Blackhawk CQC/ SPORTSTER SERPA holsters are considered Level II retention holsters due to the inward pressure fingering of the SERPA button to activate the release of the handgun from the holster.
(Blackhawk also makes a Level 1 off duty CQC holster however, these holsters do not feature SERPA technology and relies solely on holster tension to secure the handgun in the holster.)
The CQC holster can be used for plain clothes work while the SPORTSTER is intended for the occasional shooter. The holsters are the same in every respect as related to gun fit and attachment compatibility. The major difference is the material, attachments included in the packaging and coloring.
CQC holsters are manufactured of carbon fiber while the SPORTSTER is constructed of a polymer material. Carbon fiber is stronger and more durable than polymer.
Another difference between the CQC and the Sportster is what is included in the packaging. Both a paddle and a belt loop attachment is included with a CQC holster while only the paddle attachment is included in the packaging for the SPORTSTER.
CQC holsters come in the colors of Black, Coyote Tan, Foliage Green or OD Green, however of all the colors listed Black is the only color that is available for ALL CQC holster. Coyote Tan, Foliage Green and OD Green are reserved for holsters that fit handguns with a military function (Like Beretta 92/96 but not HK USP Compact).
SPORTSTER holsters only come in an off-black (more akin to a dark gun metal powder gray) finish.
CQC holsters come in both a plain matte finish or a stylish basketweave look finish. There is about a $10 USD price difference between the finish differences. SPORTSTER holsters only come in a plain matte finish.
Blackhawk seems to only offer SERPA style holsters that are generally the "most popular" amongst military, law enforcement and avid shooters. If you have an obscure or custom handgun then you will probably not find a SERPA holster to accomadate you.
CQC Package Contents - Inside the CQC packaging you will recieve a CQC SERPA holster with BOTH a belt loop attachment (fits belts up to 2 inches wide) and an off-duty pants paddle attachment. The belt loop attachment will already be mated to the holster in the packaging. The attachments are easily removed and attached (within 5 minutes for the entire exchange) and are mated to the holster with three threaded phillips head screws. The cant of the holster can also be adjusted.
SPORTSTER Package Contents - Inside the SPORTSTER packaging you will recieve a SPORTSTER SERPA holster with ONLY a paddle attachment. The paddle attachment will already be mated to the holster in the packaging. The attachment is easily removed and is mated to the holster with three threaded phillips head screws. The cant of the holster can also be adjusted.