My First Attempt at Holsters

[AzShooter]

I'd be happy to own either one.  You did very well for a first time holster maker.  Some good advice above but you are on the right track.  

[alpha2]

Those are excellent holsters. A lot of good info above. I'd guess the "FBI" cant is the most popular. They supposedly use 15 degrees. If you make a high-rise holster, the cant can make it easier to draw. (Keeps from having to pull the gun into your armpit to clear the holster.)The cant also keeps the base of the magazine from protruding out behind you and keeps from printing. 

I did make a holster, once, that I overdid the ejection port. Essentially locked the pistol into the holster. (Revolver holster with the outer panel up over the cylinder can do the same thing.) JLS has great info on making handgun holster patterns and templates. 

The "stiffener" added to the top of the outer panel isn't required, especially with with the weight leather normally used with holsters. It does add a nice opportunity to spice up the aesthetics, though. Personally I like to go for less bulk, but I've made some with, just 'cause I could. I've seen pics of IWB holsters with the stiffeners, nobody will see it, and it adds thickness, but if it keeps the holster from smashing closed when you draw, it would make the re-holster easier.

I agree slot angle is personal preference. I've made them both ways, didn't find a difference in usage. You'll see some with the arced slots, I don't see an advantage with those, YMMV.

[Scootch]

Your holsters look nice.  My preference would be to use a larger edge beveler for a little more roundness.  On the bottom right corners I would adjust the pattern to where there is enough leather that you can add one horizontal stitch so that your perimiter stitch line doesnt run into the vertical stitch line too soon. Practice on your method of developing your stitch line. The gun fits well on the trigger guard but you're a little off on the dust cover stitch line.  Again, nice job.

Scootch

[lansacoder]

Looks nice!   I think the main thing is not having your slots too far away from your gun.  I try to keep my slots fairly perpendicular to my belt, but I’ve only made a handful of holsters.  Trying my first wallet tonight!

[VikingKong]

I really appreciate the compliments and all the input!  When I made these, I do so by using 2 layers of 4oz leather for the front and back.  I've had holsters in the past that were made with 8-9 oz. leather and the inside was always really rough.

[JLSleather]

On 11/6/2021 at 5:11 PM, VikingKong said:

I incorporated a 20-degree cant on these.  Is there a better/more comfortable angle I should consider?

YOU tell US.  Try on your rig, see how it feels.  Personally think 15 is enough on longer barrel lengths -- sometimes more like 20 with shorter barrels.