The Top 5 CCW Carry Positions: Pros, Cons, and How to Choose the Right One
Choosing where to carry your firearm is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a concealed carry permit holder. The right carry position affects your comfort, concealment, draw speed, and overall ability to safely handle your firearm throughout the day.
There isn’t a single “best” carry position for everyone. The right choice depends on your body type, clothing, daily routine, and the amount of training you’re willing to put into using that position safely.
Below are five of the most common concealed carry positions, along with their advantages and disadvantages.
1. Appendix Carry (AIWB)
Appendix carry places your firearm at the front of your body, typically between the 12 and 2 o’clock positions inside the waistband. It’s one of the most popular carry methods because it offers excellent concealment and quick access.
Many experienced concealed carriers prefer appendix carry because the firearm stays within their field of view and is generally easier to protect from someone attempting to grab it.
Pros:
- Fast and direct draw
- Excellent concealment
- Easier to maintain control of your firearm
Cons:
- Can be uncomfortable for some body types
- Requires careful trigger discipline
- Safe reholstering is especially important
2. Strong Side Inside the Waistband (IWB)
Strong side carry places your firearm on your dominant side, usually around the 3 to 5 o’clock position. It has been a trusted carry method for years because it offers a balance between comfort and accessibility.
Many new CCW holders start with strong side carry because it feels natural and works well with a variety of holsters.
It may not be quite as fast as appendix carry, but it’s often more comfortable for extended periods of wear.
3. Outside the Waistband (OWB)
Outside the waistband carry positions your holster outside your pants while remaining on your strong side. Although commonly used at the range, many people also choose OWB for everyday carry when wearing a jacket or other outer garment.
Some advantages include:
- Very comfortable for all-day wear
- Natural draw motion
- Easy access to your firearm
The primary drawback is concealment. Without a jacket, hoodie, or overshirt, an OWB holster is much more difficult to keep hidden.
4. Shoulder Holster
Shoulder holsters suspend the firearm underneath your arm using a harness that crosses over your shoulders.
This carry method becomes especially useful during colder months when jackets are already part of your daily clothing. It also works well for people who spend long periods sitting, such as while driving.
Like any carry method, it comes with trade-offs. Drawing from a shoulder holster typically takes more practice than waistband carry, and safe muzzle discipline during the draw is essential.
5. Ankle Carry
Ankle carry secures your firearm around your ankle using a specialized holster.
Rather than serving as a primary carry position, ankle carry is most often used for a backup firearm. It’s discreet and easy to conceal beneath long pants, making it a practical option in certain situations.
Some benefits include:
- Excellent for carrying a backup firearm
- Very discreet under long pants
- Doesn’t take up space around your waist
However, it also has several limitations. It generally provides the slowest draw of any common carry position and can be difficult to access quickly while standing or moving.
Which Carry Position Is Right for You?
Every carry position involves compromises. Some prioritize speed, while others focus on comfort or concealment.
When deciding what works best, ask yourself questions like:
- How do I dress most days?
- Will I spend a lot of time sitting or driving?
- Can I consistently conceal my firearm?
- Can I safely draw and reholster from this position?
- Am I willing to practice regularly with this carry method?
The answers to these questions will help narrow down which option fits your lifestyle.
Your Holster Matters Just as Much
No matter which carry position you choose, the quality of your holster plays a major role in safety.
A quality holster should fully protect the trigger guard, securely retain your firearm, and remain stable throughout your daily activities. A poorly designed holster can make even the best carry position less safe and less effective.
Investing in a quality holster is just as important as choosing the right carry position.
Practice Builds Confidence
Simply selecting a carry position isn’t enough.
You should regularly practice drawing, reholstering, and moving with your chosen setup in a safe environment. Consistency helps build good habits and allows you to become familiar with how your firearm behaves during everyday activities like sitting, bending, walking, and driving.
The more familiar you become with your carry method, the more confident and responsible you’ll be.
Final Thoughts
The best concealed carry position isn’t necessarily the fastest or the most comfortable. It’s the one that allows you to safely conceal, consistently access, and confidently control your firearm every day.
Whether you choose appendix carry, strong side, OWB, shoulder carry, or ankle carry, the most important factor is committing to safe firearm handling and ongoing training.
At 559CCW, our goal is to help you build responsible carry habits that go beyond simply earning your permit. Through our online and in-person courses, you’ll learn the safety principles and practical skills needed to carry with confidence.
Our online and in-person CCW classes are available in Fresno, Madera, Merced, Kings & Tulare Counties.
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