Having been a long-time fan of Tier 1 Concealed's IWB holsters, I was excited to try their MSP OWB holster for the first time. My experience with universal-style OWB holsters has primarily revolved around the Blackhawk! Omnivore (TLR1 version), which I appreciate for its universal fit across multiple firearms. However, I was less impressed with the Surefire X300 version of the Omnivore, so I was eager to see how the Tier 1 MSP would compare.
Build Quality & Design
The MSP holster lives up to Tier 1 Concealed's reputation for quality. The construction is solid and thoughtfully designed, with clean lines and a professional finish. I opted for the TLR1 HL version because I use this light as well as the X300, although my primary duty weapon light is the TLR1 HLX. The holster is sleek, and the design reflects the premium craftsmanship I’ve come to expect from Tier 1.
Performance & Testing
I took the MSP holster out for a full day of testing and put it through its paces. I used five different firearms, all equipped with the TLR1 HL, and the holster handled them all exceptionally well. Draws were smooth and consistent, which is not always the case with universal-style holsters. This was a standout feature for me, as even the Omnivore occasionally struggles with uniformity in draw smoothness.
Reholstering was equally seamless, regardless of which firearm I used. This is a significant achievement for a universal holster and speaks to the attention to detail in its design. The MSP truly delivers a level of reliability that sets it apart in the universal holster category.
Retention & Versatility
This is a non-locking retention holster, and for those who prefer this style, the MSP is hard to beat. Retention felt secure without being overly tight, striking a great balance that instills confidence during active use. I also chose the model with a Safariland QLS attachment, as most of my belts are already equipped with QLS receivers. This compatibility made integration into my setup effortless.
Value & Pricing
The only drawback is the price. Like all Tier 1 Concealed products, the MSP comes with a premium price tag. For the cost of one MSP holster, you could nearly purchase three Blackhawk Omnivores. However, the performance and build quality of the MSP justify the investment, especially if you’re looking for a top-tier option for OWB carry.
Final Thoughts
The Tier 1 Concealed MSP OWB holster exceeded my expectations. It’s a well-made, versatile holster that outperforms many other universal options on the market. I appreciated its smooth and consistent performance across multiple firearms and its compatibility with my preferred QLS setup. While the price may give some pause, I believe it’s worth it for the quality and reliability you get in return.
I liked the MSP so much that I’ve already decided to purchase the X300 version, so stay tuned for that review. If you’re in the market for a high-quality, non-locking retention OWB holster, the Tier 1 Concealed MSP is a fantastic choice.
Comments