Let’s Talk About Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro IDPA Competition Holster
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro IDPA Competition Holster promises speed and precision for competitive shooters. Manufactured by Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear, this Kydex holster is designed specifically for STI International 2011 5-inch full dust cover models. Its compatibility with red dot sights, suppressor height sights, and threaded barrels immediately caught my eye.
Having spent over a decade immersed in the world of tactical gear, I was looking for a holster that would shave precious seconds off my draw time during IDPA matches. I needed a holster that was not only fast but also compliant with IDPA regulations, specifically the rule prohibiting snaps or abrasion-resistant coverings. This Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear offering seemed to tick all the boxes.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the holster’s minimalist design and the rigidity of the Kydex. The holster felt lightweight yet robust, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of regular competition use. Compared to my Safariland ALS holster, which offers Level I retention for duty use, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear model felt sleeker and more purpose-built for speed.
I was excited, yet cautiously optimistic. The fit and finish appeared excellent, but the true test would be on the range, under the pressure of a timer. The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro IDPA Competition Holster has a lot to prove.
Real-World Testing: Putting Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro IDPA Competition Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, where I practice IDPA drills weekly. I ran several draw-and-fire sequences with my STI 2011, focusing on smoothness and speed. The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear holster immediately felt natural; the open muzzle design allowed for a clean and unimpeded draw.
I also tested it during a particularly humid afternoon, a common occurrence here in the South. Despite my sweaty hands, the Kydex maintained a secure grip on the firearm, and the draw remained consistent. There were no unpleasant surprises; the holster performed exactly as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of weekly use, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro IDPA Competition Holster has held up remarkably well. There are minimal signs of wear, mainly some minor scuff marks on the Kydex from repeated draws. The holster has retained its shape and rigidity, showing no signs of stretching or deformation.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. Compared to my previous nylon holster, which required frequent washing and conditioning, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear holster is refreshingly low-maintenance.
In my experience, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear holster significantly outperforms my earlier attempts to adapt general-purpose holsters for competition. Its custom fit and adjustable retention provide a level of speed and consistency that I couldn’t achieve with other options. It instills confidence.
Breaking Down the Features of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro IDPA Competition Holster
Specifications
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro IDPA Competition Holster is crafted from high-grade, custom-made Kydex. It’s specifically designed for STI International 2011 5-inch full dust cover models and features an open muzzle to accommodate red dot sights, suppressor height sights, and threaded barrels. Its belt loop attachment system fits belts ranging from 1.5 to 1.75 inches in width, making it compatible with most competition belts.
The holster is categorized as a Level I retention holster, relying on friction and precise molding to secure the firearm. This minimal retention allows for a fast draw while still providing adequate security during movement. The holster is also user-adjustable via a Phillips screwdriver, allowing shooters to fine-tune the draw speed to their preference.
These specifications are crucial for competitive shooting. The open muzzle ensures compatibility with various firearm modifications, while the adjustable retention allows for a personalized draw. The Kydex construction guarantees durability and consistent performance under demanding conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro IDPA Competition Holster excels in its primary function: facilitating a fast and reliable draw. The open-top design and adjustable retention allow for a smooth, snag-free draw stroke. This is critical in IDPA, where fractions of a second can make the difference between winning and losing.
One minor weakness is that the adjustable retention screw can sometimes loosen over time, requiring occasional tightening. However, this is easily remedied with a quick adjustment using a Phillips screwdriver. Overall, the holster meets and even exceeds my expectations for a competition-focused holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster’s design is simple yet effective. The Kydex is molded precisely to the contours of the STI 2011, providing a secure and snug fit. Its lightweight construction ensures it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the shooter’s belt.
There’s virtually no learning curve. The holster is intuitive to use, and the adjustable retention allows shooters to quickly dial in their preferred draw speed. The ergonomic design enhances the overall shooting experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kydex construction ensures the holster will last for years with proper care. It’s resistant to scratches, abrasions, and solvents. As mentioned earlier, maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro IDPA Competition Holster is a buy-it-for-life piece of gear. Its robust construction and simple design ensure it will withstand the rigors of regular competition use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster comes with a spare set screw for adjusting the retention. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options like modular holsters, its compatibility with red dot sights, suppressor height sights, and threaded barrels allows for a wide range of firearm modifications. Furthermore, the standardized belt loop attachment system allows for compatibility with various competition belts from different brands.
Pros and Cons of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro IDPA Competition Holster
Pros
- Provides a lightning-fast draw for competitive shooting.
- Compatible with red dot sights, suppressor height sights, and threaded barrels.
- Durable Kydex construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- User-adjustable retention allows for a personalized draw.
- Meets IDPA regulations, making it competition-legal.
Cons
- Retention screw may loosen over time, requiring occasional adjustment.
- Limited customization options compared to modular holster systems.
Who Should Buy Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro IDPA Competition Holster?
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro IDPA Competition Holster is perfect for competitive shooters participating in IDPA events. It’s also well-suited for anyone looking for a fast and reliable OWB holster for their STI 2011, especially those using red dot sights or other barrel modifications. Those prioritizing speed and compliance above all else will benefit most from this offering.
Those seeking a highly customizable holster with active retention mechanisms should skip this product. Similarly, individuals who don’t compete or require specialized features like light attachments might find other options more suitable.
A high-quality competition belt is a must-have accessory for this holster. Also, shooters may want to consider adding grip tape to their STI 2011 to further enhance their grip during rapid draws.
Conclusion on Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro IDPA Competition Holster
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro IDPA Competition Holster is a well-designed and purpose-built holster for competitive shooters. Its fast draw, durable construction, and IDPA compliance make it an excellent choice for anyone serious about improving their scores. For its price of $56.99, the performance is exceptional, particularly when compared to similar offerings.
The price is absolutely justified given the holster’s performance and durability. For the competitive shooter looking for an affordable yet high-performance holster, the value is undeniable.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro IDPA Competition Holster to anyone seeking a competitive edge. This holster delivers on its promise of speed and precision, making it a valuable addition to any shooter’s arsenal. Invest in your performance and grab one today!