Latest Holster

[doug1221]

Ok I think this is attempt #4, still having stitching problems but I think with some recent advice from Mike I will get that issue cleared up on the next one. Ran out of one thread after one size then opened a new package for the other side only to realize it was not the same size. Also tried doing s border type design on part of it, it turned out ok I guess. As always any input or advice is greatly appreciated.

[Sixer]

Looks great! The only advice I would offer... keep the edges rounded. Sharp corners tend to fold and wear easily. Also, I always like to burnish the inside of my belt slots.

I'm no expert, so take it for what it's worth. Still, looks very nice

[katsass]

What Sixer said and get your stitch line in closer to the shooter. Mike

[Lobo]

I agree with Sixer's rounded corners comment above. In addition to being more exposed to wear and tear, sharp corners and edges can cause comfort issues.

You have made all the necessary observations on your stitching. This will improve with practice and experience. If you are not already using a stitching wheel and stitching awl, those would be good to have and help you keep everything nice and neat.

I don't know how you are cutting your belt slots, but here is a simple method that requires only a few tools:

1. Mark the upper and lower ends of the slot location on the outer holster panel.

2. Using a 5/16" or 3/8" round drive punch, tap a mark at the top and bottom of each slot.

3. Using a 1-1/4" wood chisel, cut the vertical belt slot lines. Keep the chisel absolutely perpendicular to the work and use a plastic kitchen cutting board underneath to support the work and avoid damage to the chisel edge.

4. Go back to the drive punch and drive it through at the top and bottom of each slot (plastic cutting board under).

When cutting with the chisel or drive punch try to make each cut cleanly with one blow. A 3-lb. dead blow mallet or similar tool will make this easier. Multiple impacts can have a tendency to make your cutting tool bounce around and leave stray marks.

Round drive punches are only a few dollars each, and can easily be replaced when dulled. A good wood chisel is about $10 or $15, and they are easy to sharpen. A plastic kitchen cutting board can be found at WalMart for a few dollars. So, for the hobbyist or beginner this is a good alternative to buying a set of oval slot punches, which are rather expensive and can be difficult to sharpen properly.

After cutting you can bevel the raw edges. Then dampen the leather and burnish with a wooden dowel rod turning in a drill or drill press.

After you have done a few you will start getting a nice clean slot every time.

Your work is progressing nicely.

[doug1221]

A wood chisel....why the heck did I not think of that? Here I have been making holes at the end then trying to connect them with the razor, that will make things so much easier. I did start using the hole punch on the holster I am currently working on as I got tired of trying to do the hole at the end with the hole punch thing that looks like weird pliers. Once I finish this one I will definitely go pick up a chisel for the next one. I have gone back to trying to get down the learning curve on the welted seam from Lobo Gunleather on the holster I am currently working on, and probably most holsters in the future. Even though my previous attempt at that welted seam didn't turn out the greatest I still find myself constantly choosing that holster over any of the others I have made and over my Galco holster. The welted seam makes feel and conceal so much better it seems well worth the learning curve to create, or the price to buy one of the originals from Lobo. Since starting the holster making I can't seem to stop making them one after the other so I am about one holster behind on incorporating all of the feed back I get from you guys since I am usually already partway through the next by the time I come read these. So when I post a new one please don't assume I have ignored all of the wonderful advise as it is greatly appreciated and will all be used once I get to that point again.