Let’s Talk About Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster promises secure, concealed carry for Ruger pistol owners. Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear aims to provide a reliable and affordable Kydex holster option. This IWB (Inside the Waistband) holster features adjustable retention and a positive click lock, designed for confident carry.
For years, I’ve struggled to find an IWB holster that balances retention, comfort, and affordability without sacrificing quality. After a recent incident where my current holster failed to retain my firearm during a strenuous training exercise, the need for a truly reliable retention system became paramount. I was searching for a no-nonsense, budget-friendly option to securely carry my Ruger.
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster arrived in a simple, no-frills package. My initial impression was that the Kydex felt somewhat thinner than my higher-end holsters. It was lightweight, but the edges felt a bit rough, raising concerns about potential discomfort and wear on the firearm.
Compared to my Vedder LightTuck and a custom-molded Garrett Industries Silent Thunder, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster seemed less refined. The Vedder offers superior comfort and adjustability, while the Garrett Industries holster provides a leather lining for firearm protection, but both come at a higher price point. I chose to test the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster due to its affordability and promise of secure retention.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. While the build quality didn’t immediately impress me, the positive click retention and full wrap-around design hinted at potentially adequate performance. I was eager to see how it would hold up in real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster at my local shooting range during a practical pistol course. The weather was dry and mild, offering ideal testing conditions. I ran several drills, including drawing from concealment, reholstering, and moving while drawing.
The draw was smooth enough, but the rough edges of the Kydex were immediately noticeable against my skin and during re-holstering. Despite the adjustable retention, the ‘positive click audible retention lock system’ felt more like a vague suggestion than a solid lock. After about an hour, the area where the holster contacted my skin started to chafe.
There were no catastrophic failures, but the overall experience felt unrefined. I noticed some minor scratches appearing on the slide of my Ruger after only a few draws and re-holsters.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during daily carry and training sessions, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster has not significantly improved. The initial roughness remains, continuing to scratch the finish on my firearm. The “positive click” retention has become even less defined, and I no longer trust it for truly secure retention during dynamic movements.
There are noticeable scratches and wear marks on the holster itself, particularly around the clip attachment point. Cleaning is simple, involving only a wipe-down with a damp cloth, but this doesn’t address the fundamental issue of the rough edges.
This holster falls far short of my expectations compared to my other IWB holsters. The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster prioritizes price over quality and performance, making it unsuitable for serious use.
Breaking Down the Features of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear.
- Gun Make: Ruger.
- Holster Material: Kydex. The holster is made from molded Kydex, offering rigidity and protection for the firearm.
- Holster Type: Inside the Waistband Holster. Designed for concealed carry inside the waistband.
- Holster Size: One Size. Supposedly universal for a specific range of Ruger pistols, but fit may vary.
- Quantity: 1. Includes one holster.
- Accessory Attachment System: Clip. Uses a single clip to attach to the user’s belt.
- Belt Loop/Snap Width: 1.5 in. Designed to fit standard 1.5-inch belts.
- Included Accessories: Standard. Comes with the holster itself.
- Attachment Type: Clip. Uses a clip for attachment.
- Positive click audible retention lock system. Supposed to provide an audible click when the firearm is fully seated, but it’s inconsistent.
- Adjustable retention. Allows the user to adjust the tension on the firearm.
- Fully covers handgun. Provides full coverage of the trigger guard.
- Coated stainless steel hardware. Offers some corrosion resistance.
- Open Muzzle for threaded barrels. Accommodates firearms with threaded barrels.
- Raised sight line for suppressor height sights. Allows for use with taller aftermarket sights.
These specifications, on paper, suggest a functional and versatile holster. However, the actual execution and material quality significantly detract from their potential benefits.
Performance & Functionality
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster claims to provide secure retention and comfortable concealed carry. In reality, the retention is unreliable, and the comfort is compromised by the rough edges of the Kydex. The holster functions, in that it holds the firearm, but its performance is substandard.
The greatest weakness is the poor finish of the Kydex, leading to discomfort and potential damage to the firearm. The adjustable retention system is functional, but doesn’t compensate for the overall lack of refinement. It fails to meet the expectation of a secure and comfortable IWB holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and straightforward, typical of many Kydex IWB holsters. The build quality, however, is lacking. The Kydex feels thin and the edges are sharp and unfinished, making it uncomfortable against the skin.
There is a slight learning curve in adjusting the retention screw, but overall the design is intuitive. However, the lack of attention to detail and finishing detracts significantly from its usability.
Durability & Maintenance
The long-term durability is questionable due to the thin Kydex and the wear observed after only a few weeks of use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning. However, the rough edges are likely to degrade further over time.
Repairs would be difficult and likely not worth the effort given the low cost of the holster. The lifespan is likely limited compared to higher-quality Kydex holsters.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster comes with no additional accessories beyond the standard belt clip. There are no readily available customization options directly from Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear. Users could potentially modify the holster themselves, but this is not recommended due to the risk of compromising its structural integrity.
The holster is compatible with standard 1.5-inch belts. Other aftermarket accessories, such as different belt clips, may be compatible but would require independent verification.
Pros and Cons of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Full coverage of the handgun protects the trigger.
- Open muzzle design accommodates threaded barrels.
Cons
- Poorly finished Kydex scratches the firearm and causes discomfort.
- Unreliable retention system.
- Questionable long-term durability.
Who Should Buy Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster?
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster might be suitable for individuals on an extremely tight budget who need a basic holster for occasional use. It could also work as a temporary placeholder while waiting for a higher-quality holster to arrive.
Anyone who values firearm protection, secure retention, and comfortable concealed carry should skip this product. Professional users, law enforcement, or anyone who relies on their firearm for self-defense should invest in a more reliable and well-made holster. There are no must-have accessories or modifications that can compensate for the fundamental flaws in the design and build quality.
Conclusion on Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster is a classic example of “you get what you pay for.” While the low price is appealing, the compromises in quality, comfort, and retention make it a poor investment. The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Ruger IWB Full Profile Holster simply does not provide adequate value for the price.
I would not personally recommend this holster. There are better options available, even at a slightly higher price point. Invest in a holster that prioritizes quality, reliability, and comfort. Don’t compromise when it comes to your personal safety and the protection of your firearm. Consider spending a bit more for a holster that provides secure retention, comfort, and peace of mind.