BH SERPA vs. other Kydex?

V

Veovius

Regular
Rating - 100%
12   0   0
Location
Halifax
I'm looking at getting a holster for a Glock 17, preferably that can fit a light. I was looking at the Level 3 Serpa, and it seems really nice, even played with it at MD Charlton. However I did some reading, and it seems like people either LOVE the Serpa, or HATE it and go with Blade-tech or a Safariland. What I'd like to know is, what other options there are in kydex, and why they are considered "good". Do any other manufacturers have unique retention methods?

BTW, I've read tons on the "index finger hitting trigger during pull" and "grit jamming the mechanism" on the Serpa. I'd like to know what other issues there are.

Thanks for helping with a complicated question!
 
I own 4 serpa's I don't buy the trigger finger thing, but could see the release getting jammed, although the same might happen with other holsters as well. I can't get used to the thumb lock on the safariland holsters, although they are well made.
 
Veovius said:
I'm looking at getting a holster for a Glock 17, preferably that can fit a light. I was looking at the Level 3 Serpa, and it seems really nice, even played with it at MD Charlton. However I did some reading, and it seems like people either LOVE the Serpa, or HATE it and go with Blade-tech or a Safariland. What I'd like to know is, what other options there are in kydex, and why they are considered "good". Do any other manufacturers have unique retention methods?

BTW, I've read tons on the "index finger hitting trigger during pull" and "grit jamming the mechanism" on the Serpa. I'd like to know what other issues there are.

Thanks for helping with a complicated question!
Click to expand...

I've used the Level II Serpa on my 1911 and Sig 226 for 2 years with no problems. If anyone's index finger is hitting the trigger when drawing the pistol from the holster they aren't properly trained. The finger aligns with the release and as the pistol comes up out of the holster the index finger is perfectly aligned along the lenth of the slide just where you want it to be. Never had any grit issues either but I don't wrestle in the dirt with that rig anyhow. Buy it with confidence...
 
I have the BH Serpa for my G22 and I love it. I have no problems drawing safely from it, and I am a newb, it feels natural.
 
I use a level 2 Serpa with my P226. No worries. I can't see how you could hit the trigger while drawing the pistol. Well designed piece of kit.
 
The case against the Serpa holsters, is that under stress, you will be more inclined to try to push the release while drawing, instead of letting your finger rest on it.

From the Tactical Response FAQ:

According to the Blackhawk website, ”The release is made using your normal drawing motion, with the trigger finger beside the holster body. … As your trigger finger naturally comes to rest on the SERPA lock’s release mechanism, simply push the mechanism as you draw the weapon and it releases the gun for a smooth, fast draw.”

While Blackhawk may intend for the end-user to apply inboard pressure with the flat of the index finger, under stress, shooters tend to push the button with the tip of their index finger. After all, this is the manner in which most people have the most repetitions pushing buttons such as keys on a keypad or phone or ringing doorbells. When the finger pushes in on the release button and the user initiates the upward motion of the draw stroke, the finger tends to stay in motion and as the trigger guard clears the holster, the finger enters the trigger guard and contacts the trigger, with possibly tragic results.

I am aware of two instances where trained personnel have shot themselves using this holster in conjunction with Glock pistols.
Click to expand...

That being said, there are many that love their Serpa's, have no complaints.

Personally, I used a Serpa Level 2 with my 1911 for a while, but moved to a bladetech. I'm sure I would have gotten used to it in time, but I didn't like that you have to apply pressure with your index finger on the certain spot above the trigger. When I draw, I like to index my finger a little higher, and more loosely on the frame.

If you are looking for a concealment holster, bladetech would be another possibility. If you are looking for a tactical holster, I would recommend also looking at a Safariland 6004 style.
 
mtallman said:
Personally, I used a Serpa Level 2 with my 1911 for a while, but moved to a bladetech. I'm sure I would have gotten used to it in time, but I didn't like that you have to apply pressure with your index finger on the certain spot above the trigger. When I draw, I like to index my finger a little higher, and more loosely on the frame.

If you are looking for a concealment holster, bladetech would be another possibility. If you are looking for a tactical holster, I would recommend also looking at a Safariland 6004 style.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the info. I'm not interested in concealed holsters right now, just duty belt style stuff. I looked at the Bladetech website. Is the "tekloK' springloaded thumbbreak hood the only unique retention feature they have?
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom