October 26th, 2023
6minute read
Handgun evolution in my lifetime has been remarkable.
As one might expect, holsters have undergone similar changes in recent decades.
How else would they navigate such revolutionary changes in the industry?
The author found the DeSantis Speed Scabbard holster to be remarkably comfortable carrying theEchelon 9mm pistol. Image: Author
The companys gear always delivered.
And they have offerings ranging from classic leather to modern synthetic materials.
One of the classic DeSantis designs is the Speed Scabbard.
The DeSantis Speed Scabbard is a classic leather holster ready for EDC. Shown with Springfield Armory Echelon 9mm and Boxer Outdoors Apogee Tactical Belt. Image: John McKenzie/Down Range Photography
I ordered one of the $88.99 holsters immediately.
It is a classic three-slot rig that allows you to carry it with a neutral or forward tilt.
DeSantis uses precisely molded leather with an adjustable retention screw located near the trigger guard.
The author found the holster to be remarkably comfortable carrying the Echelon 9mm pistol. Image: Author
This allows you to dial in how much friction must be overcome to remove the gun from the scabbard.
A fast draw is great, but you must balance that against security considerations.
My rig showed perfect stitching that was doubled in some areas for added strength.
The Boxer Outdoors Apogee Tactical Belt uses a ratchet-type system to allow for your preferred amount of tightness to match whatever you might be carrying.
One of the key features of the Springfield Echelon is its game-changing optics Variable Interface Systems mount.
This makes for a ruggedly simple low-mounting option for a wide range of optics.
DeSantis seems to have done just that with the Speed Scabbard.
If you want added security, the Thumb Break Speed Scabbard by DeSantis is also available. Image: Author
In general, I find OWB holsters more comfortable to wear than inside-the-waistband (IWB) rigs.
I suspect I am not alone.
Rigging It Up
Quality belts can make a major impact on how a gun carries.
The DeSantis Speed Scabbard is a classic leather holster ready for EDC. Shown with Springfield Armory Echelon 9mm and Boxer Outdoors Apogee Tactical Belt. Image: John McKenzie/Down Range Photography
With a high-quality belt, even a mediocre holster can perform well.
Think what a solid holster like the Speed Scabbard can do with one.
Thin belts bought at the local clothing store rarely provide enough stability to carry a gun.
While fashionable, these belts can make a top-notch holster uncomfortable or even impractical to use.
For this reason, I always encourage people to buy good quality belts designed specifically for CCW.
Offered in a choice of black, gray or coyote brown, I went for the basic black.
This belt is an interesting mix of materials and features that blend into a sound platform for gun carrying.
The strap portion of the belt is made of webbing similar to many rigger belts.
I found this appearance suitable for many clothing styles for which a standard web belt would be inappropriate.
More important than the style was the performance of the belt.
Frankly, I was pleased at how well it worked.
The belt is 1.5 wide, which worked well with the Speed Scabbard.
Most significant, though, was the buckle system.
The rugged buckle also has a quick-release function.
Durability and Retention
Testing the durability of a holster can be a difficult thing.
In general, writers work on a deadline and testing a rig for two years simply isnt realistic.
Luckily, I own several Speed Scabbard holsters for other handguns.
Put simply, the Speed Scabbard is a tough rig.
Yet every single one remains in service.
All of the leather, stitching and tension screws remain perfectly serviceable.
My new Echelon rig comes off as of the exact same quality.
Retention is good with this rig.
DeSantis designed the Speed Scabbard to retain the Echelon using friction.
Close molding mates well to the pistol.
If so, check out the Thumb Break Scabbard also available on the Springfield Amory Store for $89.99.
The company uses good quality components and designs that simply work for me.
The Speed Scabbard proved to be a solid carry partner for the Springfield Echelon.
It carried well, offering a solid anchor for the gun while remaining comfortable for long-term wear.
My other Speed Scabbard holsters suggest this one will provide valuable service for a long time to come.
