Springfield XD Forum banner

Best Holster for IDPA/USPSA?

15962 Views 22 Replies 14 Participants Last post by  seanjkyoung
I've been using the XDM factory holster and mag holders for use in IDPA and USPSA for the past 8-10 months. I'm thinking it's time to invest in something better. I'm not looking for a race holster. I'm competing in the ESP and Production divisions. Suggestions?

What are the pros and cons of going with a paddle style holster as opposed to a regular belt type?

Thanks in advance.
1 - 20 of 23 Posts
Lots of folks use Blade Tech for both disciplines. My limited holster (XDm40) stays on my CR Speed belt but often use a Blade Tech with a paddle for either my 9mm 1911 or M&P 9 Pro in IDPA. Easy to get in the right position without worrying about the belt loops getting in the way. Easy on and off and very secure.
I recently started shooting uspsa and use a comp tac holster for my XD .40, It wasn't expensive and I like it enough.
Most of the IDPA shooters I know use either Bladetech or Comptac. Both make quality holsters at a good price. Paddle seems to hold it closer to your body. Not too much difference other than that.
I use the Blackhawk Serpa2. I love it, some people don't like it because of the extra retention. This last weekend in a three gun there was lots of running while holstered and some prone shooting. I watched a guy get DQed when his pistol fell out of a Bladetech so I think I am going to stick with my Serpa.
Does anyone know if the CR Speed WSM II holster for the XD will work with the XDm? I'm going to be switching to Limited division here soon and I'm looking at either the Blade-tech DOH or the WSM-II if it'll work.
I use the Blackhawk Serpa2. I love it, some people don't like it because of the extra retention. This last weekend in a three gun there was lots of running while holstered and some prone shooting. I watched a guy get DQed when his pistol fell out of a Bladetech so I think I am going to stick with my Serpa.
that point is moot. when you go prone, you should draw the gun before you start moving down, or you'll automatically DQ for pointing the gun uprange when you're lying down ;)

Blade tech works, much better than a Serpa. To make a serpa really good? disable the frigging retention device. it's legal in IDPA to do that.
I really like my Comp-Tac rig for IDPA. Works well, quality built and secure. Can be adjusted for speed. I have the Belt slide holster with the dual mag pouch.
the guys I shoot with are talking about the serpa holster not being allowed in a lot of competitions anymore because a few people have shot themselves in the leg while drawing because of the button on the side. I don't know how true this is but it seems to make sense that you are trying to go fast, adrenaline is going, and your finger may get inside the trigger guard because of the pressure you put on the retention button. I use a serpa to carry sometimes, but not in competition.
You can use a serpa, just cut off the locking mechanism. After that, it's a very fast holster for competition. :)
The XD gear will work and I'm a big believer in "shoot what you have" when you are getting started. After you decide what sport (or sports) you are gonna shoot then it's time to do some upgrading of gear and probably some work on the pistol as well.
When you guys recommend a Blade-tech holster, is there a specific one you have in mind or are they all generally pretty good for IDPA?
Blade Tech drop and offset holster works for me. They come with both a paddle and belt loop so you can try both. The drop and offset attachment makes it quicker on the draw for most people. Just MHO.
that point is moot. when you go prone, you should draw the gun before you start moving down, or you'll automatically DQ for pointing the gun uprange when you're lying down ;)

Blade tech works, much better than a Serpa. To make a serpa really good? disable the frigging retention device. it's legal in IDPA to do that.
He was shooting rifle prone with pistol holstered. Again that's why I say I like it because of the retention.
Blade Tech drop and offset holster works for me. They come with both a paddle and belt loop so you can try both. The drop and offset attachment makes it quicker on the draw for most people. Just MHO.

It should be noted that the DOH holster is not IDPA compliant. Why? because of the drop and offset. That would be a good IPSC/USPSA holster though.
1 - 20 of 23 Posts
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Top