First Impressions of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster immediately screams performance. Designed for the competitive shooter, this holster promises a blend of speed, adjustability, and rock-solid retention. It boasts an anodized aluminum belt attachment, a precise Kydex shell molded for the S&W M&P 9, and fully adjustable retention, angle, and ride height.
My journey to find the ideal competition holster began after experiencing frustrating inconsistencies with my previous setup. My draw times were slow, my holster shifted during movement, and the retention was either too tight or too loose, costing me valuable seconds on the clock. I needed a holster that offered a consistent, reliable, and easily adjustable platform to help me shave those precious fractions of a second off my scores.
The Black Scorpion arrived in a simple, no-frills package, a sign that the company focused on the product itself. Lifting it out of the box, the first thing I noticed was the weight of the aluminum belt attachment; it felt substantial and robust. The Kydex shell was smooth and precisely molded to the shape of the S&W M&P 9.
Compared to my Blade-Tech competition holster, the Black Scorpion appeared more adjustable and had a more aggressive cant. I also considered a Safariland ELS rig, but the Black Scorpion’s simpler design and lower price point swayed me. My initial excitement was high; it looked like the ideal blend of features and value.
Real-World Testing: Putting Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test was at a local USPSA match on a sunny Saturday. The holster’s easy mounting to my competition belt was a welcome change from my previous setup. The integrated 15mm spacer immediately positioned my M&P 9 at the perfect 90-degree angle for a fast draw.
Drawing the pistol felt smooth and consistent right from the start. The Kydex provided positive retention without being overly tight. Minor adjustments to the thumb screws allowed me to fine-tune the retention to my preferred level.
I encountered no issues during the entire match. The holster remained secure, and the gun consistently presented itself in the same position for each draw, boosting my confidence and shaving precious time.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of weekly match use, the Black Scorpion holster continues to perform admirably. The aluminum belt attachment shows no signs of loosening or bending. The Kydex shell maintains its shape and retention, with only minimal wear marks from repeated draws.
Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth keeps it looking new. The holster outperforms my expectations considering the price point. It has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
Specifications
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster boasts several key specifications:
- Material: Thermoformed 0.08” Kydex shell and anodized aluminum belt attachment. The Kydex provides excellent firearm retention and protection, while the aluminum ensures durability and stability.
- Compatibility: Specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P 9. This ensures a perfect fit and optimal performance.
- Belt Compatibility: Compatible with 1.5” belts. This is the standard size for most competition belts.
- Adjustability: Features thumb screws for adjustable firearm retention, angle, and ride-height. These adjustments are crucial for tailoring the holster to individual preferences and shooting styles.
- Angle: Forces the firearm to sit at a 90-degree angle. This promotes a fast and consistent draw.
These specifications directly impact the holster’s performance. The Kydex provides excellent retention and protection, while the adjustability allows shooters to fine-tune the holster to their specific needs.
Performance & Functionality
The Black Scorpion excels in its primary function: providing a secure and consistent platform for drawing and reholstering a firearm during competition. The retention is positive and adjustable, preventing accidental dislodging.
The adjustable cant and ride height are invaluable for optimizing the draw stroke. A higher ride allows for a quicker grip, while adjusting the cant ensures a natural wrist position.
However, some users might find the Kydex shell slightly less forgiving than leather, requiring a more deliberate reholstering motion. This is a minor trade-off for the increased retention and durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster’s design is simple and functional. The aluminum belt attachment is robust and provides a stable platform, while the Kydex shell is molded for a precise fit.
The thumb screws are easily accessible and allow for quick adjustments in the field. The overall weight is manageable, even during extended matches.
There’s a slight learning curve in finding the optimal retention and cant settings, but once dialed in, the holster becomes an extension of the shooter’s arm.
Durability & Maintenance
The Black Scorpion is built to last. The Kydex shell is resistant to scratches and impacts, while the aluminum belt attachment is impervious to corrosion.
Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down with a cloth is all that’s needed. The holster should provide years of reliable service with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Black Scorpion does not come with any additional accessories. However, the ability to adjust the retention, cant, and ride height provides a high degree of customization.
The holster is compatible with most standard competition belts and magazine pouches. There are no specific proprietary accessories needed to achieve optimal performance.
Pros and Cons of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
Pros
- Excellent Value: Offers high-end features at a reasonable price point.
- Adjustable Retention, Angle, and Ride Height: Allows for a highly customized fit and draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: Kydex shell and aluminum belt attachment are built to last.
- Positive and Consistent Retention: Ensures the firearm stays secure.
- Fast and Smooth Draw: Optimized for competitive shooting.
Cons
- The Kydex reholstering can feel less forgiving than leather.
- The adjustment screws may require occasional tightening after extended use.
Who Should Buy Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster?
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster is perfect for:
- Competitive shooters in USPSA, IPSC, or similar disciplines.
- Individuals seeking a fast, reliable, and adjustable competition holster.
- Shooters who prioritize value and durability.
This holster might not be ideal for:
- Concealed carry (it is an OWB holster).
- Individuals who prefer the feel of leather holsters.
Must-have accessories:
- A high-quality competition belt.
- Magazine pouches.
Conclusion on Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster is a fantastic value for competitive shooters seeking a high-performance and customizable holster. It offers features and adjustability comparable to more expensive options.
The price is justified by the holster’s durability, performance, and adjustability. It provides a competitive edge at a reasonable cost.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Black Scorpion to any shooter looking to improve their draw times and consistency on the range. It’s a solid piece of gear that will help you perform your best. Invest in your performance; get the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster and start shaving seconds off your scores today!