The Nazi Low Riders (NLR) began in the late 1970s in the California prison system. Youth incarcerated within the California Youth Authority were enticed by Aryan Brotherhood leader John Stinson to form a white supremacy organization. Stinson's goal was to use the organization as a strong-arm of the Aryan Brotherhood. The youth adopted the name Nazi to display their racist's philosophy. The term 'low riders' was a term borrowed from the Hispanic gang members in an attempt to make fun of them. It was not until the early 1990s that the NLR was deemed a threat by law enforcement authorities.

Members of the gang often display tattoos promoting White Supremacy beliefs such as SWP (Supreme White Power), White Pride, White Power, NLR, the swastika, 88 (Heil Hitler), SS, lightning bolts and other Nazi-related images. Also satanic tattoos (skulls and demons) are commonly used by White Supremacy groups as well as Vikings and other Germanic and Celtic images. NLR members may wear T-shirts printed with white power logos and bands and adopt the skinhead style of dress. Members often deny membership and claim the NLR stands for "never lose respect" or "no longer racist." Some Hispanic members have been accepted into the group, but according to one former member, "you must have at least half white blood, but no black blood."

The NLR has achieved a stronghold in several Southern California cities. They have been identified in several Western states both on the streets and in prison. It has been estimated the NLR has over 3,000 hardcore members and continues to be the fastest growing prison gang.

The NLR is notorious for several vicious attacks and murders in an attempt to promote their racists beliefs. Many members claim the primary purpose of their organization is the protection of incarcerated Whites, while others claim their goal is to "rid the streets of Blacks." Members are required to show loyalty to the White race and have a record of proven criminality. The gang has earned the reputation as being the most vicious and fastest growing White supremacist organization both in prison and on the streets. The NLR is also heavily involved in the production and distribution of methamphetamine. In addition, they have been involved in robberies, extortions and numerous murders and violent attacks.

Latest reports indicate the Aryan Brotherhood has stated that the NLR should stop accepting members if they have mixed blood. Many NLR members have rejected this order, because they themselves or their friends are part Hispanic. It has been rumored that the Aryan Brotherhood has given approval for Public Enemy Number 1 (Peni) to murder any NLR members who have not accepted the AB's orders.