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Deployment Gear:
Drop Leg or IBA Mount Holsters
By now, you either have already or are about to get your issue items. The first thing you do is look at all the new goodies, figure out how each piece works, and more importantly, where you're going to put it all on your IBA…You figure out quickly why the IBA is now nicknamed the "Samurai Suit".
And then you notice your new drop leg holster. If the fact that it's completely made of Cordura doesn't stop you in your tracks, then maybe the fact that you have to release 2 snaps and a piece of Velcro in order to release the weapon system from its papoose will.
It's at that point where you start playing scenarios out in your mind. You're in a situation where you're engaged in hostile fire; you can't use your M4 (for whatever reason), so you go to draw your M9…your counterpart jogging toward you with his AK-47 bouncing around on his back - he pulls his weapon system off of his back and has it pointed at your center mast…that's when you remember…2 snaps and a Velcro…not good.
In jest, I have had this same conversation with soldiers and we joke that they need to learn in Arabic, "Please wait a minute, I need to get my weapon".
But in reality, this is a very sobering issue. The split seconds between the time it takes to free that weapon system up from the issued drop leg holster could mean the difference between walking away from an incident, and well, not.
Beyond that, there are two alternative options that through trial and error have been found to be unfeasible, even when you really REALLY want them to work.
The first is the shoulder holster - In garrison, it's a fabulous way to carry your M9. When you're outside of the wire though, forget about it, it doesn't fit over your IBA.
The second unfortunately un-doable option is a belt-loop or paddle attachment for an M9 holster. Again, with the IBA being as bulky as it is, it will become more of a hindrance than a help when it comes time to draw the weapon; most people won't be able to access it without being able to do some really cool acrobatics; but again, a great piece of equipment to have while you're on the FOB.
Thankfully there is a great alternative that doesn't require you to be Kerri Strug or have the speed of Dash from the Incredibles while you're outside the wire.
The Blackhawk IBA mount M9 holster. A carbon-fiber holster made with the SERPA Auto-lock weapon release system. This system has a carbon fiber plate that mounts directly onto your IBA. The plate has teeth that grab onto your Molle vest and with the twist of three phillips-head screws; the holster mounts right to your chest. In a vehicle setting, positioning the weapon system on your chest makes a considerable difference in timing when you need to remove the weapon from its holster and engage your target.
Comparing it to most other holsters, well, there really is no comparison.
Putting it up against the issue drop leg holster, aside from the factors previously stated, it's awkward reaching down on the side of your leg to find, not to mention release the weapon system from its hold. Add to that the adrenaline rush from being in an engaged situation and it doesn't paint a pretty picture, not to mention the all important, what happens if you release the weapon and drop it? (Insert your favorite keystone cops episode here).
Aesthetically, the Blackhawk IBA mount M9 holster is very appealing, it doesn't wear at your clothing, and it won't cause chafing on your leg. Tactically, the IBA holster has a natural draw via the SERPA Auto-lock weapons release, and most importantly, it's in an efficient and convenient place to draw quickly if the need arises. Couple that with Blackhawk's Lifetime Unlimited Warranty and it's a no-brainer.
Next time I'll compare Lanyards and tell you some in-garrison options for holsters and other gear.
Until then, Snyperwyfe…out.
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