What do professional holster makers look at?

[dmr400]

Just curious. As Professional holster makers, when you pick up someone else’s work, what do you look at to determine if it's a good product? Stitching? Edge burnishing? How well the liner is bonded? Hand Boning? Other design features I haven't even mentioned? A basic holster is a pouch that holds a gun. But, as they say, the devil is in the details. What takes it from a gun bucket to a quality piece of work in your eyes?

[DCKNIVES]

I start with overall design, and some things depends on whether or not the gun is there or not( fit and retention).I then look at dyeing, stitching and edges.One of my personal things things or pet peeve is finishing of the inside and underside of belt loops and such.I believe all surfaces should be dyed and sealed.I just think it looks more professional and is the way my mentor taught me.

I also look at the art side of it,some makers are very creative with unique designs,awesome embellishments and as long as the form,fit and function are maintained I love it.Dave

[particle]

To me, it's the difference between a $70 holster and a $140+ holster. A $70 will probably serve the owner as well as a Timex watch, but some people would rather pay for a Rolex. I've seen some big name makers that charge mucho bucks, but their holsters look like they're burried under 12 months of orders...

A quality holster should be built well with quality materials, and it should look like the maker wants the buyer to appreciate the skill that went into making it.

Boning isn't a must - but it must retain the gun! Tucker is an example of this. His HF1 is one of my favorite designs. Brigade is me other favorite. To be fair and honest, I've never handled either.

[Lobo]

Very interesting question. It has been my observation that there are several layers within the "professional" holster-making community.

There are the true artists, working in leather as a medium. The goal is perfection in every detail. There are many customers who spend significant sums to commission custom-made one-of-a-kind items, and are well-served by these makers.

There are craftsmen, those making good quality products that will serve the customers' needs very well. Most in this category work in a market niche, specializing in a range of products for specific uses. Some offer specialty work such as tooling, exotic leathers, and other embellishments to satisfy the upscale customers' requirements. Some provide designs and features not generally available. Others simply provide more utilitarian products.

There are mass production makers, producing larger volume to satisfy more general needs. Frequently, these makers market their products through retail stores and catalog sales companies. Quality may vary between different makers, with the primary emphasis being on consistency in production for the broader market.

There are customers for all of these makers. Law enforcement agencies and security companies rely upon the mass producers. Individual officers and agents purchase products for personal use. Approximately 90 million US citizens own some 300 million firearms, including at least 80 million handguns. 38 states have adopted "shall issue" concealed carry permit laws, and many millions of people are now carrying a defensive sidearm regularly.

I place myself in the "craftsmen" category. I produce several styles, and offer a few options within each style so that the customer may have a holster that more closely meets their personal needs, and I have a few personal innovations in design and construction. I also make holsters for a number of older handguns that, while still in common use, have been dropped by the mass producers due to lesser demand.

The first things that I notice in any holster is the basic design. What does it offer for comfort, accessibility, security/safety, and concealability?

Next, I notice materials. Are the leathers used appropriate for the intended use? Stitching and hardware? How will this holster stand up to long-term use?

Next, quality of construction and fit to the handgun.

Finally, the finish (interior and exterior).

Interesting question. Interesting business.

[Denster]

Lobo pretty well laid it out regarding the category of makers. I put myself in the same category as Lobo with a different niche. I make holsters for handguns new on the market that, to me, seem well designed and will be popular. I will buy an example as soon as I can get my hands on it. Generally pays for itself in a couple of weeks.

I look at other makers holsters. First does the design make sense. Second is it secure, safe, and suitable for it's purpose this in general also covers the materials, stitching etc. Lastly, form following function, are the cosmetic details ie: boning, accents, color and finish.

Just my general take on things, others will differ I'm sure.

[dmr400]

Thank you for your replies. It seems you all look at similar things in similar orders. Lobo, your thoughtful comments as always are logical and well presented, and appreciated. Hopefully some others will chime in and give us some more things to ponder.