BlackHawk Holster Spacer Kit Review

The Honest Truth About the BlackHawk Holster Spacer Kit

The BlackHawk Holster Spacer Kit promises to bridge the gap – literally and figuratively – between your holster and your body. BlackHawk, a name synonymous with tactical gear, aims to solve common concealment and comfort issues with this simple, yet potentially game-changing accessory. As someone who’s carried firearms professionally and recreationally for over a decade, I was eager to see if this kit lived up to the hype.

My journey to this product started with a persistent problem: holster discomfort and printing. I’ve tried countless holsters, but my body type (athletic build with a slight curve at the hips) often leads to the gun digging into my side, or worse, printing through my clothing. I needed a solution that allowed for a more natural, comfortable, and concealable carry.

Upon receiving the kit, my initial impression was of simplicity. The package contains two spacers and eight screws, all neatly organized. The build quality seemed adequate, with the spacers made of durable, injection-molded polymer.

Compared to other makeshift solutions I’ve tried (padding, DIY shims), the BlackHawk Holster Spacer Kit offered a much more professional and adjustable approach. I considered purchasing a custom-molded holster with built-in adjustments, but the cost was significantly higher. I also looked at wedge kits from other brands, but the BlackHawk option seemed more versatile due to its stackable design. I chose this kit hoping for a simple, effective, and affordable solution.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The kit appeared straightforward, but I was skeptical about whether two small spacers could truly make a noticeable difference in comfort and concealment. I was ready to put it to the test.

Real-World Testing: Putting BlackHawk Holster Spacer Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was a day at the shooting range, followed by everyday carry in various situations. I installed one spacer on my BlackHawk Serpa holster, which I use for my Glock 19. I tested the setup during drills involving drawing and re-holstering, as well as while sitting, standing, and moving.

The difference was immediately noticeable. The spacer created a slight offset, pushing the grip of the pistol closer to my body. This seemingly minor adjustment significantly improved concealment under a light jacket. The holster also felt more comfortable against my side, reducing pressure points. I tested the setup in both dry and humid conditions, and the spacers remained securely attached with no slippage.

There were no immediate issues, although I did notice that the included screws were barely long enough when using a single spacer. I anticipated needing longer screws if I were to stack both spacers.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the BlackHawk Holster Spacer Kit has proven to be a valuable addition to my carry system. The spacers have held up well, showing no signs of wear or cracking despite daily use.

I’ve carried my firearm in various settings, including hiking, running errands, and attending meetings. The added comfort and improved concealment have been consistent across these activities. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s needed. Compared to my previous experiences with uncomfortable and poorly concealed carry setups, the BlackHawk Holster Spacer Kit is a significant improvement. It allows me to carry confidently and comfortably throughout the day.

Breaking Down the Features of BlackHawk Holster Spacer Kit

Specifications

The BlackHawk Holster Spacer Kit is designed to enhance the comfort and concealability of BlackHawk injection-molded holsters. The kit includes the following:

• Two Spacers: These are injection-molded polymer pieces designed to create an offset between the holster and the mounting surface. This allows for adjustments to the holster’s angle and distance from the body.
• Eight 32-Screws: These screws are used to attach the spacers to the holster. They are specifically sized for use with BlackHawk holsters.
• Color: The kit is available in Black.
• Holster Type: Designed for Belt Holsters.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the user’s ability to customize their holster setup. The spacers provide a simple way to fine-tune the holster’s position for optimal comfort and concealment. The included screws ensure compatibility with BlackHawk holsters.

Performance & Functionality

The BlackHawk Holster Spacer Kit performs its intended function effectively. It successfully creates an offset, allowing the user to adjust the holster’s position for improved comfort and concealment. The kit’s strength lies in its simplicity and ease of use.

The main weakness is the limited screw length. The provided screws are not long enough to stack both spacers securely, which limits the range of adjustment. It meets expectations for a basic spacer kit, but could benefit from longer screws.

Design & Ergonomics

The BlackHawk Holster Spacer Kit features a simple, functional design. The spacers are made of durable polymer and are lightweight. The kit doesn’t add significant bulk to the holster.

The installation is straightforward, and the spacers integrate seamlessly with BlackHawk holsters. There’s no learning curve; anyone familiar with attaching accessories to a holster can easily install this kit.

Durability & Maintenance

The BlackHawk Holster Spacer Kit is built to last. The injection-molded polymer is durable and resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, the spacers should last for years.

Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep the spacers clean.

Accessories and Customization Options

The kit itself doesn’t come with additional accessories beyond the spacers and screws. However, it’s designed to work with any BlackHawk injection-molded holster that uses screws for attachment. There are no customization options beyond stacking the spacers (though, as noted, longer screws are needed for this).

The BlackHawk Holster Spacer Kit is compatible with other BlackHawk accessories, such as belt loops and quick-disconnect systems.

Pros and Cons of BlackHawk Holster Spacer Kit