There has been a lot of chatter about claw attachments for the appendix inside the waistband holsters lately. But what exactly is a claw and why should you know anything about it? A claw is primarily considered as concealment assistance for appendix carry.
Many IWB holsters for appendix carry have a claw attachment or are compatible with a claw accessory. There are different types of claws, but the most common is a plastic attachment attached under the holster’s trigger guard.
A claw attachment will be very helpful for appendix carry, but a simple search for the best AIWB holster with claw will turn up so many results you will be dumbfounded on where to start choosing. This view will give you a guided assessment of the top 10 AIWB holsters compatible with claw attachment so you can make a good choice.
Are Concealment Claws Effective?
If your claw attachment works well, it will achieve the intended goal. Its function is to help revolve your firearm towards your body. When attached to your holster, an ill claw push against your belt to make sure the butt of your gun sits closer to your body. Whether you carry your firearm in the appendix position or on your hip, a claw attachment will perform this function to reduce imprinting on clothes.
Apart from reducing print, a claw on your AIWB holster helps to increase grip for an easy draw and holstering. Some people don’t see the need for a claw, but the increased stability it provides to your gun can increase comfort while boosting concealability.
Top 10 Best AIWB Holster with Claw
We are going to review the top AIWB holsters. These holsters are fantastic, and one of these would be ideal for your application. I tested these holsters firsthand, and I compiled my findings right here in this article!
Best Holster Claw 2022
Black Jacket IWB Kydex Holster
Small but mighty is the most befitting description for this super lightweight holster from Black Jacket. This product was designed for people who want to wear their pistol but forget it’s there until they need it.
The slim and attractive construction of this holster provides for a minimalist look with no extra bulk added to the weight of your firearm. This IWB Kydex Holster from Black Jack doesn’t compromise on comfort either. There are no sharp edges and no point where your gun will rub against your skin and irritate you.
The Black Jacket IWB Kydex Holster is fully clawing compatible for added concealment. If you’re a big guy or gal that needs to conceal middle to large-sized weapons more discretely, or you simply like to wear your tight-fitting clothes while you carry, this is the holster for the job.
The full sweat shield and adjustable retention ensure further comfort and all-day wearability for this holster. The holster design covers the magazine release for added gun security as you carry.
This high-quality IWB holster with top-notch finishing and a super comfortable ride will sit flush against your body all day. The small clip will also make sure that your holster stays put as you sit, walk, or stand during the day.
Highlights
- Comes with 1.5” belt clip.
- Made with 0.6” Kydex material.
- Full sweat shield.
- Adjustable retention.
Pros
- Perfect fit for the appendix carry position.
- Easy clip maneuvering for fast use.
- Good ride height.
- Minimalist and lightweight design.
Cons
- Is not ambidextrous.
- Might imprint if you wear it without a claw and there is a prevailing headwind.
Alien Gear IWB Holster
This flexible yet durable holster from Alien Gear is a dream come true for concealed carry. Integrated with proprietary ShapeShift Technology, you can seamlessly integrate this holster with other products from the ShapeShift line from Alien Gear. This expands the range of carrying positions you can enjoy if you are already a fan of this manufacturer and have some of their other outstanding products.
When used in the appendix carry position, this holster can be combined with a claw for even better concealment. It fits any wearer with ease because it is highly adjustable. A lot of work was put into testing all the parameters of this holster to ensure the maximum comfort of the wearer and enable it to be suitable for all-day wear.
With the cutting-edge adjustable retention, you can easily make further customizations to your holster without tools. This allows you to get the exact grip and retention you want for easy use of your pistol.
You can buy this holster as a gift for a family member or friend and be rest assured it will fit their firearm like a glove. All you need to do is ensure you select the right size for their specific type of gun, and they will never have problems using it. This holster is made from high-quality materials, and it shows a lot of work was put into the manufacturing process. The quality of the build also enhanced durability, meaning you will get your money’s worth.
Highlights
- Full tool-less adjustability.
- Made with Alien Gear ShapeShift Technology.
- Claw compatible.
- Flexible neoprene backing.
Pros
- Provides perfect concealed carry.
- Good looking.
- Your handgun feels very secure.
- Easy to adjust.
Cons
- Not as comfortable as smaller IWB holsters.
- You have to practice putting it on and off to gain speed.
Alien Gear Appendix Holster
Discover a novel standard of concealed carry with Alien gear’s ShapeShift Appendix Holster. You won’t easily find another holster more tenable and comfortable on the market. Each style on offer has been custom molded to a specific type of pistol to make sure you have a good fit.
The shell securely wraps the trigger to ensure full protection for the highest level of security. This holster is only made with top-notch materials and follows industry standards as it is made in the USA and guaranteed to last a lifetime.
What we love most about the ShapeShift Appendix Holster is its tool-less adjustment. You don’t need to go hunting for specialized adjustment tools to custom fit your holster. The carry angle, retention, and ride height can all be easily modified without the use of any kind of tool. Alien gear provides different accessories to go with this holster including a claw for improved concealment in appendix carry.
Highlights
- Full tool-less adjustability.
- Compatible with varied carry positions.
- Claw compatible.
- It is made with quality materials in the USA.
Pros
- It is a perfect fit for prescribed pistols.
- Fully adjustable retention.
- Made with high-quality materials and lasts long.
- Very comfortable to wear.
Cons
- Its multiple adaptabilities mean you have to deal with extra bulk that simpler Kydex holsters don’t have.
- The clip isn’t flush with the holster so you can’t wear tight shirts with it.
Blackhawk Serpa Sporter Holster
If you are a safety nerd, you want a holster with unbeatable retention. That’s exactly what Blackhawk delivers in this model. The Serpa Sporter Holster has unbeatable retention that makes drawing and re-holstering very safe and easy; you will hear a defining click sound every time you put your gun back to announce that your weapon is fully seated and secure. Any other holster with such high standards will have you spending more money, but not the Serpa Sporter.
This model is compatible with different claws to enhance concealed carry for concerned citizens. Retention is so easily adjustable; it can be done in under five minutes. You can turn the screw tighter or loosen it up to your preference and be rest assured your firearm won’t move while you go about your day. If you want a functional and durable holster that will keep your gun intact, go for Blackhawk’s Serpa Sporter Holster.
Highlights
- Comes with a paddle mount.
- Manufactured with a polymer material.
- Has an automatic lock release.
- Has a retention adjustment screw.
Pros
- Satisfying audible click when you re-holster.
- Your gun slides out easily and re-holsters smoothly.
- More secure than button strap holsters.
- Unbeatable price for the value.
Cons
- Not easy to get on and off.
Alien Gear ShapeShift Set
Anyone that wants variety should consider Alien Gear’s ShapeShift Set. Although buying a whole set means you’re going to be spending more money, we are sure you will get excellent value for money well spent. The set is an excellent buy because it provides you with an advanced array of choices.
You get two IWB holsters and two OWB holsters, allowing you to switch up your carry style without stress. If appendix carry is your main priority, the minimalist inside the waistband holster with one flush belt clip is a slimmer version of the 4.0 holster that you will enjoy. It is also compatible with different claw options that you will buy separately for better concealment.
Ultimately, the ShapeShift set is a revolutionary addition to the world of concealed carry. Assembly is required to use any of the products from this set, but that should be expected from a highly versatile offering. You will have to put in more effort and utilize the flexibility of this set to accommodate flawless concealed carry of larger guns. This is a great option to start with if you intend on building a versatile holster pack to accommodate different carry configurations. You can switch up different firearms and change your carry position from an appendix to OWB or paddle carry very seamlessly.
Highlights
- Adjustable carry angle and retention.
- Claw compatible.
- Compatible with ShapeShift Technology.
- Custom mold.
- Made with high-quality materials in the USA.
Pros
- Well-built set made with quality materials.
- Unmatched versatility.
Cons
- Large guns were not thoroughly considered.
- Assembly required.
Boraii Kydex Holster With Claw
Every gun owner on a budget should be waiting in line to purchase this simple and effective Kydex Holster with a claw from Boraii. The unique holster comes in carbon black and maintains a minimalist look for such a functional product. The holster comes in a 0° carry angle for appendix carry but can be adjusted to 22° if you want to switch to a 5 o’clock carry angle.
The Halcyon Carbon Fiber Holster comes already fitted with a claw from Raven Concealment. This accessory can be placed just behind your belt during wear to help tuck your pistol in some more, cut down bulkiness, and enhance your concealed carry experience.
The best part is, you get to enjoy all these goodies at an unbeatable price. This is by far the cheapest option on our list, and yet it provides so much value if you’re not prepared to spend a lot of money on a holster after purchasing a gun.
The Halcyon Holster is made with premium quality Kydex and tough screws to ensure your holster remains workable and doesn’t fall apart after a few uses. Even the design is infused into the material at manufacture and not painted on so it won’t peel off like cheap paint as you wear.
Highlights
- Carry angle adjustable to two positions.
- Fits 1.5” thick belts.
- Comes with a claw attachment.
- Has adjustable retention.
Pros
- Excellent retention.
- High-quality manufacture.
- Extremely comfortable.
- The claw makes a difference for added concealment.
Cons
- The rivets cause bulkiness.
- Only available in carbon fiber color.
Concealment Claw IWB Holster
Manufactured with proprietary aluminum mold from Concealment Express, this holster has passed all the tests and quality checked to ensure quality, consistency, and a perfect for your weapon. If you carry a weapon every day, you don’t only need a comfortable holster to do this with, you need one with guaranteed durability like this Claw Compatible IWB Holster.
Whether you’re carrying this holster in the back or appendix position, the edges won’t hurt or irritate your skin because it has been well rounded. You can sit, stand, and walk all day in total comfort. You might even forget you have it on.
You can’t use this holster with a flimsy belt, you should invest in a sturdy tactical belt at least 1.5″ wide so your holster stays put and stores your gun securely. Some custom modifications might also be required but this holster wears like a dream after you have molded it to your taste.
The IWB Holster is also clawing compatible, meaning you can increase the stealth of your carry by tucking your pistol even more with a claw attachment. This Kydex holster is lightweight, strong, and easy to draw and re-holster. We know you will enjoy using it with or without a claw attachment.
Highlights
- Crafted from proprietary aluminum molds.
- Claw compatible.
- Adjustable carry angle.
- Full-length sweat guard.
Pros
- Comfortable while sitting or standing.
- Draws perfectly and re-holsters easily.
- Reassuring click sound when you re-holster.
- So comfortable you will forget you have it on.
Cons
- Must be worn with a strong tactical belt up to 1.5” wide.
- May require some modifications.
Concealment Claw IWB Holster
When you plan to carry a large or chunky firearm concealed, you should go for a minimalist holster with minimal bulk. That’s exactly what you get with this Claw Compatible Carbon Fiber IWB Holster from Concealment Express. The holster has an extremely low profile and your gun will snap securely in place.
Although some people might not need to, this holster is fully adjustable. The carry angle and retention can be twitched to fit every wearer’s specific needs. You can even add a claw attachment for extra concealment, especially if you’re carrying a large or bulky weapon or you have a small frame where it’s harder to hide that you’re carrying a gun.
The manufacturer has rounded off the edges to ensure your comfort during wear. Other holsters will pierce into your skin and make it hard to sit or bend over but not this Carbon Fiber IWB Holster. The clip has two large eyelets that make it easy to put on, take off and slide this holster into different carry positions without having to take off your belt. The good looks from the carbon fiber design are also a welcome bonus.
Highlights
- Full sweat guard.
- Adjustable carry angle and retention.
- Claw compatible.
- Undercut trigger guard.
- Comes with two clips.
Pros
- It is comfortable.
- It is secure.
- It is adjustable.
- It is super durable.
- Beautiful minimalist carbon fiber design.
Cons
- Drawing and re-holstering aren’t very smooth when you adjust it too tight.
Concealment Claw Kydex Holster
The saying that the simplest solution is usually the best solution perfectly applies to the Tuckable Kydex Holster from Concealment Express. Its design is extremely simple yet the holster has been very well built to be functional, versatile, and form-fitting for your pistol.
This holster allows you to switch carry positions from an appendix to back or strong hip, you can even move it to the left or right of your body depending on what you are wearing and carry preferences per time. You can easily adjust the carry angle and retention on this holster for more flexibility and the Threadlock technology on the screws ensure you don’t lose one as you adjust.
This claw-compatible holster is suitable for everyday concealed carry. There is a secure snap where your gun will be seated that keeps your weapon from shaking around once locked in. The post-click technology offers a reassuring click sound when you re-holster your weapon so you know it is snug and secure. It’s easy to attach the belt clip and this process gives you total control over where to comfortably place your firearm.
Highlights
- Tuckable Kydex holster.
- Undercut trigger guard.
- Claw compatible.
- Posi click technology.
- Adjustable carry angle and retention.
Pros
- Super-versatile.
- Suitable for everyday carry.
- Very secure.
Cons
- Magazine detachment can occur because mag release is not covered.
Concealment Express Claw Kydex Holster
This beautiful carbon fiber holster from Concealment Express is super slim, compact, and easy to use. You can rest assured that your holster will not increase bulk or weight to your firearm making it easier to carry your pistol around all day.
This claw-compatible holster makes concealed carry very easy, it’s impossible for others to notice you’re carrying a weapon when you have a claw attachment on. Feel free to sit, walk, run, or even hang upside down while carrying your gun in this holster, it’s not going anywhere.
The belt clip is where most customers have complaints. Because it is made of plastic and not metal like other holsters, it is not as strong and might break during use. The clip design is also not meant for small plain belts.
You must get a very sturdy tactical belt of at least 1.5” wide to ensure your holster stays securely on your belt without wiggling around. Your gun will fit this holster very snugly for a Kydex belt and it is super tuckable. If you live in a warm climate area, you will also enjoy the full sweat shield that protects your skin from sweating.
Highlights
- Tuckable carbon fiber Kydex holster.
- Undercut trigger guard.
- Claw compatible.
- Full-length sweat guard.
- Oxidized steel with Threadlock.
Pros
- Very slim and compact.
- Reassuring audible click when you re-holster.
Cons
- The plastic belt clip might break easily.
- The clip will not work on a slim belt.
Final Verdict
A concealment claw is an excellent accessory for your AIWB holster. Some people think it is a permanent attachment but it is only a small piece that can easily be removed. You can use a claw attachment to your advantage when you want and take it off if it becomes unnecessary. Any gun owner who prefers to carry in the appendix position will love the claw attachment if they must carry concealed.
If you don’t already have an appendix holster with a claw or a claw-compatible holster, any one of the great options listed in this review will be an excellent choice. We guarantee you will enjoy the added bonus if you want to carry concealed.
AIWB Holster Claw: Frequently Asked Question’s
Is an AIWB holster with claw comfortable?
Most people find that the claw works like a miracle and wears comfortably. However, if it bothers you, is too aggressive or simply unbearable, try other methods of enhanced concealment like a foam wedge.
Can I buy a claw separately for my holster if it doesn’t have one?
It is best to buy a holster that comes with a claw for the best results. If you cannot find such a holster, you can get a claw compatible holster and buy the recommended claw accessory for that holster.
What do I do if I don’t like the claw attachment?
Simply take it off. The claw is fully removable with a screwdriver.
The claw on my appendix holster isn’t working. What can I do?
If your claw isn’t working, it might not be compatible with your holster and won’t line up with your belt clip. If you check that the claw lines up but is still not working, adjust your placement of the claw and try again or check that your belt is sturdy and thick enough for the claw.
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