OT: Holsters

[etp777]

OK, I knwo this is off topic, but there are some great leather workers here, so I thought I'd ask some advice.

I have a gun that I need a holster for, but they aren't really made, as it's not a very common gun. i was looking for any suggestions on Leather to use, where to buy, books or web pages to read, etc. I figure that experience and knowledge from making this can very easily apply to knife sheathes then too, so it'd be worth me knowing anwyays(plus hopefully getting a good holster that'll match my gun well).

anwyays, thinking of a semi molded one that can be worn in the wasitband or just on the belt, something along lines of the Fist #14 pictured here:

Any help on this would be greatly appreciated. Not a huge rush, still have to send off info for concealed carry license before I could use this anwyays, and then have up to 90 days to wait on approval(plus it won't be into gunshop until Friday at earliest).

 

[Mike Hull]

Whatever thickness you use, get vegatable tanned leather. I does not have the toxic, and corrosive chrome tanning salts in it. Less chance to rust your gun.
The last time I made a holster, I used, I think, aprox., 4oz and used two layers, back to back. It was smooth surface inside, and out.
I molded it the same way I do sheaths, wet it in warm water, let it sit for a few minutes, insert the pistol and mold it. I left the pistol in for about 15-20 minutes. Removed it, and let the holster dry for 24 hours or so. I finish by heating to 180 degrees F, and dipping in Lexol NF for about 5 seconds, drain it. put it somewhere top down to drain and dry, I use the dish drainer. I just final coat with Kiwi shoe wax, and buff.

I don't know if this answers all your questions. If not, let me know.

 

[etp777]

THanks Mike, definitely gives me somewhere to start. Once I get job lined up, will probalby order some leather from Tandy and see what I can do to get started.