We all want to carry comfortably. However, the firearm must still be able to be drawn and presented quickly. It also needs to be secure throughout the day. A quality holster is essential, but I try to avoid excess bulk when possible, which is why I often turn towards a minimalist design.
I have to admit, the term minimalist is rather subjective. However, here it is meant to signify a low-profile design that doesn’t add a ton of extra material and thickness. I have written on pocket carry in the past, and that is an excellent option, but I wanted to focus on inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters since I believe they provide the best balance of accessibility and discreteness.
DeSantis Slim-Tuk
The DeSantis Slim-Tuk is a go-to minimalist holster design for many, including this author. It’s not too expensive, high quality, and available for plenty of different models in varying size ranges.
The polymer shell is incredibly thin, adding no more than a millimeter or two to the overall thickness. The clip is offset from the ticker portion of the holster to further keep the package from printing and adding bulk. The tuckable C-Clip accommodates gun belts up to 1.75 inches wide. Additionally, the clip is repositionable to either side of the holster, allowing for left- or right-handed draw.
The retention is solid and the pistol exhibits a nice click! when inserted. The shell is precision molded to the firearm and does a good job of protecting the trigger guard. There’s even a sight track molded in to prevent your iron sights from snagging and the holster is compatible with red dot optics.
Galco Stow-N-Go/Tuck-N-Go
Luckily, I skipped the Uncle Mike’s Universal Holster phase and went straight to the Galco Stow-N-Go when I started concealed carrying. The holster is constructed with durable suede leather that offers a good balance of thickness for optimal rigidity and comfort. It does not add too much bulk on the waistline. From the factory, it fits a bit tight, but once the holster breaks in, it molds to the firearm for a custom fit.
The stitching is done well and holds up to daily use. The leather will smooth and stain with sweat as you wear it. Further, the holster mouth is reinforced with padded wiring to aid in reholstering. This helps, but you will still need to adjust and pay attention as you reholster; it will likely require two hands.
The wide, polymer clip fits gun belts up to 1.75 inches and provides a firm hold. Depending on your preferred clip style, you may also consider the Tuck-N-Go, a similar holster design with a tuckable clip. This is perfect for those who may dress more formally and tuck in their shirt.
Raven Concealment Vanguard
The Raven Concealment Vanguard is probably as minimalist as a holster gets. The molded polymer holster only covers the trigger guard, leaving the rest of the firearm exposed. This adds virtually no thickness to the footprint and keeps the trigger protected. The Vanguard is available with different clip sizes, as well as soft loop attachments. Additionally, I recommend you get the additional claw attachment, as this helps tuck the pistol’s grip into your body to decrease printing for greater concealability.
The ultra-minimal design has its benefits. However, it offers a bit less security compared to other holsters on this list. If the firearm gets a hard bump forward, it can break free of the holster and come loose. If you lead a very active lifestyle, this may not be suitable for some occasions. That being said, it’s a slick solution to running large bulky holsters and rigs — especially for smaller-framed shooters.
Blackpoint Tactical Mini Wing
The Mini Wing from Blackpoint Tactical is one of the highest-quality holsters on the list. Designed to be minimalistic, the Mini Wing uses as little material as possible, without sacrificing performance and durability. The holster consists of a Kydex shell with leather attachment point wings for the tuckable clips. The two offset clips help distribute the weight more evenly over the belt and add an extra level of security.
The leather “mini wings” are incorporated to allow the holster to wrap around the contours of your waist, allowing for a versatile fit for all body types. The mini wings give the holster flexibility to move with your body, making it comfortable for use all day, every day.
Blackhawk Stache
Designed by concealed carriers for concealed carriers, the Blackhawk Stache IWB holster system is the ultimate solution for everyday carry. Through meticulous engineering, the Stache holster delivers an optimal combination of comfort, rigidity, and modularity.
The injected-molded polymer holster is compatible with most red dot sights and the clip positioning can be adjusted for ride height as well as cant angle. Further, the holster features adjustable retention so you can achieve that exact fit you’re looking for. A low-profile shirt guard adds comfort and prevents snagging on the draw stroke.
Blackhawk also offers a premium kit with an attachable magazine carrier accessory. This allows you to arrange your holster in different configurations depending on your needs. Further, the holster is designed to accept popular Discreet Carry Concepts Gear clips and includes an adjustable concealment claw to reduce printing.
Sticky Holsters
Are you tired of bulky holsters with annoying clips or stubborn loops that require a belt just to carry your firearm? The people at Sticky Holsters were too, so they decided to do something about it. The result is a slim, low-profile holster that provides comfort and peace of mind to concealed carriers.
The exterior is made from a non-slip material that sticks to nearly anything with just a little pressure, thus eliminating the need for belt clips or loops. The inner portion of the holster is constructed of closed-cell foam that keeps your pistol secure. Pressure and consistent use form the holster to your firearm, meaning the fit only gets better over time.
These lightweight holsters weigh next to nothing and allow you to draw your firearm in seconds. Sticky Holsters come in varying sizes for a number of different firearms and are incredibly affordable compared to standard holster options.
Mission First Tactical Minimalist
Mission First Tactical designed the Minimalist to give you a low-profile IWB holster while still providing you with the performance and reliability of a full-size holster. The Boltaron holster is designed with a tall sight channel and open muzzle for a fast draw. It incorporates an abbreviated sweat guard and is sculpted for reflex red dot sights.
The tuckable clip can be reversed for both left- and right-handed shooters. The cant is adjustable from 0–20 degrees and will accommodate a 1 to 1.5-inch belt. Further, the holster features a claw attachment, which keeps the heel of the firearm pressed into your side, minimizing its print.
Alien Gear Photon
Designed to fit both right- and left-handed shooters, while carrying outside the waistband or appendix inside the waistband, the Alien Gear Photon holster lets you carry without limits. Constructed of a durable injection-molded polymer, the Photon is compatible with pistols with micro red dot sights, suppressor height sights, and threaded barrels.
Shooters can adjust the retention for an easier draw or increased security. The ride height and cant angle are adjustable for a comfortable, custom fit. Additionally, the Photon is compatible with the optional Alien Gear Sidecar Magazine Carrier, should you want to upgrade your concealed carry setup.
What’s your favorite inside-the-waistband holster for concealed carry? Have you tried any of these minimalist options? Share your preferences and lessons learned in the Comment section.
