Carrying a firearm should feel secure, comfortable, and discreet—but choosing the best concealed carry position depends on multiple factors, including:
- Your body type
- The clothing you wear
- Your level of physical activity
- How quickly you need to access your firearm
As an alternative to traditional, bulky holsters, the Clipdraw gun clip offers maximum flexibility, letting you carry your firearm while maintaining quick access and low visibility.
But which carry position is right for you?
Let’s break down the options so you can find the perfect fit.
Why Carry Position Matters
Not all concealed carry positions are equally effective for everyone.
Each position has advantages and disadvantages when it comes to:
- Concealment:How well your firearm stays hidden under your clothing.
- Accessibility: How naturally and quickly you can draw your weapon.
- Comfort: Whether the carry position works for your daily movements (especially if you sit for long periods).
- Safety: The risk of printing (showing the outline of your gun through clothing) and muzzle sweep when drawing.
With these factors in mind, let’s explore the best concealed carry positions and find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
Basic Concealed Carry Positions
These popular carry positions focus on ease of access and practical concealment.
Hip Carry Position
Hip carry is one of the most popular and natural positions for concealed carry. It allows for a quick and controlled grip, making it a favorite among law enforcement and experienced carriers.
- Position: 3 o’clock (right-handed) or 9 o’clock (left-handed)
- Method: Inside the Waistband (IWB) or Outside the Waistband (OWB)
Pros:
- Offers a fast, instinctive draw.
- Works well with both IWB and OWB holsters.
- Comfortable for long hours of standing or walking.
Cons:
- Difficult to conceal with tight or lightweight clothing.
- May cause printing depending on body shape and firearm size.
Best suited for: Individuals who favor a quick draw and wear looser clothing to aid concealment.
Small of Back (SoB) Carry Position
Small of back carry provides deep concealment, keeping your firearm completely out of sight. However, it has a few drawbacks that make it less than ideal for many carriers.
- Position: 6 o’clock (center of lower back)
- Method: Palm-in or palm-out draw
Pros:
- Excellent concealment with virtually no printing.
- Comfortable especially when standing for longer periods of time.
Cons:
- Awkward draw—especially if seated or on the ground.
- Can be dangerous if you fall, increasing the risk of a potential spinal injury.
- It may be difficult to access quickly if under extreme stress.
Best suited for: Those who stand for long periods and prioritize concealment over speed.
Appendix Carry Position
Appendix carry dates back to the 19th century and remains a go-to choice for many firearm carriers today. This front-of-body position offers fast access and excellent concealment, making it a top pick for everyday carry.
- Position: 1 o’clock (for right-handed shooters) or 11 o’clock (for left-handed shooters)
- Method: Inside waistband (IWB)
Pros:
- Offers a fast draw with minimal movement.
- Allows for better weapon retention and makes it harder for someone to grab your firearm.
- Ideal for smaller handguns and compact pistols.
Cons:
- It may be uncomfortable when sitting for a long time.
- Not ideal for larger body types
- May not be ideal for larger body types as it can create pressure against the abdomen and potentially lead to printing.
- Requires strict trigger discipline (consider using a Clipdraw trigger guard for extra safety).
Best suited for: Those who want quick, discreet access with minimal printing, especially when wearing untucked shirts.
Kidney Carry Position
Kidney carry is a variation of hip carry, placing the gun slightly behind the hip for better concealment. This middle-ground approach offers a balance between comfort, concealment, and accessibility.
- Position: 4 o’clock (right-handed) or 8 o’clock (left-handed)
- Method: Inside the Waistband (IWB)
Pros:
- Offers better concealment than the standard hip carry position.
- Slightly more comfortable than the appendix carry option.
- Safer than small of back carry position.
Cons:
- Slower draw than appendix or hip carry options
- Printing may still occur depending on body shape and clothing choices.
Best suited for: Those who want a blend of comfort and concealment with an easier draw than small of back carry.
Which Concealed Carry Position is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best concealed carry position is the one that fits your body type, lifestyle, and needs.
Ask yourself the following questions to help determine which carry position works best for you:
- Do I sit for long hours? If so, you may want to avoid appendix carry.
- Do I need fast access to my pistol? If the answer is “yes”, then hip or appendix carry options are best for your needs.
- Do I want deep concealment? To avoid printing, opting for the small of back carry position may work best. Just be aware that there are some safety considerations with this option.
- Do I need all-day comfort? If comfort is key, then kidney carry is a solid choice for you.
Regardless of which concealed carry position you choose, the Clipdraw gun clip ensures secure, comfortable, and discreet carry—without the bulk of a traditional holster.
Enhance Your Concealed Carry Needs with Clipdraw Gun Clips
Finding the best concealed carry position is about comfort, security, and accessibility. With Clipdraw, you get the most discreet and reliable carry solution—giving you the freedom to carry how you want, when you want.
- Ditch bulky holsters and enjoy a sleek, low-profile carry option.
- Choose from a variety of Clipdraw gun clips designed for various firearm makes and models.
- Stay prepared, stay secure, and practice concealed carry with greater confidence.
To find the concealed carry holster alternative that’s best for you, shop our full selection of gun clips today!
