OT: Made me a new holster for my 1911

TwinBlade

TwinBlade

Joined
Aug 1, 2008
Messages
491
I picked up a new Springfield 1911 a couple weeks back and decided to try my hand at a kydex holster for it. I wanted it to be as tight as possible to the body and the only way I could make that happen was to hand cut the belt slot instead of molding the slot in. I was pretty happy with how it turned out.

I have different hardware screws in it now. Found some nice nickel silver chicago screws that cleans up the look nicely. :thumbup:

Kydex1911001.jpg


Kydex1911002.jpg


Kydex1911003.jpg


Kydex1911004.jpg


Kydex1911005.jpg


Kydex1911.jpg
 
I have sold a ton of sheaths, but want to get into this holster market as well. Being laid off, I have had a lot of time to dabble in designs, and screw around with different things.

Regarding how smooth the draw is, if you pull slowly on it, it will seem like it is held with a 50 pound weight, like all kydex does. If you give it a quick authoritative pop, it comes right out in smooth fashion. It locks very smoothly into place and I can hold it upside down with no problems of it falling out. I would like to add a tensioner at the trigger on the next one I make, but as it stands, it pulls out better and easier than the supplied "holster" (if you can call it that) and as good as my well broken in stock holster for my XDm .40.

The model is a 1911 A1 "loaded" with the tritium sights and target barrel and slide. She is a smooth operator.

The problem with getting into the holster market, is I am limited on what I can make for folks unless someone locally swings by and has a custom press done, or in the case of a cop buddy of mine, he has the same gun and will just swing on over and have one done as we suck down a brew and shoot the shiznit.
 
Nice work!

When I saw the belt loop position in the second pic, I thought it seemed way too high, but the shot of it on your hip looks just right.

I've never had my 1911 in kydex. That looks like it would ride really comfortable.

Again, nice work!
 
Wow, nice work.

I really like how you solved the belt loop. Innovative. Don’t think I have seen that approach before. Mind if I borrow your idea?

Only change would make, if I could say, would be to grind the screw shafts down so they are flush with (or just a hair below) the Chicago posts. The exposed screw shafts will catch on and wear out clothing.
I like to grind my screw posts down to a custom fit, then polish them smooth and then lock-tight them in. Makes for a smooth set up, to match the sheath/hoslter.
But it sounds like you have already replaced the screws.

A snug kydex holster will put some serious wear on the bluing of your gun, but you probably already know that. Only reason why I prefer leather for “nicer” guns. Or a lined kydex sheath, but I have never tried that.
But if it is a working tool, kydex is the ticket; positive retention with quick deployment, and takes forever to wear out.

Good luck with the new “career”.

Oh, and choice gun, too.

Brome
 
Is it possible to mold Kydex with a suede lining? Or is this something that has to be done after the mold process? Anyone know?
 
Jeff,
Nice job on the sheath, fine looking pistol as well, love the 45 auto:thumbup:
 
That's some fine looking work TwinBlade. It looks like you getting laid off might be a blessing for the shooting world. All the best in your endeavours!
 
Wapiti said:
Wow, nice work.

I really like how you solved the belt loop. Innovative. Don’t think I have seen that approach before. Mind if I borrow your idea?

Only change would make, if I could say, would be to grind the screw shafts down so they are flush with (or just a hair below) the Chicago posts. The exposed screw shafts will catch on and wear out clothing.
I like to grind my screw posts down to a custom fit, then polish them smooth and then lock-tight them in. Makes for a smooth set up, to match the sheath/hoslter.
But it sounds like you have already replaced the screws.

A snug kydex holster will put some serious wear on the bluing of your gun, but you probably already know that. Only reason why I prefer leather for “nicer” guns. Or a lined kydex sheath, but I have never tried that.
But if it is a working tool, kydex is the ticket; positive retention with quick deployment, and takes forever to wear out.

Good luck with the new “career”.

Oh, and choice gun, too.

Brome
Click to expand...

Yup, bolt sets are covered. :D

Borrow away. Like knives, I don't see any patents out there on design at all. I say this loosely because first of all, I like to see people be innovative and take initiative, and secondly I will not be doing this for a life career. I am a laid off machinist who is sick of global sourcing to China and will be going into Law Enforcement when the cities open up the hiring again.:thumbup::thumbup::thumbup:

I am well aware of the finish issues, especially on a parkerized coating like mine. All one need to do is look at the interface of the slide to the frame and see how quickly it degrades on rubbing contact. I was lucky enough to acquire through some fine generosity, a High Noon leather holster with 15 degree cant. A fine sheath for this pistol.

Eventually, I will get a stainless 1911 and fit a kydex sheath to that, but like I said, I like to dabble and I was happy how it turned out. :thumbup::thumbup:

I do not think it is possible to mold a liner into kydex. One MIGHT get away with moleskin...the adhesive backed stuff...if it will take the heat in the oven. I am not sure.
 
mmmmmmm. You can get the 'gun blue' chicago screws as well. I generally avoid the $15 in gas and just order from midwest knifemaking supplies. (tracy mickley on the forums)

I like the look, wish it was easier to find mold guns for the stuff I shoot, I'd love a folded clip easy-on easy-off for my mauser HSC.

Excellent job!
 
Tracy is good peeps. I am almost out of nickel chicago screws (they are special order with my kydex sheaths as most of mine are supplied with aluminum sets) and I get enough folks asking for them to keep them stocked. You reminded me that I need to place an order. thanks. :)

You don't know where I can get mold guns do you? I don't see profit in buying a CZ this, Sig that etc to mold a couple sheaths...although it would be nice to own them all. :D
 
It look great, you did this all on your own?. If so, a very nice job, you will sell alot to hand gun owners. Your friend at the post Donald S. PS. if i need to buy one some time, i may just message you .
 
Yup, all on my own. I do kydex in my layoff from work. it has helped to keep food on the table for my family, so it has done it's job so far. :)

I had to sell some very nice knives to buy the pistol though. Tough times call for tough decisions. :D
 
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