pointed at the area of the body could result in a life-threatening injury to the femoral artery, groin, or even the bladder. Men run the additional risk of severe and permanent damage to their manhood.
2. Comfort Issues. Appendix carry can be uncomfortable for many, especially larger individuals or those with short torsos. Even average-sized people may find carrying a handgun in the front of their pants uncomfortable. Also, sitting or bending forward may cause the firearm to dig into your stomach or thigh. The size of your firearm, and corresponding holster, will also impact comfort.
3. Learning Curve. Learning to draw safely from appendix carry has a steep learning curve. Using this method safely requires a lot of training and finger discipline, especially when re-holstering.
4. Body Type Limitations. AIWB doesn’t work well for everyone. People with some body types simply won’t find this method comfortable or feasible.

Training and Safety Considerations

Given the learning curve involved with appendix carry, particularly re-holstering, it is critical for those who plan to use this method to train and practice regularly. Practice drawing from different positions such as sitting in a vehicle, at a desk, while walking, or even during everyday activities like eating (ALWAYS ensure your weapon is in a safe condition, unloaded, and magazine out when practicing at home and not on the range).

Training how to re-holster safely is equally important, given the serious risk of injury from a negligent discharge. Practice re-holstering slowly and deliberately from multiple positions, and always prioritize trigger discipline and holster design. Appendix carry can be both effective and safe, but only with consistent, deliberate training (ALWAYS ensure your weapon is in a safe condition, unloaded, and magazine out when practicing at home and not on the range).

Finding the Right Holster

While you may consider just sticking your handgun in your pants with the grip sticking out (but under a shirt), that is not a safe practice and endangers you and those nearby. You absolutely need a holster and one that ensures both comfort and safety. Because the ideal position for appendix carry is typically between the 1 and 2 o’clock position, the holster must provide excellent retention, full trigger guard coverage, and a slim profile to reduce printing. A good appendix holster should allow for a consistent and secure draw while minimizing pressure on the abdomen when sitting or bending.

Look for features like adjustable ride height and cant. Consider a concealment claw which rotates the grip inward to reduce printing, while a wedge pushes the holster outward for better comfort and concealment. Other features to consider include a sweat guard that can make a big difference in concealment and daily wearability. The right holster balances access, concealment, and comfort while allowing for safe re-holstering.

An effective holster goes a long way to avoiding a catastrophic negligent discharge.

The Importance of Self Defense Legal Protection

Carrying a firearm, whether appendix carry or any other method, comes with serious responsibility. It’s not just about how you carry, it’s about awareness, discipline, and minimizing risk. A negligent discharge while re-holstering or failing to properly conceal your firearm could lead to criminal charges, loss of your carry permit, a civil lawsuit, or even jail time.

Not every prosecutor or police officer will see you as the “good guy with a gun,” especially if something goes wrong. Appendix carry comes with unique risks and it could cost you your freedom, your savings, or your future.

Just like investing in a quality appendix holster and training regularly, having self-defense legal protection is essential. Ask yourself:

• Do you have a defense attorney on speed dial who knows gun laws?
• Can you afford $100,000 in legal fees?
• Could you cover bail without a GoFundMe?
• Will you need counseling after being dragged through court?
• Are you protected from losing everything if someone sues you?

If you answered “no” to any of these, it’s time to get serious about legal protection, because one bad moment could turn into the fight of your life.