Blackhawk A.R.C. IWB Holster: Unrivaled Concealment and Versatility for Glock 17, 22, 31 Owners

For responsible firearm owners, the pursuit of optimal concealed carry often comes down to a critical balance: discretion, comfort, and accessibility. Whether you're a seasoned carrier or new to the world of personal defense, the challenges are universal – how do you ensure your firearm is securely yet comfortably carried, without "printing" or becoming a burden throughout your day? How can you maintain quick access while adhering to safety protocols? The answer, for many, lies in a thoughtfully designed inside-the-waistband (IWB) holster that adapts to their lifestyle and equipment.

Enter the Blackhawk A.R.C. (Appendix Reversible Carry) IWB Holster, specifically engineered to meet the demanding requirements of Glock 17, Glock 22, and Glock 31 pistol owners. (Please note: This holster is compatible with Glock 22 and 31 models, but not the Gen5 .40 caliber variants.) This isn't just another holster; it's a testament to Blackhawk's commitment to practical innovation, offering an unparalleled blend of ambidextrous flexibility, superior comfort, and discreet performance, all while accommodating modern firearm enhancements like red dot sights. Crafted in the USA, the A.R.C. embodies the quality and reliability that Blackhawk is renowned for.

Why Choose the Blackhawk A.R.C. Holster for Your Glock?

Selecting the right holster is as crucial as choosing your firearm. It directly impacts your readiness, comfort, and confidence. The Blackhawk A.R.C. is designed to address the most common concerns faced by concealed carriers.

Exceptional Comfort for All-Day Carry

One of the primary frustrations with concealed carry holsters can be discomfort, especially during extended wear. The Blackhawk A.R.C. is meticulously constructed from a high-quality, injection-molded polymer material. This advanced polymer is not merely durable; it's lightweight and inherently smoother than traditional materials, reducing friction against your skin or clothing. Its ergonomic design contours to the body, minimizing hot spots and pressure points that can lead to irritation throughout the day. This makes the A.R.C. an ideal solution for daily carry, allowing you to forget you're even wearing it, which is the ultimate goal of any concealed carry setup.

The Power of Ambidextrous Design

Have you ever struggled to find a holster that perfectly suits both left and right-handed shooting styles, or wished you could switch your carry side for different activities or clothing choices? The Blackhawk A.R.C. solves this with its truly ambidextrous configuration. This versatility means the holster can be effortlessly reconfigured for either right-hand or left-hand draw, catering to a wider array of users and situations. It's an invaluable feature for individuals who train with both hands, share a holster with another family member, or simply prefer the flexibility to adapt their carry position as needed. This design ensures that every user can achieve a natural, consistent draw stroke regardless of their dominant hand or preferred carry side.

Secure Retention with Personal Control

A safe and effective holster must provide reliable retention. The A.R.C. features a passive retention detent system, a mechanism that securely holds your Glock in place using friction and precise molding around the trigger guard. What sets the A.R.C. apart is its integrated adjustment screw. This crucial detail empowers you to fine-tune the retention level to your exact preference. Do you prefer a tighter grip for vigorous activity, or a slightly looser draw for faster presentation? The adjustment screw allows for quick, simple customization. This personalized retention ensures your firearm remains secure during movement, yet allows for a smooth and consistent draw when milliseconds matter. This balance of security and accessibility is a hallmark of superior holster design.

Customized Fit: Adjustable Cant and Ride Height

Concealed carry is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Body types, clothing choices, and personal preferences dictate the ideal holster positioning. The Blackhawk A.R.C. is engineered for maximum adaptability, featuring two included belt clips that allow for significant adjustment of both cant (the angle of the firearm) and ride height (how high or low the firearm sits on your belt line).

• Cant Adjustment: This allows you to angle your Glock forward or backward. A forward cant (FBI cant) is popular for strong-side hip carry, aiding concealment and a natural draw. Appendix carry often benefits from a neutral or slight reverse cant.
• Ride Height Adjustment: This determines how deep your firearm sits inside your waistband. Lowering the ride height can enhance concealment, while raising it can improve grip access.

These adjustments ensure that whether you prefer appendix carry (A.R.C. stands for Appendix Reversible Carry, highlighting its optimization for this position), strong-side hip carry, or behind-the-hip carry, you can achieve the perfect angle and depth for optimal comfort and the quickest, most efficient draw. The included belt clips are designed to accommodate common belt sizes ranging from 1.5 inches to 1.75 inches, ensuring compatibility with most everyday carry belts.

Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Ready for Modern Optics

The landscape of personal defense firearms is rapidly evolving, with miniature red dot sights (MRDS) becoming increasingly popular for their significant advantages in target acquisition and accuracy. Many traditional IWB holsters fail to accommodate these optics, forcing users to choose between their preferred carry method and their enhanced sighting system. The Blackhawk A.R.C. is specifically designed with an open-top cut that allows for the use of most rear-mounted red dot sights, such as the Trijicon RMR, Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, or Vortex Venom. This forward-thinking design ensures that your investment in a modern optic doesn't preclude you from comfortable and effective concealed carry, making the A.R.C. a future-proof choice for today's shooter.

The Aesthetic and Practicality of Urban Gray

The A.R.C. holster is presented in an attractive Urban Gray finish. This modern, subdued color not only offers a sleek aesthetic but also provides a practical benefit for concealment. Unlike stark black, Urban Gray can blend more subtly with a wider range of clothing colors, from lighter shirts to darker pants, potentially reducing contrast and making the holster less noticeable should it inadvertently become exposed. It's a testament to Blackhawk's attention to detail, considering both performance and appearance.

Made in USA: A Mark of Quality and Trust

Proudly manufactured in the USA, the Blackhawk A.R.C. IWB Holster benefits from stringent quality control processes and a commitment to American craftsmanship. This "Made in USA" designation assures consumers of a product built to high standards, supporting domestic jobs and ensuring a reliable, long-lasting piece of gear that you can depend on when it matters most.

Who Benefits Most from the Blackhawk A.R.C. IWB Holster?

This holster is an excellent choice for a diverse range of individuals, including:

• First-Time Concealed Carriers: Its user-friendly adjustments and inherent comfort make it an approachable option for those new to carrying.
• Experienced Enthusiasts: For veterans seeking a versatile, low-profile, and optics-ready IWB solution that adapts to various needs.
• Glock 17, 22, 31 Owners: Specifically tailored for these popular Glock models, ensuring a precise and secure fit.
• Appendix Carry Advocates: As its name suggests, the A.R.C. excels in the appendix carry position, offering deep concealment and quick access.
• Red Dot Sight Users: An essential feature for anyone running an MRDS on their Glock and needing an IWB solution.
• Individuals Seeking Ambidextrous Options: Perfect for left- or right-handed shooters, or those who switch carry positions.
• Those Prioritizing Comfort: The polymer construction and adjustable features are designed for extended wear without discomfort.
• Tactical Professionals and Everyday Citizens: Built with the ruggedness required for duty use but designed for the discreet needs of civilian carry.

Real-World Scenarios and Use Cases

How does the Blackhawk A.R.C. fit into your daily life?

• Everyday Concealed Carry: Its slim profile and comfortable polymer construction make it ideal for all-day wear under a t-shirt, button-up, or jacket.
• Training and Practice: The secure passive retention ensures your firearm stays put during dynamic movements on the range, while allowing for smooth draw practice.
• Varying Clothing Styles: Easily adjustable for deeper concealment when wearing lighter clothing, or for quicker access when a jacket allows for it.
• Travel and Commuting: Its comfort and security are paramount during long drives or extended periods of sitting.
• Self-Defense Situations: Designed for rapid, unobstructed access to your firearm when a threat emerges, providing peace of mind and readiness.
• Seasonal Carry: Adaptable for both warm and cold weather attire, allowing for consistent carry year-round.

Common Questions Answered About IWB Holsters and the A.R.C.

• What is the best IWB holster for my Glock 17 (or 22, 31)? The Blackhawk A.R.C. is consistently rated highly due to its comfort, ambidextrous design, red dot compatibility, and adjustable retention/cant, making it a top contender for these specific Glock models.
• How do I achieve comfortable concealed carry? Comfort is achieved through a combination of the right holster material (like the A.R.C.'s injection-molded polymer), adjustable features (cant and ride height on the A.R.C.), and finding the optimal carry position for your body type.
• Can I use my red dot with an IWB holster? Yes, the Blackhawk A.R.C. is specifically designed with an open cut to accommodate most popular rear-mounted red dot sights, eliminating the need for a separate, specialized holster.
• Is a polymer holster durable enough for daily use? Absolutely. Injection-molded polymers are renowned for their exceptional durability, resistance to moisture, and ability to maintain their shape and retention properties over time, making them ideal for rigorous daily carry.
• What does "ambidextrous" mean for holsters and why is it important? An ambidextrous holster, like the A.R.C., can be configured for both left-handed and right-handed users. This is important for versatility, allowing you to switch carry sides, accommodate different users, or adapt to specific situations.
• How do I adjust the retention on my Blackhawk A.R.C. holster? The A.R.C. features a simple adjustment screw, typically located near the trigger guard area. Using a standard screwdriver, you can easily tighten or loosen this screw to increase or decrease the passive retention, allowing you to customize the draw tension to your preference.
• What belt size does the A.R.C. holster support? The included belt clips are designed to accommodate belts ranging from 1.5 inches to 1.75 inches in width, covering most standard EDC (everyday carry) belts.

Blackhawk: A Legacy of Trust and Innovation

For decades, Blackhawk has been a leading name in the tactical and personal defense industries, trusted by military personnel, law enforcement, and responsible citizens worldwide. Their reputation is built on a foundation of innovative design, robust materials, and a deep understanding of user needs. The A.R.C. IWB Holster exemplifies this legacy, blending practical features with the reliability expected from a premier brand. Choosing Blackhawk means investing in a product backed by a history of excellence and a commitment to helping you stay safe and prepared.

Whether you're carrying for duty, defense, or sport, the Blackhawk A.R.C. IWB Holster provides the confidence and capability you need. Its thoughtful design, durable construction, and adaptable features make it an indispensable accessory for your Glock 17, 22, or 31. Experience the difference that a purpose-built, American-made holster can make in your daily carry routine.

Product Specifications & Features Summary

Feature	Detail	Benefit
Brand	Blackhawk	Trusted leader in tactical gear
Model	A.R.C.	Appendix Reversible Carry design
SKU	417500UG	Unique identifier for this specific model
UPC	604544615579	Universal Product Code for identification
Color	Urban Gray	Modern, discreet aesthetic
Hand	Ambidextrous	Versatile for left or right-hand carry
Material	Polymer	Lightweight, durable, comfortable
Mount Type	Belt Clip	Secure and adjustable attachment
Style	IWB	Ideal for concealed inside-the-waistband
Compatible With	Glock 17, 22, 31	Precision fit for popular Glock models
Features	Adjustable Cant & Ride Height, Passive Retention with Adjustment Screw, Red Dot Compatible	Customizable comfort, security, modern optics support
Belt Size	1.50-1.75"	Fits common everyday carry belts
Manufacturing	Made In USA	Assured quality and craftsmanship