How much will a Belly Band holster add to a persons waist size without a weapon or magazine in it?
I'm skinny but have a big belly (wife's a great cook and I'm a non drinker) so a conventional holster will be a problem.
Waiting for my CCW Permit to come in.
I've had several different ones over the years and prefer them to a classic holster due to the versatility they provide. Pistol in front, on the side , in back, higher up the torso, lower down. I've also found that I can use the belly band with several different firearms. A Beretta one day, a Kimber 1911 the next. A standard belly band won't add much to your waist empty, maybe an 1/8". If it comes with comfort padding it will be a little thicker. I've found the comfort padding adds about a pants size when I include the firearm (any of the ones that I carry). I wear it normally inside of jeans, on the hip, with the firearm grip exposed above the belt. The same as with any holster, you dress to conceal the firearm when carrying concealed. This usually means a loose fitting shirt and pants that are roughly a size larger to accommodate the firearm at the hip. There are other options such as ankle holsters. I've tried them but they don't work well with the size of firearm that I prefer. If you are carrying a smaller firearm they may work fine. Trial and error will be how you finally find what really works for you personally. Everyone is different in body shape and what they want to carry. My body is similar to yours. Hope this helps answer your questions.
