The Glock 23 represents one of the most successful compact pistol designs in modern firearms history, serving as the backbone of countless law enforcement agencies while earning a devoted following among civilian concealed carriers. This .40 S&W powerhouse delivers full-size performance in a package that’s manageable for everyday carry, but realizing its concealed carry potential requires the right inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster that balances security, comfort, and accessibility.
Choosing an IWB holster for your Glock 23 isn’t just about finding something that fits; it’s about selecting a carry system that becomes an extension of your defensive mindset. The holster must retain your pistol securely through all daily activities while allowing for a smooth, consistent draw stroke when your life depends on quick access. Modern IWB holsters have evolved far beyond the simple leather pouches of decades past, incorporating advanced materials, ergonomic design principles, and user-adjustable features that optimize the carry experience.
The Glock 23’s compact dimensions make it an excellent candidate for concealed carry, but its .40 caliber chambering and resulting grip thickness present unique challenges for holster designers. The pistol measures 6.85 inches in length with a 4.02-inch height and 1.18-inch width, creating a package that demands careful holster design to minimize printing while maintaining comfortable all-day carry. The weight of 21.16 ounces (unloaded) requires robust retention systems and proper weight distribution to prevent the holster from shifting during daily activities.
Modern IWB holster construction has been revolutionized by advanced thermoplastics like Kydex and Boltaron, which offer superior retention characteristics, moisture resistance, and durability compared to traditional leather designs. These materials allow for precise molding to the Glock 23’s specific contours, creating retention that’s both secure and consistent. The hard shell construction also facilitates one-handed re-holstering—a critical safety feature that leather holsters often compromise due to their tendency to collapse after the pistol is drawn.
Retention systems vary from simple friction fit to active retention mechanisms, but for civilian concealed carry, passive retention through proper molding and adjustable tension typically provides the optimal balance of security and accessibility. The key is finding a holster that retains the pistol securely enough to pass an inverted shake test while still allowing for a smooth draw stroke that won’t snag on clothing or equipment.
Comfort considerations become paramount for concealed carry success, as an uncomfortable holster will inevitably be left at home when it’s needed most. The best IWB holsters for the Glock 23 distribute weight evenly, minimize pressure points, and feature rounded edges that won’t dig into the wearer’s body during extended carry periods. Proper cant angle and ride height adjustments allow users to fine-tune the holster position for optimal concealment and draw stroke efficiency.
Our Top Picks for the Best IWB Holsters for Glock 23
We’ve extensively tested and evaluated these holsters based on retention security, comfort, concealability, draw performance, and overall value to identify the best options for Glock 23 carriers across different needs and budgets.
1) Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite (Best Overall Performance)
The Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite represents the pinnacle of modern IWB holster design, combining innovative sidecar magazine carrier integration with uncompromising retention and comfort. This isn’t just a holster, it’s a complete concealed carry system that transforms how you carry your Glock 23 while maintaining the lowest possible profile and highest level of readiness.
What immediately sets the Axis Elite apart is its revolutionary sidecar design that positions a magazine carrier alongside the holster body, connected by a flexible hinge system. This configuration provides several critical advantages: it distributes the system’s weight more evenly across your waistline, reduces printing by creating a flatter profile, and ensures you always have a spare magazine positioned for optimal reloading technique. The flexible hinge allows the system to conform to your body’s natural curves while maintaining structural integrity.
The holster construction demonstrates Tier 1’s commitment to precision manufacturing. Each unit is thermoformed specifically for the Glock 23’s dimensions, creating retention that’s both secure and consistent. The Kydex construction provides a smooth draw stroke with audible retention confirmation, while the interior is perfectly smooth to prevent wear on your pistol’s finish. The retention is adjustable via precision screws, allowing you to fine-tune the draw resistance to your exact preferences.
Comfort engineering is where the Axis Elite truly excels. The holster body features carefully radiused edges and strategic relief cuts that eliminate pressure points during extended carry. The included wedge system allows you to adjust the holster’s angle against your body, optimizing both comfort and concealment. The sidecar magazine carrier includes similar comfort features, ensuring the entire system remains comfortable during all-day carry.
The attachment system uses a combination of polymer clips and optional belt loops that distribute stress across a wider area than traditional single-point attachments. This design reduces the likelihood of holster shift during daily activities while maintaining a secure connection to your gun belt. The clips are height-adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune ride height for optimal concealment and draw stroke geometry.
What makes the Axis Elite exceptional for the Glock 23 is its perfect balance of features. The holster provides full coverage of the trigger guard and ejection port, preventing debris contamination while ensuring absolute trigger safety. The high sweat guard protects both you and your pistol from moisture while providing a consistent grip reference point. The open-bottom design accommodates threaded barrels and compensators for users who modify their Glock 23.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Material | .08″ Kydex |
| Retention | Adjustable passive |
| Cant Angle | Adjustable 0-15° |
| Ride Height | Adjustable |
| Sidecar | Integrated magazine carrier |
| Sweat Guard | Full height |
| Weight | 4.2 oz |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Compatibility | Glock 23 (all generations) |
Pros
- Integrated sidecar magazine carrier optimizes reloading capability
- Superior weight distribution eliminates hot spots and pressure points
- Precision molding provides consistent, secure retention
- Fully adjustable for personalized fit and performance
- Lifetime warranty demonstrates manufacturer confidence
- Accommodates weapon-mounted lights and modifications
Cons
- Higher price point reflects precision manufacturing and features
The Axis Elite transforms concealed carry from a compromise into an advantage. When you need a holster system that disappears under clothing while keeping you fully prepared for defensive encounters, this represents the state of the art in concealed carry equipment. It’s the choice for serious carriers who understand that superior equipment often makes the difference between successful concealment and printing problems.
2) Vedder LightTuck (Best Versatility)
Vedder Holsters has earned a devoted following among concealed carriers by focusing relentlessly on the fundamentals: comfort, retention, and reliability. The LightTuck represents the culmination of their design philosophy, delivering a holster that excels across all critical performance metrics while maintaining the versatility to adapt to different carry preferences and body types.
The LightTuck’s defining characteristic is its perfect balance of features without unnecessary complexity. Vedder understood that most carriers want a holster that works exceptionally well out of the box while offering enough adjustability to accommodate individual preferences. The result is a design that’s immediately comfortable for new carriers while providing the performance features that experienced carriers demand.
What makes the LightTuck special for Glock 23 carriers is its precise molding that captures every contour of the pistol without adding unnecessary bulk. The retention is perfectly calibrated for the Glock 23’s dimensions, providing secure carry that passes rigorous retention tests while maintaining a smooth, snag-free draw stroke. The audible click when holstering provides positive confirmation of proper seating.
The comfort engineering demonstrates Vedder’s attention to the human factors that make or break a concealed carry experience. The holster body features a carefully designed wing that leverages belt tension to pull the grip closer to your body, significantly reducing printing. The edges are perfectly radiused to eliminate pressure points, while the overall profile minimizes bulk without compromising protection or retention.
Adjustability is where the LightTuck truly shines for users with different body types and carry preferences. The cant angle is fully adjustable from 0 to 15 degrees, allowing you to optimize draw stroke geometry for your specific build and carry position. Ride height adjustment ensures the holster works equally well for users who prefer high carry for maximum concealment or lower carry for faster access.
The attachment system uses Vedder’s proprietary claw design that hooks under your belt to provide additional retention security while helping to pull the pistol grip closer to your body. This system works with virtually any quality gun belt and provides rock-solid attachment that won’t shift during daily activities. The single clip design makes the holster easy to put on and remove while maintaining excellent retention.
Construction quality reflects Vedder’s commitment to durability. The Kydex is precision-molded with smooth interior surfaces that protect your pistol’s finish while providing consistent performance. The hardware is stainless steel throughout, ensuring long-term durability even in demanding environmental conditions. Quality control is exceptional, with each holster individually inspected before shipping.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Material | .08″ Kydex |
| Retention | Molded passive |
| Cant Angle | 0-15° adjustable |
| Ride Height | Adjustable |
| Attachment | Claw clip system |
| Sweat Guard | Mid-height |
| Weight | 2.1 oz |
| Warranty | 30-day trial |
| Lead Time | 2-3 weeks |
Pros
- Exceptional comfort for extended daily carry
- Perfect retention balance for Glock 23 dimensions
- Fully adjustable cant and ride height
- Wing design significantly reduces printing
- Outstanding build quality with attention to detail
- 30-day money-back guarantee reduces purchase risk
Cons
- Custom manufacturing requires 2-3 week lead time
The LightTuck proves that focusing on fundamentals can produce exceptional results. When you need a holster that works beautifully right out of the box while offering the adjustability to perfect your carry setup, the LightTuck delivers. It represents the sweet spot between performance and simplicity that makes it ideal for both new and experienced concealed carriers.
3) Concealment Express KLIPT (Best Budget Option)
Concealment Express has revolutionized the budget holster market by proving that exceptional quality doesn’t require premium pricing. The KLIPT represents outstanding value engineering, delivering features and performance that were once exclusive to much more expensive holsters while maintaining a price point that makes quality concealed carry accessible to every serious gun owner.
The KLIPT’s design philosophy centers on providing maximum functionality with minimum complexity. Rather than loading the holster with adjustments and features that many users never utilize, Concealment Express focused on perfecting the core elements that determine daily carry success: retention, comfort, and concealability. The result is a holster that works exceptionally well for the vast majority of Glock 23 carriers without requiring extensive setup or adjustment.
What immediately impresses about the KLIPT is its retention quality. Despite its budget pricing, the holster provides retention that rivals much more expensive competitors. The Kydex molding captures the Glock 23’s trigger guard and ejection port contours precisely, creating secure carry that won’t allow the pistol to work loose during daily activities. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, with just enough resistance to confirm secure retention without impeding quick access.
The comfort engineering punches well above the holster’s price class. The body features carefully rounded edges and strategic relief cuts that eliminate pressure points during extended carry. The profile is optimized for the Glock 23’s dimensions, minimizing bulk while providing complete trigger guard coverage. The sweat guard is precisely sized to protect your pistol from moisture while avoiding excessive height that could create discomfort.
Construction quality demonstrates that budget pricing doesn’t require compromising durability. The Kydex is precision-thermoformed with smooth interior surfaces that protect your pistol’s finish. The hardware is corrosion-resistant and properly torqued to prevent loosening over time. While it may not feature the premium materials of more expensive holsters, the KLIPT is built to provide reliable service for serious concealed carriers.
The attachment system uses a spring-steel clip that provides excellent retention on various belt widths while allowing for easy installation and removal. The clip design distributes stress evenly to prevent belt wear while maintaining positive retention during all daily activities. The system works well with both gun belts and quality dress belts, providing versatility for different carry scenarios.
What makes the KLIPT exceptional value is its performance-per-dollar ratio. While it may not offer the extensive adjustability of premium holsters, it provides 90% of the performance at a fraction of the cost. For new concealed carriers or budget-conscious users who need reliable protection without premium pricing, the KLIPT delivers genuine capability.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Material | .08″ Kydex |
| Retention | Molded passive |
| Cant Angle | Fixed 15° |
| Attachment | Spring steel clip |
| Sweat Guard | Mid-height |
| Weight | 2.0 oz |
| Warranty | Lifetime |
| Price Range | Budget tier |
| Availability | In-stock shipping |
Pros
- Outstanding value with premium-level performance
- Excellent retention quality despite budget pricing
- Comfortable for extended daily carry
- Lifetime warranty eliminates long-term risk
- Available for immediate shipping
- Works well with various belt types
Cons
- Fixed cant angle limits customization options
The KLIPT proves that exceptional concealed carry capability doesn’t require breaking your budget. When you need reliable, comfortable carry for your Glock 23 without premium pricing, this holster delivers genuine performance that makes quality concealed carry accessible to everyone. It’s proof that smart design and efficient manufacturing can produce outstanding results at prices that make sense.
4) CrossBreed SuperTuck (Best Hybrid Comfort)
CrossBreed Holsters pioneered the hybrid holster concept, combining the retention benefits of Kydex with the comfort advantages of leather to create a carrying experience that many users find superior to either material alone. The SuperTuck represents the refinement of this concept over more than two decades, delivering unmatched comfort for extended carry while maintaining the security and performance that serious carriers demand.
The hybrid design philosophy addresses the fundamental compromise between retention and comfort that has challenged holster designers for generations. The Kydex shell provides precise molding to the Glock 23’s contours, ensuring consistent retention and a smooth draw stroke that won’t vary with environmental conditions or wear patterns. The leather backing distributes pressure evenly across a larger area while conforming to your body’s natural curves for exceptional comfort.
What sets the SuperTuck apart is CrossBreed’s proprietary leather selection and treatment process. The cowhide backing is hand-selected for grain structure and thickness, then treated with a special process that maintains flexibility while preventing stretch and deformation over time. This creates a backing that remains comfortable against your skin while providing structural support for the Kydex shell.
The retention system demonstrates CrossBreed’s commitment to security without complexity. The Kydex shell is molded specifically for the Glock 23’s dimensions, creating friction retention that’s both secure and consistent. The retention level is factory-set to optimal specifications, though users can make minor adjustments if needed. The system provides positive retention that will pass rigorous security tests while maintaining accessibility when you need it most.
Comfort engineering is where the SuperTuck truly excels. The leather backing extends well beyond the Kydex shell, distributing the holster’s weight and pressure over a much larger area than traditional designs. This dramatically reduces pressure points and hot spots that can make extended carry uncomfortable. The leather naturally conforms to your body over time, creating a custom fit that becomes increasingly comfortable with use.
The Combat Cut design features strategic relief areas that accommodate a wide range of body types while optimizing concealment. The cut pattern is based on extensive field testing with users of different builds, ensuring the holster works well regardless of your specific body type. The design minimizes printing while maintaining complete trigger guard protection and positive retention.
The attachment system uses dual spring-steel clips that provide excellent retention across a wide range of belt widths. The clips are positioned to distribute stress evenly while allowing for some flexibility to accommodate body movement. The system provides rock-solid attachment that won’t shift during daily activities while remaining easy to install and remove when needed.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Materials | Kydex shell, leather backing |
| Retention | Molded passive |
| Cant Angle | Fixed 15° |
| Backing | Hand-selected cowhide |
| Combat Cut | Strategic relief areas |
| Attachment | Dual spring clips |
| Weight | 3.4 oz |
| Warranty | Two-week trial |
| Customization | Multiple options available |
Pros
- Unmatched comfort for extended daily carry
- Hybrid design combines best of Kydex and leather
- Hand-selected leather provides durability and flexibility
- Combat Cut accommodates various body types
- Dual clip system provides excellent stability
- Two-week trial period reduces purchase risk
Cons
- Higher price reflects hand-crafted construction
The SuperTuck represents the ultimate evolution of hybrid holster design. When comfort is your primary concern but you refuse to compromise security or performance, this holster delivers a carrying experience that many users describe as transformative. It’s the choice for carriers who spend long hours armed and need equipment that remains comfortable throughout extended carry periods.
5) Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5 (Best Modular System)
Alien Gear revolutionized the holster industry by introducing modular design concepts that allow users to customize their carrying experience without purchasing entirely new holsters. The Cloak Tuck 3.5 represents the latest evolution of this philosophy, offering unprecedented flexibility and adjustability while maintaining the comfort and security that made Alien Gear famous among concealed carriers worldwide.
The modular design concept addresses one of concealed carry’s most persistent challenges: different situations often require different carrying configurations. The Cloak Tuck 3.5 system allows you to modify cant angle, ride height, retention tension, and even swap between different shell materials without replacing the entire holster. This adaptability ensures your holster investment remains optimal regardless of changes in your carrying needs.
What makes the modular approach particularly valuable for Glock 23 carriers is the system’s ability to accommodate different accessories and modifications. Whether you prefer your Glock 23 with night sights, weapon-mounted lights, or other modifications, the interchangeable shell system ensures compatibility. You can even switch between different pistols by simply changing the shell, making the system incredibly cost-effective for multi-gun owners.
The comfort engineering reflects Alien Gear’s extensive research into human factors and carrying ergonomics. The neoprene backing material provides exceptional comfort against your skin while wicking moisture away from both you and your pistol. The material remains flexible in all weather conditions while providing structural support for the retention shell. The perforations allow airflow to prevent hot spots during extended wear.
The retention system offers adjustability that’s virtually unmatched in the industry. The shell design allows for precise tension adjustment using simple tools, letting you dial in the exact draw resistance that matches your preferences and skill level. The system maintains consistent retention regardless of environmental conditions or wear patterns, ensuring reliable performance throughout the holster’s service life.
The ShapeShift core technology allows the same holster components to be reconfigured for different carry methods. The base Cloak Tuck 3.5 can be converted to outside-the-waistband carry, appendix carry, or even shoulder carry configurations by adding different components. This versatility makes the system incredibly cost-effective for users who want flexibility in their carry methods.
The attachment system uses Alien Gear’s proprietary clips that provide excellent retention across various belt widths while allowing for tool-free ride height adjustment. The clips are spring-loaded for security while remaining easy to install and remove. The system accommodates belt widths from 1.25 to 1.75 inches, providing compatibility with virtually any quality gun belt.
Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Design | Modular hybrid system |
| Backing | Perforated neoprene |
| Shell Options | Multiple materials available |
| Cant Angle | Fully adjustable |
| Ride Height | Tool-free adjustment |
| Retention | User-adjustable tension |
| Weight | 3.8 oz |
| Warranty | Forever guarantee |
| Modularity | ShapeShift compatible |
Pros
- Unprecedented adjustability and customization options
- Modular design accommodates different pistols and accessories
- Forever warranty eliminates long-term ownership concerns
- ShapeShift compatibility allows multiple carry configurations
- Excellent comfort with moisture-wicking properties
- Cost-effective for users with multiple firearms
Cons
- Modular complexity may overwhelm some users
The Cloak Tuck 3.5 proves that modularity and performance aren’t mutually exclusive. When you want a holster system that can adapt to changing needs while providing exceptional comfort and security, this represents the pinnacle of user-customizable concealed carry equipment. It’s the ideal choice for carriers who value flexibility and want equipment that grows with their experience and changing requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing The Best IWB Holster for Glock 23
1) What’s the difference between Kydex and leather holsters for the Glock 23?
Kydex holsters offer superior retention consistency, faster draw strokes, and better moisture resistance, making them ideal for defensive carry. They maintain their shape regardless of environmental conditions and provide a smooth, snag-free draw. Leather holsters excel in comfort, especially during extended carry periods, and often conceal better due to their ability to conform to your body. However, leather can stretch over time and may collapse after drawing, making one-handed re-holstering difficult. For the Glock 23’s defensive role, most experts recommend Kydex or hybrid designs that combine both materials’ advantages.
2) How tight should my Glock 23 IWB holster retention be?
Proper retention should secure your Glock 23 firmly enough to pass an inverted shake test—the pistol shouldn’t fall out when the holster is turned upside down and shaken vigorously. However, retention shouldn’t be so tight that you struggle to draw smoothly or require excessive force. You should be able to draw with a firm, deliberate motion without the holster coming with the pistol. Most quality holsters designed for the Glock 23 come with factory-optimized retention, though many offer adjustment screws for fine-tuning to your preferences.
3) What cant angle works best for concealed carry with a Glock 23?
Most carriers find 10-15 degrees of forward cant optimal for IWB carry with the Glock 23. This angle helps conceal the grip better while promoting a natural draw stroke that aligns with your body mechanics. Forward cant also helps distribute the holster’s weight more comfortably and reduces printing. However, body type, carry position, and personal preference all influence the optimal cant angle. Appendix carriers often prefer minimal cant (0-5 degrees), while strong-side carriers typically prefer more forward cant (10-20 degrees).
4) Can I carry my Glock 23 with a weapon-mounted light in an IWB holster?
Yes, but you need a holster specifically designed for your light model. Popular options like the Streamlight TLR-7A and Surefire XC1 have dedicated holster support from most manufacturers. Light-bearing holsters are typically bulkier and may require adjustment to your carry setup, but they’re perfectly viable for concealed carry. Ensure your holster covers the light’s controls to prevent accidental activation while maintaining access to your pistol’s controls. Some carriers prefer separate light and pistol carry to maintain flexibility.
5) How do I prevent my Glock 23 from printing in an IWB holster?
Preventing printing requires attention to several factors: choose a holster with a wing or claw that uses belt tension to pull the grip closer to your body, select proper clothing that doesn’t cling to your waistline, invest in a quality gun belt that provides consistent support, and consider your body type when selecting holster features. The Glock 23’s grip length can create printing issues for some carriers, making holster selection critical. Dark colors, patterns, and proper fit help conceal printing, while loose-fitting clothing around the waistline provides additional concealment.
6) What belt should I use with my Glock 23 IWB holster?
A quality gun belt is essential for proper holster performance and comfort. Look for belts specifically designed for concealed carry, typically 1.5 inches wide with reinforced construction. Leather gun belts offer traditional appeal and excellent support, while synthetic belts provide consistent performance in all weather conditions. The belt should be stiff enough to support your loaded Glock 23 without sagging but flexible enough for comfort. Avoid standard dress belts, which lack the structural support needed for safe, comfortable concealed carry. Budget at least $50-100 for a quality gun belt—it’s as important as the holster itself.
Conclusion
Selecting the right IWB holster for your Glock 23 is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make as a concealed carrier. The holster must seamlessly integrate security, comfort, and accessibility while disappearing under your daily clothing. Each holster we’ve evaluated represents a different approach to solving the concealed carry equation, offering distinct advantages for different users and applications.
The Tier 1 Concealed Axis Elite stands as our top choice for carriers who want the ultimate in preparedness and performance. Its integrated sidecar magazine carrier ensures you’re always equipped for extended engagements, while the precision engineering delivers comfort and concealment that rivals dedicated holster systems. For serious defensive carriers who understand that superior equipment can make the difference in critical situations, the Axis Elite represents the state of the art.
Budget-conscious carriers will find exceptional value in the Concealment Express KLIPT, which proves that quality concealed carry doesn’t require premium pricing. Its straightforward design focuses on the fundamentals while delivering performance that rivals much more expensive alternatives. The lifetime warranty eliminates long-term risk, making it an excellent choice for new carriers or anyone seeking reliable protection without breaking their budget.
The Vedder LightTuck offers the perfect balance of performance and user-friendliness, with adjustability that accommodates different body types and carry preferences. Its wing design significantly improves concealment, while the 30-day trial period reduces purchase risk. For carriers who want a holster that works beautifully out of the box while offering room for personalization, the LightTuck delivers exceptional capability.
Comfort-focused carriers will appreciate the CrossBreed SuperTuck’s hybrid design, which combines Kydex retention with leather comfort for extended carry periods. The hand-selected materials and Combat Cut design accommodate various body types while providing unmatched comfort for all-day carry. It’s the ideal choice for carriers who spend long hours armed and need equipment that remains comfortable throughout extended periods.
The Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5 appeals to carriers who value flexibility and customization. Its modular design accommodates changing needs and multiple firearms, making it incredibly cost-effective for multi-gun owners. The ShapeShift compatibility allows for different carry configurations, ensuring your investment remains optimal regardless of changing requirements.
Remember that the best holster is the one you’ll actually carry consistently. Consider your body type, clothing preferences, daily activities, and skill level when making your selection. Invest in a quality gun belt to maximize your holster’s performance, and practice your draw stroke regularly to maintain proficiency. Your Glock 23 is only as good as your ability to access it quickly and safely when needed—choose a holster that supports that mission while keeping you comfortable and confident throughout your daily carry routine.