Fat Guy Holster: What It Is, How It Works, Best Options
"Fat guy holster" is a slang/colloquial term used in the concealed carry community to describe holsters and carry methods that work well for people with larger body types or belly protrusion. The real topic is concealment mechanics for larger midsections—beltline positioning, grip angle, comfort, and printing. Appendix carry can be challenging for people with a belly, and certain holster features help make it more comfortable and practical.
This guide explains what makes a holster work well for larger body types, key features to look for, and which holsters and carry positions work best. Whether you're a larger individual looking for comfortable carry options or curious about body-type-specific considerations, understanding these factors will help you find the right solution.
People often ask about holsters for larger body types because appendix carry can be uncomfortable or impractical for people with a belly, and finding the right holster and carry position is important for comfort and effectiveness.
Challenges for Larger Body Types
Belly Protrusion
People with a belly often have protrusion that can interfere with appendix carry. The pistol may dig into the midsection, making it uncomfortable and affecting concealment. This is the primary challenge that holsters designed for larger body types address.
Grip Printing
The pistol grip can print more prominently on larger individuals, especially with appendix carry. Finding the right holster position and features to reduce printing is important.
Comfort
Comfort is a major concern for larger individuals, especially with appendix carry. The right holster and position can make a significant difference in all-day comfort.
Key Features for Larger Body Types
Wedge
A wedge on the back of the holster changes the holster's angle against the body, generally tipping the grip inward and reducing "muzzle digging" by creating space. This is especially important for people with a belly. Many quality holsters include wedges or allow aftermarket wedge addition.
Ride Height Adjustment
Adjustable ride height allows you to position the holster higher or lower, which can help with comfort and concealment for different body types. Being able to fine-tune position is valuable.
Cant Adjustment
Adjustable cant allows you to angle the holster, which can help with comfort and concealment. Finding the right angle can make a significant difference for larger individuals.
Claw/Wing
A claw or wing pushes against your belt to rotate the grip inward, reducing printing. This is important for all body types but especially valuable for larger individuals where grip printing can be more prominent.
Best Carry Positions for Larger Body Types
Strong-Side IWB (3-5 o'clock)
Strong-side IWB is often more comfortable for larger individuals than appendix carry. The pistol sits on your side rather than in front, avoiding belly interference. This is a popular choice for larger body types.
Appendix Carry (with adjustments)
Appendix carry can work for people with a belly with the right holster and adjustments. A wedge, proper ride height, and cant adjustment can make it comfortable. For larger midsections, "appendix" often works better slightly off-center (~1 o'clock / 1:30) for comfort and concealment. Sitting comfort is a key test—make sure the holster doesn't dig or shift into unsafe angles when seated. Some people with larger body types find appendix carry works well, while others prefer strong-side.
OWB with Cover Garment
Outside waistband carry with a cover garment (jacket, untucked shirt) can be comfortable for people with larger body types. It avoids the issues of IWB carry while still allowing concealment.
Safety + Holster Selection
When selecting a holster for larger body types, safety fundamentals are non-negotiable:
- • Rigid holster with full trigger guard coverage: Prioritize rigid holsters (Kydex, reinforced leather, etc.) that completely cover the trigger guard. Avoid soft holsters that can collapse or allow trigger access.
- • Stable belt/attachment: A stable belt and secure attachment matters as much as the holster itself. A flimsy belt or loose attachment can cause the holster to shift, affecting safety and comfort.
- • Safe positioning: Avoid positioning that causes the muzzle/holster to shift into unsafe angles when sitting or bending. Test your setup while seated and during normal movement to ensure the holster maintains proper orientation.
These safety considerations apply to all body types but are especially important when adjusting holster position for comfort and concealment. For more information on holster selection, see our best IWB holster guide and Tenicor holsters guide.
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Recommended Holster for Larger Body Types
Holsters designed for larger body types with features like wedges, adjustable ride height and cant, and proper support for comfortable concealed carry.
Check price on Amazon →Recommended Holster Features
Built-in or Add-on Wedge
A wedge is essential for comfort with bigger frames. Look for holsters with built-in wedges or the ability to add aftermarket wedges. This changes the holster angle to tip the grip inward and reduce muzzle digging, improving comfort significantly.
Full Adjustability
Look for holsters with adjustable ride height, cant, and retention. Being able to fine-tune all aspects of the holster position is valuable for larger individuals.
Quality Belt
A quality gun belt is essential for all body types but especially important for people with larger body types. A flimsy belt won't support the holster properly and can affect comfort, concealment, and safety. The belt and attachment stability are critical for proper holster function.
Fat Guy Holster FAQ
Can larger people do appendix carry?
Yes, many people with larger body types successfully use appendix carry with the right holster and adjustments. A wedge, proper ride height, and cant adjustment can make it comfortable. Positioning slightly off-center (~1 o'clock / 1:30) often works better than true 12 o'clock for people with a belly. However, strong-side IWB is often more comfortable for bigger frames.
What's the best holster for larger body types?
The best holster depends on your specific body type and preferences. Look for rigid holsters with full trigger guard coverage, wedges, full adjustability, and good support. Strong-side IWB is often more comfortable than appendix for people with a belly, but both can work with the right setup. See our best CCW holsters guide for specific recommendations.
Do I need a special holster if I'm larger?
Not necessarily, but certain features are more important. A rigid holster with full trigger guard coverage, a wedge, adjustable ride height and cant, and a quality belt are essential. Many quality holsters work well for people with larger body types with proper adjustment.
Is strong-side better than appendix for larger people?
Strong-side IWB is often more comfortable for people with a belly because it avoids midsection interference. However, some people with larger body types successfully use appendix carry with the right holster and adjustments (often positioned slightly off-center). Try both positions to see what works for you, and test sitting comfort as a key factor.
What's the most important feature for larger body types?
A wedge is probably the most important feature, as it creates space and improves comfort. Adjustable ride height and cant are also valuable for fine-tuning position. A quality gun belt is essential for proper support.
Bottom Line
People with larger body types can successfully carry concealed with the right holster and carry position. Strong-side IWB is often more comfortable than appendix carry, but both can work with proper setup. Key features include rigid holsters with full trigger guard coverage, wedges, adjustable ride height and cant, and a quality gun belt.
Look for holsters with these features and be willing to experiment with position and adjustments. What works for one person may not work for another, so finding the right combination of holster, position, and adjustments is important. Safety fundamentals—rigid holster, stable belt/attachment, and safe positioning—are non-negotiable regardless of body type.
Don't assume that having a larger midsection means you can't carry comfortably. With the right holster and setup, comfortable, effective concealed carry is possible for all body types. The key is finding what works for your specific body and preferences while maintaining safety fundamentals. For more information, see our PHLster holsters guide for innovative carry solutions.