Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear FN OWB Quick Release IDPA Holster Review

First Impressions of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear FN OWB Quick Release IDPA Holster

The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear FN OWB Quick Release IDPA Holster promises a blend of speed, security, and adjustability for FN Herstal pistol owners. This Kydex holster, designed for outside-the-waistband (OWB) carry and IDPA competition, boasts a quick-release system and adjustable cant. I was immediately intrigued by the promise of rapid deployment and customizable fit for my FN 509 Tactical.

My journey to finding this holster began with a frustrating search for a reliable and versatile OWB option for IDPA matches. I needed a holster that wouldn’t slow me down, offered secure retention, and allowed me to dial in the perfect draw angle. Countless online searches and discussions with fellow shooters led me to the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear offering.

The holster arrived in a simple, no-frills package. My first impression was that it felt robust and well-constructed, despite its light weight. The Kydex seemed thick enough to withstand the rigors of regular use, and the quick-release mechanism felt surprisingly solid.

I’ve used similar Kydex OWB holsters from Safariland and Blade-Tech in the past. However, these lacked the quick-release feature and fine-tuned cant adjustment of the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear FN OWB Quick Release IDPA Holster. The Black Scorpion promised a level of convenience and customization that the others simply didn’t offer at this price point.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The quick-release system and adjustable cant seemed like excellent features, but I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype in real-world use. I was excited to get it onto the range and put it through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear FN OWB Quick Release IDPA Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear FN OWB Quick Release IDPA Holster was at my local outdoor shooting range during a practice IDPA session. I subjected it to draw after draw, focusing on speed and consistency. The weather was slightly overcast with a light drizzle, presenting a mild challenge.

The holster performed admirably, even with damp hands. The draw was smooth and consistent, and the pistol locked into place with a reassuring click. The quick-release system proved easy to use, allowing for rapid removal of the holster without needing to remove my belt.

There was a slight learning curve with the cant adjustment. It took a few tries to find the optimal angle for my preferred draw stroke, but once set, it held firmly in place. The initial setup took only a few minutes and was well worth the effort.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including multiple IDPA matches and practice sessions, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear FN OWB Quick Release IDPA Holster has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after being bumped and scraped against barricades and other gear. The Kydex has retained its shape and rigidity, and the quick-release mechanism continues to function flawlessly.

Cleaning the holster is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. I occasionally use a silicone-based lubricant to keep the quick-release mechanism operating smoothly.

Compared to other holsters I’ve used, the Black Scorpion has exceeded my expectations in terms of both speed and adjustability. It has become my go-to holster for IDPA competitions. It offers a noticeable improvement in my draw times and overall shooting performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear FN OWB Quick Release IDPA Holster

Specifications

The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear FN OWB Quick Release IDPA Holster boasts the following specifications:

• Manufacturer: Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear.
• Gun Make: FN Herstal.
• Hand: Right.
• Holster Type: Outside the Waistband Holster.
• Holster Material: Kydex (.08” thickness).
• Accessory Attachment System: Belt Loop (Accommodates belts up to 2 1/4”).
• Quantity: 1.

These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The Kydex construction ensures durability and resistance to the elements. The belt loop system provides secure attachment to the user’s belt.

Performance & Functionality

The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear FN OWB Quick Release IDPA Holster excels in its primary function: providing a secure and rapid draw for FN Herstal pistols. The holster’s retention is excellent, holding the pistol firmly in place without being overly tight.

The quick-release system is a standout feature, allowing the user to quickly detach the holster from their belt without tools. The 360-degree cant adjustability enables users to fine-tune the draw angle to their specific preferences.

One minor weakness is that the initial cant adjustment can be a bit finicky. However, once set, it remains stable. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds my expectations for an IDPA-focused OWB holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear FN OWB Quick Release IDPA Holster features a minimalist and functional design. The Kydex is molded precisely to the shape of the FN Herstal pistol, ensuring a secure and snug fit. The holster is lightweight and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods.

The open-top design allows for a full firing grip before drawing the pistol. This aids in a smooth and consistent draw stroke. The holster is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear FN OWB Quick Release IDPA Holster, crafted from .08” Kydex, appears built to last. After weeks of use, it shows no signs of cracking or deformation. The quick-release mechanism feels robust and reliable.

Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps it clean and functional.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear FN OWB Quick Release IDPA Holster does not come with any additional accessories. However, it is compatible with various belt attachments and platforms. The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear website offers a range of compatible accessories, such as different belt loops and mounting systems.

The holster is also designed to accommodate pistols with slide-mounted optics and raised sights. The open muzzle design allows for use with threaded barrels. These features significantly enhance the holster’s versatility and appeal to a wider range of users.

Pros and Cons of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear FN OWB Quick Release IDPA Holster