Custom Cartridge Belt

[Handstitched]

G'Day,

My brothers friend asked me to make this.

This cartridge belt is based on a picture that he saw on an auction site.

Quote in the blurb :

" RARE Antique Old west cowboy double buckle 44 S & W Cartridge Belt

Circa. 1860-1880's "

So, after putting my thinking cap on & taking some measurements etc. I started work on it.

I had to make some modifications as the original was for a 44, and I had to adapt this belt to take 12g shot gun cartridges.

Thankfully , I managed to fit 27 cartridge loops . Bit of an odd number I know, but I had to fill some space somehow.

I could have machine stitched the whole thing to save time, but to at least give it some "authenticity" I hand stitched the entire belt.

The original buckles looked a bit flimsy, so I fitted some stronger 45mm roller buckles.

The leather is 4mm veg tan DS , 1.2mm veg tan on the back, and 2.5mm veg tan for the loops . A few coats of oil and Dyed with a few coats 'Saddle Tan ' and sealed.

This was one of those jobs that 'lingered ' in my workshop for a bit too long imo, as he said, "theres no rush for it.....just take your time on it" . So in between other customer orders, making stock, fixing horse rugs etc. it took around 4 months .

So nice get those jobs out of the way eh ? .

I just hope it fits after all ths time.

The last few pics ," double buckle gun belt " are the originals taken from the auction site.

HS

[Rohn]

I think you did an excellent job on that belt. I like the idea of the extra piece that is sewn on the top edge to keep the shells from slipping out, that is a good idea. That is a lot of hand stitching but by your name I guess you are the man for the job. Fine work.

Rohn

[Peter T]

G'day Handstitched,

Wow that is a lot of handstitching and the result is very impressive. I'll bet your brother's friend will be very pleased with that. Very nice work!

Pete

[Sixer]

^ Looks like it was machine stitched... but if that is hand stitched, I hope your soaking your hands right now

Either way, GREAT looking belt!

[Handstitched]

G'day

Thank you to Rohn, Sixer & Peter T for the great feedback.

I forgot to mention that the 'strip' at the top to keep the cartridges in, is also 1.2mm veg tan.

Although I've oiled it, its still little stiff , as is the rest of it, but that will all soften up with use.

Obviously I had to take a few breaks here and there during stitching ,

as my fingers and hands were getting a little sore...as they do.

The centre of my right palm was bright red, which is to be expected I guess.

Yeh yeh...I know, I can use a pad but I don't, I just....well... I just get on with it

But I do love the end result.

Thanks once again

HS

[Jon P]

Amazing work my friend!!

[Colt W Knight]

Amazing work.

I feel for you on the hand stitching. I have a couple projects where I have to hand stitch, and it is a miserable experience. One of these days I will own a big sewing machine.

[TexasJack]

Nice job!

[silverbullet]

Very nice think I'm gona make one for myself , change a bit for size and width but you did an excellent job stitching looks so good it looks like machine done.gday and god bless Gary

[Wild Bill46]

I too, have to concur, This is an excellent rendering of the idea (last two pictures) .

Your hand stitching is a thing of beauty, and I understand your pride in wanting to do it this way.

(Maybe I can come to you sometime for pointers, Hugh ocean between us for soooo many learning trips. lol)

I also really like the two buckle idea, more comfort I would guess ? not to mention other gear, etc. Nice work !