DESANTIS SPEED SCABBARD DESIGNED FOR THE ECHELON 9MM
The evolution of handguns during my lifetime has been truly astonishing. When I first ventured into the world of shooting, polymer-framed pistols were a rarity, but today, they reign supreme in both self-defense and law enforcement circles.
As anticipated, holsters have experienced parallel transformations in recent decades. What was once the realm of skilled leather artisans has since burgeoned with the introduction of Kydex and various synthetic materials, presenting an unparalleled array of carry choices.
So, what does it imply about a holster company that achieved success in an era when polymer-framed firearms were uncommon but still manages to flourish in today’s handgun market? My contention is that this company crafts outstanding designs that genuinely connect with shooters and reinforces this bond with exceptional customer service. How else could they successfully adapt to such revolutionary shifts in the industry?
DeSantis Gunhide has been in the holster business for nearly as long as I’ve been around, which means they’ve been producing top-notch rigs for over half a century. I was already acquainted with their products during my formative years and have relied on many of their holsters, both as a civilian carrying a firearm and as a uniformed police officer. Countless times, I discreetly carried a pistol in a DeSantis Nemesis pocket holster or secured one of their ankle rigs to my boot as part of my uniform. DeSantis gear consistently met my expectations. Their product range spans from timeless leather to cutting-edge synthetic materials.
Among the timeless DeSantis creations, the Speed Scabbard stands out. When my Springfield Armory Echelon arrived, I recognized the necessity for a reliable outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster. I was delighted to find that DeSantis had introduced a Speed Scabbard model for the new firearm right from its launch, available on the Springfield Armory Store. Without hesitation, I promptly ordered one of these holsters for $88.99.
Design and Features
At its core, the Speed Scabbard is a traditional open-top outside-the-waistband (OWB) leather holster engineered for carry. This classic design features three slots, offering the versatility to be carried with a neutral or forward tilt.
DeSantis employs precision-molded leather, complemented by an adjustable retention screw positioned near the trigger guard. This feature grants you the ability to customize the amount of friction required to extract the firearm from the holster. While a quick draw is advantageous, it’s essential to maintain a balance with security considerations in mind.
My holster exhibited flawless stitching, with certain areas featuring double stitching to enhance durability. The leather’s edges were impeccably smooth and rounded, giving the impression that the company invested extra effort in refining the finishing touches. Such attention to detail is frequently found in custom holsters but is less commonly seen in a more budget-friendly option like the Speed Scabbard.
My holster exhibited flawless stitching, with certain areas featuring double stitching to enhance durability. The leather’s edges were impeccably smooth and rounded, giving the impression that the company invested extra effort in refining the finishing touches. Such attention to detail is frequently found in custom holsters but is less commonly seen in a more budget-friendly option like the Speed Scabbard.
I had anticipated that holster manufacturers would create models capable of accommodating the wide range of optics that the Echelon could support. It appears that DeSantis has achieved precisely that with the Speed Scabbard. During my testing, I fitted my holster with a variety of optics attached to the pistol, and each one seamlessly fit into the holster with ample clearance.
As a rule, I discover outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters to be more comfortable for daily wear compared to inside-the-waistband (IWB) alternatives. I believe I’m not the only one with this preference. Nevertheless, there are distinctions among OWB holsters in terms of comfort, and the Speed Scabbard undeniably belongs to the “exceptionally comfortable” category.
Typically, I tend to find outside-the-waistband (OWB) holsters more comfortable for everyday wear compared to inside-the-waistband (IWB) models. I believe this sentiment is shared by many. That being said, not all OWB holsters offer the same level of comfort, and the Speed Scabbard unmistakably falls within the “exceptionally comfortable” category.
Setting It Up
The quality of your belt plays a crucial role in how effectively you carry a firearm. A high-quality belt can elevate the performance of even a modest holster. Imagine the synergy achieved when pairing a dependable holster like the Speed Scabbard with such a belt.Conversely, the slim belts typically acquired from local clothing retailers often lack the stability required for comfortable firearm carry. While these belts may be fashionable, they can compromise the comfort and practicality of an excellent holster. That’s why I consistently recommend individuals to invest in well-crafted belts explicitly designed for concealed carry (CCW).
When I placed an order for my holster through the Springfield Armory Store, I noticed that they also stocked a Boxer Outdoors Apogee Tactical Belt featuring the Springfield Armory logo, available at a price of $99.99. It came in three color options: black, gray, and coyote brown, and I opted for the classic black version.
The Apogee Tactical Belt is a fascinating fusion of materials and functionalities, creating a sturdy foundation for carrying a firearm. Its strap is crafted from webbing, akin to many rigger belts, but what sets it apart is the black polymer coating that lends it the look of leather. This aesthetic feature renders it suitable for a wide range of clothing styles where a traditional web belt might not be the best match.
