Shadowsbane

I second the stitching groover. I also have been known to use a stitching chisel as well. Especially when I sew up a double layered belt.

1911 Bandolier holster prototype. Made the strap fully adjustable along the chest. Fits nice and secure, but a slightly wider strap on the top half would be great.

http://www.bestblanks.com/signsubstrates.html?gclid=CMWd4cnFyrgCFWYV7AodJAsAWQ THey are called PVC sign blanks. That seems like a sorta decent store, but you will probably have better luck someplace local.

NEvermind I am an idiot, found it with a simple forum search....

Looking for a good source for some rattle snake leather. Diamondback preferred, but would take prairie. All I seem to find are ebay sales with somewhat non-exciting results. Already checked implora, and springfield. Found one site that was backordered but they were charging 200 for a 4 inch wide 3 foot long skin. On a semi related note. What is dry tanned? Is that just rawhide?

These are the final prototype. Seem to really of worked out well.

Yeah there is definitely a speed boost with a machine no doubt about it. Although they have their own learning curve. I would avoid a tippman though. Went that route and while I probably never gave it the chance it deserved I could of got a basic electric that is just easier to use all around.

Hand. A stitching pony is a lifesaver though. I have a machine, but lack the table/motor for one yet.

Oh that is the plan for later. When I get everything else set up the way I want. Right now if they are local I just have them bring the gun or knife over and they get to see me do some of the work. But, point of interest. Chief Jason and I are on the same local group selling our stuff. With a few other very fine makers. So until I am fully ready, I don't mind passing on stuff I know he or others can do a better job at than myself. Rather lose the sale at the beginning then try to do something I know I am not fully set up for, and not have it come out as good as I want.

Most if my products have been directly related to demand. I started off offering embossed single and double layer belts, and doing repairs, but since then have branched to some adult stuff, holsters, bags and all sorts of other things. Lots of times they are a one off product but it gives me experience and makes them happy. Particularly the left handed crowd which I have specifically marketed to over the years. Right now though I have had to turn down several orders, because I am just not set up for the items they want (lack of blue guns and whatnot), it is those times where I send them off to other local people who I know can do better work and make them happy. Historically my customers remember that and check with me for future orders first. Price point is complicated at times like that. People come to me because I am cheap, and I generally work out deals where they will just pay for the materials in exchange for product testing and a review. That way my development is at least partially covered, without going into the hole with unhappy customers, or simply lost materials.

Figured you were here too. ChiefJason. Yeah I never really like my own work as much as other people seem to. Perhaps not the worst thing ever I guess.

So the scales are a bit caddy wompus on one but otherwise I am mostly happy with them. I think. The 1911 pictured doesn't match the grips, but it seemed like a good idea to have it there anyway

Got an order for these, though I am not completely done thought I would share. Construction is 2 layers of .06 kydex with the cobra on top and the edges rolled over between the two pieces. Still need to counter sink the holes for the screws but it is a start. Feel free to let me know what ya'll think.

But if you say something on TV or in an interview it must be true... I like Springfield a fair amount. At the very least they carry kydex, and other things that modern holster makers need. Not stuck in the cowboy reproduction/flintlock era

Thanks a bunch. Looks like Cobra skin is right up the customer's alley. Wants it for a set of Colt 1911 grips. This will probably be a fun project.