Holster
A holster is a specialized article of clothing that is designed to hold a sidearm on the person of the wielder where it can be easily drawn for immediate use.
Popular holsters are:
- Inside the waistband (IWB) holsters, which clip or mount to a belt and allow one to securely holster the weapon inside the pants.
- Outside the waistband (OWB) or belt holster, which can be worn relatively high and close to the body, slightly behind the hip bone ("4:00 position"), and is easily concealed under a sweatshirt or jacket.
- "Belly band" holster, which is a comfortable, wide elastic belt with a built-in holster, to be worn under a shirt that is not tucked in, to facilitate access. There are various types, worn at the belt line or higher, with the gun placement anywhere from in front to under the armpit.
- Pocket holsters, for use with very small weapons, usually a back-up gun.
Others have used built-in holsters in day planners or executive briefcases, made specifically for the purpose. There are even specialized lines of clothing featuring built-in holsters or aiding coverage of a regular holster. Women can buy purses with a special access holster that allows access to the weapon without opening the purse.