Want my holsters more rigid

[Go2Tex]

While making straps I discovered that sometimes the straps turned out nice and firm. Turns out I was actually compressing the fibers through the process of splitting the straps while slightly wet. Then I learned that this is a process that can be done with any piece. You wet the piece and allow it to dry a bit. As the color begins to return, you compress the fibers with a slicker, rubbing it down firmly.

So, part of the secret of firm leather is to buy it that way, usually strap leather is split down and comes out firmer or using a crank splitter yourself or by rubbing it down while slightly wet.

[Calleather]

10mm,

If the holster is lined, the lining and glue will stiffen it up. A lot of the professional holster makers are heat pressing the leather while wet around an aluminum mold with a hydraulic press. The dyed holsters are dipped, left to dry then sprayed with a finish. Oiled holsters are wiped with oil then hit with harness dressing. Hope this helps a little.

[MaxxEmpire]

I agree that Hermann Oak leather makes a huge difference. I use nothing but Hermann Oak for my masks which must be self supporting in their stiffness. I also coat the interior with a thinned tanners bond.

[Kevin]

The man that used to own Campbell Bosworth used an ammonia and water mixture for stiffening, but I don't remember the percentages. Kevin