14 years of Serpa service and NO issues whatsoever. Excellent product

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!

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. :)

4/2019 Love this holster. Many people knock it but remember folks.. train train and train

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.

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.

Curious if you still feel the same way about the serpa...

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 love my Blackhawk holster, it has always carried my Glock 30sf. Great holster.

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.

Thank you for the demonstration it was excellent as always your demonstrations are always 10 stars

Great video showing all the features of the Blackhawk Serpa holster. Thanks Sootch

love the holster...have always wanted one just never got one. so thank god its Christmas ! long live the republic!

I've used these holsters with several of my handguns and they've all been great. Good review as always.

The best holster i ever bought. Got one for my smith and wesson m&p.

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!

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.

Will these fit the Gen 5 Glocks ? I heard that some holsters will not accept them.

best video of this holster I've seen,,especially the parts about the holster having no seams & using the silicone spray

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.

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 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.

I have had the same holster for years with no problems, "Love it"

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.

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!

Thank you sootch for putting this reveiw up.

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.

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

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

These serpa holsters rock, I have 2, one for my usp compact 9mm and the other for my glock 19 !

Thanks sooch just got my first Glock and you help me decide what holster to get I know you would never steer me wrong

Used this holster for years on active duty it works well

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!!!

I have one and it is awesome. I have practiced with it and when a stressful situation does arise muscle memory will take place.

Blackhawk thought out this holster system very well. All bases covered. Good video!

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.

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.

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 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!

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

I use this for open carry on my Glock 27. Great holster!

Dang ... no need for me (or anyone else) to do a review on this holster system now. Nice work!

Own 2 Serpas for many years without issue.

I just picked one of these up for like $28 for my Sig P226 just to have multiple options for my molle belt setup. Not bad for being super cheap but it’s not the best thing in the world. It’ll hold the gun and release when you need it to

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.

Thank you for the tech tips on the serpa holster. I wasnt aware of putting silicone spray on the locking mechanism .

I got one! Its very nice to have retention and stability at an affordable price

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.

Just got a Serpa for my G22. Thanks for the video and recommendations on the holster.

A very professional review

@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.

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.

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.

As some others here, I own a Serpa for a G19g4 - but gave it up for CC after having tried it for that several times. I find the Serpa to be too cumbersome, putting the pistol too far outboard for easy concealment. Try sitting down with a Serpa w/pistol in a narrow seat w/armrests, for instance sometime, especially if you're a full-sized fellow. Now, THAT's an aggravation! Can't get past armrests when trying to sit - can't get past armrests when trying to stand - and probably couldn't get past them if having to draw from sitting position. Plus, you'll find your rig banging into door frames, car body framing, etc., - even when covered by coat or other garment - and often right up there on the rear sight if slightly "forward canted", or even straight up "no cant". But on a positive note, I find it to be still useful as a range rig for simple target shooting from standing position (not employing "fast draw", at least on public range). I much prefer an old-school style Galco Stow-and-Go IWB for actual carry, and have model-specific versions for my two carry Glocks - models 19 and 30, both in Gen 4. The Galco as referenced is a nice center-cut steerhide, with no strap but good retention in belt... and is not even one of their expensive models. I've tried "all kinds" of holsters, and still go to the Sto-and-Go over even the now-much-touted Kydex offerings. The suede center-cut hide stays put in waistband, holds pistol securely and doesn't add the extra girth to pants size required to accommodate all of the big leatherbacked Kydex rigs that are so "buzz" right now.

Awsome video, The 1st video I watched so far, don't feel the need to wat h any other. Thanks again.

Love this holster. I must say the paddle is much better than the belt mount.

Thanks for the great video. You explained the functions even better than the salesman at the gun shop.

bought one the other day .......very sweet luv it. also made in the USA

i have one of these but with a leg panel for 1911 :) this is an awesome holster!

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!!!

Used one training in combat pistol and loved it. Bought one for CCW and cannot stand it, regardless if you use the paddle or belt loops it pushes the firearm out at do to how it is mounted to either, defeating the entire purpose of Concealed Carry. Returned.

you are one of the best on youtube

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.

I picked one of these up today , really like it.

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.

@supermaucat Well, I always use my seatbelt so that's a moot point. What I'm saying to you in MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE, the holster has not jammed at all even with debris covering the inside and outside. If you wanna make a comparison, some people's Ford vehicles have blown up when rear-ended, some transmissions explode, some tires explode. I still drive a Ford because it has proven itself to ME. Like I stated before, if you don't feel safe using a SERPA, don't. your research shows you that.

Did anyone count how many times he said "one hand master grip"? Sootch you da man!

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.

Excellent review video. Much appreciated. I've been looking at conceal carry holsters and this video is really helpful and informational. Thank you.

Can you comment as to whether you think the Blackhawk Serpa will accomdate a Glock with a GHOST extended mag release? My current Fobus does, just perfectly - but I'd hate to find out after getting one that there isn't clearance.

I have one for my SIG P226. Excellent.

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 always thought of a serpa as a duty holster the US marshals in my area use the serpa with a 23

Great tutorial you really helped me out a lot thanks

Just bought one for my 9mm. Curious if you still recommend this after all the bad press.

@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.

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.

I have a Blackhawk holster I purchased for my S&W Sigma .40 , it will also fit the M&P .40 that I plan on buying in the future... "great holster, worth every penny."

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 can see why an unsafe person could have an negligent discharge. It's almost the draw I have used for 20 years so it wasn't a problem for me. I did have to loosen the spring a bit and remove a small amount of material from the retaining clip but other than that it is an intuitive holster. Your finger is where it needs to be, no leather to collect moisture and dirt.

Nice job explaining things Sootch. I just got this holster and it seems like a winner.

exactly thats why i pointed that out in my comment he wasn't paying attention to what he was doing he wasn't keeping his finger flat so it falls on the side of the weapon he arched his finger and by doing that his finger could slip in the trigger guard and well... the guns will go boom lol but i also have a serpa and i love it

You videos are getting better and better Brother. Blessings! Larry

Superb video, as usual. Very thorough on details. This looks like a very nice holster. Keep up the excellent videos.

scootch00 when you were showing us how fast the draw is i realized you did the same thing other people are doing when they get a negligent discharge and shoot themselves in the leg. when you were pulling the gun out you were arching your finger that's what most people do just to get it out faster the thing with doing that when the gun comes out of the holster your finger slips in the trigger guard and make the gun go off. it's even more dangerous with a glock which has no safety.no troll..lol

Great review Sootch. I am looking at different options now for concealed carry and this really helps.

@10:15 you say DO NOT CURL YOUR FINGER when pressing the release button. However,@6:40 your video clearly shows you curling your finger to press that release button.

@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.

Very interesting video. Haven't received mine yet but is on its way. The video was a big help.

I have one for my PX 4 and was looking for different options for a Glock, but I'll probably end up with another one these.

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

Thanks for posting, I just bought one yesterday.

I love my blackhawk holster

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.