Let’s Talk About Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Competition Holster
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Competition Holster is designed with the competitive shooter in mind. This outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster boasts a combination of Kydex and aluminum for a blend of speed, durability, and adjustability. It’s built specifically for the STI International 2011 5-inch full dust cover model, making it a specialized piece of gear tailored for performance.
My search for a new competition holster began after struggling with my old setup during a local USPSA match. I needed something faster, more secure, and adjustable to accommodate different stages. The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear‘s reputation for quality and speed cut design caught my attention, and the adjustable features promised a custom fit.
Upon unboxing, the holster immediately impressed me with its robust construction. The Kydex shell felt thick and rigid, while the aluminum components added a touch of premium quality. The weight felt balanced, not too heavy, but substantial enough to inspire confidence.
Compared to my previous Safariland ALS holster and a Blade-Tech competition holster, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear stood out due to its specific design for the 2011 platform and its adjustable retention. I picked this holster over others for its promise of a tailored fit and lightning-fast draws. My initial impression was one of excitement – this holster looked like it could seriously improve my competition performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Competition Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Competition Holster was at my local shooting range, preparing for an upcoming three-gun match. I practiced drawing and re-holstering drills, focusing on speed and consistency. The holster performed remarkably well, allowing for smooth, unobstructed draws.
The weather was slightly humid, but the Kydex material didn’t seem to be affected, maintaining a consistent grip on the firearm. The ease of use was immediately apparent. It only took a few adjustments with a Phillips screwdriver to dial in the perfect holster height and angle. There were no significant issues during my first range session; the holster felt secure and performed as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear holster has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after countless draws and re-holstering. The holster shell is still rigid, and the adjustable components remain tight.
Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth keeps the holster clean and functioning optimally. This holster definitely outperforms my previous competition holsters in terms of speed and adjustability. The improved draw speed has shaved valuable fractions of a second off my stage times.
Breaking Down the Features of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Competition Holster
Specifications
Manufacturer: Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear. The brand is known for producing high-quality, performance-driven holsters and tactical accessories.
Gun Make: STI International. This holster is explicitly designed for STI International pistols, ensuring a snug and secure fit.
Gun Model: STI International 2011 5in Full Dust Cover. The holster is specifically molded to accommodate this particular 2011 variant.
Barrel Length: 5 in. This confirms the holster’s compatibility with 5-inch barrel 2011 pistols.
Holster Type: Outside the Waistband Holster. OWB holsters offer a faster draw and are preferred by many competition shooters.
Holster Material: 6066 Aluminum, Kydex. The combination of aluminum and Kydex provides a balance of durability and lightweight performance.
Accessory Attachment System: Belt Loop. The holster attaches to the belt via a sturdy belt loop system.
Application: Sporting. The holster is specifically designed for competitive shooting sports.
Quantity: 1. The package includes one complete holster unit.
Retention Level: Level I. Level I retention offers a balance of speed and security, ideal for competition use.
Fabric/Material: 6066 Aluminum, Kydex. This reiterates the holster’s durable construction.
Performance & Functionality
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Competition Holster excels in its primary function: providing a fast and reliable draw for competitive shooting. Its Level I retention strikes a perfect balance between secure firearm retention and rapid deployment. The adjustable retention allows for fine-tuning to individual preferences.
The holster’s strengths lie in its speed, adjustability, and secure fit. The speed cut design allows for an unhindered draw stroke. One area for potential improvement could be offering additional color options to match various competition setups. The holster definitively meets and exceeds my expectations for a competition-grade OWB holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear holster showcases excellent build quality, utilizing high-quality Kydex and aluminum components. The materials create a comfortable and secure fit against the body. The design is user-friendly, with intuitive adjustments for holster height, angle, and retention.
The holster’s design also allows for a full firing grip before the draw, further contributing to a faster and more controlled presentation. There is minimal learning curve; even novice competition shooters can quickly adapt to this holster.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction of the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Competition Holster suggests a long service life. The Kydex shell resists scratches and abrasions, while the aluminum components are corrosion-resistant. Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use is sufficient to keep the holster in top condition.
The design also allows for field repairs, should the need arise. The holster’s durable construction and ease of maintenance contribute to its overall value.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Competition Holster comes with the necessary hardware for belt attachment and retention adjustment. While it doesn’t include any additional accessories, its compatibility with standard competition belts allows for seamless integration with existing gear.
The user-adjustable holster height and angle provide a degree of customization to suit individual shooting styles. The holster is compatible with many popular competition belts on the market.
Pros and Cons of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Competition Holster
Pros
- Lightning-fast draws due to the speed cut design and optimized retention.
- Highly adjustable for holster height, angle, and retention to customize the fit.
- Durable construction using Kydex and aluminum for long-lasting performance.
- Secure firearm retention providing confidence during dynamic movements.
- Specifically designed for the STI 2011 platform ensuring a perfect fit.
Cons
- Limited color options may not appeal to all shooters.
- Specialized design limits use to only STI 2011 5″ full dust cover models.
Who Should Buy Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Competition Holster?
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Competition Holster is perfect for competitive shooters participating in USPSA, IPSC, or three-gun matches, specifically those using an STI International 2011 5-inch full dust cover pistol. This is also ideal for anyone seeking a fast and secure OWB holster specifically tailored to the 2011 platform.
This product might not be suitable for individuals who own other pistol models or those seeking a general-purpose OWB holster. A high-quality competition belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster stability and draw speed.
Conclusion on Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Competition Holster
In summary, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Competition Holster is a well-designed and expertly crafted piece of gear for competitive shooters. Its speed, adjustability, and durability make it a valuable asset on the range. The price is justified considering the holster’s specialized design and performance-enhancing features.
I would personally recommend this holster to any competitive shooter using an STI 2011 5-inch full dust cover pistol. If you’re serious about improving your draw speed and overall performance, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Competition Holster is an excellent investment. Upgrade your competition setup today and experience the difference!