Let’s Talk About Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster is designed for the competitive shooting sports, like 3-Gun, IPSC, and USPSA. It boasts adjustable cant, height, and retention, all while remaining compliant with the rules of these organizations. This holster aims to provide a secure and rapid draw, critical for shaving seconds off stage times.
I was seeking a holster that could withstand the rigors of intense competition while providing a consistent and reliable draw. My old holster, a generic polymer model, was starting to show significant wear and lacked the adjustability I needed to fine-tune my draw stroke. I needed something robust and adaptable.
Upon unboxing, the Black Scorpion holster impressed with its solid construction. The combination of 6066 aluminum and Kydex felt incredibly durable. The holster had a reassuring weight, implying quality and sturdiness.
Compared to my previous polymer holster and a friend’s Safariland ALS model, the Black Scorpion offered a more customized fit and feel. The polymer holster felt flimsy, and the Safariland, while excellent for duty use, wasn’t as streamlined for pure speed in competition. I chose the Black Scorpion for its specific focus on competition needs.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism mixed with excitement. It looked like a serious piece of kit, but I knew the real test would be on the range. It was time to put this thing through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range during a USPSA practice session. I wanted to simulate the conditions of an actual match as closely as possible. I focused on performing multiple draws and re-holstering drills.
The Black Scorpion holster performed admirably, even in the slightly humid conditions of the range that day. The Kydex retained its shape well, and the adjustable retention allowed me to dial in the perfect draw resistance. The 2011 pistol drew smoothly and consistently.
Initially, I needed to spend a few minutes adjusting the cant and height to find the optimal position for my body type and shooting style. Once dialed in, drawing became intuitive. I experienced no significant issues during the initial testing phase.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including two local USPSA matches and numerous practice sessions, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster has proven its worth. It remains secure and functional. The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear.
The Black Scorpion holster has held up remarkably well to the abuse of competition. There is a small amount of cosmetic scratching on the Kydex, but the aluminum components are still in perfect condition. I have no concerns about its long-term durability.
Maintaining the holster is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each range session is all that’s needed. The Kydex resists dirt and grime, and the aluminum doesn’t require any special treatment. This holster is simple to care for.
Compared to my older holsters, the Black Scorpion significantly outperforms them in terms of speed, adjustability, and durability. It has exceeded my expectations. I feel confident relying on this holster in any competitive scenario.
Breaking Down the Features of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
Specifications
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster is specifically designed for STI International 2011 5-inch Full Dust Cover pistols. The holster is built using 6066 Aluminum for the frame and Kydex for the holster body. It is an Outside the Waistband (OWB) holster.
The holster features user-adjustable cant via a Phillips screwdriver. It also has user-adjustable retention via thumb screws. The holster accepts belts between 1.5 and 1.75 inches wide. The open muzzle design allows for compatibility with various barrel lengths and compensators.
These specifications matter because they provide a highly customizable and durable platform for competition shooting. The aluminum frame ensures rigidity and stability, while the Kydex provides a secure and friction-free draw. The adjustability allows each shooter to fine-tune the holster to their individual needs.
Performance & Functionality
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster excels at its primary function: providing a secure and rapid draw for competitive shooting. The adjustable retention allows for precise tuning, ensuring that the pistol stays secure during movement but can be drawn quickly when needed. The open muzzle is useful for customized pistols.
Its strengths include its adjustability, durability, and speed. The weakness is that you need to set aside time before using to get everything dialed in. It meets expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster is excellent. The combination of aluminum and Kydex creates a holster that is both lightweight and incredibly durable. The holster’s ergonomic design ensures a comfortable and secure fit.
There is a slight learning curve involved in adjusting the cant and retention, but once set up, the holster is very user-friendly. The adjustable features make it easy to fine-tune the holster to individual preferences. It is very easy to use.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster is expected to last for many years of regular use. The aluminum frame and Kydex body are resistant to wear and tear. The manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty.
Maintaining the holster is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it in good condition. The holster’s simple design makes repairs, if ever needed, relatively easy.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster itself does not come with any specific accessories beyond the hardware needed for adjustments. However, the standard belt loop attachment system is compatible with various aftermarket belt attachments. The open muzzle design allows for the use of various compensators and barrel lengths.
The Black Scorpion holster is designed to work seamlessly with most 2011 pistols and related accessories. The compatibility with standard belt attachments allows for further customization to meet individual needs. It works well with all standard accessories.
Pros and Cons of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
Pros
- Provides very fast and consistent draws.
- Extremely durable construction with aluminum and Kydex.
- Highly adjustable cant and retention for a customized fit.
- USPSA, IPSC, and 3-Gun compliant, making it competition-ready.
- Backed by a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
Cons
- Initial setup and adjustment can be time-consuming.
- Aluminum edges could potentially cause holster wear on the pistol finish.
Who Should Buy Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster?
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster is perfect for competitive shooters participating in USPSA, IPSC, or 3-Gun events. Anyone seeking a durable, adjustable, and fast competition holster for their 2011 pistol will benefit from this product.
Those who are new to competitive shooting and prefer a simpler, less adjustable holster might want to consider other options. Individuals primarily focused on concealed carry will also find this holster unsuitable due to its size and design.
A quality competition belt is a must-have accessory to complement the Black Scorpion holster. Consider upgrading your belt setup if you are serious about competition. It will help make the holster draw smoother.
Conclusion on Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster is an excellent choice for serious competitive shooters looking for a durable, adjustable, and fast holster for their 2011 pistol. It provides a high level of customization and performance.
At $108.12, the price is justified given the quality of materials, construction, and features offered. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to improve their performance in competition.
I would personally recommend the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear 2011 OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster to any competitive shooter seeking a reliable and high-performing holster. Upgrade your gear and shave seconds off your stage times – you won’t regret it!