There isn't one IWB holster that's best for everyone. Your firearm size, preferred carry position, belt setup, and how much adjustability you want all make a difference. That's why we offer several IWB designs instead of trying to make one holster do everything. Here's how I recommend choosing between them.
V1 — My Pick for Compact and Micro-Compact Pistols
The V1 is my favorite option for compact and micro-compact firearms and one of the most versatile IWB holsters we make. Its biggest advantage is adjustability. The V1 offers our widest range of ride-height adjustment, making it easy to experiment with how high or low the firearm sits until you find the balance of concealment, comfort, and accessibility that works for you.
It can also be configured with different belt clip options, including an UltiClip for customers looking for a beltless carry option.
Best for: Compact and micro-compact pistols, deep concealment, and anyone who wants maximum ride-height adjustment.
V2 — Our Most Popular Appendix Holster
The V2 is our most popular choice for appendix carry, particularly with mid-size and full-size firearms. Instead of a single attachment point, the V2 uses a dual-clip design that spreads the holster across a wider area of the belt. For larger firearms, that provides a stable platform while still keeping the setup streamlined.
If you're primarily carrying appendix and aren't looking for an integrated magazine carrier, this is where I'd start with a larger handgun.
Best for: Appendix carry, mid-size and full-size pistols, and customers who prefer a dual-clip setup.
Standard IWB — Simple and Versatile
Our Standard IWB is the traditional option. It's a good choice if you want a straightforward holster that can work for appendix carry but is also well suited for strong-side carry. Adjustable cant lets you change the angle of the firearm, which is particularly useful for customers carrying around the 4:00–4:30 position.
There's nothing complicated about this one—and that's the point.
Best for: Strong-side carry, traditional IWB carry, or anyone wanting a simple and versatile setup.
Flex Rig — Appendix Carry With a Spare Magazine
The Flex Rig is the setup I personally prefer for appendix carry. It combines the firearm holster and spare magazine carrier into one system while using a flexible center connection. That flexibility allows the two sides of the rig to move somewhat independently rather than behaving like one completely rigid piece.
If you already know you want an integrated spare magazine as part of your appendix setup, the Flex Rig is the model I'd look at first.
Best for: Appendix carry with an integrated spare magazine carrier.
Micro Rig — The Minimalist Option
The Micro Rig is our smallest, most stripped-down IWB design. It's intended for someone specifically looking for a minimalist setup with as little holster as possible.
That said, for most customers with a compact or micro-compact pistol, I recommend the V1 instead. The V1 gives you considerably more adjustment and flexibility while still maintaining a compact footprint. The Micro Rig makes the most sense when minimalism itself is the priority.
Best for: Customers specifically looking for our smallest and simplest IWB setup.
Still Not Sure?
Start with how and where you plan to carry. For a compact or micro-compact firearm, I'd generally start with the V1. For a mid-size or full-size firearm carried appendix, I'd look at the V2. For traditional strong-side carry, I'd start with the Standard IWB. If you want an integrated spare magazine, go straight to the Flex Rig. And if your priority is simply getting the smallest, most minimalist setup possible, that's where the Micro Rig comes in.
Every Blacksmith Tactical holster is built to order around the firearm and options you select, so once you've chosen the basic holster design, you can configure the rest of the setup around the way you carry.
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