Often, customers come into TheQuartermaster looking for a specific item. But before we pull anything off the shelf, the first question we always ask is: What is your intended purpose?

In the world of everyday carry (EDC), there is a simple, unbreakable rule we follow: Mission drives gear. If your mission is daily concealed carry, the gear you choose must perfectly suit your environment, your daily activities, and your local legal requirements. For example, if you carry a firearm for EDC, you don’t just need the firearm itself.

A complete, responsible setup requires:

• A purpose-built holster
• A rigid, high-quality carry belt
• A reliable magazine pouch
• The correct clothing setup for proper concealment

Let’s break down the core components of a successful EDC loadout.

IWB vs. OWB Holsters : Which is Right for You?

One of the biggest decisions you will make is how to carry your firearm. Understanding the difference between Inside the Waistband (IWB) and Outside the Waistband (OWB) is critical for your mission.

Outside the Waistband (OWB)

• Placement: Sits on the outside of the belt or pants.
• Positioning: 3 o’clock (Right-handed) / 9 o’clock (Left-handed).
• Accessibility: Faster, unobstructed access to the firearm.
• Best Used For: Range use, sport shooting, tactical training, or permissive work environments.
• Concealability: Requires a jacket or loose overshirt to hide.

Inside the Waistband (IWB)

• Placement: Sits inside the pants, utilizing belt tension.
• Positioning: Appendix (front), 3–4 o’clock, or the small of the back.
• Accessibility: Slower draw, but significantly more discreet.
• Best Used For: Everyday concealed carry in civilian environments.
• Concealability: Excellent concealment with standard everyday clothing.

The Reality for Serious EDC Users: Most dedicated shooters find that they ultimately need both. You will want an OWB setup for the range, sport shooting, and training, alongside a reliable IWB holster for your daily concealed carry.

The Carry Belt: The Foundation of Your Setup

One of the biggest mistakes new EDC practitioners make is trying to carry a firearm using a normal, soft fashion belt.

Your belt is the absolute foundation of your everyday carry. A proper carry belt must be rigid, strong, and highly adjustable to comfortably support the weight of a loaded firearm.

Why a purpose-built carry belt matters:

• Keeps the holster stable and upright.
• Prevents the gun from bouncing or shifting when walking or running.
• Ensures the trigger guard remains safely covered at all times.
• Provides a stiff platform, making your draw safer, faster, and more consistent.

At The Quartermaster, we stock premium rigid belts designed specifically for carry, including top brands like Rescomp and Daniels Holsters.

Customers frequently walk into our store wearing a soft fashion belt, try on a proper rigid carry belt with their gear, and immediately say, “Wow, this changes everything.” Because it really does.

The Final Rule

Remember: Mission drives gear.

Always choose your setup based on your actual environment and daily needs, not for looks or trends. Build a solid foundation: get the right belt, choose the right holster for your carry style, and most importantly, train consistently with both.