not enough neatsfoot oil?

[jbird]

I find it very interesting the thought that neatsfoot should be avoided on holsters I agree I merely said it because he said he wanted it soft and we all know how it softens leather up how evevr the harder the holster IMHO the better fit you will have in the long run I don't use it on mine.

I made a shoulder rig for a daranger this week and it was tight but it will loosen over time so I told the lady it was very good and break it in

Josh

[Lobo]

For what it is worth, I am a believer in neatsfoot oil for finishing holsters. The oil does not "dry", rather it is absorbed into the leather fibers, and a proper application serves two important purposes. First, the oil allows the leather to flex without cracking or splitting. Second, the oil inhibits moisture absorption.

I apply the oil with a paintbrush on the outer sides of each piece, as much as the leather will carry in one application, then allow it to settle into the leather overnight. This results in a piece that holds its shape well, flexes more easily, and returns to shape.

Final surface finishes can then be applied. I like Fiebings Bag Kote for the eggshell luster. Others may prefer a higher gloss final finish.

Too much neatsfoot oil will make any leather item limp and useless. In my opinion, not oiling a formed holster leaves it dry and subject to moisture absorption, which can lead to mold and mildew in many climates.

[jbird]

Lobo

I think that makes sence oiling it a bit I also think you can mark it down that if you buy dry leather first of it dosent hold it's shape well in the long run and even with some oil it is not worth it,

I am sure I don't know but what's the long term outlook say 10 years

down the line in a moist area does the holster need more oil.

Josh

[BOOMSTICKHolsters]

If you aren't using some kind of moisture preventative sealant you are asking for trouble no matter what you do. A proper application of acrylic finish (I use Angelus 600 - first "painted" on to maximum absorption with a foam brush and then airbrushed to achieve a matte finish - I know of some makers that even dip their holsters) will act as an excellent moisture preventative in any case without the possibility of breaking down the leather's rigidity prematurely. In fact, it will promote its stiffness.

It all depends on what you are trying to do. In my experience, you don't want a holster to flex once it's broken in. You want it to remain rigid enough to both keep it's shape while the pistol is withdrawn so it is easier to reholster, and to almost "snap" back into shape once the pistol is reinserted.

I know it seems like I go against the conventional wisdom sometimes, but it is not for the sake of being different. I am and will probably always remain a shooter first and a craftsman second. I am not picking on traditional leather craftsmen or saddle makers (my Dad is one of them and he is the one who got me started). I just have a different set of priorities for my carry equipment. I don't want to force anybody to do things my way. This sight is about helping each other and I am trying to do just that. It would be much easier not to make waves.

Bottom line: I have told you guys what I do and why. You may or may not agree with mme but at least you have seen my logic and you can possibly gain something from it. Just know why you are doing what you do and strive to improve. Everything else should fall in line.

[jbird]

Boomstick

I see your train of thought as well and I think it's got some backing like you say this is a open board and I for one enjoy your insight

Josh

[Lobo]

Lobo

I think that makes sence oiling it a bit I also think you can mark it down that if you buy dry leather first of it dosent hold it's shape well in the long run and even with some oil it is not worth it,

I am sure I don't know but what's the long term outlook say 10 years

down the line in a moist area does the holster need more oil.

Josh

Josh:

I do not recommend more oiling. The first application is all that should ever be necessary.

As for the long-term outlook, I visited an old friend a few months ago and saw that he is still carrying his Colt Combat Commander in the holster that I made for him in 1978. It retains its shape to this day, retains the pistol securely, and still looks pretty good.

I know of several other holsters still in use that I made more than 30 years ago, and I'm reasonably certain that most of what I have made remains (at least) in existence. This tells me that what I am doing remains a viable method.

Others have stated that they use different methods and hold different opinions on this subject, and that is fine. There are no "absolutely right" methods, but there are certainly a lot of different methods in use. I'm sure that you will settle upon those that work best for you.

Best regards.

[jbird]

Lobo

I think it's a big help having guys like you on the site thanks a bunch for your open line to us on this site

Josh