The Ultimate Guide to Discreet Carry: Galco Stow-N-Go IWB Holster for Glock 43

For individuals committed to personal protection and the practice of everyday carry (EDC), the choice of a holster is paramount. It’s not merely an accessory; it’s a critical component of safety, comfort, and readiness. Among the vast array of options, the Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) holster stands out as a preferred choice for its unparalleled concealment capabilities. But even within the IWB category, discerning carriers seek a blend of minimalist design, robust construction, and reliable performance. This is precisely where the Galco STO800B Stow-N-Go Black Leather IWB Holster for the Glock 43 distinguishes itself.

Who is this Holster For?

If you own a Glock 43, Glock 43X, or Glock 48, and prioritize deep concealment without compromising on comfort or a quick draw, this holster is designed with you in mind. It's ideal for:

• Concealed Carry Permit Holders: Those legally authorized to carry a firearm and seeking a discreet, comfortable solution for daily wear.
• First-Time IWB Users: Its simplicity and intuitive design make it an excellent entry point into inside-the-waistband carry.
• Experienced Carriers: Veterans of concealed carry who appreciate quality leather, proven designs, and minimalist aesthetics for their subcompact Glock.
• Anyone Prioritizing Comfort: The natural leather molds to your body over time, offering a level of comfort that synthetic materials often struggle to match.
• Individuals Seeking Minimalist Solutions: If you want a holster that adds minimal bulk and eliminates unnecessary features, the Stow-N-Go excels.
• Everyday Carry Enthusiasts: For those who carry all day, every day, the durability and comfort of this holster are indispensable.

What Problem Does the Galco Stow-N-Go Solve?

The primary challenge of concealed carry is to effectively hide the firearm while keeping it accessible and secure. Many holsters struggle with "printing" – the visible outline of the firearm under clothing – or they are uncomfortable for extended wear, leading carriers to leave their firearm at home. The Galco Stow-N-Go directly addresses these issues by offering:

• Superior Concealment: The IWB design positions the firearm inside the waistband, leveraging clothing to obscure its presence. Its slim profile further reduces printing.
• Unmatched Comfort for Daily Wear: Constructed from premium steerhide leather, the holster naturally conforms to your body's contours, becoming more comfortable with each wear. This encourages consistent carry.
• Reliable Retention and Access: While open-top for a rapid draw, the custom-molded leather offers friction-based retention that secures the Glock 43 in place until needed.
• Simplified Holstering and Reholstering: A reinforced thumb break and an open-top design facilitate smooth, consistent draw strokes and safe one-handed reholstering.
• Durability for Long-Term Use: High-quality leather and robust stitching ensure the holster withstands the rigors of daily use for years.

Key Features and Benefits of the Galco STO800B Stow-N-Go

The effectiveness of any holster lies in its thoughtful design and material choice. The Galco Stow-N-Go is a prime example of Galco's commitment to these principles.

• Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) Design: This is the cornerstone of its concealment capability. By placing the firearm inside your pants, it drastically reduces its visible footprint. The STO800B is specifically designed for right-hand draw, ensuring natural ergonomics for right-handed shooters.
• Premium Steerhide Leather Construction: Galco is renowned for its leather craftsmanship, and the Stow-N-Go is no exception. Steerhide is celebrated for its strength, durability, and ability to mold to the firearm and the wearer's body over time. Unlike synthetic materials, leather develops a unique patina with age, enhancing its character. This natural material also breathes better than Kydex, which can be a significant comfort factor during warmer weather or extended wear.
• Open Top Design for Rapid Draw: In a critical incident, seconds count. The open-top configuration allows for an unimpeded and incredibly fast draw stroke, ensuring immediate access to your firearm when every moment matters. This design philosophy prioritizes readiness without sacrificing secure retention.
• Reinforced Holster Mouth: A key safety and functional feature, the reinforced mouth ensures that the holster opening remains rigid and open even after the firearm is drawn. This allows for safe, convenient, and often one-handed reholstering without needing to look or fumble, significantly enhancing safety during training or in dynamic situations.
• Powder Coated Steel Belt Clip: Security is paramount. The sturdy, powder-coated steel clip securely attaches the holster to your belt, preventing it from shifting or coming loose during movement or the draw. The powder coating adds an extra layer of durability and corrosion resistance, ensuring the clip maintains its integrity over time. This clip also allows for easy on/off, making it convenient for quick transitions or when carrying requirements change throughout the day.
• Precision Molded Fit for Glock 43: This holster isn't a generic fit; it's precisely molded for the Glock 43, ensuring a secure and custom-like fit. This exact molding provides passive retention, holding the firearm firmly in place through friction without the need for additional retention devices. A precise fit also contributes to consistent draw and reholster, minimizing wobble or play.
• Minimalist, Comfortable Design: The Stow-N-Go lives up to its name by offering a streamlined profile that minimizes bulk. Its soft leather construction and lack of sharp edges or unnecessary hardware translate to exceptional comfort, even during prolonged wear. This minimalist approach reduces the likelihood of discomfort or irritation against the skin.

Addressing Common Questions and Use Cases

"What's the best holster for Glock 43 concealed carry?"
While "best" is subjective, for those prioritizing deep concealment, comfort, and traditional aesthetics, the Galco Stow-N-Go is consistently ranked among the top choices. Its leather construction offers a unique blend of comfort and durability that many carriers prefer over rigid Kydex for IWB applications, especially for subcompact firearms like the Glock 43.

"How do I choose a comfortable IWB holster?"
Comfort in an IWB holster hinges on several factors:

1. Material: Leather holsters like the Stow-N-Go often conform to the body better over time.
2. Minimalism: Less material and fewer rigid points generally equate to more comfort.
3. Fit: A holster precisely molded for your specific firearm (like the Glock 43 for the STO800B) prevents movement and hot spots.
4. Positioning: Experiment with different IWB positions (e.g., 3 o'clock, 4 o'clock, appendix carry) to find what works best with your body type and clothing. The Stow-N-Go's versatile clip allows for flexibility in cant and position.

"Is leather better than Kydex for IWB holsters?"
Neither is inherently "better"; they offer different advantages.

• Leather (Galco Stow-N-Go):
  • Pros: Molds to the body, often more comfortable for extended wear, quieter, classic aesthetic, breathes better.
  • Cons: Requires break-in, can retain moisture, less rigid (can collapse slightly after drawing), generally thicker than Kydex.
• Kydex:
  • Pros: Waterproof, no break-in, rigid (stays open for reholstering), very durable, precise audible "click" retention.
  • Cons: Can be less comfortable against the skin, less breathable, can squeak, less forgiving if not perfectly molded.

The Stow-N-Go is a superb choice for those who value the warmth, adaptability, and feel of natural leather.

"Tips for comfortable concealed carry with the Galco Stow-N-Go"

1. Wear a Sturdy Gun Belt: This is non-negotiable. A dedicated gun belt, designed to support the weight of a firearm, prevents sagging and keeps the holster secure against your body, significantly enhancing comfort and concealment.
2. Proper Clothing: Wear clothing that accommodates the holster without being overly tight, which can cause printing. A slightly looser shirt or an untucked garment often works wonders.
3. Break-In Period: Like a good pair of leather shoes, your Galco Stow-N-Go will benefit from a break-in period. Wear it often, and practice drawing and reholstering. The leather will soften and conform perfectly to your Glock 43 and your body.
4. Experiment with Placement: The IWB holster can be worn in various positions around the waistband. Try 3 o'clock (strong side), 4 o'clock, or even appendix carry (AIWB, for advanced users and specific body types). Find the position that offers the best blend of comfort, concealment, and draw accessibility for you.

"How to break in a new leather holster."
The Galco Stow-N-Go, being natural leather, will benefit from a break-in to achieve optimal fit and draw smoothness.

1. Unload Your Firearm: Ensure your Glock 43 is completely unloaded. Double-check.
2. Bag the Gun (Optional but Recommended): Place your unloaded Glock 43 in a thin plastic bag (e.g., a Ziploc bag). This helps prevent wear on the gun's finish during the initial tight fit and provides a slight tolerance for easier insertion.
3. Insert and Leave: Force the bagged firearm into the holster and leave it there overnight, or for 24-48 hours. This helps the leather stretch and conform.
4. Repeated Draws: After removing the bag, practice drawing and reholstering your unloaded firearm repeatedly. This "working" of the leather helps it soften and creates a smooth friction surface.
5. Small Adjustments: If it's still too tight, you can wrap the firearm in two thin plastic bags for a few hours, or apply a very small amount of leather conditioner (specifically designed for holsters) to the inside, then work it in. Do NOT use too much, as this can over-soften the leather and compromise retention.

"Maintaining your leather holster."
Proper care extends the life of your Galco Stow-N-Go:

• Keep it Clean: Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime.
• Condition Periodically: Apply a quality leather conditioner (specifically designed for gun holsters) sparingly, following the product's instructions. This keeps the leather supple and prevents drying or cracking. Avoid excessive conditioning, as it can reduce retention.
• Avoid Extreme Conditions: Do not expose the holster to prolonged direct sunlight, excessive heat, or soaking wet conditions. If it gets wet, let it air dry naturally, away from heat sources.
• Store Properly: When not in use, store your holster in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

The Galco Stow-N-Go Advantage: A Testament to Quality

Galco is a brand synonymous with quality in the holster industry, boasting decades of experience crafting some of the finest leather holsters available. The Stow-N-Go embodies this heritage, offering:

• Proven Design: This isn't a new, unproven concept. The minimalist IWB design has been a staple for concealed carry for decades, refined over time to offer optimal performance.
• Superior Craftsmanship: Each Galco holster is a product of meticulous attention to detail, from the selection of premium steerhide to the precision stitching.
• Unwavering Reliability: When your life depends on quick, unhindered access to your firearm, you need equipment you can trust implicitly. The Stow-N-Go provides that peace of mind.
• Ideal Balance: It strikes a perfect balance between comfort, concealability, and quick access, making it a pragmatic choice for everyday personal defense.

For those looking to invest in a high-quality, dependable, and comfortable IWB holster for their Glock 43, the Galco STO800B Stow-N-Go represents an excellent choice. It's a foundational piece of gear for serious concealed carriers who demand reliability and discretion. This product, and many other essential firearm accessories, are available at DEGuns, a trusted source for your shooting and personal defense needs.

DISCLAIMER: This product is not manufactured, authorized, endorsed, or warranted by GLOCK. GLOCK does not warrant or represent that this product is compatible with GLOCK pistols.

Galco STO800B Stow-N-Go Product Specifications

Feature	Description	UPC
Model	Galco STO800B Stow-N-Go	601299009943
Firearm Fit	Glock 43, Glock 43X, Glock 48	601299009943
Hand	Right-Hand Draw	601299009943
Carry Type	Inside-the-Waistband (IWB)	601299009943
Material	Premium Steerhide Leather	601299009943
Color	Black	601299009943
Retention	Passive (Friction)	601299009943
Mouth	Reinforced for easy reholstering	601299009943
Clip	Powder Coated Steel Belt Clip	601299009943
Compatibility	See Disclaimer	601299009943