Shooting related Christmas present needs help

[texraid]

New guy here with a question. A google search yields a variety of restoration techniques, and none the same, so I decided to consult the experts. Some say neatsfoot and others say it will destroy leather, which from my experience is not entirely correct. Please educate me on 1930s vintage tanning processes and proper care.

What is the consensus on this one?

The padded leather is not cracked but very stiff and dry. I would like to restore it to it's original suppleness (if possible) for an occasional trip to the range.

[TwinOaks]

Dr. Jackson's hide rejuvenator, Dr. Jackson's legendary leather care, or Aussie Leather conditioner. Here's a link to the Tandy page with full descriptions click me. You may also consider Lexol, as it contains a fungal inhibitor, if the shirt will be stored for long periods.

The page also has some cleaners listed, if you're interested in cleaning the leather before treating it.

Edited December 27, 2008 by TwinOaks

[Luke Hatley]

IF THE LEATHER IS NOT CRACKED YOU ARE LUCKY.

THERE ARE SEVERAL ITEMS YOU CAN USE.

PECARDS ...LEXOIL...Dr. JACKSON HIDE REVEJUNITOR. ANY WILL

BE OF BENIFET TO YOUR JACKET.

[UKRay]

You might like to take a look at Skidmore's Restoration Cream - see www.skidmores.com

I have had a lot of success with renovating dried out leather using this stuff - IMHO it is one of the best and most cost effective products on the market - they even do mail order.

[texraid]

Thanks a bunch guys. I've seen both Skidmore's and Dr. Jackson's but wasn't sure.

What's the scoop on using neatsfoot....when to use and when not to and what for?

Also what do you recommend for maintenance once it is restored?

Edited December 27, 2008 by texraid

[UKRay]

Thanks a bunch guys. I've seen both Skidmore's and Dr. Jackson's but wasn't sure.What's the scoop on using neatsfoot....when to use and when not to and what for? Also what do you recommend for maintenance once it is restored?

Because it can go a tad sticky sometimes, I tend to keep neatsfoot for heavier leathers and use a 'lighter' product on soft leather, but everyone to their own. Maintenance is easy, if you use Skidmore's just use your fingers to work in more of the same. The heat from your hands will help the product get absorbed into the leather - a little bit of 'elbow grease' and it will soon be supple again and your jacket will be a lot more comfortable to wear. It is great on gun slings and other strap work too. The beeswax provides a good protective coating that is nicely water resistant.

Please educate me on 1930s vintage tanning processes and proper care.

Check out http://1940sleather.blogspot.com for a few ideas.

[hidepounder]

Thanks a bunch guys. I've seen both Skidmore's and Dr. Jackson's but wasn't sure.

What's the scoop on using neatsfoot....when to use and when not to and what for?

Also what do you recommend for maintenance once it is restored?

I would stay away from Neatsfoot oil! It's great to use on new leather or leather that is in good condition but just a litle dry, but on leather that is in poor condition it will break down the fibers and the leather will disintegrate!

Bob

[TwinOaks]

Also, some "neatsfoot oil" is actually a blend of several different things, some of which are NOT good for leather. If you're in a humid climate, and store the jacket where moisture could effect it, mold can set it. With a lot of neatsfoot(too much), the mold can travel through the core of the leather and pop up on the surface even after you think you've gotten rid of it. (right about now is where the saddle folks will jump in decry my blasphemy.....)

[texraid]

I would stay away from Neatsfoot oil! It's great to use on new leather or leather that is in good condition but just a litle dry, but on leather that is in poor condition it will break down the fibers and the leather will disintegrate!

Bob

I've heard that but I've always used it on new and heavier leather. Common sense tells me it should be cleaned first, sooo.....saddle soap?????

I will have some Dr. Jackson's early in the week. Would Lexol work for maintenance? I'm in Northern Kentucky and it will be stored in a vault type area and the humidity ranges from 50 to 65%

Thanks again, Art