The Blackhawk Serpa Made a Bold First Impression
The Blackhawk Serpa S.T.R.I.K.E. platform isn’t just another piece of tactical gear; it’s a versatile foundation for customizing your loadout. Manufactured by Blackhawk, this injection-molded, ambidextrous platform promises to let you mount any compatible CQC holster at various angles, and even add rail-mounted accessories. For someone like me, constantly tinkering with gear configurations to optimize for speed and accessibility, the Blackhawk Serpa sounded like a game-changer.
I’d been struggling with a rigid, fixed-angle holster setup on my plate carrier. It limited my draw speed and felt cumbersome during dynamic movements. Other MOLLE-compatible platforms I’d tried either lacked adjustability or felt flimsy. When I saw the price point of the Blackhawk Serpa, I figured it was worth a shot, even if it just ended up as another experiment.
Unboxing the Blackhawk Serpa, I immediately noticed its robust construction. The injection-molded polymer felt durable, and the ambidextrous design was a welcome feature. Holding it in my hands, it felt lightweight yet solid. My initial thought was that Blackhawk clearly prioritized functionality and modularity.
Compared to the rigid polymer holster mount I was previously using and a soft-sided MOLLE panel I had experimented with, the Blackhawk Serpa offered a unique combination of flexibility and rigidity. The adjustability promised by the hole pattern was a major draw, offering more than the fixed positions of my old mount. My first impression? Cautiously optimistic. I was excited to see how it performed under real-world conditions, but also a little skeptical about how well it would hold up to rigorous use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Blackhawk Serpa to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test with the Blackhawk Serpa came during a tactical training exercise at a local outdoor range. The scenario involved moving through various obstacles, engaging targets from different positions, and practicing weapon transitions. Mounting my Blackhawk CQC holster onto the platform was straightforward, and the ability to adjust the carry angle made a noticeable difference in my draw speed.
Even in the dusty conditions typical of the range, the Blackhawk Serpa performed admirably. It stayed securely mounted on my plate carrier, and the holster remained firmly attached to the platform. I had to make some angle adjustments, but after some minor tweaking, it felt completely natural. The only small issue was a slight initial difficulty clipping the platform onto my MOLLE webbing, but that improved with use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use during training sessions and even a weekend-long force-on-force scenario, the Blackhawk Serpa has proven to be surprisingly resilient. There are no visible cracks or signs of stress on the polymer. The mounting points remain secure, and the holster still locks firmly into place.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is all it takes to keep it clean and functioning properly. Compared to other mounting platforms I’ve used that required constant tightening or showed signs of wear after just a few uses, the Blackhawk Serpa has exceeded my expectations. It has become a reliable and essential component of my tactical gear setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Blackhawk Serpa
Specifications
The Blackhawk Serpa S.T.R.I.K.E. platform is built around a few key specifications.
- It’s constructed from injection-molded polymer, ensuring both durability and a lightweight profile.
- The platform is ambidextrous, accommodating both left- and right-handed users.
- Its S.T.R.I.K.E. adapter design allows attachment to any MOLLE-compatible gear, such as vests, packs, and drop-leg platforms.
- The hole pattern enables the user to mount a CQC holster at any of four carry angles.
- Integrated rails allow for the addition of rail-mounted accessories like magazine pouches, light cases, and knife sheaths.
These specifications are important because they contribute directly to the platform’s versatility and user-friendliness. The injection-molded polymer ensures that it can withstand the rigors of tactical use. The ambidextrous design makes it suitable for a wide range of users. The adjustability and accessory options allow for a fully customized and optimized loadout.
Performance & Functionality
The Blackhawk Serpa performs exceptionally well as a modular mounting platform. It provides a stable and secure base for attaching a holster and other accessories. The adjustability of the carry angle is a significant advantage, allowing users to fine-tune their draw stroke for maximum speed and efficiency.
The platform’s strength lies in its simplicity and versatility. While it might not offer the same level of refined aesthetics as some higher-end options, it excels in providing a functional and reliable foundation for your gear. The only real weakness is the initial stiffness of the MOLLE attachment clips, which can require some effort to install on tightly woven webbing.
Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations. The Blackhawk Serpa delivers on its promise of providing a customizable and durable mounting solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Blackhawk Serpa features a straightforward and functional design. Its injection-molded polymer construction keeps it lightweight without sacrificing durability. The platform feels comfortable against the body, and its slim profile minimizes bulk.
The platform is easy to use, and even those with limited experience in tactical gear configuration will find it intuitive to set up. The hole pattern and rail system are well-designed and provide ample options for customization. There is a slight learning curve with initially mounting, but nothing extreme.
Durability & Maintenance
The Blackhawk Serpa is built to last. The injection-molded polymer is resistant to impacts, abrasions, and temperature extremes. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintaining the platform is easy. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove dirt and debris. There are no small parts that require special lubrication or maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Blackhawk Serpa itself doesn’t come with many accessories, its primary function being a platform to attach other gear.
- Its main selling point is the ability to mount any compatible Blackhawk CQC holster.
- The integrated rails allow for the addition of rail-mounted accessories like magazine pouches, light cases, and knife sheaths.
The platform is generally compatible with standard MOLLE attachments, opening up a wide range of customization options. You can use pouches and accessories from other brands as long as they are designed for MOLLE webbing. You can also use other brands’ holsters with the use of some minimal modifications.
Pros and Cons of Blackhawk Serpa
Pros
- Exceptional Versatility: The Blackhawk Serpa‘s S.T.R.I.K.E. platform and hole pattern allow for multiple holster carry angles and accessory mounting options.
- Robust Durability: Constructed with injection-molded polymer, this platform is built to withstand rigorous use in challenging environments.
- Ambidextrous Design: Designed to accommodate both left- and right-handed users, making it accessible to a wider range of users.
- Easy Customization: Integrated rails make it straightforward to add rail-mounted accessories such as mag cases, light cases, and knife sheaths.
- Budget-Friendly: Priced at $11.99, it offers excellent functionality and durability for the price, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Cons
- Initial MOLLE Clip Stiffness: The platform’s MOLLE attachment clips can be a bit stiff initially, requiring some effort to attach securely.
- Limited Refinement: While highly functional, the design lacks the refined aesthetics of some higher-end mounting platforms.
Who Should Buy Blackhawk Serpa?
The Blackhawk Serpa is perfect for tactical training enthusiasts, airsoft players, and anyone looking for a modular and customizable holster mounting platform. It’s also a great option for law enforcement officers and security personnel who need a reliable way to carry their sidearm and accessories.
If you are seeking a high-end platform with premium materials and finishes, or if you don’t need the adjustability and modularity offered by the Blackhawk Serpa, then you might want to explore other options.
A must-have accessory is a quality Blackhawk CQC holster compatible with the platform. Also, consider rail-mounted magazine pouches or light cases to maximize the platform’s utility.
Conclusion on Blackhawk Serpa
The Blackhawk Serpa is a surprisingly versatile and durable piece of tactical gear. Its modular design, robust construction, and affordable price make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to customize their holster setup. While it might not be the most aesthetically refined option on the market, it excels in providing a functional and reliable foundation for your gear.
At $11.99, the price is more than justified. It offers exceptional value for the money.
I would definitely recommend the Blackhawk Serpa to anyone in need of a modular and customizable holster mounting platform. It’s a solid investment that will enhance your tactical gear setup. Take the plunge and experience the versatility of the Blackhawk Serpa for yourself!