AzShooter

This weekend I decided to make a new holster for my Colt 1911 22. I chose the Avenger style and JLS was nice enough to sell me a pattern for the magazine holders. I really like his design. The holster was from a pattern from Able's Leather.

Thank you very much. Downloaded them.

I used a template from Able Leather and it had the stitch line on it except for the edge. I should have used an edger. I went too fast on making this one. It's the first so I just wanted to get it done and see how it works. Thanks for the ideas. I will be using them in the future.

I tried something different and used Neatsfoot Oil instead of leathe dye on this one. I'm not too happy with the oil. It took forever to dry. I finally used TanKote which helped stiffen the holster back up. Retention is good. Especially when it's on my belt. The gun will not fall out. It's relieved enough in the back so that the magazine release isn't affected. I used 4 - 5 ounce leather. Next one will be 7 - 8 ounce. Dried it in a vaccum bag and form fitted the holster with a 1911 blue gun with 1/4 inch brass rod to make a sight track.

WOW!!! What beautiful work all around. Someone is going to be very happy with that and so will your grandchildren in the future. As others have said, the basket weave is dead on. The carving is outstanding as well. How long did it take you?

Try to laminate the manila folder after you cut out your pattern. They will last a long time. I like using cardboard that is used to keep shirts flat after dry cleaning. I also use 13 X 19 photo paper, 65 pound or higher works real well.

I'd be happy to own either one. You did very well for a first time holster maker. Some good advice above but you are on the right track.

What a wonderful job. Your work is excellent and design is above most I've seen.

YINTX is right, hand stitching looks better than most machine stitching but the most important thing is will you get a return on your investment of a sewing machine. I just make a few pieces for sale and have had a lot of luck telling people it's hand stitched. They seem to think its worth more because I take the extra time and effort. But if you are doing volume, a machine is probably the way to go. Again, some people will like the fact that you used a machine and think the stitching is superior. Catch 22.

Very nicely done. I could never get an anchor holster to stay put but your design seems like it would work quite well.

I understand that. I've made a lot of practice holsters. I forgot to put a sight track in this one. Fortunately it was still whet so I was able to put a piece of steel over the sight, down the slide. It worked. Now the sight doesn't interfere when unholstering.

I had to make a holster for my new 1911 22. I copied the Yaqui Slide. Getting the stitching right was a bear but I managed the best I could.

I like it. What can I say. If it works stay with it. The design is vey nice.

Probably the best example of leatherwork I've seen. You nailed it. That will make a great winter coat or better yet a biker jacket.

Very nice work.

Spectacular work. Thanks for sharing it.

Most excellent job. You did a lot of work and whomever uses it should be proud to show it off.

Excellent work.

Magnificent work. What a beautiful bench.

I use a diamond 300 grit stone to start with, then go to 1000 grit for my head knife. Then I strop it about 10 strokes. If it won't cut 10 ounce leather with the first stroke I'm back to the diamond 1000 grit for 100 strokes. If still not sharp enough out comes my Arkansas set of medium, fine and extra fine that I bought from MidwayUSA.com. I use them on both my Head Knife and many small pocket style knives.s Keep trying...I didn't get a good blade until just recently and I'm 70.

Most excellent work. Anyone would be happy to wear those. I particularly like the speed loader holder on the revolver holster.

Super work. Love the molding. You did good with the dye.

Excellent work.

Very nice work. Stitching is dead on and so is your tooling. I'd be proud to own it.

Most Excellent!!!