Holster Claw: What Is It and How Does It Work?

If you’re looking for a new holster, or a more efficient way to carry the one you currently have, a holster claw may be the perfect addition to your carry system. But first, what is a concealment claw, and how does it work?

A holster claw is an attachment often used to keep your gun close to your body to help avoid printing. It utilizes the natural curve of your body by pressing against your belt to push the grip end of your gun back toward you.

The holster claw is mounted underneath the trigger guard on your inside the waistband (IWB) holster. Claws can be made of various materials, be different shapes, and have unique designs. Each of these can affect how the claw functions and sits against your belt.

The positioning of the claw in relation to the holster is important. If the claw extends too high, you could hit it with your fingers when you draw your gun. On the other hand, if it is too low, it may not have enough leverage against your belt to push the grip of the gun back into your body. Holster claws should be almost aligned with the belt clip to have proper contact.

What positions can I carry in with a holster claw?

There has been a large debate about what positions you can carry in with holster claws. Many of our employees use the holster claw, and we have found that it works in almost every position.

While it may be said that you can only carry with an IWB holster claw in the appendix position, the claw utilizes the leverage of the belt to push the grip of your gun toward your body no matter what position it is in. Appendix carry is the most common position people use the claw in, but it is still comfortable and effective in reducing printing in the 3-5 or 7-9 o’clock positions.

Beyond the position you carry in, with many holsters you can adjust the ride height and cant. If you carry with a strong cant or ride height the holster claw may not make appropriate contact with your belt and will not be effective.

The position you carry in with a claw is all based on your personal preference. Perhaps you want to use it in one position over another but use the same holster, you can easily remove the claw. Our holsters come with a shorter screw to put in the place of the claw when you aren’t using it.

Do I need to wear a belt with a holster claw?

Yes, holster claws use your belt as leverage to push the grip of your gun back toward your body. While you may be able to use a claw without a belt, it most likely won’t function as effectively without the belt.

A proper belt is also important to ensure your IWB holster claw is fully functioning. While a regular belt may be made of the same material as a gun belt, leather or nylon, a gun belt uses extra layers and high-quality materials to create a stronger-than-average belt.

Here at Vedder Holsters, we understand the importance of a gun belt. Our leather gun belt has a polymer core between the layers of leather to maximize strength. Its classic look makes it the perfect addition to any outfit. If you are looking for a more tactical feel, our Cobra® belt is made of dual-layered nylon and features a quick-release Cobra® buckle. To learn more about our gun belts visit our gun belt page.

Is a holster claw strong?

Yes, the Vedder holster claw is made of a composite polymer with a two-part resin giving our claw its strength. Other companies may use other materials or compounds to give the claw similar strength. You don’t want your claw to bend or break while you are carrying, so its strength is an important factor that any claw manufacturer will maximize.

Just like you may alter a recipe overtime to make it taste better, companies alter product designs to improve the quality, functionality, or durability. Our holster claw has gone through a few versions to produce the IWB holster claw our customers know and love.

Are holster claws comfortable?

Yes, many people have found that it doesn’t feel any different. If they did notice a change it was that they found it more comfortable because it distributes the weight of your gun better.

Mentally, you may experience a substantial increase in comfort. If you have ever concealed carried you have probably, at one point, worried about printing, even if it was when you first started carrying. With the holster claw, because it pushes the grip end of your gun back into your body, reducing any printing you can feel more comfortable not worrying whether your gun is showing or not.

Do I need a holster claw?

While a holster claw is not required, if you are concealed carrying a claw is a great addition to your carry system.

Holster claws are effective for many gun and holster models. With the proper holster, a claw will push the grip end of your gun back towards your body making it easy to conceal and probably more comfortable. If you find that it works better in some positions over others you can easily remove the claw and reattach it as needed.

Here at Vedder Holsters, we specialize in Kydex holsters and offer many accessories you need to complete your carry system. TheVedder  Holster Claw is the perfect addition to an IWB holster and has been altered over time to create the strong durable claw you all know today. It is available as an add-on when you purchase a LightTuck holster or can be purchased separately.

We recommend visiting our  Holsters by Gun Model page if you are looking for holsters that are custom-made for your weapon of choice. For all of our belt and holster options and for more information to help you choose the carry system that works best for you, visit our Vedder Holsters website.

Looking for items beyond holsters and belts, check out our  Resources Page for popular product links like lights, laser, first aid, maintenance, and more.