Appendix carry has quickly become one of the most popular methods for concealed carry, especially for those who prioritize quick access and strong concealment. But ask almost anyone who’s tried it for the first time and you’ll likely hear the same thing – it’s uncomfortable. The truth is, appendix carry doesn’t have to be that way. With the right gear, smart adjustments, and a few tweaks to your wardrobe and routine, you can carry in comfort every day.
Below, we’ll walk through the key steps that make appendix carry more comfortable and practical. Whether you’re new to the concept or looking to fine-tune your setup, these tips will help you avoid common mistakes and settle into a carry style that works for your body and lifestyle.
It Starts With the Right Holster
One of the most important pieces of the comfort puzzle is the holster. A poorly made or ill-fitting holster can turn appendix carry into a nightmare. You want a holster that’s specifically designed for appendix carry and one that’s adjustable, well-contoured, and built from quality materials.
Look for holsters that allow you to adjust ride height and cant. Some even come with bungee-style connectors that let the holster flex with your body. These designs help the holster conform to your shape instead of pressing uncomfortably into your abdomen. Flexibility in the design also makes a noticeable difference when you’re sitting or moving.
Consider Holster Features That Reduce Bulk
Modern holsters often include smart additions that aid concealment and reduce discomfort. One great feature to look for is a concealment wing – this presses against your belt and pulls the grip of your firearm closer to your body, minimizing printing. For appendix carry especially, this can mean the difference between a comfortable fit and something that constantly pokes you in the gut.
If you can find a holster that combines a flexible spine, adjustable clips, and a concealment wing, you’re already ahead of the game. These features won’t just make carrying more comfortable – they’ll also help you conceal more effectively without changing your entire wardrobe.
Belts Matter More Than You Think
A quality holster isn’t enough by itself. Your belt has to be up to the task as well. Traditional leather belts usually won’t cut it. You need a belt that is rigid enough to support the weight of your firearm and holster, but also adjustable enough to move with you.
Modern tactical belts with ratchet-style adjustment systems are perfect for this. They allow micro-adjustments that make sitting, standing, and bending much more bearable. Look for belts specifically designed for concealed carry – especially ones that let you tweak tightness on the fly. Your belt should hold the gear snugly without cutting into your waist.
Choose Pants That Flex With You
Pants are often the overlooked third pillar of comfortable appendix carry. You want pants that either have elastic in the waistband or enough flexibility to accommodate the extra bulk of a firearm and holster. If you wear tight jeans with no give, you’ll probably feel like you’re being stabbed every time you sit down.
Elastic waistbands allow you to wear your true size and maintain a clean silhouette, even on days you’re not carrying. Some jeans and outdoor pants also offer stretch in the thigh and hip areas, which helps maintain range of motion and keeps pressure off your holster. The less restriction around your beltline, the less you’ll notice your firearm.
Adjust Ride Height for Better Draw and Comfort
Adjustability on your holster isn’t just about concealment – it’s about function and comfort too. Ride height plays a huge role in how your holster feels when sitting or walking. Some people prefer a higher ride to aid in drawing, while others prefer a lower ride for better concealment.
Play around with the height of your holster clips and see what works best for you. Ideally, you want a position that allows a full firing grip on your draw without jamming the gun into your stomach every time you sit. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, so a little experimentation goes a long way.
Consider Ditching the Sidecar
While it might be tempting to carry a spare magazine in a sidecar-style holster, this extra piece can significantly increase bulk and reduce flexibility. Many people find that sidecar rigs are the most uncomfortable option for appendix carry, especially when sitting for long periods.
If comfort is your top priority, consider switching to a minimalist holster without the magazine attachment. You can always carry a spare mag elsewhere – like in a pocket or on your belt. Removing that extra bulk from the front of your waistband can make appendix carry far more livable.
Skip the Weapon-Mounted Light (Sometimes)
Weapon-mounted lights are great for home defense or night-time use, but they add extra length to your carry gun – which can become a serious comfort issue with appendix carry. If you’re carrying during the day and aren’t expecting to be in low-light environments, consider running your firearm without the WML.
Even removing just a half-inch of barrel length or ditching a large light can drastically improve how the gun sits against your body. You can always keep a separate carry setup without the light for daily wear and switch back to your full rig for night-time or specialized roles.
Holster Rotation Based on Season
Consider keeping more than one holster setup to rotate with the seasons. In colder months, when you’re wearing layers and moving less, a bulkier setup with a sidecar or WML might be more manageable. But in summer, with fewer layers and higher temperatures, a streamlined, minimalist rig becomes essential.
There’s no rule that says you must carry the exact same setup year-round. Having seasonal options helps maintain comfort and keeps you from abandoning carry altogether on hot or busy days.
Small Changes Make a Big Difference
Something as simple as loosening your belt when you sit down can relieve a lot of pressure from your abdomen. Likewise, choosing the right undershirt or switching to a softer gun belt liner can improve all-day wear. None of these changes are expensive – but they add up in a big way.
Also, don’t underestimate the psychological effect of carrying in discomfort. If your rig constantly causes pain or gets in the way, you’ll be less likely to carry consistently. That’s where these little quality-of-life improvements really matter – they keep you committed to carrying daily.
Train to Draw From Your Setup
No matter how comfortable your carry rig is, it still needs to be functional. That means regularly practicing your draw stroke from concealment. A higher ride holster might be more comfortable, but it won’t help you if it slows down your draw. The same goes for deeply concealed, low-ride holsters.
Find the balance between comfort and function. Your setup should allow a smooth, reliable draw with minimal fumbling. Dry fire practice from your actual carry setup is the only way to know for sure.
Comfort Leads to Consistency
At the end of the day, carrying a firearm is a responsibility. If discomfort is stopping you from carrying consistently, then your setup isn’t working. You shouldn’t have to choose between being armed and being comfortable. With modern gear and a few personal adjustments, appendix carry can become something you hardly notice.
Whether it’s the right holster, belt, pants, or a change in how you carry accessories, don’t settle for pain. Invest the time to fine-tune your setup, and you’ll discover that appendix carry can be one of the most practical – and yes, even comfortable – ways to carry concealed.
No Need to Suffer
Carrying a gun should be empowering, not a burden. You don’t have to suffer through sharp edges, bruised hips, or daily back pain just to stay prepared. The industry has evolved. Comfort and concealment no longer have to be mutually exclusive.
So, take a hard look at your current setup. Ask yourself what really works and what doesn’t. Make small upgrades where needed, test out new gear, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Comfort isn’t just a luxury – it’s what makes daily carry a sustainable lifestyle.
Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, John developed a love for the great outdoors early on. With years of experience as a wilderness guide, he’s navigated rugged terrains and unpredictable weather patterns. John is also an avid hunter and fisherman who believes in sustainable living. His focus on practical survival skills, from building shelters to purifying water, reflects his passion for preparedness. When he’s not out in the wild, you can find him sharing his knowledge through writing, hoping to inspire others to embrace self-reliance.