First Impressions of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Glock Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Glock Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster aims to provide a robust and adjustable platform for competitive shooters. With its focus on speed, retention, and customization, it promises to be a serious contender in the world of Glock competition holsters. As someone deeply invested in both practical shooting and tactical gear for over a decade, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
I had been searching for a holster that offered both a secure hold and rapid draw for USPSA matches. My old holster lacked the adjustability to perfectly dial in my draw stroke, and I often felt it was slowing me down. I decided to give the Black Scorpion a shot, hoping its features would translate to improved performance on the range.
Upon unboxing, the holster felt solid and well-constructed. The anodized aluminum belt attachment and the thick Kydex shell immediately gave me a sense of durability. The adjustable thumb screws were a welcome sight, hinting at the customization options available.
Compared to my Safariland ALS holster, which prioritizes retention for duty use, the Black Scorpion seemed more streamlined and geared towards speed. Unlike some other competition holsters I’ve used, the Black Scorpion felt less like a collection of parts and more like a cohesive unit. My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism, hoping the performance would match the apparent quality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Glock Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Glock Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster at a local USPSA match. The weather was typical for a Texas summer: hot and humid, which can definitely impact your grip and draw. I focused on getting used to the draw stroke, the retention adjustment, and the overall feel of the holster under pressure.
The 90-degree angle the holster forces the firearm into made a noticeable difference in my draw speed. I found that I was able to acquire a proper grip much faster compared to my previous setup. There were no unexpected issues, but I definitely needed to practice to fully internalize the new draw.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of weekly practice and a few more matches, the Black Scorpion has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the Kydex, even with the constant drawing and re-holstering. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth keeps it looking and functioning like new.
Compared to my old, now retired competition holster, the Black Scorpion’s adjustability and solid construction have made a significant difference in my consistency. It has allowed me to fine-tune my draw stroke to the point where it feels completely natural. I’m consistently beating my old stage times, a testament to the holster’s effectiveness.
Breaking Down the Features of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Glock Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
Specifications
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Glock Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster is specifically designed for Glock pistols. The holster material is 0.08” thermoformed Kydex, providing a rigid and durable shell. It features an anodized aluminum belt attachment with a 15mm integrated spacer, positioning the firearm at a 90-degree angle.
The holster is compatible with 1.5” belts, meeting IPSC and USPSA holster rules. It utilizes thumb screws for adjusting firearm retention level, angle, and ride-height. It is designed for right-handed shooters and is an outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster.
These specifications are critical for a competition holster. The Kydex material offers durability and a smooth draw, while the adjustable retention and angle allow for fine-tuning to the shooter’s preference. The 90-degree angle is designed to promote a faster, more consistent draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Glock Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster performs its primary function exceptionally well: providing a fast, reliable, and adjustable platform for drawing a Glock in a competition setting. The retention adjustment is precise, allowing you to dial in the perfect balance between security and draw speed. The ability to adjust the angle and ride height further enhances its usability.
One of the biggest strengths is its stability. The aluminum belt attachment provides a solid and wobble-free platform. A minor weakness might be that the adjustment screws can sometimes loosen slightly with extended use, requiring periodic tightening. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a competition holster in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Black Scorpion is impressive. The materials feel high-quality and the construction is solid. The 0.08” Kydex is thick enough to provide excellent retention without being bulky. The holster is relatively lightweight, which is important for all-day use at matches.
The Black Scorpion is reasonably user-friendly. Adjusting the retention, angle, and ride height is straightforward using the thumb screws. It may take some experimentation to find the perfect settings, but the process is intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Glock Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster appears to be built to last. The Kydex shell is resistant to scratches and abrasions, and the aluminum belt attachment is unlikely to bend or break under normal use. I expect it to last for many years of competitive shooting.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean and functioning properly. Occasional tightening of the adjustment screws is recommended.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Black Scorpion itself doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories. The primary customization options are related to the retention, angle, and ride height, which are adjusted via thumb screws. While it is made specifically for Glocks, its design does not inherently limit it’s use with aftermarket Glock accessories.
While not directly compatible with proprietary systems like the Safariland QLS, users can adapt it for use with other mounting systems via aftermarket adapters.
Pros and Cons of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Glock Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
Pros
- Extremely durable construction: The 0.08” Kydex and aluminum belt attachment ensure longevity, even with heavy use.
- Highly adjustable: Retention, angle, and ride height can be easily adjusted to suit individual preferences and shooting styles.
- Fast draw: The 90-degree angle promotes a quick and efficient draw stroke.
- Stable platform: The aluminum belt attachment provides a solid and wobble-free connection to the belt.
- USPSA/IPSC Compliant: Designed to meet the regulations of major shooting sports.
Cons
- Adjustment screws may loosen over time, requiring periodic tightening.
- Limited compatibility with other holster mounting systems without adapters.
Who Should Buy Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Glock Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster?
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Glock Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster is perfect for competitive shooters, particularly those participating in USPSA and IPSC events. It’s also a good choice for anyone looking for a durable and adjustable OWB holster for their Glock. If you value speed, stability, and customization, this is a great option.
This product may not be ideal for those primarily concerned with concealed carry, as it is an OWB design. Those requiring Level II or Level III retention for duty use should also look elsewhere.
While not strictly necessary, consider investing in threadlocker for the adjustment screws to prevent them from loosening over time. Using a high-quality competition belt is also recommended to maximize the holster’s stability.
Conclusion on Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Glock Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Glock Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster is a well-designed and executed product that delivers on its promises. Its durability, adjustability, and focus on speed make it an excellent choice for competitive shooters.
At a price of $118.99, it offers a compelling value proposition compared to other high-end competition holsters. The solid construction and performance justify the cost.
I would absolutely recommend the Black Scorpion to anyone serious about competitive shooting with a Glock. If you’re looking to shave seconds off your stage times and gain a competitive edge, this holster is a worthwhile investment. Give it a try and see the difference it can make!