Let’s Talk About Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
Competition shooting demands gear that’s reliable, fast, and adaptable. I’ve spent years searching for the perfect holster, one that blends speed with security, and adjusts to the ever-changing demands of the sport. The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster aims to be that holster, promising adjustability and durability for serious competitors.
For too long I’ve struggled with holsters that lacked sufficient retention adjustment or were simply too slow on the draw. I needed a holster that could keep up with the pace of 3-Gun, IPSC, and USPSA matches. My initial impression upon unboxing the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear offering was positive; it felt solid, the aluminum and Kydex construction screamed quality, and the adjustability options were immediately apparent.
Compared to my Blade-Tech Total Eclipse and Safariland 578 GLS Pro-Fit, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear holster seems geared specifically toward competition. The Blade-Tech is more of an all-around concealment holster, and the Safariland, while versatile, sometimes feels a bit bulky for rapid draws. This Black Scorpion holster has a more streamlined, performance-oriented design. I was excited to see if it lived up to its promises of speed and customization, and could potentially earn a permanent spot on my competition belt.
Real-World Testing: Putting Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster was at a local USPSA match. I specifically wanted to assess its draw speed and retention under the pressure of a timed stage. The weather was dry and sunny, ideal conditions to avoid any unnecessary fumbling with gear.
The draw was noticeably faster than my previous competition holster, thanks to the open muzzle design and readily adjustable retention. However, I did need to spend some time fine-tuning the retention screws to find the perfect balance between security and speed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use at matches and practice sessions, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster has proven itself to be a reliable piece of kit. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on either the Kydex or the aluminum components. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes any dirt or grime.
Compared to my previous competition holster, the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear model offers a superior level of adjustability and a more solid feel. It has definitely exceeded my initial expectations, particularly in terms of draw speed and consistent retention.
Breaking Down the Features of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
Specifications
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster is designed specifically for Smith & Wesson firearms. It is constructed from durable 6066 Aluminum and Kydex, providing a rigid and secure platform. The holster is a right-hand configuration designed as an Outside the Waistband Holster (OWB) for sporting applications and accepts belts from 1.5″ to 1.75″ in width.
The user-adjustable cant, retention via thumb screws, and open muzzle are crucial features for competitive shooting. The lifetime warranty offers peace of mind regarding the product’s long-term durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster excels at its primary function: providing a fast and secure draw for competitive shooting. The adjustability allows for fine-tuning the retention to match individual preferences and firearm characteristics. The open muzzle design is a boon for both longer-slide pistols and for preventing debris buildup.
The main strength lies in its adjustability and robust construction. A minor weakness might be the initial setup time required to dial in the perfect retention. However, the holster ultimately meets and exceeds expectations for a competition-grade OWB holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The combination of 6066 Aluminum and Kydex results in a holster that feels both lightweight and extremely durable. The design is streamlined, minimizing unnecessary bulk and maximizing draw speed. While there is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the cant and retention, the overall design is user-friendly.
The holster feels comfortable and secure when worn with a proper competition belt. The molded Kydex provides a snug fit for the firearm, ensuring it stays put during dynamic movements.
Durability & Maintenance
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster is built to last. The 6066 Aluminum frame provides exceptional rigidity, while the Kydex offers excellent resistance to scratches and abrasions. Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Given the quality of materials and construction, I anticipate this holster will withstand years of use in demanding competitive environments. The lifetime warranty further reinforces this expectation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster does not come with any specific accessories beyond what is needed for belt attachment and adjustment. Its design is inherently compatible with a wide range of competition belts, provided they meet the 1.5″ to 1.75″ width requirement. While there are no direct customization options offered by Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear beyond cant and retention adjustment, the standard design should work with most Smith & Wesson models designed for competition. The end-user may be able to modify the Kydex with heat and forming to further tune the fit for their specific model, however this is not officially supported.
Pros and Cons of Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
Pros
- Exceptional adjustability allowing for fine-tuning of cant and retention.
- Durable construction using 6066 Aluminum and Kydex.
- Fast draw due to open muzzle design and streamlined profile.
- Compatible with 1.5″ to 1.75″ competition belts.
- Lifetime Warranty provides peace of mind.
Cons
- Initial setup requires some fine-tuning to achieve optimal retention.
- Limited direct customization options beyond cant and retention.
Who Should Buy Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster?
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster is perfect for competitive shooters participating in 3-Gun, IPSC, and USPSA matches. It’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking a fast, secure, and highly adjustable OWB holster. Those who demand durability and are willing to spend a bit of time fine-tuning their gear will also appreciate this holster.
This product might not be the best choice for those primarily focused on concealed carry, as it’s designed specifically for open competition use. Also, if you are not shooting a Smith & Wesson pistol, this holster is not for you! A high-quality competition belt is a must-have accessory to maximize the performance of this holster.
Conclusion on Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster
The Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster is a well-designed and robustly built holster that delivers on its promises of speed and adjustability. At a price of $108.12, it offers excellent value for the features and build quality provided.
I would definitely recommend this holster to any competitive shooter looking for a reliable and customizable OWB option for their Smith & Wesson firearm. If you’re serious about shaving seconds off your draw time and achieving consistent performance, give the Black Scorpion Outdoor Gear Smith & Wesson OWB Pro Heavy Duty Competition Holster a try – you won’t be disappointed.