What is a Holster Claw (Mod-Wing)? How it Can Reduce Printing!

holster claw example image

Lets take an in-depth look at a holster Claw (mod wing) attachment, which will help you better conceal your weapon.


Also, read about holster wedge...  


Lets learn about what a holster Claw is?  How it works? And, how to install it on your holster.  


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Holster is one of the most essential everyday carry EDC items for many people.  It helps conceal one of our most important tools for self-defense, our firearms. 



What is a Holster Claw?

Holster Claw (also called the wings) is an optional attachment for your concealed carry holster that is designed to keep your gun as close to your body as possible to reduce printing.  

Concealed Carry Holster with mod wing or claw

How Does a Holster Claw (Mod Wing) Work?

The holster Claw is typically attached to trigger guard of your concealed carry holster.  Unlike the holster Wedge, the holster claw is attached to the front side of your holster.


Once attached to your holster, as shown in the above image, the lifted end (depth pad) of the Claw should line up with your belt (for best results).

 
The Claw will than push into your belt, which will in turn push the holster and grip end of your gun into your body.  
Tulster OATH IWB Holster Springfield Hellcat
This prevents the grip end of your gun from sticking out and printing on your clothing.


The Claw is typically used for inside waistband Appendix AIWB Concealed Carry method.  


Also, consider attaching a holster Wedge for improve concealment and comfort.  
printing with or without a holster claw

Image provided by We The People Holsters


When to Use the Holster Claw?

The Claw will not benefit everyone.  It is typically used for concealing larger handguns such as the Glock 19.

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If you have sub or micro-compact handguns, the claw will have little to no effect.  

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The Claw is more ideal for larger guns since the grip end will stick out more and print on your clothing.

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For instance, on a larger handgun, we typically need to lower our ride height for better concealment, since the gun grip is larger it sticks out further away from your body causing more printing.  

This is more predominant when you Appendix Carry inside of waistband AIWB.

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When we lower our ride height with larger handguns, this typically reduces printing, but will also reduce our comfort levels.

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The Claw is a good solution to the problem we have with larger handguns.  

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It pushes the holster and grip end of the gun into your body without having an impact on your ride height.  

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Also consider, if your using a Claw on your holster, you will need a rigid EDC belt, otherwise the claw will not be effective.

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Are All Holsters Compatible with a Claw?

Answer is No!  Not all holsters are compatible with a Claw.  Claw has to be attached to a specific point on your holster (the trigger guard) which often does not have enough holes or space for a claw.  

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A Claw Kit is typically provided by the manufacturer for a specific holster that is designed to be compactible with the claw.

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But, don't expect the claw to be included with your holster.  They are typically purchased as an optional accessory for your holster.  

Holster Claw Kit

How Do You Install a Holster Claw?

These instruction may not apply to all holsters.  All parts needed are included in your Claw Kit.

  1. Attach the provided height padding to your Claw or Wing with a screw. 
  2. Remove the screws that are located on your holster right below the trigger guard (used for retention).
  3. Place the washers (provided in the Claw Kit) on the trigger guard holes from Step 2.  Makes sure they are aligned with the holes.  
  4. Align the two holes Claw with two retention holes and washers.
  5. Use the screws provide in the Claw Kit to attach the Claw to the holster using the two retention holes.

Check this video below provided by Concealment Express that shows how to attach a typical claw to your holster.  These instructions may not apply to your holster.  

Always follow your manufactures instructions.


Final Thoughts

Claw is not the answer for every size handgun.  Usually, it's more effective to use with larger or full size pistols.

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If you are carrying a medium to full size gun claw will defiantly make your everyday concealed carry experience better and give you peace of mind knowing that your gun grip is not printing.  

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Printing is an everyday inconvenience that is part of concealed carry. But a claw kit can defiantly help you reduce or even eliminate printing.


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