Quick answer: A small-of-back (SOB) holster sits at the center of your lower back, behind the belt line. It conceals well under a jacket, but it is hard to reach when seated, points the muzzle behind you, and can be a risk if you fall backward. Many trainers advise caution or recommend other carry positions, so weigh the trade-offs carefully.
Small-of-back holsters have a long history, and you will still see them in action films and some holster catalogs. They are also one of the most debated carry positions. This guide explains what a small-of-back (SOB) holster is, how it works, and the honest pros and cons, so you can decide whether it is right for you.
What is a small-of-back holster?
A small-of-back holster is worn at the center of your lower back, behind your belt line, with the grip of the gun angled so you can reach it with your strong hand. A jacket or loose shirt hides it from view. The position has a long tradition, and some small-of-back models are designed to be worn either at the back or on the strong side of the belt.
Pros of small-of-back carry
- Good concealment under a jacket. The gun is behind you and out of sight from the front.
- Frees the front of the body. There is nothing at the hip or front waistband to catch on a table or seat.
- Works with some clothing styles. Some people find it comfortable while standing or walking.
- Simple, compact designs. Many are flat, low-profile leather holsters.
Cons and safety considerations
The small of the back is one of the most debated places to carry, and it is important to be honest about why:
- Risk in a fall. If you fall backward, the gun can press into your spine. Many trainers consider this a serious risk and advise against this position for that reason.
- Difficult access when seated. A car seat or chair pushes against the gun and makes the draw awkward.
- Reaching behind you. A rearward draw is slower and harder to do consistently under stress.
- The muzzle points behind you. Drawing and re-holstering can point the muzzle at people behind you, which requires great care.
- Holster retention. Being out of sight means it is harder to notice if the holster shifts.
These concerns do not mean everyone must avoid the position, but they are reasons to think carefully. The general rules in our holster safety rules apply every time, and you can read more about firearm safety from a neutral source.
Handmade leather small-of-back holsters
Who might small-of-back carry suit?
Because of the trade-offs, SOB carry is usually considered a niche choice. People who use it often do so for specific situations, such as standing work in a jacket, and often have training and experience. If you are new to carrying, consider the more common positions first. Our concealed carry guide for beginners can help you make that decision.
Our small-of-back holsters
We make small-of-back holsters in handmade genuine cowhide leather for the following models:
- Glock 17/22/30 small-of-back holster
- Glock 19/23/29/32 small-of-back holster
- Glock 17/22 small-of-back holster with a double magazine pouch
- Glock 19/23 small-of-back holster with a double magazine pouch
- 1911 small-of-back holster
- 1911 small-of-back holster with a double magazine pouch
- 1911 small-of-back holster with two single magazine pouches
The 1911 model is described as ambidextrous and can be worn at the small of the back or on the right side of the belt, which gives you a choice of positions. See the individual product pages for details of each model.
If you choose small-of-back carry
- Use a holster made for your exact gun, with the trigger guard fully covered.
- Practice only with an unloaded gun and follow all the safety rules; see our break-in guide for how to do that safely.
- Consider professional training in drawing from this position.
- Think about how you will manage sitting, driving and falling.
- Use a stiff, well-fitted belt; see our gun belt guide.
Small of back compared with other positions
| Position | Concealment | Access when seated | Key concern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small of back | Good under a jacket | Poor | Fall injury; rearward draw |
| Strong-side IWB | Very good | Good | Comfort with a larger gun |
| OWB pancake | Good with a cover garment | Good | Needs a longer shirt or jacket |
| Shoulder | Good under a jacket | Very good | Needs a jacket; takes practice |
If you choose small-of-back: height, angle and clothing
- Keep it off the spine. Position the holster slightly off center rather than directly on the spine to reduce pressure.
- Check the angle. The grip should be easy to reach without twisting your shoulder.
- Use a stiff belt. A soft belt tilts the holster. See our gun belt guide.
- Wear a cover garment. A jacket or long shirt is necessary to conceal it.
- Know the law. Rules on concealed carry differ; see the overview of concealed carry in the United States and confirm your local rules.
Alternatives to consider
Many people find other positions practical and comfortable:
- IWB holsters at the hip for discreet daily carry
- OWB pancake holsters for comfort and speed
- Shoulder holsters for long seated or driving days
Our comparison of IWB vs OWB holsters and our guide on how to choose a holster help you weigh these options, and you can browse every small-of-back holster in the collection.
Key takeaways
- Small-of-back holsters sit behind the belt line at the center of the lower back.
- They conceal well under a jacket, but access is awkward when seated and the muzzle points behind you.
- Many trainers raise concerns about injury in a fall and about drawing under stress; some recommend other positions.
- If you still choose SOB, use a quality holster, practice with an unloaded gun and consider professional training.
- Other options such as OWB pancake, IWB and shoulder holsters may suit your needs better.
Compare other comfortable ways to carry
Frequently asked questions
What is a small-of-back holster?
A small-of-back (SOB) holster is worn at the center of the lower back, usually behind the belt line, with the gun angled for a rearward draw. It is concealed by a jacket or untucked shirt and is often used by people who want to keep the front of the body clear.
Is small-of-back carry safe?
It carries additional risks compared with some other positions. Many trainers caution that a backward fall can cause injury if the gun is at the spine, and that reaching behind you under stress is slow. If you choose it, training and a quality holster are essential.
Is small-of-back carry good for driving?
It can be awkward. Sitting in a car seat often presses the gun into your back and makes the draw difficult. Many drivers find shoulder or OWB holsters more practical.
Which guns do you make small-of-back holsters for?
We make small-of-back holsters for Glock models, including the Glock 17/22/30 and Glock 19/23/29/32, and for 1911 pistols, including versions with single or double magazine pouches.
What are the alternatives to small-of-back carry?
Common alternatives include IWB holsters worn at the hip, OWB pancake holsters, and shoulder holsters. Each has its own trade-offs; our guides compare them.
This guide is general information, not legal or professional advice. Always follow your firearm manufacturer's instructions, practice the basic rules of firearm safety, and make sure you understand the laws that apply where you live.