The SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy Made a Bold First Impression
The SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy isn’t the sexiest piece of gear on the market, but it is arguably one of the most practical for those who operate in environments where concealment and rapid deployment of short-barreled firearms are paramount. From my experience training law enforcement and working with private security, I know the need for a durable, discreet, and readily accessible scabbard for SBS (Short Barreled Shotgun) and AOW (Any Other Weapon) platforms. I was looking for a minimalist solution that offered both shoulder carry and MOLLE mounting options.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression of the SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy was one of utilitarian simplicity. The padding felt adequate, and the overall construction appeared robust enough to withstand moderate field use. It felt lighter than I expected, which is always a plus when you’re already carrying a relatively heavy firearm.
Compared to some nylon scabbards I’ve used from companies like Blackhawk and Condor Outdoor, the SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy seemed less bulky. These other options can feel cumbersome and over-engineered. I chose the SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy primarily for its streamlined design and promise of compatibility with my existing MOLLE gear, hoping it would offer a more low-profile carry solution. My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism regarding long-term durability, given the $11.49 price point, but I was eager to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy was during a force-on-force training exercise at a local private range. I was utilizing a Shockwave Technologies Raptor grip-equipped Mossberg 590 AOW. I primarily tested it using the shoulder carry configuration, focusing on ease of drawing and re-holstering under simulated stress.
The scabbard performed reasonably well in dry conditions. The firearm was secure, and drawing was relatively smooth after practicing a few times. There wasn’t any noticeable snagging or resistance. The padding did its job, protecting both the firearm and my back during movement. However, when the drill introduced simulated rain (a garden hose), things became a little slick. The nylon material became somewhat slippery, making it slightly harder to maintain a secure grip while drawing.
The initial use revealed that while the scabbard functions as intended, there’s a reliance on user familiarity. It took some time to adjust the sling and practice the draw stroke to achieve a comfortable and efficient deployment. No major issues arose during this first use, though the slippery nature of the nylon when wet raised a minor concern.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy has held up better than I initially anticipated, given its price. There are no significant signs of wear and tear. The stitching remains intact, and the padding hasn’t noticeably compressed.
I’ve used it on multiple hikes and during a weekend survival skills course. It performed adequately when mounted on my pack via MOLLE. The SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy kept the AOW secure. One thing I did notice is that the lack of a retention strap meant that vigorous movement could potentially dislodge the firearm.
Cleaning the scabbard is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to some of my other scabbards that require specialized cleaning solutions and meticulous care, the SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy is relatively low-maintenance. It neither outperforms nor disappoints when compared to more expensive scabbards. It provides a basic, functional solution for carrying an SBS or AOW, which is precisely what it’s designed to do.
Breaking Down the Features of SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy
Specifications
The SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy is designed to accommodate short-barreled shotguns and other similarly sized firearms. It features a fully padded interior to protect the firearm and the user. This is crucial to prevent abrasion and impact damage to both.
It has MOLLE webbing on the exterior for attachment to vests, packs, or other gear. This provides versatility in carry options. It also supports shoulder carry with an adjustable sling. This allows for ambidextrous use and comfortable weight distribution.
The material is constructed from a durable nylon fabric. This makes it resistant to tears and abrasions, ensuring it can withstand reasonable field use. The specifications matter because they directly impact the scabbard’s ability to securely carry and protect the firearm. This ultimately influences the user’s comfort and operational effectiveness.
Performance & Functionality
The SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy performs its core function adequately: carrying and protecting a short-barreled firearm. It excels in situations where a low-profile, easily accessible carry solution is needed. The padding offers sufficient protection, and the MOLLE compatibility is a definite plus.
Its primary weakness is the lack of a dedicated retention system. This could allow the firearm to shift or dislodge during strenuous activity. It meets basic expectations for a scabbard in this price range. However, it falls short of higher-end models with enhanced features and superior materials.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for the price. The nylon fabric is reasonably durable. The padding provides adequate protection. The weight is minimal, which is beneficial for extended carry.
It is fairly user-friendly. There is little to no learning curve involved in using it. Adjusting the shoulder sling is straightforward. Mounting it to MOLLE gear is simple.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on several weeks of use, the SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy appears to be reasonably durable. The stitching has held up well, and the material shows no significant signs of wear. With proper care, including regular cleaning and avoiding excessive abrasion, it should last for a reasonable period of time.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. It is unlikely to require any specialized repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy does not come with any included accessories. However, its MOLLE compatibility allows for the attachment of various pouches and accessories. This is useful for carrying extra ammunition, medical kits, or other essential gear.
There are limited customization options available for the scabbard itself. However, you can modify the carry configuration and add external pouches. It’s compatible with any MOLLE-compatible accessory. This enhances its functionality based on the user’s specific needs.
Pros and Cons of SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Lightweight design enhances comfort during extended carry.
- MOLLE compatibility allows for versatile attachment to various gear.
- Padded interior provides adequate protection for the firearm.
- Simple and functional design requires minimal setup or adjustment.
Cons
- Lack of a retention system can compromise firearm security during vigorous activity.
- Basic materials may not withstand heavy or prolonged use compared to higher-end options.
- Slippery nylon when wet may cause difficulty during drawing.
Who Should Buy SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy?
The SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy is perfect for budget-conscious individuals. This also includes recreational shooters and airsoft enthusiasts. They need a simple, functional way to carry their short-barreled firearms or similar sized items. It’s also suited for those who prioritize MOLLE compatibility and need to attach their scabbard to vests or packs.
This product should be skipped by professionals in law enforcement or security. These individuals require a higher level of security, durability, and retention for their firearms. It is also not suited for individuals who operate in harsh environments where gear is subjected to extreme wear and tear.
A must-have modification would be adding a bungee retention strap to secure the firearm. This would address the most significant weakness of the SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy.
Conclusion on SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy
The SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy is a no-frills, budget-friendly scabbard that gets the job done. It provides a basic yet functional solution for carrying short-barreled firearms. While it lacks some of the advanced features and robust materials of higher-end options, its affordability and MOLLE compatibility make it a viable choice for certain users.
At $11.49, the price is certainly justified. It offers reasonable value for the money. I would recommend it to individuals who are looking for a simple, inexpensive scabbard for recreational use or light duty applications.
If you need a basic, functional, and affordable scabbard for your SBS or AOW, the SBS/AOW Short Barrel Scbd/ Ugy is worth considering. Just be aware of its limitations and consider adding a retention strap for added security.