Blackhawk A.R.C. Holster: Versatile IWB for Concealed Carry

Carrying concealed demands gear that disappears into the routine of your day while staying ready when needed. Comfort, adjustability, and reliable retention are the pillars of a holster that earns its place on your belt and in your rotation.

BLACKHAWK A.R.C. The A.R.C. Appendix Reversible Carry inside the waistband holster is designed to be as comfortable as it is versatile. Made of injection molded polymer material for comfort, it uses a passive retention detent with an adjustment screw and includes two cant and ride height adjustment belt clips for 1.5 to 1.75″ belts. It also allows for the use of rear mounted red dots and is Made in USA.

Whether you’re new to appendix carry or looking for a budget-minded spare, the A.R.C. targets the essentials with a no-frills, durable approach. At a street price of $17.99, it’s one of the most affordable injection-molded IWB options available, making it a solid candidate for training rigs, backup holsters, or everyday use if you want a simple, effective carry solution. Shop this product

Design and Construction

The A.R.C. is built from injection molded polymer, which balances rigidity for retention with a smooth profile for comfort and ease of concealment. Injection molding also keeps manufacturing consistent so holster geometry supports repeatable draw and reholstering. The holster is Made in USA, which matters to many owners who prioritize domestic manufacturing standards and supply-chain transparency.

Retention System

BLACKHAWK A.R.C. uses a passive retention detent with an adjustment screw. That means you won’t have to manipulate active retention devices when drawing under stress, but you can fine-tune the detent tension to match your pistol and ammunition load. For everyday carry, the ability to dial in a secure yet smooth draw is invaluable—especially for smaller, lighter pistols commonly used in appendix carry.

Adjustability

This holster includes two cant and ride height adjustment belt clips designed for 1.5 to 1.75″ belts. Those options let you customize the angle (cant) and how high or low the gun rides on your waist, which is essential to minimizing printing and maximizing comfort while seated or moving. The reversible nature of the design also offers left- or right-side carry or modified appendix setups—flexibility that covers many carry philosophies without needing multiple holsters.

Compatibility and Red Dot Use

A standout feature of the A.R.C. is its allowance for rear-mounted red dots. For pistol owners who have adopted micro-dot optics, a holster that accommodates sight protrusions without forcing an uncomfortable cant or reduced retention is a major plus. Confirm your pistol model and optic configuration match the holster’s fit list, and you’ll have a low-profile option that keeps modern optic-equipped pistols carryable.

Fit, Comfort, and Daily Wear

From a wearer’s perspective, the injection molded polymer shell shapes to the pistol and provides a predictable draw, while the smooth polymer minimizes abrasion against clothing and skin. The clip system for 1.5–1.75″ belts hits the sweet spot of common belt sizes—sturdy gun belts and many daily belts alike. Because ride height and cant are adjustable, you can tune the holster to sit where it’s least intrusive during long days or when seated in a vehicle.

Practical tip: experiment with slight cant adjustments and lower ride height first—small changes can dramatically reduce printing on lighter shirts while preserving a fast draw stroke.

View product details to confirm fitment for your pistol and optic setup before purchasing.

Use Cases and Tactical Considerations

BLACKHAWK A.R.C. suits several roles:
– Everyday concealed carry for those who prioritize affordability and adjustability.
– A training or backup holster for range sessions where you want a durable, predictable platform without risking a premium Kydex holster.
– An option for owners of micro-dots who need a holster that accommodates rear-mounted optics without major modifications.

For defensive applications, the passive retention detent reduces the number of manipulations required for a proper draw, which matters under stress. The holster’s compact footprint and reversible design also make it easy to rotate or re-issue to another user if needed.

Installation and Maintenance

Installing the A.R.C. is straightforward: attach the belt clips to your belt, adjust the cant and ride height to personal preference, and test the draw and reholstering with an unloaded firearm first. Routine maintenance is minimal—inspect the adjustment screw and clips for tightness, and wipe the polymer shell clean of debris. If you run a red-dot-equipped pistol, periodically verify the optic clearance remains adequate after any ride-height or cant changes.

Why BLACKHAWK and Model Considerations

Blackhawk has a long history in duty and civilian accessories, and the A.R.C. carries that practical DNA. The product is listed in Various models to cover a range of pistol fits—verify the specific model match for your pistol to ensure optimal retention and compatibility. The combination of domestic manufacturing and straightforward engineering makes the A.R.C. a dependable, predictable option for a broad audience.

At $17.99, the A.R.C. offers an accessible entry point to a molded polymer IWB holster without sacrificing essential features like adjustable retention, ride height, and red-dot accommodation. If you’re looking to add a budget-conscious, function-first holster to your kit, this is a strong contender. Check availability

We recommend confirming compatibility with your pistol and practicing safe draws and reholstering in a controlled environment until your muscle memory is solid. The A.R.C. is a tool—simple, adjustable, and ready to be put to work.

People Also Ask

What makes this product stand out from competitors?

This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Is this product suitable for beginners?

Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.

What warranty or support is available?

The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.

How does this compare to similar products in its price range?

This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.

What maintenance is required?

Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.