Exultant video, on assembly and proper use. Dispels all the negative videos and comments. All comes down to a little training, drawing from this holster is now second nature, don't even think about it. Thank You for the video.
Nicely done video, Sootch. I'm a retired 25-year retired LEO. I've been using and carrying handguns for over 30 years. Even with all that familiarity and training, every 3-4 years, I would start putting my trigger finger in the guard on the draw. It would get to the point that I would be concentrating on that instead of just making a natural draw. I found the SERPA holster was a great and affordable "rehab" for my lapse of muscle memory. As for the paddle latch getting dirt in it a jamming/locking the gun into the holster? I've had my original SERPA so long, I can't even remember which LGS I bought it at. I've never had ANY type of problem drawing my weapon from it. But then, I'm not a lazy slug when it comes to cleaning and inspecting my equipment, either. I give the Blackhawk SERPA holster...a thumbs up. :)
Picked one up for my M&P and it fits absolutely perfect. It is an oustanding design and allows for an amazing fast draw and the gun automatically finds itself nicely going back into the holster. You CANNOT make this gun come out for any reason without pushing the lock button. As this video demonstrates, if you keep your trigger finger straight it finds itself perfectly aligned for the master grip. I recommend this for EVERYONE!
Well, after watching seven videos on the Serpa holster I just bought for my Springfield XD Mod 2, your video answered all of my questions. I'm glad you showed how to put it together. No real instructions came with my box. Also, I want to point out is because of your videos, your review over the Springfield XD Mode 2 Grip Zone pistol, is in fact the reason I bought mine. Thank You.
Got one of these for my M&P before they made one for the M&P, before they were available in stores, when you still had to order from Blackhawk... It's actually for a Glock 21. The person I talked to at Blackhawk actually walked around until they found someone with an M&P and tried holsters until she found the one that fit. Carried it while contracting in Afghanistan, Africa, and South America. Never a problem. Had to change paddles last year, but the rest is still going strong. It also fits my Canik SFX.
But we all know that, if we don't want to shoot, we should keep our trigger finger out of the trigger guard, right? One can certainly train to have the finger in there and not to shoot, but it's easier to fail that way, it's proximity. Introducing trigger finger movement during the draw cycle, when we absolutely don't want to shoot at that time for sure, is looking/asking for trouble. Training helps, but why play with matches when we don't want to start a fire? :)
And hope that the ”training, training, training” would kick in, when you face a sudden life threatening situation. If not, you would have to deal with the threat, already seriously injured. So, why taking such risks? Because you ”love this holster”.
@@harrycallahan9733 what kind of idiot can’t depress a little button and keep their finger straight? You morons are just jumping on the bandwagon of hate towards this holster.
11 years later, with all the experts saying never use it, training schools banning it, and all the haters saying throw it away, have you changed your mind? I still everyday carry my Glock 17 in the serpa strong side outside the waistband
I bought a Serpa Holster for my Glock 21 SF just over a year ago. I got it in the firearms dept. of a fleet-farm store. It was under 50 bucks. I not only like the solid retention and quick draw ability, but I especially like that it comes with both owb belt and paddle capabilties. You get a good holster, with versatility, and at a very decent price. the Serpa and my Galco black leather 45 degree cant high-rise holster(which I bought with my Glock), are the two holsters that I use the most for EDC. Great review as usual!
I have used the serpas for years, love it. The high top serpa can not be used to reinsert the gun backwards for the reload when you have lost use of an arm, it will make the weapon get stuck in it, only use the low tops for this drill. It is not the best concealment because it sticks out from the body alot. They are a challenge to draw weakhanded. Other than that I love it. I've never had a "jam" some folks are talking about. To the others quit touting the quals you don't have please. Be You!
Great info! My SERPA holster is modeled for a Springfield XD, but it fits my Taurus 24/7 Pro quite securely and snugly without any modification. Got it mainly as a range/open carry holster, but surprisingly, it conceals pretty well (and is comfortable) under an open button-up shirt at the 4:00 position. I'd HIGHLY recommend getting the SERPA quick-disconnect kit, because removing that hooked paddle in a hurry (restroom break or getting in a car) can be really tricky.
Excellent review. A very good holster. It is secure and quick to deploy your weapon. Muscle memory is key in using this and using your weapon. Despite that video of the guy shooting him self in the leg that was on him for not using his weapon and holster correctly. Some guy is putting out a video saying this is a bad holster. He is full of it. Serpa is the best holster. Lever 2. And lever 3 are good ones.
Great review Sootch! I've been using the SERPA Level 3 (with the hood) light-bearing for my duty belt for a couple years now, I'll never go to anything else unless required by the PD. Amazingly, the Level3 is just as fast as the Level 2 Serpa's. I have a level 2 for off duty carry also, just like the one you reviewed. I prefer using the paddle over the belt slide though.
Thanks for the great review. The silicone spray was a great tip. I purchased the CQC Carbon Fiber for my SW99 and Matte Finish for my M&P Shield and sprayed both before use. Thanks again!
Yes sir--Love my serpa--best holster on the market in my opinion...nothing comes close--Good review as always--didnt know about the silicone spray--thanks
Yeah Serpa's are great. When you're coating them in addition to the spray Armor All makes wipes impregnated with the same solution if you want to wipe down the whole holster, the effect is the same.
Just picked up this holster based primarily on your video. I'm using it with a Glock 22 - Your video is very accurate and informative. Thank you! I am very pleased with my purchase.
I was training with this holster, weapon retention, hand to hand combat. When he grabbed the rubber gun from the grip he quickly got it out, no buttons pressed. Might just be a flaw on that specific one but I’m now using a safarieland 6260 tlr1.
I've got a Serpa for my Glock 19. Great option for outside the waistband carry. Comfortable and versatile and carries pretty well cross-draw as well. Great review Sootch! For an inside the waistband option, you should give the Crossbreed Supertuck a try. I have this also for my Glock 26 which is my EDC gun. Love it!!! Thanks for posting.
Good purchase sootch. when I bought my glock 17 three years ago now, I bought the serpa. the only downside is the rigid profile. it's still the only holster i have.
The fit of my Sig P226 in my new Serpa level 2 CQC holster was tight enough to make the holster ride up with the gun during the draw. The adjustment screw did not help. Very annoying and potentially dangerous. The solution was silicone as Sootch mentioned. I wiped the interior of the holster with a silicone rag (I don't have a spray). That added enough slip to fix the draw problem. Works like a charm now. Love this holster!
I've used the SERPA for years and swear by them. I use them for concealed carry with my Custom Colt Commander and I love the Blackhawk drop leg platform and have this as well with a SERPA attached...this I use with my Loaded Springfield 1911's. When he says it is versatile...he is absolutely correct. One thing...I use two SERPA's when carrying concealed. One for firing (Strong) side carry and one for a cross draw carry. I transfer to cross draw when in the car or sitting. This works great.
Great review. I have yet to have any problems with my Blackhawk Serpa. I have only had to pull my gun twice in a desperate situation and no fail to draw fast. At the range I practice my defense tactics and it's a great defense holster if not for the quick draw capabilities. Love my serpa with my M&P40.
Excellent review. I just ordered one on Amazon and it should be arriving in a couple of days. They didn't have one for my particular gun (Smith and wesson sd9) but in another review it was said that the one made for smith and wesson m&p 40 and 9mm (size 25) would work just fine. I've read a lot of good reviews admit this holster. I'm an armed security guard so I hope this will fit the purpose
Ive been using the uncle mikes holster for sometime now very similar to this one but the uncle mikes does not have the paddle which to me allows even a quicker and more simple action to withdraw your firearm.
Hey Sootch, one quick comment.... You should consider tightening the screw just forward of the release buttin about 1/8th to a 1/4r turn.. your weapon should not rattle around in the holster like that. It should be a little tight. The screw will put tension on the release as well as grab the trigger guard better as you tightedn it, and has the reverse effect by looseing it... Great vid Sootch!!!
@tigerpurpleheart I have seen several instances where while doing drills the mechanism was activated and the handgun fell out (they were diving to the ground and it flew forward). Also an AD can happen with ANY holster if you draw with your finger by the trigger guard. I was just saying that I believe this design makes it more likely, but I understand you completely. Thanks for the input and allowing me to clarify.
Nice Review Sootch00 I have always wanted a more in depth review of Blackhawk Serpa Holster functions and options. although you didn't display its concealment on your person very well so I'm not sold on the CCW aspect, i imagine its a coat or sweater CCW holster as most paddle holsters are.
Hey Sootch, great review. I have that exact set up. Gun and holster. Works great. Belt is still very important to the system. Haven't tried the nylon belt you have. I'm looking at the Bull belts you talked about. Keep up the great work. Thanks.
Thanks for posting this. I tried to attach the paddle to the belt attachment. You see I simply refuse to read instructions. Anyway im pretty pleased with it as a holster.
While looking for information on reloading yesterday, I happened upon a video about the Serpa holster, then a second that totally dogged the holster. I've had mine,I think, four years now and love it and it's completely safe. So I too made a video. Your video, while more detailed about the features, is just like mine in many regards but I had no idea that I had a "One Hand Master Grip", LOL, I like the sound of that! I honestly don't understand some comments below like "emotionally invested" in the Blackhawk. If something works great and is simple in design then go with it! Some simply don't understand the K.I.S.S. method and are emotionally or financially invested in keeping things expensive and complicated. Well done video by the way. Semper Fi.
Hi GunnyJeffers just to clarify my statement because you said: "I honestly don't understand some comments below like "emotionally invested" in the Blackhawk." When people use an item for a while, say 4 years like you have they get attached (emotionally) to that said object. Those folks learn the insides & outs of that system and *overlook* it's bad features i.e. like it's weak levers/springs or high speed fish tailing, etc. A good example of this how people get "emotionally invested" would be the 1911 vs Glock debate. In this case an ancient design vs a fairly new design. Many old timers will never fully understand the benefits of a light-ish, easy to carry, ultra reliable, polymer pistol that holds 17 rounds (Glock 17). Anyway, hope that helps.
GunnyJeffers love your mention of K.I.S.S. keep it simple stupid, And it is true. in a stressful situation the less you have to remember the safer you are.
@StormForceTac I have used this system and I'm only referring to a military type usage. I'm sure it would work great for competition and patrol. Maybe not EDC, maybe more of a bladetech or Raven concealment for that. Thank you.
Side Note: Sootch didnt mention it when discussing retention but the serpas are made that if someone were to attempt to pull your sidearm from the serpa, they must depress the padle release prior to pulling, if someone just starts yanking at your pistol then tries to depress the padle release it will not disingage while the weapon is being pulled on. "Glow In The Dark" -Radioactive
Good review.... I have the serpa level 2 for my G27 and Beretta 92F. I also have the blackhawk quick detach/attach and I love it. With the quick detach/attach you can go from hip mount to leg drop, or chest mount very quick and fast. as long as you have the blackhawk system already.
lol i knew about that i thought you were talking about the actual holster i dont use the belt clip or the paddle i use the thigh rig and it's comfortable it doesn't slide on your leg and it's really sturdy
I love the SERPA thigh platform, it's just a great way to carry a side arm in the field comfortably. My only complaint is that I absolutely love my UM84 flap holster and could find no, absolutely no method for attaching it to the SERPA platform. I tried contacting a number of so called experts and most all of them said, "Why the hell would you ever want to use on of those? What if you have to draw your pistol fast?" Ok guys, I don't do quick draws, my side arm is almost always my back up and as a back up the quick draw scenario just isn't going to come into play as I will only be using it after I have exhausted my rifle and shotgun. Odds are I'll have a moment or two to get it out. Anyway, after getting no help I simply made my own adapter plate it's pretty darn simple and works great. I'm working on one now that I can mount my giant knife to as well. Of course, someone will look at me strange, but I don't really care.
Been thru a few holsters, this is the best by far. Draw and shoot is quick but thats when adrenaline and craziness isn't around. Under pressure you'll find if you didn't get the release depressed in time, it wont depress after you have upward draw on the gun. You'll have to push the gun down depress or keep depressed then redraw. Another issue I have with practice is my hand is always where it needs to be. So I can be quick, but if my draw hand comes from a different direction, everything changes. More practice I guess.
I loved my serpa until it broke after a year of use. Then my other holster for a different gun did the same in the same spot. They both broke at the part that goes on the inside of the pants. I ma going to contact blackhawk and see if they will replace them.
i have the same holster and i want to know whats the best belt to buy to use the holster and does it matter what kind of pants you are wearing with the holster?
@Stiffy807 Unfortunately the light-bearing SERPA's only work with Blackhawk's Xiphos NT light, they won't work with any other brand of weapon light. Reason being that the Xiphos is slightly offset from the centerline of the gun, and the light-bearing SERPA's compensate for that with an extremely precise fit for just those lights. I use the Level 3 light-bearing model for PD work for the last 2 years as well.
Question, Just purchased one for my Kimber and HK. The Kimber is stainless and the HK is blued. Will the finish on the pistol be affected by the material of the holster? BTW, My decision to purchase was based on your recommendation. Long live the republic! God is Commander and Chief!!!
The square thing was to hold the form of the holster while in the packaging. The bigger mount makes it so you don't have to take off your belt to secure the holster, you just push it on the belt.
I read on some reviews that the serpa holster scratches the frame of 1911s and glocks. After have some use and testing, did you find and problems with the holster?
The Blackhawk Serpa holsters are good holsters, but if you are looking for a holster with active retention, the Safariland ALS holsters are a better option IMO. Also, the models that come up over the top of the gun are the Level III holsters. The part that comes up over the top is a rotating hood that is another level of retention. With those there is a button that has to be depressed with your thumb that will rotating the hood forward so that the gun can be drawn.
14 years of Serpa service and NO issues whatsoever. Excellent product
Same. I know where to keep my finger.
Thank You! Same here! Ten years long owner & user! 🇺🇸.
Forget the haters 👏👏
It is a great retention holster! I have been using them for years and haven’t found anything better and I’m always looking!
and yes, tens of thousands of users have had issues.
You ever actually draw in a real defense situation?
Yes I have Sir
Exultant video, on assembly and proper use. Dispels all the negative videos and comments. All comes down to a little training, drawing from this holster is now second nature, don't even think about it. Thank You for the video.
Nicely done video, Sootch.
I'm a retired 25-year retired LEO. I've been using and carrying handguns for over 30 years. Even with all that familiarity and training, every 3-4 years, I would start putting my trigger finger in the guard on the draw. It would get to the point that I would be concentrating on that instead of just making a natural draw. I found the SERPA holster was a great and affordable "rehab" for my lapse of muscle memory.
As for the paddle latch getting dirt in it a jamming/locking the gun into the holster? I've had my original SERPA so long, I can't even remember which LGS I bought it at. I've never had ANY type of problem drawing my weapon from it. But then, I'm not a lazy slug when it comes to cleaning and inspecting my equipment, either.
I give the Blackhawk SERPA holster...a thumbs up. :)
Thank you for the demonstration it was excellent as always your demonstrations are always 10 stars
love the holster...have always wanted one just never got one. so thank god its Christmas ! long live the republic!
Picked one up for my M&P and it fits absolutely perfect. It is an oustanding design and allows for an amazing fast draw and the gun automatically finds itself nicely going back into the holster. You CANNOT make this gun come out for any reason without pushing the lock button. As this video demonstrates, if you keep your trigger finger straight it finds itself perfectly aligned for the master grip. I recommend this for EVERYONE!
Well, after watching seven videos on the Serpa holster I just bought for my Springfield XD Mod 2, your video answered all of my questions. I'm glad you showed how to put it together. No real instructions came with my box. Also, I want to point out is because of your videos, your review over the Springfield XD Mode 2 Grip Zone pistol, is in fact the reason I bought mine. Thank You.
Got one of these for my M&P before they made one for the M&P, before they were available in stores, when you still had to order from Blackhawk... It's actually for a Glock 21. The person I talked to at Blackhawk actually walked around until they found someone with an M&P and tried holsters until she found the one that fit.
Carried it while contracting in Afghanistan, Africa, and South America. Never a problem.
Had to change paddles last year, but the rest is still going strong.
It also fits my Canik SFX.
4/2019
Love this holster. Many people knock it but remember folks.. train train and train
But we all know that, if we don't want to shoot, we should keep our trigger finger out of the trigger guard, right? One can certainly train to have the finger in there and not to shoot, but it's easier to fail that way, it's proximity. Introducing trigger finger movement during the draw cycle, when we absolutely don't want to shoot at that time for sure, is looking/asking for trouble. Training helps, but why play with matches when we don't want to start a fire? :)
Majik Family chooo chooooo
And hope that the ”training, training, training” would kick in, when you face a sudden life threatening situation. If not, you would have to deal with the threat, already seriously injured. So, why taking such risks? Because you ”love this holster”.
@@harrycallahan9733 what kind of idiot can’t depress a little button and keep their finger straight? You morons are just jumping on the bandwagon of hate towards this holster.
@@philweed1603 That's uncalled for, shows what kind a person you truely are, sir
Great video showing all the features of the Blackhawk Serpa holster. Thanks Sootch
11 years later, with all the experts saying never use it, training schools banning it, and all the haters saying throw it away, have you changed your mind?
I still everyday carry my Glock 17 in the serpa strong side outside the waistband
best video of this holster I've seen,,especially the parts about the holster having no seams & using the silicone spray
I love my Blackhawk holster, it has always carried my Glock 30sf. Great holster.
I bought a Serpa Holster for my Glock 21 SF just over a year ago. I got it in the firearms dept. of a fleet-farm store. It was under 50 bucks. I not only like the solid retention and quick draw ability, but I especially like that it comes with both owb belt and paddle capabilties. You get a good holster, with versatility, and at a very decent price. the Serpa and my Galco black leather 45 degree cant high-rise holster(which I bought with my Glock), are the two holsters that I use the most for EDC. Great review as usual!
I have had the same holster for years with no problems, "Love it"
Blackhawk thought out this holster system very well. All bases covered. Good video!
I have used the serpas for years, love it. The high top serpa can not be used to reinsert the gun backwards for the reload when you have lost use of an arm, it will make the weapon get stuck in it, only use the low tops for this drill. It is not the best concealment because it sticks out from the body alot. They are a challenge to draw weakhanded. Other than that I love it. I've never had a "jam" some folks are talking about. To the others quit touting the quals you don't have please. Be You!
Great info! My SERPA holster is modeled for a Springfield XD, but it fits my Taurus 24/7 Pro quite securely and snugly without any modification. Got it mainly as a range/open carry holster, but surprisingly, it conceals pretty well (and is comfortable) under an open button-up shirt at the 4:00 position. I'd HIGHLY recommend getting the SERPA quick-disconnect kit, because removing that hooked paddle in a hurry (restroom break or getting in a car) can be really tricky.
Excellent review. A very good holster. It is secure and quick to deploy your weapon. Muscle memory is key in using this and using your weapon. Despite that video of the guy shooting him self in the leg that was on him for not using his weapon and holster correctly. Some guy is putting out a video saying this is a bad holster. He is full of it. Serpa is the best holster. Lever 2. And lever 3 are good ones.
I just got my first one in today. And I have to say its the best holster I’ve had. Solid.
@Tacticool Memes lol
Thanks sooch just got my first Glock and you help me decide what holster to get I know you would never steer me wrong
The best holster i ever bought. Got one for my smith and wesson m&p.
Thanks for the great video. You explained the functions even better than the salesman at the gun shop.
I've had a SERPA since 2004, used it a lot while in the navy. I loved it so much I replaced an Uncle Mike's holster for a S&W40 with one.
Was your uncle Mike's holster a sidekick?
Great review Sootch! I've been using the SERPA Level 3 (with the hood) light-bearing for my duty belt for a couple years now, I'll never go to anything else unless required by the PD. Amazingly, the Level3 is just as fast as the Level 2 Serpa's. I have a level 2 for off duty carry also, just like the one you reviewed. I prefer using the paddle over the belt slide though.
Thanks for the great review. The silicone spray was a great tip. I purchased the CQC Carbon Fiber for my SW99 and Matte Finish for my M&P Shield and sprayed both before use. Thanks again!
12/2019
It must be good, because this video is 8 years old and I just bought this holster a couple months ago brand new. So far I like it.
Does this leave holster wear?
@@Juegosyvlogs I haven't noticed any "wear" on my clothing or belt if that's what you mean.
Thank you for the tech tips on the serpa holster. I wasnt aware of putting silicone spray on the locking mechanism .
Yes sir--Love my serpa--best holster on the market in my opinion...nothing comes close--Good review as always--didnt know about the silicone spray--thanks
These serpa holsters rock, I have 2, one for my usp compact 9mm and the other for my glock 19 !
you are one of the best on youtube
I can tell you are a survivalist with the para cord on your wrist. Nice. All of us needs those just in case of a survival situation.
Yeah Serpa's are great. When you're coating them in addition to the spray Armor All makes wipes impregnated with the same solution if you want to wipe down the whole holster, the effect is the same.
I own this holster for 11 years. Same one and never had any issues. I also own 2 other holsters but I always wear the Serpa with paddle. Great stuff!
Just picked up this holster based primarily on your video. I'm using it with a Glock 22 - Your video is very accurate and informative. Thank you! I am very pleased with my purchase.
Thank you sootch for putting this reveiw up.
Excellent review video. Much appreciated. I've been looking at conceal carry holsters and this video is really helpful and informational. Thank you.
You put this out thirteen years ago. I use one for my 1911A1
.45 govt Tisas when it's not sitting in my M-12 flap holster.
Superb video, as usual. Very thorough on details.
This looks like a very nice holster.
Keep up the excellent videos.
Awsome video,
The 1st video I watched so far, don't feel the need to wat h any other.
Thanks again.
I was training with this holster, weapon retention, hand to hand combat. When he grabbed the rubber gun from the grip he quickly got it out, no buttons pressed. Might just be a flaw on that specific one but I’m now using a safarieland 6260 tlr1.
I've got a Serpa for my Glock 19. Great option for outside the waistband carry. Comfortable and versatile and carries pretty well cross-draw as well. Great review Sootch! For an inside the waistband option, you should give the Crossbreed Supertuck a try. I have this also for my Glock 26 which is my EDC gun. Love it!!! Thanks for posting.
Good purchase sootch. when I bought my glock 17 three years ago now, I bought the serpa. the only downside is the rigid profile. it's still the only holster i have.
The fit of my Sig P226 in my new Serpa level 2 CQC holster was tight enough to make the holster ride up with the gun during the draw. The adjustment screw did not help. Very annoying and potentially dangerous.
The solution was silicone as Sootch mentioned. I wiped the interior of the holster with a silicone rag (I don't have a spray). That added enough slip to fix the draw problem. Works like a charm now. Love this holster!
I've used the SERPA for years and swear by them. I use them for concealed carry with my Custom Colt Commander and I love the Blackhawk drop leg platform and have this as well with a SERPA attached...this I use with my Loaded Springfield 1911's.
When he says it is versatile...he is absolutely correct.
One thing...I use two SERPA's when carrying concealed. One for firing (Strong) side carry and one for a cross draw carry. I transfer to cross draw when in the car or sitting. This works great.
I have one for my Glock and LOVE it. It is way easier to use than my Galco! Not as concealable, but it WORKS great! Thanks for the video SOOCH!
I picked one of these up today , really like it.
Own 2 Serpas for many years without issue.
I think I have at least a dozen of these. Still love mine regardless of the trash talking people do on them.
Great review. I have yet to have any problems with my Blackhawk Serpa. I have only had to pull my gun twice in a desperate situation and no fail to draw fast. At the range I practice my defense tactics and it's a great defense holster if not for the quick draw capabilities. Love my serpa with my M&P40.
Francisco Tapia vehicle holster mount (black) www.amazon.com/dp/B07DH748DS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_QwTgBb0D1KAV8
I got one! Its very nice to have retention and stability at an affordable price
Excellent review. I just ordered one on Amazon and it should be arriving in a couple of days. They didn't have one for my particular gun (Smith and wesson sd9) but in another review it was said that the one made for smith and wesson m&p 40 and 9mm (size 25) would work just fine. I've read a lot of good reviews admit this holster. I'm an armed security guard so I hope this will fit the purpose
Nice job explaining things Sootch. I just got this holster and it seems like a winner.
Ive been using the uncle mikes holster for sometime now very similar to this one but the uncle mikes does not have the paddle which to me allows even a quicker and more simple action to withdraw your firearm.
Used this holster for years on active duty it works well
Dang ... no need for me (or anyone else) to do a review on this holster system now. Nice work!
bought one the other day .......very sweet luv it. also made in the USA
You videos are getting better and better Brother.
Blessings!
Larry
Very interesting video. Haven't received mine yet but is on its way. The video was a big help.
I have one and it is awesome. I have practiced with it and when a stressful situation does arise muscle memory will take place.
Hey Sootch, one quick comment.... You should consider tightening the screw just forward of the release buttin about 1/8th to a 1/4r turn.. your weapon should not rattle around in the holster like that. It should be a little tight. The screw will put tension on the release as well as grab the trigger guard better as you tightedn it, and has the reverse effect by looseing it...
Great vid Sootch!!!
@tigerpurpleheart I have seen several instances where while doing drills the mechanism was activated and the handgun fell out (they were diving to the ground and it flew forward). Also an AD can happen with ANY holster if you draw with your finger by the trigger guard. I was just saying that I believe this design makes it more likely, but I understand you completely. Thanks for the input and allowing me to clarify.
i have one of these but with a leg panel for 1911 :) this is an awesome holster!
Nice Review Sootch00
I have always wanted a more in depth review of Blackhawk Serpa Holster functions and options. although you didn't display its concealment on your person very well so I'm not sold on the CCW aspect, i imagine its a coat or sweater CCW holster as most paddle holsters are.
Hey Sootch, great review. I have that exact set up. Gun and holster. Works great. Belt is still very important to the system. Haven't tried the nylon belt you have. I'm looking at the Bull belts you talked about. Keep up the great work. Thanks.
Just got a Serpa for my G22. Thanks for the video and recommendations on the holster.
Ron Schaffner vehicle holster mount (black) www.amazon.com/dp/B07DH748DS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_QwTgBb0D1KAV8
Great tutorial you really helped me out a lot thanks
Love this holster. I must say the paddle is much better than the belt mount.
Curious if you still feel the same way about the serpa...
Probably. I really like it.
Great review Sootch. I am looking at different options now for concealed carry and this really helps.
Thanks for posting this. I tried to attach the paddle to the belt attachment. You see I simply refuse to read instructions. Anyway im pretty pleased with it as a holster.
Will these fit the Gen 5 Glocks ? I heard that some holsters will not accept them.
Joseph Stalin yes it will. Just saw a video of a guy with a G17 gen5 MOS rocking it
Best holster review I've seen. Very thorough! Thanks.
A very professional review
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While looking for information on reloading yesterday, I happened upon a video about the Serpa holster, then a second that totally dogged the holster. I've had mine,I think, four years now and love it and it's completely safe. So I too made a video. Your video, while more detailed about the features, is just like mine in many regards but I had no idea that I had a "One Hand Master Grip", LOL, I like the sound of that! I honestly don't understand some comments below like "emotionally invested" in the Blackhawk. If something works great and is simple in design then go with it! Some simply don't understand the K.I.S.S. method and are emotionally or financially invested in keeping things expensive and complicated. Well done video by the way. Semper Fi.
Hi GunnyJeffers just to clarify my statement because you said:
"I honestly don't understand some comments below like "emotionally invested" in the Blackhawk."
When people use an item for a while, say 4 years like you have they get attached (emotionally) to that said object.
Those folks learn the insides & outs of that system and *overlook* it's bad features i.e. like it's weak levers/springs or high speed fish tailing, etc.
A good example of this how people get "emotionally invested" would be the 1911 vs Glock debate. In this case an ancient design vs a fairly new design. Many old timers will never fully understand the benefits of a light-ish, easy to carry, ultra reliable, polymer pistol that holds 17 rounds (Glock 17).
Anyway, hope that helps.
GunnyJeffers love your mention of K.I.S.S.
keep it simple stupid, And it is true. in a stressful situation the less you have to remember the safer you are.
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Another great video brother, all my handguns use these and I also use it for my CCW / EDC
@StormForceTac I have used this system and I'm only referring to a military type usage. I'm sure it would work great for competition and patrol. Maybe not EDC, maybe more of a bladetech or Raven concealment for that. Thank you.
Side Note: Sootch didnt mention it when discussing retention but the serpas are made that if someone were to attempt to pull your sidearm from the serpa, they must depress the padle release prior to pulling, if someone just starts yanking at your pistol then tries to depress the padle release it will not disingage while the weapon is being pulled on.
"Glow In The Dark"
-Radioactive
Thanks for the video and explaining all the adjustments, I just bought one for my Glock 20SF and love it . I gave you a thumbs up and Subscribed.
What would happen if there is freezing rain and a release button freezes up?? other than that it is an excellent holster
Good review.... I have the serpa level 2 for my G27 and Beretta 92F. I also have the blackhawk quick detach/attach and I love it. With the quick detach/attach you can go from hip mount to leg drop, or chest mount very quick and fast. as long as you have the blackhawk system already.
lol i knew about that i thought you were talking about the actual holster i dont use the belt clip or the paddle i use the thigh rig and it's comfortable it doesn't slide on your leg and it's really sturdy
Fantastic holster, I currently own 2 one for a G27 and one for S&W 642.
I love the SERPA thigh platform, it's just a great way to carry a side arm in the field comfortably. My only complaint is that I absolutely love my UM84 flap holster and could find no, absolutely no method for attaching it to the SERPA platform. I tried contacting a number of so called experts and most all of them said, "Why the hell would you ever want to use on of those? What if you have to draw your pistol fast?" Ok guys, I don't do quick draws, my side arm is almost always my back up and as a back up the quick draw scenario just isn't going to come into play as I will only be using it after I have exhausted my rifle and shotgun. Odds are I'll have a moment or two to get it out. Anyway, after getting no help I simply made my own adapter plate it's pretty darn simple and works great. I'm working on one now that I can mount my giant knife to as well. Of course, someone will look at me strange, but I don't really care.
Been thru a few holsters, this is the best by far. Draw and shoot is quick but thats when adrenaline and craziness isn't around. Under pressure you'll find if you didn't get the release depressed in time, it wont depress after you have upward draw on the gun. You'll have to push the gun down depress or keep depressed then redraw. Another issue I have with practice is my hand is always where it needs to be. So I can be quick, but if my draw hand comes from a different direction, everything changes. More practice I guess.
I loved my serpa until it broke after a year of use. Then my other holster for a different gun did the same in the same spot. They both broke at the part that goes on the inside of the pants. I ma going to contact blackhawk and see if they will replace them.
I use this for open carry on my Glock 27. Great holster!
Blackhawk Serpa ✅
Open Carry ✅
40s&w ✅
Get some training
Thanks for posting, I just bought one yesterday.
i have the same holster and i want to know whats the best belt to buy to use the holster and does it matter what kind of pants you are wearing with the holster?
@Stiffy807 Unfortunately the light-bearing SERPA's only work with Blackhawk's Xiphos NT light, they won't work with any other brand of weapon light. Reason being that the Xiphos is slightly offset from the centerline of the gun, and the light-bearing SERPA's compensate for that with an extremely precise fit for just those lights. I use the Level 3 light-bearing model for PD work for the last 2 years as well.
You should check out the ThumbDrive™ Holster from 5.11 tactical
Question, Just purchased one for my Kimber and HK. The Kimber is stainless and the HK is blued. Will the finish on the pistol be affected by the material of the holster? BTW, My decision to purchase was based on your recommendation. Long live the republic! God is Commander and Chief!!!
Sootch- Do you know this holster also fit in the Glock 19 and 26? I just dont want to buy three holsters for three glocks.
I have one for my SIG P226. Excellent.
cant decide if i should get this or the 5.11 thumb drive....
Just bought one for my 9mm. Curious if you still recommend this after all the bad press.
How this holster conceals? Would you use it all seasons?
The square thing was to hold the form of the holster while in the packaging. The bigger mount makes it so you don't have to take off your belt to secure the holster, you just push it on the belt.
I read on some reviews that the serpa holster scratches the frame of 1911s and glocks. After have some use and testing, did you find and problems with the holster?
The Blackhawk Serpa holsters are good holsters, but if you are looking for a holster with active retention, the Safariland ALS holsters are a better option IMO. Also, the models that come up over the top of the gun are the Level III holsters. The part that comes up over the top is a rotating hood that is another level of retention. With those there is a button that has to be depressed with your thumb that will rotating the hood forward so that the gun can be drawn.
Really enjoying your videos. Thanks!