First Impressions of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster promises to be a game-changer for competitive shooters, specifically those running the S&W M&P 9. This outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster boasts full adjustability, a drop-and-offset design, and compatibility with popular competition belt sizes. From the initial description, I anticipate a holster that prioritizes speed, precision, and a personalized fit – all critical elements in the high-stakes world of competitive shooting.
For years, I’ve relied on various holsters, struggling to find one that perfectly balances speed, security, and comfort during USPSA matches. Many holsters either sacrifice draw speed for retention or offer limited adjustability, forcing compromises in my shooting stance and overall performance. The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear holster seemed to directly address these issues.
The holster arrived in a simple, no-frills package. Upon unboxing, I was immediately drawn to the robust Kydex construction and the seemingly intuitive design. The weight felt substantial without being cumbersome, hinting at a durable build. Compared to my Safariland ALS holster (known for retention but not speed) and a generic Blade-Tech holster (fast but lacking precise adjustability), the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster appeared to offer a compelling middle ground.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The design seemed promising, but the true test would be on the range, under the pressure of the clock. If the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear holster delivers on its promises, it could be a significant upgrade to my competitive gear.
Real-World Testing: Putting Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster was at a local USPSA match. I immediately appreciated the ease of setting it up, allowing for personalized adjustments to the draw angle and ride height, something my other holsters lacked. Despite some light rain, the Kydex material maintained a firm grip on my Smith & Wesson M&P 9, ensuring consistent draws.
The drop-and-offset design proved to be a major advantage, allowing for a more natural and ergonomic grip during the draw stroke. There was a slight learning curve in terms of muscle memory, but after a few practice draws, I felt significantly faster and more fluid than with my previous setup. The holster’s secure fit inspired confidence.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use in various conditions, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. Minor scuff marks appeared on the Kydex, but these were purely cosmetic and didn’t affect the holster’s functionality. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth has been sufficient to keep it in optimal condition.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear model offers a noticeable improvement in draw speed and consistency. The precise adjustability has allowed me to fine-tune my setup for maximum comfort and efficiency, resulting in improved stage times during competitions. It has definitely exceeded my expectations in terms of performance and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear.
- Gun Make: Smith & Wesson.
- Gun Model: Smith & Wesson M&P 9. This specific model is designed primarily for the M&P 9, ensuring a snug and secure fit.
- Hand: Right.
- Holster Type: Outside the Waistband Holster. OWB holsters are known for their accessibility and speed, making them a popular choice for competition.
- Holster Material: Kydex. Kydex is a durable and rigid thermoplastic that provides excellent retention and resistance to wear and tear.
- Accessory Attachment System: Belt Loop. Designed for use with standard competition belts.
- The holster offers adjustable angle and height.
- It comes with an aluminum thigh spacer. This component helps to ensure the firearm is at a 90-degree angle for a more consistent draw.
- The belt attachment accommodates 1.5” to 1.75” belts.
These specifications contribute to the holster’s overall performance by providing a secure and customizable fit, ensuring quick and consistent draws, and offering compatibility with common competition gear. The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster is designed for the competitive shooter.
Performance & Functionality
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster performs exceptionally well in its intended role. Its primary strengths lie in its adjustability, speed, and secure retention. The adjustable angle and height allow users to fine-tune the holster to their preferred draw style, while the drop-and-offset design facilitates a more natural and ergonomic grip.
The holster’s retention is firm enough to prevent accidental dislodging of the firearm but loose enough to allow for a smooth and rapid draw. One area for potential improvement might be the addition of a user-adjustable retention screw for even greater customization. Overall, the holster meets and often exceeds expectations, providing a competitive edge.
Design & Ergonomics
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and user comfort. The Kydex construction provides a rigid and durable platform, while the smooth edges prevent discomfort during movement. The holster’s weight is balanced, neither feeling too bulky nor too flimsy.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, with intuitive adjustments that can be made quickly and easily with basic tools. However, some users may find the initial setup slightly time-consuming as they experiment with different angle and height configurations.
Durability & Maintenance
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster is constructed from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of regular competition use. The Kydex material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impacts, ensuring a long lifespan. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service. The durable construction and straightforward design minimize the risk of breakage or malfunction, making it a trustworthy investment for serious competitors.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster does not come with a wide range of accessories, focusing instead on its core functionality. However, its compatibility with standard competition belts allows users to easily integrate it with their existing gear. The adjustability options, however, provide a level of customization rarely found in competing products.
While the holster itself does not offer extensive customization options, its modular design allows for the attachment of various aftermarket accessories, such as belt attachments or thigh rigs. The key is to ensure that any added accessories are compatible with the holster’s mounting system and do not interfere with its primary function.
Pros and Cons of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster
Pros
- Exceptional Adjustability: Customizable angle and height for a personalized fit.
- Fast and Smooth Draw: Drop-and-offset design facilitates a natural and efficient draw stroke.
- Durable Kydex Construction: Provides excellent retention and resistance to wear and tear.
- Secure Retention: Keeps the firearm securely in place during dynamic movements.
- Competition Approved: Approved for use in 3Gun, IPSC, and USPSA competitions.
Cons
- The holster model is specific to the S&W M&P 9.
- Limited out-of-the-box customization options.
Who Should Buy Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster?
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster is perfect for competitive shooters, particularly those competing in USPSA, IPSC, or 3Gun events. It is also well-suited for law enforcement officers or security personnel who require a fast and reliable OWB holster for their Smith & Wesson M&P 9. The holster is a solid choice for anyone seeking a highly adjustable and durable competition holster.
This product may not be the best choice for individuals who prefer concealed carry, as its OWB design is not conducive to discreet carry. Those who own firearms other than the Smith & Wesson M&P 9 will need to find a different holster.
A high-quality competition belt is a must-have accessory to ensure a stable and secure platform for the holster.
Conclusion on Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster is an excellent choice for competitive shooters seeking a fast, reliable, and highly adjustable OWB holster. Its durable Kydex construction, secure retention, and competition-approved design make it a worthy investment. The price is justified given the holster’s performance and features, offering excellent value for money.
I would highly recommend the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Competition Holster to anyone serious about improving their performance in competitive shooting. If you’re looking to elevate your shooting game, this holster is a definite contender. Order yours today and experience the difference!