Immediate Casualty Care (ICC) was founded by Jon Grabo, a full-time firefighter and paramedic, with a mission to provide both training and low-profile medical gear tailored for private security professionals, off- and on-duty first responders, and prepared civilians. Driven by the need for more practical ways to carry life-saving equipment, Jon set out to design gear that could be worn comfortably and discreetly.
Carrying a trauma kit and knowing how to use it remains a critical component of personal preparedness. A 2025 analysis by the American College of Surgeons, based on over 69 million EMS calls, found that response times for high-acuity emergencies in rural areas can average up to 97 minutes, nearly 20 minutes longer than the national average.1 In contrast, urban areas typically see average response times around 7 minutes2, though this can vary significantly depending on local infrastructure, traffic conditions, and socioeconomic factors. These delays are often due to long transport distances, limited resources, and staffing shortages.
In critical situations like severe bleeding, cardiac arrest, or penetrating trauma, those minutes can be fatal. Immediate intervention by trained bystanders can make the difference between life and death. This urgency is compounded by the fact that rural patients are more likely to experience severe emergencies and are often transported to lower-level trauma centers. In high-threat scenarios such as active shooter or terrorist incidents, EMS personnel may be unable to reach victims until the scene is secured, further delaying care when every second counts.
Historically, options for low-profile everyday carry (EDC) of medical gear have been limited. If gear isn’t comfortable, convenient, or compatible with daily attire, most people simply won’t carry it. While ankle or pocket carry may work for some, they’re not universally practical.
ICC IWB Series
Several years ago, I had been looking for a better option. I wondered why someone hadn’t come out with a practical inside-the-waistband (IWB) IFAK pouches. Then I came across the Immediate ICC e IWB Series. The IWB series has worked very well for me. It solved a very real problem. It will very likely work well for you too. I wrote an article on the original ICC IWB series for Spotter Up that you can find here.
Since its release, the IWB series has been widely adopted by private security teams, survival instructors, and professionals operating in austere or high-risk environments. Many have integrated these pouches into escape and evasion kits, covert travel setups, and minimalist bug-out bags, underscoring their versatility and mission-driven design.
ICC recently updated all of it pouches to version 2.0. Previously only the ICC IWB-Flat and IWB Tourniquet Pouch were available with the 2.0 version features.The 2.0 version features a slimmer design, less bulk and a sweat/skin guard “high-back” design to help prevent contents from rubbing on the wearer’s skin and undergarments for greater comfort. The 2.0 design makes a big difference. While I was a big fan of the original pouches, the new 2.0 pouches looked like the perfect fit for my EDC IFAK needs, so I reached out to Jon. Soon after, samples of the were on their way.
All ICC pouches are made in the USA. They are designed to be snag-free, lay flat when empty, and eliminate unnecessary bulk, ensuring that life-saving gear is always accessible without compromising comfort or concealment. The craftsmanship reflects an unwavering commitment to quality, with every detail carefully considered and every material selected for performance and reliability.
The IWB pouches are designed for low-profile everyday carry. They offer a discreet and highly functional solution for carrying essential trauma gear. Engineered for rapid response in critical situations, each pouch accommodates a compact yet capable loadout that includes a pressure bandage, hemostatic gauze, tourniquet, compact chest seals, nitrile gloves, and mini trauma shears or safety hook/strap cutter. The design ensures that life-saving tools are always within reach, without relying on bulky pockets or external gear.
ICC currently offers several variations of its IWB pouches, each tailored to meet specific concealment and operational needs. The flagship IWB series includes three distinct configurations: the tuckable version, the standard clip version, and the non-metallic version. The clips on all three versions are removable/replaceble. I was provided with all three versions.
IWB 2.0 Tuckable Version
The IWB 2.0 Tuckable Version is optimized for maximum concealment, making it ideal for professional environments or civilian attire where discretion is paramount. It features a UltiClip® 3+ that allows the wearer to tuck their shirt over the pouch, maintaining a clean and unobtrusive appearance. This configuration is especially well-suited for anyone who needs to carry medical gear without drawing any attention. Despite its slim profile, the pouch remains comfortable for extended wear thanks to its flexible, form-fitting elastic construction and the high-back design.
IWB 2.0 Standard Clip Version
The IWB 2.0 Standard Clip Version offers a practical balance between concealment and accessibility. It uses a traditional waistband clip that attaches securely to belts or pants, making it a reliable choice for everyday carry. This version is favored by uniformed first responders, security professionals, and prepared civilians who prioritize quick access to their gear. Like all ICC pouches, it’s constructed from military-grade, latex-free nylon elastic, ensuring durability, flexibility, and a low-profile silhouette.
IWB 2.0 Non-Metallic Version
For those operating in environments where metal detection is a concern, the IWB 2.0 Non-Metallic Version provides a discreet and effective solution. This pouch uses non-metallic hardware, allowing it to pass through security screenings without triggering alarms. It’s an excellent option for covert travel, escape and evasion kits, or work in secure facilities. Lightweight and form-fitting, this version is favored by those working in non-permissive environments where stealth and mobility are critical. It’s also popular with travelers.
Final Thoughts
The ICC IWB series represents a thoughtful fusion of concealment, capability, and craftsmanship. Whether worn by executive protection agents, first responders, or prepared civilians, these pouches offer a discreet yet powerful way to carry life-saving medical gear in any environment.
With multiple configurations tailored to specific operational needs, and a commitment to quality rooted in veteran and first responder ownership, ICC’s IWB pouches stand out as an outstanding solution for those who refuse to compromise on readiness. In a world where seconds can mean the difference between life and death, having trauma gear within reach isn’t just smart, it’s essential.
While carrying trauma gear is essential, it’s only part of the equation. Knowing how to use it is critical. Tools like tourniquets, chest seals, and hemostatic gauze are only effective in the hands of someone trained to deploy them under pressure. Without proper instruction and hands-on practice, even the best equipment can fall short in a crisis. Investing in medical training ensures that when seconds count, you’re not just prepared, you’re capable.
Footnotes
1. American College of Surgeons. (2025, October 3). EMS call times in rural areas take at least 20 minutes longer than national average [Press release]. https://www.facs.org/media-center/press-releases/2025/ems-call-times-in-rural-areas-take-at-least-20-minutes-longer-than-national-average/
2. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2023). National EMS assessment: Response time benchmarks and disparities. https://www.ems.gov/pdf/national-ems-assessment-2023.pdf
Final Thoughts
The ICC IWB series represents a thoughtful fusion of concealment, capability, and craftsmanship. Whether worn by executive protection agents, first responders, or prepared civilians, these pouches offer a discreet yet powerful way to carry life-saving medical gear in any environment.
With multiple configurations tailored to specific operational needs, and a commitment to quality rooted in veteran and first responder ownership, ICC’s IWB pouches stand out as an outstanding solution for those who refuse to compromise on readiness. In a world where seconds can mean the difference between life and death, having trauma gear within reach isn’t just smart, it’s essential.
While carrying trauma gear is essential, it’s only part of the equation. Knowing how to use it is critical. Tools like tourniquets, chest seals, and hemostatic gauze are only effective in the hands of someone trained to deploy them under pressure. Without proper instruction and hands-on practice, even the best equipment can fall short in a crisis. Investing in medical training ensures that when seconds count, you’re not just prepared, you’re capable.
Source
Material Disclosure
I received this product as a courtesy from the manufacturer so I could test it and give my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal or implied contract to give this product a good review. All opinions are my own and are based off my personal experience with the product.
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