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5/9/2026 8:32:49 AM EDT
Anyone ever had success doing this? What kind of holster did you end up going with?
5/9/2026 8:52:15 AM EDT
[#1]
I used to carry my colt rail gun AIWB in a Tenicor Velo. It worked well, I only stopped because during the summer time I was constantly fighting rust on the thumb safety. I’m 6-02 about 220.
5/9/2026 10:12:42 AM EDT
[#2]
JM custom kydex. I believe the wing claw version. I’ve got a teardrop pad that helps quite a bit.

I do believe that a commander carries more comfortably for me though. The concealment is about the same though because of the grip length.
5/9/2026 10:43:59 AM EDT
[#3]
Quote History
Originally Posted By ARK_Ginger:
JM custom kydex. I believe the wing claw version. I’ve got a teardrop pad that helps quite a bit.

I do believe that a commander carries more comfortably for me though. The concealment is about the same though because of the grip length.
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This is essentially how I used to do it. It works better with a belt without holes so you can do micro adjustments to the tightness. I used Mastermind Tactics but any of the well known belts of this design should be good.
5/9/2026 11:45:12 AM EDT
[#4]
Quote History
Originally Posted By ARK_Ginger:
JM custom kydex. I believe the wing claw version. I’ve got a teardrop pad that helps quite a bit.

I do believe that a commander carries more comfortably for me though. The concealment is about the same though because of the grip length.
View Quote

That's my preferred holster right there.

Wing Claw 2.0 is what I get these days. I'm waiting on one for my commander, but I have several for other 1911s, M&P and P320.
Why is the sky blue?
What makes the green grass grow?
5/9/2026 11:45:32 AM EDT
[#5]
Quote History
Originally Posted By MaxFenig:

This is essentially how I used to do it. It works better with a belt without holes so you can do micro adjustments to the tightness. I used Mastermind Tactics but any of the well known belts of this design should be good.
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Quote History
Originally Posted By MaxFenig:
Originally Posted By ARK_Ginger:
JM custom kydex. I believe the wing claw version. I’ve got a teardrop pad that helps quite a bit.

I do believe that a commander carries more comfortably for me though. The concealment is about the same though because of the grip length.

This is essentially how I used to do it. It works better with a belt without holes so you can do micro adjustments to the tightness. I used Mastermind Tactics but any of the well known belts of this design should be good.

Ratcheting belts are the way to go.
Why is the sky blue?
What makes the green grass grow?
5/9/2026 11:57:38 AM EDT
[#6]
Yes.

Ive tried jmcustom and tenicore. Both are ok. Ronin leather works is more comfortable and conceals as well.
Attached File

Attached File
Do Good
Be Dangerous
Live Free
5/9/2026 4:21:18 PM EDT
[#7]
Quote History
Originally Posted By 03RN:
Yes.

Ive tried jmcustom and tenicore. Both are ok. Ronin leather works is more comfortable and conceals as well.
https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/433221/1000004218_jpg-3759742.JPG
https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/433221/1000004234_jpg-3759743.JPG
View Quote


Is that the Ageis Calypso? What kind of metal clips did you get?
5/9/2026 11:44:35 PM EDT
[#8]
Not a huge fan. 4ish inch barrel is about the most I can comfortably AIWB with any gun type. I carry a LW Champion appendix in a Tenicor Certum fairly often.
5/10/2026 9:07:12 AM EDT
[#9]
I love it, i run a 5" in tenicor certum... added a little pillow to the back and roll out. I find it so much more comfortable than 3-4 o'clock carry.
5/10/2026 1:03:45 PM EDT
[#10]
When it comes to carry, if you do it long enough, you end up with a box full of holsters that didn’t work for you when you tried something different,or you find a single method and holster type that works for you and you don’t deviate.

Appendix has been all the rage for I’d say about 15 years now ,wasn’t very popular prior to that.

Despite what some advocates claim it isn’t best for everyone. I can only handle something like a glock 26 or J frame in that position. My chubby waist, short torso simply don’t agree. I don’t disparage those it works for or think it is a bad method at all. If you look at the vast majority of dedicated appendix carriers ( 03RN’s picture proves my point) they tend to be taller longer waisted thin people.

Unlike 20 years ago, it seems every maker out there is making appendix holsters now. Everything I have read and seen indicate expect to tinker with the holster to dial it in to your comfort, pillows pads etc. to get what works for you. I think I see an advantage in leather like 03RN posted. I have to imagine a bit less pokey than kydex.
5/11/2026 11:54:51 AM EDT
[#11]
I've been exclusively carrying AIWB for about a decade.
Tenicor is what I've landed on and the certum3 for my 1911 5" is by far my preferred carry for comfort.
5/11/2026 2:06:25 PM EDT
[Last Edit: makaveli][Edited] [#12]
Slim fit holsters make a great appendix carry holster. 90 percent of the time I use my Ronin Leather holsters. Both conceal very well. You also need to go to mastermind tactics pillow or wedge.





https://www.mastermindtactics.com/shop?category=Wedges

5/12/2026 8:09:58 PM EDT
[#13]
Tenicor Certum 3 5", no light

LAS Concealment Tanto, light
Attached File
"Whisky for the gentlemen that like it. And for the gentlemen that don't like it - Whisky!" -Alec Guinness as MAJ (acting Colonel) Jock Sinclair, D.S.O., M.M. "Tunes of Glory"
5/12/2026 8:16:16 PM EDT
[#14]
When I was 260 I couldn’t aiwb and now that I’m 195 I still can’t aiwb
Just doesn’t feel right.
5/12/2026 8:43:54 PM EDT
[#15]
I carry a full size 1911 in winter months in a comptac minotaur holster
5/13/2026 7:10:31 PM EDT
[#16]
I believe I’m going to go with a JMCK first and if that doesn’t work out the leather Ronin. Thanks all for the suggestions.
5/13/2026 11:31:04 PM EDT
[#17]
Its my go to carry setup. I daily a DW Specialist in a Phlster Floodlight 1 with pull the dot loops. A more flexible edc belt, pull the dot loops, and letting the gun sit pretty deep have been the key to success for me. Even in a schmedium t-shirt and shorts.

When I still owned a 2011 with a dot, Id use the same set up and conceal pretty well even with a 140mm mag in the gun. YMMV on that front though, it was definitely pushing it.
5/15/2026 7:08:14 PM EDT
[#18]
I want to, I'm just not a fan of holsters that have the loops/clips on top of the gun instead of over the trigger guard.   That seems to be the trend now though.

It just adds so much unnecessary thickness to the whole package IMO.

Really want to try making my own if I can find the time.
5/15/2026 7:13:48 PM EDT
[#19]
Quote History
Originally Posted By ARgunner0210:
Its my go to carry setup. I daily a DW Specialist in a Phlster Floodlight 1 with pull the dot loops. A more flexible edc belt, pull the dot loops, and letting the gun sit pretty deep have been the key to success for me. Even in a schmedium t-shirt and shorts.

When I still owned a 2011 with a dot, Id use the same set up and conceal pretty well even with a 140mm mag in the gun. YMMV on that front though, it was definitely pushing it.
View Quote
Totally agree.  For AIWB I want soft PTD loops, and you don't need a crazy rigid belt.  A lot of guys buy a super stiff setup and then hate AIWB because it doesn't work well for that.  At least for me.
5/15/2026 7:34:27 PM EDT
[#20]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Dunderway:
I want to, I'm just not a fan of holsters that have the loops/clips on top of the gun instead of over the trigger guard.   That seems to be the trend now though.

It just adds so much unnecessary thickness to the whole package IMO.

Really want to try making my own if I can find the time.
View Quote

The loops over the gun helps get the gun lower in the belt line though so its a trade off
5/15/2026 8:12:29 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Dunderway][Edited] [#21]
Quote History
Originally Posted By New2AR15s:

The loops over the gun helps get the gun lower in the belt line though so its a trade off
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Quote History
Originally Posted By New2AR15s:
Originally Posted By Dunderway:
I want to, I'm just not a fan of holsters that have the loops/clips on top of the gun instead of over the trigger guard.   That seems to be the trend now though.

It just adds so much unnecessary thickness to the whole package IMO.

Really want to try making my own if I can find the time.

The loops over the gun helps get the gun lower in the belt line though so its a trade off
I get what you're saying, but with this style of holster I think I can run it as deep or high as I want.  Especially if I change to a different arm/bracket as needed.  I just hate adding thickness to anything for CCW.  

this setup would be at least 1/4" thicker with two straps on top of the slide/frame instead of where the single strap is now.
Attached File

5/15/2026 9:22:01 PM EDT
[#22]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Dunderway:
I get what you're saying, but with this style of holster I think I can run it as deep or high as I want.  Especially if I change to a different arm/bracket as needed.  I just hate adding thickness to anything for CCW.  

this setup would be at least 1/4" thicker with two straps on top of the slide/frame instead of where the single strap is now.
https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/361327/IMG_6295_jpeg-3763024.JPG
View Quote View All Quotes
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Quote History
Originally Posted By Dunderway:
Originally Posted By New2AR15s:
Originally Posted By Dunderway:
I want to, I'm just not a fan of holsters that have the loops/clips on top of the gun instead of over the trigger guard.   That seems to be the trend now though.

It just adds so much unnecessary thickness to the whole package IMO.

Really want to try making my own if I can find the time.

The loops over the gun helps get the gun lower in the belt line though so its a trade off
I get what you're saying, but with this style of holster I think I can run it as deep or high as I want.  Especially if I change to a different arm/bracket as needed.  I just hate adding thickness to anything for CCW.  

this setup would be at least 1/4" thicker with two straps on top of the slide/frame instead of where the single strap is now.
https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/361327/IMG_6295_jpeg-3763024.JPG

Metal clips are more secure than loops and so thin thay they dont add any appreciable thickness
Do Good
Be Dangerous
Live Free
5/15/2026 10:15:50 PM EDT
[#23]
Quote History
Originally Posted By 03RN:

Metal clips are more secure than loops and so thin thay they dont add any appreciable thickness
View Quote View All Quotes
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Quote History
Originally Posted By 03RN:
Originally Posted By Dunderway:
Originally Posted By New2AR15s:
Originally Posted By Dunderway:
I want to, I'm just not a fan of holsters that have the loops/clips on top of the gun instead of over the trigger guard.   That seems to be the trend now though.

It just adds so much unnecessary thickness to the whole package IMO.

Really want to try making my own if I can find the time.

The loops over the gun helps get the gun lower in the belt line though so its a trade off
I get what you're saying, but with this style of holster I think I can run it as deep or high as I want.  Especially if I change to a different arm/bracket as needed.  I just hate adding thickness to anything for CCW.  

this setup would be at least 1/4" thicker with two straps on top of the slide/frame instead of where the single strap is now.
https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/361327/IMG_6295_jpeg-3763024.JPG

Metal clips are more secure than loops and so thin thay they dont add any appreciable thickness
I should try some of the modern metal clips.  They have to be popular for a reason.  Just kind of stuck on what I like I guess.
5/16/2026 9:11:28 PM EDT
[#24]
Vedder AIWB with claw and pillow, carry a full size Guncrafter HOSS 45acp all the time, two spare mags on the belt, surprisingly easy once you figure it all out, takes forever but worth it.
6/16/2026 7:17:50 PM EDT
[#25]
Quote History
Originally Posted By sevin8nin:
I've been exclusively carrying AIWB for about a decade.
Tenicor is what I've landed on and the certum3 for my 1911 5" is by far my preferred carry for comfort.
https://i.imgur.com/8sWqu8E.jpeg
View Quote
That a Pilot Mountain Operator?
6/16/2026 7:46:21 PM EDT
[#26]
Crossbreed IWB, strongside, not appendix.  I carried a full sized 1911 wearing shorts, an entire weekend around a large party of people in unfriendly territory.  Nobody had a clue. Crossbreed is one of the most comfortable IWB holsters you will find.

I am not a small guy and I always wear baggy shirts.
Preferred pronoun: MARINE
6/16/2026 7:58:17 PM EDT
[#27]
I AIWB a Dan wesson wraith in 10mm
Muddy River Tactical.holster
7/4/2026 11:50:51 PM EDT
[#28]
What about Tony Berreta back in the day.
7/5/2026 4:50:13 AM EDT
[#29]
Kramer horsehide IWB or a Milt Sparks Summer Special 2.
Good, bad, I'm the guy with the gun.
7/5/2026 7:30:53 AM EDT
[#30]
I will occassionally but only if no long term sitting is expected
7/5/2026 7:34:11 AM EDT
[#31]
Quote History
Originally Posted By 03RN:
Yes.

Ive tried jmcustom and tenicore. Both are ok. Ronin leather works is more comfortable and conceals as well.
https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/433221/1000004218_jpg-3759742.JPG
https://www.ar15.com/media/mediaFiles/433221/1000004234_jpg-3759743.JPG
View Quote

Bookmarked for later. I’m always looking for a better way to pack my 1911
“That’s not how it works. You buy more tools and power than you need and as you fuck everything up you gain the knowledge to become a better carpenter.”

Tveddy
7/6/2026 11:02:04 AM EDT
[#32]
I carry mine in a JM Custom kydex AIWB wing claw 2.5.  Same for my full sized Berettas. No drama.
7/6/2026 12:35:04 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Joshuasaur][Edited] [#33]
I have been carrying a 5in 1911 with an optic and rail for about 2 years with a C&G holster

https://www.candgholsters.com/collections/1911-5-railed

An Adventurer from the Internet
7/6/2026 6:15:44 PM EDT
[#34]
Milt Sparks Summer Special IWB Straight Drop with matching belt and single mag carrier.
7/6/2026 6:56:35 PM EDT
[#35]
I don't carry a full-size but I do carry a standard 1911 Commander with the bob-tail (or non-standard if the bob-tail disqualifies).  I like the bob-tail and would want that feature if the 1911 was full-size.

I would imagine that a bob-tail on a full-size (a 1911 Gubment) would go a long way towards helping with concealment.
7/6/2026 7:00:29 PM EDT
[#36]
Also, Mitch Rosen cow/bull/steer leather holster on the side (not appendix) with a two-layer gunbelt to match.  

Rosen holsters are perfectly angled for concealment imo, and a stiff gunbelt ensures that the grip is where you trained for.
7/6/2026 7:44:06 PM EDT
[#37]
I carried a full-size 1911 off-duty when I was a (much skinnier) working cop.  I made the holster myself after seeing a Milt Sparks Summer Special.  Same for an IWB mag pouch.  I don't think I could get away with doing it now, my back wouldn't like it.
7/7/2026 8:25:59 AM EDT
[#38]
How did you get the a-cut for the coa on a 1911?? I wanted to do that but didn’t think they made a plate? Or is that cut?
7/7/2026 10:55:17 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Joshuasaur][Edited] [#39]
Quote History
Originally Posted By Williamkravmaga:
How did you get the a-cut for the coa on a 1911?? I wanted to do that but didn't think they made a plate? Or is that cut?
View Quote
Springfield is now doing some of the operator line with the COA from the factory LINK

They are pretty sweet!
An Adventurer from the Internet
7/16/2026 3:55:48 PM EDT
[Last Edit: ricky_45][Edited] [#40]
I carry a gov 1911 in an IWB uncle Mike's with a ratchet belt that I can adjust on the fly.  I can move the gun go 2 or 3 o'clock then move it back aiwb whenever.
NorCal callsign “Boogaloo”
7/24/2026 1:56:53 PM EDT
[#41]
Another 5" Govt model/ JM Custom AIWB 2.0 wing claw guy. I really only carry my steel guns in Fall/Winter though due to sweat/humidty. I'm 6'0, 200 lbs and I have no problem concealing with that setup, though I do take care when I sit down as I have clamped a grape a few times with that combo.
7/24/2026 2:08:38 PM EDT
[#42]
Have tried both Gov't length and CCO. Prefer the CCO for appendix carry. Both in a 5 Shot leather SME.
They are slim and not uncomfortable to carry AIWB. A sturdy belt always helps and I prefer the ratchet style belts for these.

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