Intro

There are a lot of compact concealed pistols that you’d never guess someone was packing, and the Ruger LCP .380 is a great example. In fact, this is Ruger’s first attempt at making a lightweight, compact pistol for a 380 ACP. 

Even though the company does provide a synthetic pocket holster in the package, there are far superior aftermarket holsters out there. A good quality IWB holster can facilitate faster drawing times, provide total and discrete concealment especially with pants designed for concealed carry. 

Buying the best Ruger LCP IWB holster can be tricky, however. Given the overabundance of options available. But never fear, we here at Outdoor Methods have done the research for you and narrowed it down to 9 great options to effectively conceal your Ruger LCP.

Top Ruger LCP IWP Holsters Summary 

Outdoor Method’s Top Pick

We The People IWB Kydex Holster

• High-quality kydex construction
• 0.8-inch thick kydex
• Adjustable retention

CYA Supply Co. IWB Holster

• 1.5-inch wide belt clip
•  Adjustable retention
• Posi-Click’ audible retention lock system

Alien Gear Holsters Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster

• Left and right-hand orientation available
• Custom molded retention shell
•  Lifetime warranty and 30-day trial period

Black Jacket Holster IWB Kydex Holster

• 1.5-inch belt clip
• Left and right-hand orientation available
• Adjustable retention

Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster

• Adjustable retention level
• Adjustable clip
• Adjustable cant

DTOM Pocket/IWB Holster

• Foam padding prevents printing
• Can be easily converted from pocket to IWB holster
• Provides excellent trigger coverage

Vedder Holsters LightTuck IWB Kydex Gun Holster

• 3 adjustable ride height settings
• .08-inch thick kydex
• Sweat shield

ComfortTac Ultimate Belly Band Holster

• Can be worn in several different positions
• Patented trigger guard
• Fits up to a 44 inch waist

Relentless Tactical The Ultimate Suede Leather IWB Holster

• High quality clip
• Reinforced stitching
• Great warranty

Common Ways to Carry a Ruger LCP?

Everybody has their own preferred method of conceal carrying their pistol, but here are the best ways to go about it.

Pocket Carry

This carry method can be dangerous if you do it wrong, i.e., without a pocket holster. Pocket carrying without a pocket holster can result in a negligent discharge of the firearm. With most quality pocket holsters, the trigger is protected with a trigger guard, which is recommended.

OWB (Over the Waistband)

There are several factors to consider when using an OWB holster such as your body type, as well as the best clothes for concealment. OWB conceal carry a comfortable way to carry a pistol, as long as you perform it correctly.

Conceal Carry Shoulder

This conceal carry method is a popular alternative to carrying inside the waistband but can require a bit more effort than an IWB holster. This is mainly because you generally need additional layers to conceal effectively, and also decide whether you’d like to orient the gun horizontally or vertically.

Conceal Carry Ankle

This can be a viable conceal method for those who prefer a sub-compact or even micro-compact pistol but is not easy to access.

Things to Avoid When Carrying a Ruger LCP

There are a few things to refrain from when you conceal carry a Ruger LCP such as:

Checking and adjusting your handgun or holster while carrying

Adjusting, checking and adjusting your handgun or holster while carrying will not only look suspicious, but could hinder your ability to draw quickly if needed.  

Not Using a Proper Holster

Just like your pistol, you must buy a quality-made holster preferably from a reputed manufacturer, and one that is explicitly designed to accommodate your needs.

Carrying Without a Holster

Ruger LCP is a pint-size gun-carrying but still should never be carried without a holster, which, as mentioned earlier, may cause negligent discharge

Conceal Carrying in a State That You Do Not Know the Laws or Federally Prohibited Places.

These places can include military bases, prisons, courthouses, and could get you into some serious trouble for violations.  Not researching laws of states you are traveling to while carrying– Always be prepared and research laws and regulations of areas you will be traveling to. Remember: “Failing to plan is planning to fail”.

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Pros and Cons of Conceal Carrying Ruger LCP in IWB Holster

Pros of IWB Holsters

IWB holsters provide better concealment than other concealment methods for the Ruger LCP. By wearing an IWB holster, you can wear both lighter or tighter fitting concealment clothing yet provide great cover without exposing the holster.

 Some IWB holsters do not require a belt given that they are held in place sturdily and securely with metal clips. They also are a great fit with untucked shirts, which is especially useful in warm weather where heavy concealed attires such as jackets and vests will not work. But here’s the best part. With an IWB holster, you don’t have to worry about it getting in the way while you go about your daily activities, because it’s tucked inside your waistband.

Drawbacks of IWB holsters

IWB holsters may not be the most comfortable choice for many.  Adding to this, this type of conceal carry holsters may not offer the easiest grip when drawing your Ruger LCP, because you have to dig your fingers a bit harder between the gun and torso to get a good grip of the pistol.

Depending on the IWB holster you buy and the size of the garments you wear, IWB holsters may require slightly oversized lower garments. So, for example, you will have to wear pants with larger waistbands if you’d like to holster your gun around the midline of your body.

How to choose the IWB holster for Ruger LCP?

• Trigger Guard– The holster should have hard or tough material covering the entire trigger area of your gun to prevent accidental discharge
• Firearm Retention and Protection– Keeps weapon secured while holstered, and prevents it from falling out. The holster should also offer protection to the gun from wearing regularly.
• Comfort– No matter how “great” people claim, a holster is, if it is not comfortable for you to wear, it is no good.
• Concealment– The IWB holster should conceal well under clothes (minimal print).
• Ease of Use– The holster allows the gun to be drawn and re-holstered easily while wearing.
• Durability– The holster can endure daily use without breaking down.
• Cost– The price does not break the bank. **bonus**.

Ride height (adjustable?)

Many, if not all, of the best Ruger LCP IWB holsters, feature adjustable ride height. This minimizes one of the significant complaints people have with IWB holster, and that is a comfort. These include issues with comfort, printing, holster flopping forward, and accessibility (not being able to get a full grip of your Ruger LCP). 

Can it handle accessories of the gun?

For example:

Additional mag 

Flashlight

Laser

If you’re going to be carrying extra magazines, flashlight, laser, credit cards, etc. you may want to check out IWB holsters that come with a belly band to accommodate the accessories. 

Quality of the Holster’s Clip

The best way to wear an IWB holster is threaded or clipped onto a pair of trousers, jeans, or shorts or on to a belt. The threaded method can be daunting and time-consuming as it requires threading the strap through the loops, but clipping takes no more than a few seconds once you get dressed. Most threaded portions of a holster are leather and last a long time.

Most of the hardbody IWB belt clips are made from plastic or Kydex, where the latter is stronger and more durable. Given that holster clip designs vary considerably, you need to make sure that the clip is built tough and secures well in place, whether on a belt on your trousers. 

In what positions is it best to use IWB holster for Ruger LCP?

An IWB holster allows you to reach and draw your weapon in a wide range of positions, with the following being most common:

• ​Appendix Carry – this carry technique will enable you to position the Ruger LCP at the front of your body and has become increasingly popular in the last few years. It offers several benefits such as easy and quick to draw from and easy to carry without any bulk hanging off your frame, which is especially great for slender body types. 
• ​3 O’clock Carry– this is the most common IWB conceal carry position and entails the Ruger LCP being placed on the hip. This position makes it easier to draw your weapon, but the weapon’s hammer may dig into the sides when sitting. 
• ​Small of the Back Carry – this position is where the firearm is placed across the back, but drawing it may be more cumbersome compared to drawing from the hip. 
• ​Kidney Carry – this puts the Ruger LCP at the 4 o’clock and 5 o’clock positions, and offers great concealment and accessibility.  

Best Ruger LCP IWB Holster

1. We The People IWB Kydex Holster

We the People is a company that bills itself as “gun nerds” and offers a rather extensive product line that includes exceptionally crafted, tried, and true holsters such as the IWB Kydex Holster. This holster is crafted from thick wall Kydex (8 inches thick) and comfortable hardware both collectively designed to keep your Ruger LCP safe and secure.

Made in the USA, this concealed holster contours well with your gun model, and is made with functionality and comfort in mind. The IWB Kydex Holster can be placed in several positions with ease, including strong side, appendix, cross carry, or behind the hip. It can also be adjusted easily to your desired height and angle by merely unscrewing the clip.

After unscrewing the clip, you simply have to place it in your desired position and screw it back into place. This holster can be set in several positions, including holster up, down or canted, and is waterproof and washable, making it easy to clean and use in wet weather conditions without affecting its performance.

The holster is made with high-quality kydex, which makes it strong enough to handle wear and tear and increases its overall service life. It offers top-notch concealability and is best worn with an untucked t-shirt or inside the waistband with a belt.

It offers top-notch discreet self-protection and does not add pressure in sensitive areas thanks to its lightweight construction. This form-fitting holster makes it easy to draw and re-holster your Ruger LCP, without distracting you from your target or threat. It can be ordered in a choice of two different sizes – Left and right hand and features a protective sweat guard, undercut trigger guard, and an open-ended muzzle.

Pros

• High-quality kydex construction
• 0.8-inch thick kydex
• Crafted with functionality and comfort in mind
• Can be placed in several positions including canted
• Waterproof and washable
• Reliable fixation
• Custom molded fit
• Adjustable retention
• Lifetime warranty

Cons

• Does not come with extra spacers for the bottom tension adjustment screw
• Lacks backing or padding when placed against the skin

2. CYA Supply Co. IWB Holster

The CYA Supply Co. is owned by a Veteran of the United States Marine Corps and offers an extensive lineup award-worthy conceal carry holsters such as the IWB Holster. This conceal carry holster can be ordered in a wide range of appealing colors, including black, dark earth, and teal blue and is designed exclusively to accommodate a Ruger LCP 380.

It is available in a right-hand draw only, and features adjustable retention pressure and can be canted at an angle between 0 and 15 degrees. Further, it is crafted from robust 0.8-inch thick boltaron material, a type of polymer that is stronger and can resist temperatures better than other materials used to make holsters. Boltaron is a preferred material for many gun owners and holster manufacturers because it is made in the United States. The IWB holster by CYA Supply Co. is equipped with a 1.5-inch wide belt clip and comes with all stainless steel black powder-coated hardware.

But that’s not all the CYA Supply Co. IWB holster comes with a Posi-Click’ audible retention lock system, which is designed to alert you when your weapon is properly holstered. This Ruger LCP IWB holster also features sweat guards, which cover the full length of the sides of your gun and prevents it from rusting from your body’s natural perspiration.

The CYA Supply Co. IWB holster is made entirely in the USA. It is backed by a manufacturer 100 percent satisfaction guarantee, which allows you to buy with the confidence knowing that it will conceal your gun well when you need it.

Pros

• Made from boltaron material
• 1.5-inch wide belt clip
• Posi-Click’ audible retention lock system
• Sweat guards to prevent rust
• Made in the USA
• 100% satisfaction guarantee
• 0-15 degrees cant angle
• Stainless steel black powder coated hardware
• Several colors available
• Adjustable retention

Cons

• Fits only Ruger LCP 380
• Limited to right hand draw
• Does not accommodate light or laser attachments

3. Alien Gear Holsters Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster

Tucked away in scenic North Idaho, Alien Gear Holsters bills itself as a company that’s propelled by a team of go-getters that are keen on manufacturing the world’s best conceal carry holsters. The Cloak Tuck IWB holster can be ordered in several different sizes to suit a variety of different guns, and in both left and right hand orientation.

It tops the charts in terms of comfort, adjustability and concealment, and is designed form scratch to deliver a durable, comfort carry experience. It features a sweat wicking, breathable neoprene backing, and a secure custom molded retention shell, and a flexible holster base to top things off.

The fabric of the Alien Gear Holsters Cloak Tuck IWB holster features fabric that’s spread to cover the edges, which enhances comfort when worn against the skin. Further, the core of the holster base is crafted from dual layers of spring steel and woven ballistic nylon, which collectively give it a robust yet flexible spine.

Speaking of which, the holster contours well to fit your shape, and is built to last for years to come with proper care. The backing of this IWB holster is made from CoolVent neoprene, which as the name suggests is designed to wick away moisture while providing superior cushioning.

It features adjustable retention, allowing you get the right hold, and adjustable nylon belt clips, which can be raised or lowered for the perfect grip cant and ride height without the use of tools. The Cloak Tuck IWB Holster by Alien Gears Holsters is made in the USA and is backed by a lifetime warranty and 30-day trial period.

Pros

• Several sizes available
• Left and right-hand orientation available
• Custom molded retention shell
• Sweat wicking fabric
• Spring steel and woven ballistic nylon core
• Adjustable retention
• Adjustable nylon belt clip
• CoolVent neoprene backing
• Lifetime warranty and 30-day trial period

Cons

• Wide for 3 o’clock wear
• Does not come with snap leather straps
• Retention screws become loose over time

4. Black Jacket Holster IWB Kydex Holster

Black Jacket Holster is a reputable name in the gun carry space and specializes in producing custom magazine pouches and conceal carry holsters. The IWB KYDEX Holster can be had in a wide range of colors, including carbon fiber and black and for both left hand and right-hand draw.

It is specifically designed to fit the Ruger LCP 2, and is extremely lightweight at just over 2 ounces, making it a joy to tuck away. The holster features 0.06-inch kydex, which is thin, durable, and lightweight. The material that is waterproof, washable, and rot proof. Hand made in the USA, the IWB kydex holster by Black Jacket Holster features adjustable retention, which allows you to feel confident and comfortable with your holster.

The IWB kydex holster is equipped with a sturdy 1.5-inch belt clip, which allows you to use it without wearing a belt. This clip is also a perfect fit for wide, thick jeans, or gun belts and securely attaches and keeps the holster in place.

Furthermore, this IWB kydex holster comes with a sweat shield, which is a long, skinny piece of kydex that runs along the side of the holster that is designed to serve as a barrier between the metal side of your Ruger LCP 380 and your clothing or skin. The IWB kydex holster by Black Jacket Holster rides well and keeps your gun flush by your side and showcases an overall top-notch fit and finish.

Pros

• 1.5-inch belt clip
• Left and right-hand orientation available
• Several colors available
• 0.06-inch kydex
• Sweat shield
• Lightweight, waterproof and washable
• Made in the USA
• Adjustable retention

Cons

• No cant adjustments
• Clip does not pivot
• Challenging to lock onto belt 

5. Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster

Concealment Express is a proud supporter of the 2nd Amendment and offers a massive range of handmade holsters. The Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster is in a league of its own, most notably due to its absolutely impeccable design that is molded to secure your weapon completely. 

The holster covers and protects all critical moving parts such as the slide and trigger and offers a snug fit yet makes it easy to draw  from the holster quickly. Owing to its solid construction, it is incredibly smooth to secure your gun with a satisfying hard click. 

This holster by Concealment Express features adjustable retention by merely twisting a single screw and high-quality kydex construction to ensure the holster maintains its shape regardless of the situation you’re in. It is equipped with an adjustable clip that is flanked by a two-screw system to maintain its position even after repeated use

The Concealment Express IWB Kydex Holster can be ordered in left or right-hand configuration, and pistols. It is made in the USA and is great for conceal carry in literally any position along your waist, including hip carry and appendix carry. To top things off, this holster has adjustable cant, making it easy to set it up just the way to like it.

Pros

• Covers and protects critical parts
• Adjustable retention level
• Adjustable clip
• Left and right-hand configuration
• Adjustable cant
• Lightweight, waterproof and washable
• Made in the USA
• Sturdy belt clip

Cons

• Retention levels may be too tight for some users
• Does not protect trigger guard as well

6. DTOM Pocket/IWB Holster

DTOM, short for Don’t Tread On Me, manufactures a wide range of concealed carry holsters at affordable prices. All employees of the company carry a CCW license and design products bases on real-life recommendations. The DTOM Pocket/IWB Holster can easily be converted from an IWB holster to a pocket holster and is a perfect fit for several different weapons, including Ruger LCP 380 and Keltec P32 P3AT.

The exterior of this IWB Ruger LCP 380 holster is made from premium quality, robust nylon, which offers comprehensive coverage in both inside the waistband and pocket. It’s interior features a smooth lining, which makes it easy to draw your weapon, protects the pistols finish, and helps reduce printing. The Pocket/IWB Holster by DTOM features foam padding at its core to break up the outline of the gun and to minimize print.

The trigger guard is surrounded with heavy stitching, which ensures your Ruger LCP 380 stays in place and is ready for a quick draw. It is available in both right and left-hand configuration models and is fitted with a metal clip.

This holster is an overall pretty sturdy overall in that it does not bend and prevents dirt from getting in.

Pros

• Foam padding prevents printing
• Can be easily converted from pocket to IWB holster
• Provides excellent trigger coverage

Cons

• Nylon is not as tough as leather or kydex
• IWB will be too long for some users

7. Vedder Holsters LightTuck IWB Kydex Gun Holster

Founded in 2012, Vedder Holsters designs and manufactures a massive range of high-quality holsters at affordable prices. The Vedder LightTuck IWB Kydex Gun Holster is handcrafted in the USA and can be ordered in either right-hand draw or left-hand draw orientation. It features cant angle, ride height, and retention adjustability, which allows you to carry your weapon with ease and comfort the way you want it.

The LightTuck IWB Kydex Gun Holster by Vedder Holsters features 0.8-inch thick kydex, making it extremely strong and lightweight. It allows you to maintain a thin profile both in your pocket or on your belt and features an audible click each time to holster your gun. The LightTuck IWB Kydex Gun Holster features three adjustable ride height settings, adjustable 30 degrees forward and reverses cant angles for 3-5 o’clock carry, appendix, and cross-draw and adjustable retention to meet your needs. It is equipped with a 1.5-inch rock-solid steel clip, which is easily tuckable yet adds a minimal amount of bulk to the holster.

This clip significantly reduces printing and is perhaps the best carry option compared to big plastic clips. Tipping the scales at just 6.1 ounces, the Vedder LightTuck IWB Kydex Gun Holster features a sweat shield, which keeps the sides clean and sweat-free. It is backed by both a 30-day money-back guarantee and lifetime warranty, which assures you that it will last for many years to come.

Pros

• Weighs just 6.1 ounces
• Sweat shield
• 30 day money back guarantee and lifetime warranty
• 3 adjustable ride height settings
• .08-inch thick kydex
• Adjustable cant and retention
• Available in left and right-hand configuration
• Handcrafted in the USA
• Rock solid steel spring clip

Cons

• Limited to one color option
• Tricky to adjust

8. ComfortTac Ultimate Belly Band Holster

ComfortTac was conceived with the mission to develop the most comfortable concealed carry holsters on the planet, and the Ultimate Belly Band Holster meets this mission, and has been featured on many of our list for conceal carrying. It is available in both left and right-hand orientation and features one size fits most design.

This belly band holster by ComfortTac is made from high-quality neoprene, which is adjustable and fits up to a 44-inch belly. It feels soft and comfortable even when worn directly against your skin, making it easy to wear across longer periods. 

This surgical grade neoprene holster is designed to fit compact, sub-compact, and even full-size pistols and revolvers, including 357 and 38 special, allowing you to use just one holster other weapons you may have.

The ComfortTac Ultimate Belly Band Holster can be worn in several different positions, including small of the back, twelve o’clock, cross draw, appendix, IWB, and even high up as a shoulder holster. It features a spare magazine pocket to hold your accessories and can be used with the included retention strap.

It can be worn comfortably with several different types of clothing, including yoga pants, skirts, dresses, loose fit jeans, gym shorts, and measures 5 inches wide and 42 inches long. 

Pros

• Left and right-hand orientation
• One size fits most pistol design
• Fits up to a 44 inch waist
• Soft and comfortable against your skin
• Can be worn in several different positions
• Has a spare magazine pocket
• Made from breathable neoprene
• Patented trigger guard
• Release strap is a snap and not Velcro

Cons

• Can cause perspiration or itching
• Some find it tight fitting against hips when standing

9. Relentless Tactical The Ultimate Suede Leather IWB Holster

Relentless Tactical is an esteemed name in the holster and gun accessories segment and manufactures products that can last a lifetime. All the company’s products are made in the USA and are backed by a solid warranty.

The Ultimate Suede Leather IWB Holster can be ordered in two exciting colors – black and brown, where each is available in left and right-hand orientation. It is handmade without the use of synthetic or cheap materials, so you can rest assured it will last you for many years on end with proper care.

The Ultimate Suede Leather IWB Holster is designed to fit most .380 holsters, including Ruger LCP, LCP2, S&W Bodyguard, Mustang, Colt, and is form-fitted for easy and effective concealment and quick draw and re-holstering. It features a premium quality clip, and two different slots to easily adjust the cant of your firearm.

It molds well to your body and your gun, which offers adequate concealment and quick, dependable access. Furthermore, it features stitching around the exterior edge of the holster and the leather clip platform, which together enhance its overall durability.

Pros

• High quality clip
• Reinforced stitching
• Great warranty
• Left and right-hand orientation available

Cons 

• Limited to two color options
• Holster may collapse when gun is pulled out

Conclusion:

When shopping for the Best Ruger LCP IWB Holster, all of the holsters on would be a great purchase.  However,  We The People IWB Kydex Holster wins the gold for several reasons:

• High-quality construction
• Adjustability for both height and angle
• 0.08-inch kydex
• Offers effective concealment
• Manufacturer’s lifetime guarantee

For this, we take our hats off to We The People for making a great IWB holster for the Ruger LCP! So what do you think? Let us know or what questions you might have below. Thanks for reading and as always stay sharp.