Cas City Forum Hall & CAS-L
CAS TOPICS => The Leather Shop => Topic started by: Marshal Will Wingam on May 21, 2008, 12:04:32 PM
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A question that has come up a few times recently is what the various types of holsters look like. Basically, without a skirt or strap to hold the holster to the belt loop, you have a California style or Slim Jim.
If the holster has a flap of leather behind the pouch and the pouch is held to it with a strap, it's a skirted holster. If the strap is cut out of the skirt rather than being sewn or riveted on, it's a Mexican Loop.
Pros and historians, feel free to correct me if my descriptions are incorrect. I'll be glad to change my post so the information is accurate if needed.
Let's post pics of the different styles we have made so others can understand the terminology and get ideas from them. Don't be shy about posting a style that has been already posted because it will help clarify things and provide more ideas.
I'll start off with a Slim Jim, ±1870-1875, followed by a Cheyenne style holster, ±1890-1900.
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This is a Dodge City style holster, similar to one made 1878-1880:
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A couple olive pattern Mexican Loops, loosely similar to one made 1880-1885.
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Mexican Loop, approx 1885-1895
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THanks Marshal Will,
That is some good edjumacation! ;D ;) :o ;D [I was a history teacher, NOT a spelling teacher. :o ::) ;D ;D ]
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Marshall Will, There isn't a whole lot more that can be said, except :o :o :o :o :o
AWESOME,AWESOME,AWESOME,AWESOME,AWESOME :o :o :o
I am sad :( because I am 52 years old, and I won't live long enough to ever make that quialty of work! But because of you guys on this board I am getting better, And I have NEVER ENJOYED a hobby more that this one!!! It also has a lot to do with the Pards on here that are so helpfull.
There is nothing more frustrating when getting into a new hobby and there is no one to help you with problems!
BUT NOT HERE!!!! You ask and you recieve!! All I think about day and night is building holsters!!!
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.
ACE
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Thanks, pards.
OK, I know some of you pros have great examples of types of holsters 'cause I've seen them on the forum and your websites. This isn't limited to pros, either, there are good representations made by many of you. There are a whole lot of styles I haven't any examples of. We need a lot more styles represented plus some more of the ones I've already put up here so start posting those pics. Flap holsters, half-skirts, early transitional Mexican loops, skeleton rigs, fringe holsters and some of those West Texas pieces not to mention the more modern ones like a Texas jockstrap or some of the more interesting Hollywood rigs. Lets make this a good reference thread.
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I rummaged around in my junk box and found this example of a more modern holster with a partial skirt and a keeper. The seam is gusseted with 3 layers of 8-9oz leather.
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Here's a West Texas style that I've posted before.
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Thanks Santee. Keep 'em coming, pards. :D
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Will:
I know how to put pix in a post, but don't know how you're all getting the small thumbnail pix with enlarging link.
Can you help?
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Make sure you use the attach option and it does the rest for you (providing the size of it is 100kb)
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Dave, here's a thread that'll explain it completely:
Posting Photos (http://www.cascity.com/forumhall/index.php/topic,15416.0.html)
Looking forward to your pics.
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Thanks.
As they say, everything's easy once you know how the trick is done. ;)
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Here ya are Marshall Wingham,
Here are a couple a southern plains holsters from Texas and Oklahoma around the late 1870's -80's. The top one is actually the second one I started and the bottom one is still a work in progress. I had to alter the pattern to fit my "51 Colt civilian. The first one is slightly bigger and fits my Remington. Now.....off to sew the toe plug and finish the Remmy holster. ;D
(http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d133/lennowenoxie/P5290010.jpg)
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:D :D :D Howdy Horse Pen Henry
Will this calls for a WOW & a BEAUTIFUL, you are quit an artist Pard, your holsters are AWSOME, to say the least, I love the patterns you used, and the way they fit your guns , your stamping looks to be perfect, WELL DONE PARD, ::) :o :D 8)
tEN wOLVES ;) :D ;D
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Thanks Ten Wolves,
I am getting ready ta make a slim jim holster for the '51 Colt as well. Ya know these gals like ta try on a different dress now and again. ;D I am almost afraid ta make a saddle. If saddle making is as addictive as holster makin' then I'll be wantin' one a each a them too. Dern this leather workin' is a hoot!!!
X Horse Pen
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Those look really good, X-Pen. I really like the way you carried out the stamping. That's a good looking pattern, too. I like the abrupt recurve on them. Many thanks for the pics. It really helps show the style, not to mention your fine workmanship. Yeah, this stuff does get addictive. I'm designing my new holsters and there are so many ideas I want to use but they won't all fit in one rig. I guess I'll need two rigs, then. ;D
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Ya know it's not REALLY a Slim Jim unless it is at least 7" long!
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And don't forget the ever popular Duke style.
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Ya know it's not REALLY a Slim Jim unless it is at least 7" long!
Yeah, my Slim Jim is almost there. It's about 1/8" short of holding a 7" pistol. I guess I'll have to make amends on my next pair. ;D
Nice photos, pard. Thanks for adding to the thread with them.
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Here is one I just finished> not sure what to call it< sort of a hollywood rig I suppose> It is an offside or crossdraw with a 28 degree tilt and is buckskin laced.
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That's good, GB. It's the first crassdraw we have here. Also it's a good example of a laced seam. Thanks.
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Here's a long and short skeleton-style shoulder rig....
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... and an Olive pattern and skirted DA holster.
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Great looking holsters Dave!!
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Please explain the Olive in Olive pattern?? Thats a new one on me. Thanks. Good looking examples all. DM
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DM:
The Olive Pattern holster was a middle-late period style named primarily for the oval or "olive" shape of the backskirt. It was made to fit any number of models in its day, but the olive-shaped skirt is primarily the defining characteristic.
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Great additions, Dave. More beautiful work. :D Thanks for the pics.
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Howdy Gents
Back in the 60's an old friend of mine named Tex gave me his 1886 S&W safty grip, 5 shot hammerless 38 cal. 4 " barrel, and nickle plated 5 shooter, along with it a fancy carved and laced Mexican single loop holster, he said he carried it on a dress belt when he would travel, and that the gun or the holster had very little use, he said back then you didn't want to be caught on the road or in a new town without being armed. anyhow this holster is either from the late 1800's or very early 1900's, I thought you all might get a kick out of seeing it, the pard that made this really did an excellant job in carving and lacing this holster. For being as old as it is , it has survived very well, i've had the gun and holster in a gun case for over 40 years, and it shows no sign of rotting, drying out or cracking, I can only hope my stuff will do as well.
tEN wOLVES ;) :D ;D
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Dang 10W, that looks great! Almost like it was made recently! What style would that be?? DM
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Howdy Dalton
The closest I can think of is the Mexican one loop variation, I think it was either made in the late 1800's or early 1900's, it doesn't look to have any hard use at all , and my friend told me he only wore it when he would travel, to see it in person, you would think it was a newly made holster, even the inside of the holster is clean, but he didn't keep his gun oiled to speak of, so that would acount for it not being dirty because the gun is nickle the inside stayed clean. the holster will only take a 1 to 1 1/4 " pant belt, he said he wore under a suit /sport coat or causual jacket, it's small enough to work very well this way.
tEN wOLVES ;) :D ;D
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Pure Function -
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??? ::) ??? ::) A sleep at the wheel again, i appoligize to to all you pards that have posted pics of those AWESOME RIGS, i posted way way back there, and then I guess i got lost!
All I can say is that everyone of those holster are ecellent, and you all need to be pround of your selfs!
I hope everyone except my apoligies for getting in on this late! I love looking at you all work, and I praise those for there talent, and evry rig posted so far is AWESOME.
ACE
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Thanks for the additions, pards. I agree that it was nice work on that laced rig, 10W.
Icebox Bob, thanks for the example of a half-flap holster. We're getting a good collections of examples, here. This is a good thread for ideas.
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:) :)MW, you are right, I am greatly thank full for all of you that have posted, it realy help people like me that are learning!
ACE
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Hidy Marshall,
Here's a holster I'm working on and I just stuck it together to show the style variation. It is not really a Slim Jim so what style is it? A flap holster with the flap bent backwards?
(http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d133/lennowenoxie/P8080079.jpg)
(http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d133/lennowenoxie/P8080082.jpg)
(http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d133/lennowenoxie/P8080083.jpg)
Send me ta school...
X Horse Pen
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Horse Pen I know that it is a work in progress,but that sir is damn fine work.Cant wait to see her when shes done. Adios Sgt. Jake
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Wow, X-pen. I like it. Nice, deep recurve. Good stamping pattern giveing it a turn-of-the-century look. As to what style, I don't know, but I've made some like that for my Rugers to carry out in the mountains. How about a quarter-skirt holster for lack of anything better to call it? Maybe someone will have an idea of the style beyond that. Whatever it is, it looks good. I really like that border pattern. Do you have a close-up of that to put on the border thread?
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Howdy Pards,
Horsepen...nice looking holster for sure...It looks like a modified 49er design. I have a gun rig with two modified 49er holsters very similar to this one. Check out page 42 of Show us your stuff.
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Thanks for the input fellas. This pattern was initially started because of a picture in one a my books of a double rig made for colt conversions that are in a museum somewheres but no date was given and the holsters were set up just like this with a concho and bleed knot just like this. When making this pattern I used some a Will G and some a Chuck Burrows and some a outrider and some a me to fill in the personal preference stuff a fella just has to include. I told ya that you guys are a bad influence on me. ;D
This rig will have ho'made silver conchos on it when I get it finished. That is the plan anyways. :-\ I reckon we'll see what comes of it.
I like the quarter skirt name for these.
Many thanks,
X Horse Pen
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Ya Done good Little Brother!
Here's a set of skirtless holsters I just re-finished to match the belt......I like the style a lot - sort of a best of both worlds approach - better grip on the belt with less flop than a Slim jim, but the grace and minimalist appeal of the SLim Jim.....
[edit:link to image lost]
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HP,
That is AWESOME, but I expect no less from you!! Your work is super neat, nice lines, love the design, Great Job.
One thing about it, when i get down because of my stupid back, I can come here a see something great and it helps me threw the day!
HP Thanks for sharing!
CB, as allways :o you just keep on rockin!!! I only hope I can make stuff like you guys do, even if it is the last day of my life, I will be able to go out of this world saying I DID IT!!
Yours guys and I do mean all of you, Inspire me so much! :) It has been a little slow on the board here lately, and I thought maybe everyone was on vaction!! I know why TW hasn't been doing much, he is hurting bad, but I think is going to get his Surgey real soon!
And I know that all you, are like me, you wish him a speedy recovery!
ACE
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Another fine rig, Chuck. Truly outstanding work, as usual. I also like the simplicity of the design, it works well with the style of holster. Thanks for the pics.
I may have to re-think my next set of Slim Jims. Quarter skirt, skirtless, 49er. All descriptions of the same basic holster. Does anyone know when that style came into being?
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Marshall Will, it appears that these holsters started poppin' up around the late 1860's with the conversion Colt's and Remmies. I found the citation in Single Action Revolvers by Jack Lewis. I have had this book for years and I still like this style of holster. Just now gettin' around to makin' 'em up. If you have this book look at page 230 in the top left hand corner. It says under the picture,"Two - gun holster set is intended for a pair of Colt .44 Richards conversion revolvers. Slim Jim holsters are still in excellent condition, construction and fit." I wish I could share the picture included for you fellas that don't have the book. However, I might add to this statement my own observations, that the holsters are hanging on a money belt. These may very well be later holsters built for an old die hard that kept using his conversions up into the 1880's. Heck, who knows fer sure.
That's a mighty fine example of this style Chuck. Beautiful work right there, buddy. I like them for the reasons you stated.
X Horse Pen
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Thanks for the information, X-pen. I don't have that book so I'll need to look for a copy. You may be right about the dating of the holster. After all, look at us, we're a good example of die hards using old stuff. ;D
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You may be right about the dating of the holster. After all, look at us, we're a good example of die hards using old stuff. ;D
;D Ya have a good point there, Marshall.
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MW, Hp, & others,
Isn't that part of what makes this so exciting? Is doing it the way our for fathers did!! Yes we have some big advantages but still if you get down to it, doing with everything you can make yourself is part of the fun!!
It is so exciting to make a dye or make a tool or look at a pic form the 1800's and make it work!
I am still a newbie and will be for a long time!! :) But when i make something look like the pic or close and I used my own stuff, I can look at it and say WOW I did THAT :o
I am in no way in you Pards Class, but you all have taught me so much (just like raising a child) you all have taken me buy the hand and helped me long! And that is also a great part of this is having so many mentors willing to help!! Instead of bad mouthing a person work , you guys are the greatest because your honest, and in a nice manner you so a person little things that make there work better!! Anyone that can't take honest citastion (bad spelling) has a problem!! I want to know when I have made a mistake and correct it!
Thanks for being part of my life!!
ACE
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One piece of provenance for this concept can be found in the Indian Wars military. Basically a "Slim Jim" type (modified from flap) holster with the back side folded backward and stitched/riveted to the pouch itself (sans loop) was submitted and called the "Gaston modification."
Evidence that this style was being created during the period. I have made several holsters with that kind of belt attachment.
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One piece of provenance for this concept can be found in the Indian Wars military. Basically a "Slim Jim" type (modified from flap) holster with the back side folded backward and stitched/riveted to the pouch itself (sans loop) was submitted and called the "Gaston modification."
Evidence that this style was being created during the period. I have made several holsters with that kind of belt attachment.
Thanks for the information, Dave. Do you happen to have any photos or drawings of a holster with the Gaston modification?
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Gaston modification, huh? Thanks Dave. I reckon these holsters are Gaston Quarter Holsters then? ;D
I'll look that Gaston fella up on the web.
X Horse Pen
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I did a search online but "Gaston" only netted a bunch of Glock stuff.
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Well fellas....I just couldn't do it. I tried and tried and just didn't like it good enough to put a concho on my holsters. Saddles, headstalls, even spur straps, but I just couldn't bring myself to do it to a holster. Anyways......here's where I wound up. My other pistol that matches this'n will be here in another coupla weeks or so. Here's the finished holsters except more waxing.
(http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d133/lennowenoxie/P8110086.jpg)
Cheers,
X Horse Pen
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Hey HorsePen,
Way cool!! I'm having to lean back to keep the drool off of the keyboard! :o ;D
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very nice rig the spots set if off a treat and i love the color very rich and even, Don
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OK, that rig is truly outstanding, X-pen. Fine work and a good idea to start with. The small amount of shiny on the dark leather is a great look. Just enough to bring it alive. What did you use for the color?
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::) :o Beautiful HorsePen, and Classy too, Well done Pard. ::) 8)
tEN wOLVES ;) :D ;D
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Thankee boys a bunch for the good words. Marshall, I really don't know what I used specifically. It wasn't coffee or walnuts yet though. I used a mix of Fiebing's alcohol based dyes to make this color. Browns, Tans, and english Tan, all mixed up in a big milk jug. I soak the leather in it after I have it sewn up and that pretty well gets it all in the leather pretty even. I let it dry in the sun before I Hi-Liter it. Then sun it some more to make sure it is completely dry before I EVOO it. Still gotta wax 'em yet in a few days. I like to let the EVOO even out real good first.
Many thanks,
X Horse Pen
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:o :o HP,
AWESOME Bud, they look out of this world!!!! :) As I stated earlier, I expect no less of your work! And everyone has there own thing! I see where you are coming from on the Concho's, they were a realy a 1800's practice to much degree! But I have to use them to give my stuff a little flare, Since I lack deeply in the art part of our great hobbie!
Just killer job!!
See Ya
Your friend
ACE
Now I know why you never came and saw me, is because I put concho's on my stuff :( :( :)
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OK, X-pen, if I mix up all the partial bottles of different colors lying around, I'll have it. I can do that. ;D
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Really Nice HorsePen,
The belt looks great too with the small amount of spots looks real clean.
So If'n we just mix a bunch of stain together we get our holsters to look that good.....nah.
You have your own style and it looks great.
Keep showing us more so we can drool at yours like we drool at Chucks.
Thanks
Johnny Dingus
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:o Horsepen you are the master of the basket stamp. And that color is off the scale man. Truly a work of art.....!!
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Marshall, I'm laughing with ya, but yep, that's about it fer the recipe. I am working toward a color which is rich as this color but a bit redder of a brown. Look at the holster in the front cover fold of Packin' Iron and you'll see what I mean. I don't mind this color but eventually I will get that perticular color figgered out. I'll just keep monkeyin' with it.
Johnny and Gun Butcher, those are real compliments right there. Thank ya kindly.
Watchyerhair,
X Horse Pen
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;D I just remembered I have an ol' bottle of fiebings ox blood that has been aging in the glass.. as they say.. for about 10 years I might have to give your well balanced and highly scimantific formula a try with my own little twist. ;)
Gun Butcher
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Ya Done good Little Brother!
Here's a set of skirtless holsters I just re-finished to match the belt......I like the style a lot - sort of a best of both worlds approach - better grip on the belt with less flop than a Slim jim, but the grace and minimalist appeal of the SLim Jim.....
[edit:link to image lost]
This is a fantastic rig!!! I think I've found what I'm looking for. I don't know if this rig was rare or not, but it surely is something I've never seen before. The conchos are an extremely nice touch! PM or e-mail me and we can arrange the details for it's make up.
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Email sent Dispatch........
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Very nice as usual, HorsePen. Good job.
As to the Gaston mod, fellas, I remember coming across that in a book about military leather etc. from the period. Can't remember now what I was researching at the time, but that's where it was. The book in question belongs to fellow NCOWS'er and shooting pard "GW Schofield" (Steve Coop). Next time I'm over there, I'll see if I can find it again.
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Thanks, Dave. I appreciate your looking. Don't put yourself out or anything but if it happens along, it would be good to see. I like the idea because I've often thought about making a holster with the flap ( greatly cut-down skirt) folded back and sewn to the holster rather than put a loop on it. It would be nice to have it look historically correct.
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Will
Thanks for your welcome.
You have a nice holster by Rice of Dodge City that is held to the skirt by rivets. What size of rivet is that? And what size of rivet would be authentic for billet and chape?
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Not sure if X Pen will get to this thread for a while, so maybe someone else could let me know what they do.
He says he lets the holsters soak in the dye after he's stitched them up. Any thoughts on how long, or if he rubs them down real good at first, or if he turns them occasionally?
I'm expermenting with various colors right now, so I will throw a small piece in some dye to see how it compares with just a brisk rub.
One thing for sure, some of you guys: Chuck B, Will, X Pen, (And others I'm sure) have the dye/finish part of this craft down. It really gives me somthing to shoot for, no pun intended! Thanks, JD
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You have a nice holster by Rice of Dodge City that is held to the skirt by rivets. What size of rivet is that? And what size of rivet would be authentic for billet and chape?
Thanks, Mike. I use #14 copper rivets. I got 3/4" length and after I tap the burr on, I cut them to the right length and set them. I use the same rivets on all stuff on a rig that need them but as to what's historically correct, I really don't know. I just figure that if it looks like the right size, it probably is. Perhaps one of the other pards on this forum will know the answer to that.
JD, I like to turn my piece in the dye occasionally so it doesn't get light spots where it contacts the container. With spirit dyes, it doesn't take much to get the color but on the walnut or pecan dyes, where it needs to be in for a few days. Then I turn it every few hours.
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Thanks for that info Will. I was all set to do some dye testing last week, then I got a request to officiate an out of state funeral. That cost me about 3 days total, and set me back a bit on any hobby time.
I'm casing some leather right now. I want to practice some stamping, then I can see what the dye looks like on stamped as well as untouched leather.
Thanks again, JD
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I'm casing some leather right now. I want to practice some stamping, then I can see what the dye looks like on stamped as well as untouched leather.
That's a good idea. I practice and try out new things on scraps. Then I use the scraps to test my dyes. That way I know how the dye penetrates around the cuts and stamping.
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I use #14 copper rivets. .......but as to what's historically correct, I really don't know.
IIRC #14's were what was required by the US Military during the latter half of the 19the Century and is the size I've seen most commonly used on civilian gun leather.
#9 and #12 were common on horse gear and were at times used on gun leather so aren't completely "wrong"
BTW - who are you getting your #14's from Will?
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Thanks for the information, Chuck.
I think I got them from J. Leahy Co. I think Will Ghormley steered me to them. I just checked the link I have stored but they don't show #14's listed right now. http://www.rjleahy.com/Store/rivets/crvbl.htm (http://www.rjleahy.com/Store/rivets/crvbl.htm).
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Thanks a whole lot, Will and Chuck, for the info on rivets.
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A question for belt-makers.
There are two types of clipped-corner buckles - those that have angled corners inside the buckle as well, and those that don't. Those with the angled corners inside can chafe the billet; I'd like to get hold of the other sort.
Yes, I know that Tandy do a chap buckle that looks right but for my taste it's a little flimsy, a little underweight.
Do any of you vaqueros out there know of a source for buckles of this type?
May I also say what a pleasure it is to find a forum where so much wonderful work - and advice - is on call.
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I'm getting ready to make my variation of the slim jim holster for my 1860 Armys.
If I'm making a mistake someone yell loud.
I plan on the trigger guard being completely exposed with a double welt for the front of the trigger guard to rest on. The leather will then curve up over the cylinder and down in front exposing the hammer.
Next possible mistake. I'm using an 8-9 oz "horse butt" piece of leather and plan on lining it with 3 oz. calf.
What say you all?
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Howdy Gents ;D
This is a variation of a Cheyenne holster, it has a 3/4 length skirt, and a longer drop from the belt and a muzzle to the rear cant, and open toe, this was my first try at carving.
The second holsters are also a Cheyenne holsters, these holsters were dyed in natural walnut die, they have a toe plug, and a muzzle to the rear slight cant.
tEN wOLVES
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What great looking carving!! Be proud!! ;D
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(http://sdough.smugmug.com/photos/239338678_obedJ-M.jpg)
(http://sdough.smugmug.com/photos/254332444_ZRkcY-M.jpg)
Greetings to the fire.
Please allow me a little leeway here pards, I too like Ace regret not persuing the leather crafting back when I FIRST started doing it back in the early '70's, I let it go due to other interests and now my hands aren't up to it due to severe VERY severe arthritis. I also can't finish learning the guitar...but I am keeping spirits up anyways. I lurk this forum all the time, and there are some real craftsmen here, and no matter your degree of skill you are making something you can use..My hat is off to each of you.
That said I would like to submit some of my holsters made by my friend Paul Combest in Kentuckey (RedDog Leather)
This first one is a double crossdraw (all to my request) and I always have him make me an extra strongside at the same time. Anyways it is doublecross on a modified Fair Weather Christian belt with no loops and a cartridge pouch. He already had done the knife sheath.
He patterned the holster and carving from one on the inside cover of Packin Iron.
When I order a rig from Paul (and he has done many for me) I always leave the tooling to his creatitivity. He always comes thru with a good design, and he really knows what I like..
Thanks for your patience with a "lurker" and hope you enjoy some of Paul's work.
good "toolin"
curley
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Howdy Gents ;D
This is a rig I designed, it has a low riding left strong side holster, that is a straight up and down draw, no cant, with cut away upper bucket for easy in and out, the upper bucket on both holsters are rolled out a little to make reholstering a lot easier, the cross draw is at a 28 degree angle, and belt is 3" wide with lots of bullet loops.
The second rig is one I designed for my hunting Ruger Blackhawk 44 mag., it also has a 28 degree cant and is a cross draw. I made the belt 2" wide, and then made bullet and shotgun slides for the belt, this belt has two purposes, one for hunting and the other as a shotgun shell belt for CAS. The finish is neatsfoot oil and then Neat-lac.
tEN wOLVES ;) :D ;D
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Howdy again
This is a rig I made for my Ruger New Model Vaquero's, it's a money belt with full bullet loops, the holsters are made from 23 to 15 ounce saddle skirting, and have open toes, the holsters are at a slight muzzle forward forward cant, the holsters were finished in Neatsfoot oil and the Skidmores leather cream as a final finish.
The next rig is a antiqued money belt and two strong side holsters with straight or no cant, the holsters are lined, the belt is adorned with concho's and the holsters are done in spots, with a basket weave in the center, the holsters have a 3/4 length skirt and a slight drop in the belt loop, this was a natural walnut dye, and finished with Tan-Kote and then Skidmores as a final finish.
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Howdy All
These are two holsters I made , they are Cheyenne style, with sewed in toe plugs, basket weave centers, and concho's on the loops, there is no cant on the belt, they were done in Chocolate brown from Fiebings spirit dyes, these holsters are also lined, the finish is Neatsfoot oil and then Skidmores as a final finish, The knife sheath is not sewed but is riveted with spots as decorations.
The next rig is a Jesse James, two strong side holsters that can be worn as cross draw also, there is no cant to these holsters, the finish is Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and then Skidmores as a final finish, the belt is textured and is 2 1/2" wide.
tEN wOLVES ;) :D ;D
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Howdy TW
You keep this up and you're gonna have more holsters than I do. :)
Good lookin work. You make me proud.
WC
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Howdy All ;D
This is a holster I made for a S&W mountain gun, in 44 mag. the owner wanted a holster so he could wear it on a 1 1/2" belt as well as a 2 3/4" wide belt, and he didn't want it sloppy, but he wanted it to look like it had been around for a while, not antiqued but used and well kept, so I made a wide loop for the wider belt and then some slits in the back for the narrower belt to fit through,I also made this holster to rid high and still be easily drawn, by putting a grip forward cant on the holster, then I put a tension screw in around the trigger guard to add to the stability and strength of the holster, the holster was dyed in natural walnut dye, and then a coat of Lexoil conditioner, then a couple coats of Neatsfoot oil, and a finish coat of Skidmores leather cream.
The next holster is for a S&W 38 five shot hammer less 4" barreled revolver, the holster was made in Mexico, at either the end of the 1800's or early 1900's, it is like new and I've had it for 45 years now it is tooled and laced instead of sewed, I don't think it was used much, it was given to me by an old friend, and the gun was made in 1886, the same year my Granddad was born.
tEN wOLVES ;) ;D
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Howdy All it's me again ;D
This is a Dodge City holster I made, I made two but I'll only show one, the holsters are unlined, they were tooled and then stained in Fiebings walnut stain, mixed with Neatsfoot oil until I got the color I wanted, instead of using rivets on the loop, I chose to go with some real small concho style rivets,the finish is Extra Virgin Olive oil, and then a coat of Skidmores leather cream.
The last picture is of some Cheyenne variant style holster with 3/4 length skirts basket stamped and adorned with nickle plated over brass spots, one is unlined the other two lined.the one in the center has a cut down bucket at the top for easier draw and reholster, and is a cross draw style. All these holsters were finished in Extra Virgin Olive oil, and then Skidmores as a final treatment.
tEN wOLVES ;) :D ;D
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:D Thanks WC, you know I had a great Teacher and Mentor ;D
tEN wOLVES ;) :D ;D
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Howdy TW,
Now I have this big wet spot on my shirt from drooling over that holster for the lemon squeezer!! I have the New Departure, but seriously NEED that holster to go with it!! ::) ;) ;D ;D That all works just perfectly together. Ya done real good!!
The others are most excellent as well, but that one is the grabber for me!
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Man oh Man, where to start! PART 1
Curley Cole, your pard has done excellent work, no doubt. I like the fact the the holster-belt color matches the grip color. I do have a question maybe you can help me with.
I've read the term "Fairweather Christian Belt" but I can't seem to nail down what elements make up such a belt. There's probalby more than one answer, but I'd sure like to at least hear a generalization. I know the era it comes from, but that's about it.
Very nice work overall, great color, thanks for Sharing, JD
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JD,
Check this link out!
http://www.cascity.com/forumhall/index.php?action=search2
Should be of some help.
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Thanks Doc, I will sure do that!
Well, after following that thread out, I want to retract my question about "Fairweather Christian Belts" 'cause I sure don't want to stir up a hornet's nest.
My interest comes from being a pastor for the last 30 years or so. I know what Fairweather Christian means in my vocation, so I was a little curious how it applied to a gun belt.
I will drop it lest I offend, which would not be my intention. Thanks to all, JD
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Howdy Dr. Bob
Thanks for the kind words Pard, and your right that holster for the lemon squeezer is a peach for sure.
TW ;) :D ;D
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Nice leather, Curley. He really does do good work. Thanks for sharing those with us.
Holey Shamoley, 10W! I don't know where to start. Really good work, there. I like your first tooling, too. It has a very authentic look to it. When do you sleep? Got any coffee left after all that? ;D Thanks for the pics.
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Howdy Will ;D ;D ;D
Will I finely got around to putting these pictures in this thread, I remember when you started this thread and ask us to post our pictures on this thread, but time has a way of getting away from you, so when the thread came up again , I promised myself to get with it. as far as the coffee goes, there was a lot drank during this time frame for sure, I figured I might as well do the whole nine yards and get it done, and I did.
This is a good topic, because there is so many different variant's to each style holster, that's one of the things I love about leather craft, especially the western side of it, we can change things around just a little and get a totally different look, it just keeps me inspired to do and more, and with all the talent we have here in this forum, the inspiration keeps flowing each day, I look forward to getting on the PC and going to CAS CITY FORUM every day to see whats new and all the information that is being given out on just about every subject there is about leather, can't beat this with a stick..... ::) ;D 8)
Thanks Marshal Will Wingum for a great forum :D ;D
tEN wOLVES ;) :D
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http://www.willghormley-maker.com/FrankJames.html
JD
I am not sure how the term really came about but it was used as a discription of the military belt used around the civil war.
Here is a link to Will Ghormleys page of his copy of Frank James rig (you can see the original at the Autry museum I believe)
I used the term to discribe what I wanted as I knew Paul would know what it was that I wanted.
Hope that helps some, if I find more info I will pass it along..
curley
PS 10W reallly sweet rigs..
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After a "quick" search this was the best definition I could find:
Cartridge Belts in the Army
The United States Army continued to issue cartridge pouches, but the men in the front lines invented their own cartridge belt. It was a variant on the Army-issue saber belt, but with leather loops sewn on it sized for the Sharpe's .45-70 cartridge used by the cavalry. It was dubbed the "Fairweather Christian" belt.
In the American southwest, untreated brass cartridges that were wrapped in leather for days on end had a problem with the development of verdigris--a patina of copper sulfite that would develop on the surface of the cartridges as a reaction to the salts used in the curing process of the leather. As a result, some Fairweather Christian belts had canvas loops sewn on the leather belts, and soon the service saw the introduction of solid canvas "prairie" belts and Mills belts.
Hope that helps
curley
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:-[ Howdy Curley
You know with all the posting I did with my stuff today, I missed your post of your two rigs, nice work, your friend is quit a leather worker for sure, I think most of your holsters come from him don't they?, he did a real nice job on the carving on the slim jims, and the finish on all the leather is nice too, thanks for sharing. Sorry I missed your post earlier :-[ :-[ :-[ ::) :o :( I'm happy to hear you're enjoying your retirement Pard. :D ;D
tEN wOLVES ;) :D ;D
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Howdy TW,
Outstanding! That is a great collection of beautiful leather work! I really love the variety of styles.... all done with excellent workmanship and design.
Many thanks for sharing your talents with us and your wonderful contributions to CAS City.
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Man oh Man PART 2 10 Wolves
I was surprised you didn't respond to my comments & questions yesterday about your excellent rigs. I realized this morning it didn't post after I wrote it. That's happened before, MY BAD No Doubt!
Overall everything is excellent. I really appreciate your work, your pictures, and the details you add. They are a great source of inspiration and information. I hope you don't mind a few specific comments and questions.
The first rig has great color & finish. Could you comment on that, and what, if anything do you do to keep the finish from rubbing off the inside of the belt?
The rig you made for the NM Vaqueros looks awesome. Could you clarify the weight of the leather? I didn't realize you could get that kind of color without dye, just Neatsfoot and Skidmores, really great.
The carving and color-finish on the Jesse James rig is really great. I've applied EVOO & Skidmores, but I sure don't get that look with my leather. No dye, correct?
Your work makes me want to head to California and spend a week with WC! I know you've spent a lot of time developing your craft, and it sure shows.
Thanks, JD
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Beautiful carving, Ten Wolves. Awesome.
Curley - does verdigris affect modern veg tanned leather, or was it just earlier forms of tanning?
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Hello JD
As far as posting goes, don't feel bad, I've done the same thing, you spend the time writing a reply, and then forget to push the submit ,( LOL ) The answer to your first question, if you are talking about the natural walnut dyed Cheyenne holsters I posted just before Curley, the only finish on the holsters is the home made walnut dye, which I let the holsters sit covered in the dye all sewed for five days, then Lexoil for a conditioner after the leather had totally dryed,( I also did my wet molding after taking them out of the dye),after the Lexoil dried ( about 2 hours ) I put on only two light coats of EVOO, and they darken without having to put them in the sun, so I didn't put anymore EVOO on them, I finished them in Skidmores Leather cream, the belt is 4 to 5 ounce brown oil tanned leather, you don't do anything to this kind of leather at all, the bullet loops and belt billets were finished before sewing them on, this type of leather makes great chaps also, but really works well as a money belt,.
Now if your talking about the picture just after Curleys, the inside is treated with just Neatsfoot oil, and then sprayed a light coat of Neat-lac, the color was a light tan, it turned this color after oiling too heavy with Neatsfoot oil, this is something you have to watch, and something I have learned along the way, even WC has this happen to him when trying to get an exact color.
JD the leather I used for the New Model Vaquero rig is out of 13 to 15 ounce saddle skirting, I just wanted to try this thick leather and see how it worked, the Cheyenne holster that I made on the picture before Curleys is also out of the same thick leather, the one on top of Packing Iron. the belt is the same oil tanned money belt, all the veg tanned leather is finished in Neatsfoot oil and a last treatment of Skidmores leather cream, this thick saddle skirting made some really nice holsters, and they're strong, and once wet formed they stay put. When I oil if I'm trying to get different shades, I will use a paint brush and put more oil in areas that I want shaded darker, it works well for me and adds a nice look of aging to your leather.
On the Jesse James rig I finished the leather in EVOO, I did a few light coats with SUN TANNING in between coats untill I achieved the color and tone /shade I was after, when I finish leather now, I take more time in the finishing process, this allows you to have more control over your work piece. the last thing I do after my leather is totally dry, is to apply Skidmores as a final treatment.
In regards to learning from CowboyWC, he's a great Pard and I consider myself a lucky pard to have him as a friend.
Howdy Mike
Thanks for your comment Pard, you can get VERDIGRIS from veg-tan leather too, I had it happen to me, but it's slower to happen than other leather, just remember your bullet loops aren't for storing ammo, only use your loops when you need them or for looks, but take them out and put them back in the box at the end of the day, I'm not saying you would be in trouble if you didn't for a few days, but it's easy to forget , and then time goes by and you could be in trouble it doesn't happen overnight and veg-tan is the safest leather to use for this, just be careful and don't leave them in your belt too long.Nickel plated shell casings do a whole lot better than brass, and can be left in your belt for a longer time, I have a full set of dummy loads that are Nickel plated and they're just for this purpose.
Howdy Johnny
Thank you for your kind words Pard, talk to you later
Thanks to all for your comments, it is much appreciated
tEN wOLVES ;) :D ;D
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Thanks for taking the time to answer 10 Wolves, I appreciate the information, JD
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:D My pleasure JD
TW ;) :D ;D
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Howdy All ;D
I just finished up a couple of holsters that I copied mostly from my earlier post of a old holster for my 1886 S&W Lemon Squeezer, these holsters are for that time period, and for that type revolver, the dyes I used were all natural, the brown one was natural walnut dye, the black one was Vinegaroon, I used Lexoil on both holsters after the dye had dried as a Conditioner, I added some Fiebings stain that I blended with Neatsfoot oil to get the color I wanted on the brown holster, I used Gum traencanth, and Bag Kote, both were diluted to 40/60 distilled water, and a final coat of Skidmores Leather cream, and then buffed to a nice sheen.
Thanks for taking a look see :o ;D
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Howdy 10 W,
This one is a real looker too!! You are on a roll buddy!!! ;D ;D
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Howdy Dr. Bob ;D
Thanks for your kind words Pard, I just realized I didn't post the brown holster, so I made the correction, I appreciate your comment Pard.
tEN wOLVES ;) :D ;D
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Howdy TW
Great work.
WC
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Doggone nice, TW. The pedal stamp around the floral one really looks good. The braid makes a nice border, too. The brown one is just as nice. I like the way you tie the skirt to the holster with the thong, too. ;)
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Nice work, 10 W. Real period look. A question....
Do Lexol and Bag Kote darken leather when applied after dye? I'm looking for a way of finishing that doesn't change the color. Thanks in advance.
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Howdy Ten Wolves,
Beautiful job Pard! Great design and excellent workmanship! Many thanks for sharing your talents with us.
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Very nice, 10W. Good job on both.
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Howdy All :D
Thanks for your comments and nice things you all had to say about my leather work, Thanks CowboyWC,
Marshal Will,Skeeter Lewis,Johnny McCrae and Irish Dave ;) :D
tEN wOLVES ;) ;D
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Howdy Pards,
i would like to know how this thread got by me ??? but I am glad it did :) because I just 1 1/2 hr's ago started reading it, and admiring the Master Peices that has been displayed :o :o
Every peice I saw was inpirsation to me to change my idea on the way that I have looked at the leather work I have done! When I started, i traded a guy out of partical starter stamp kit! I joined here and was advise to get Al S. book on making holsters, and so I did. Went and got me some scrap leather form a leather guy, and made my first rig! It turn out so so, and did its job! But then I got in a hurry mind set ::) And I couldn't learn fast enough, or do enough!
After looking and reading and taking my time looking every peice over closely, I saw several flaws in my work :-[ :-[, that I didn't see in any of the work displayed, what I did see was lots and a lot more time, devotion, and perfection, in each peice! That is something I have lacked in my work! My last peice the S.H. for the Lemon Sqezzer was the best peice of leather work I had done! Why was it my best, I spent hours planning it out, and then many hours making it! Putting everything I had in to that peice!!
i want to thank each one of you that showed your work in this topic, for I took the time to look, and study, and it hit me right in the head!! It's like a lot of things I have done in my life, get it done, so I can get something else done!! No more old me! I want to do work like was displayed here!
Thanks everyone for the AWESOME peices you have shared, and by doing that, has opened my mind up to my flaws!
You all have a nice evening!
Thanks
ACE
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My very last work, not my best but!!!!
[edit:links to images lost]
The war is over. The cavalty man is mustered out and he kept his trusty Dance revolver when moving to the West to find a job, maybe, as many ancient cavalry me as a cowhand.
He cut off the flap of his military holster and used is as a slim jim one.
Here is for the history, I'll use it as a left hand holster together with a Colt 1860 strong handed.
This holster (may be a little too slim, but leather could have dried a little during the war) is patterned agafter a picture (right hand holster) in Military Holsters and pilstol cartidges boxes, p.74, with similar but not same decoration. The actual colour is darker as the leather is well oiled and the pic was too clear.
THe Colt holster is similar that Packing Iron page 94, bottom picture....
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Howdy Curly Red
Good looking holster, and it looks like a strong one too, your story is well written and adds a really nice touch to this thread, your Dance revolver is nice too, Thanks for sharing Pard. ;D
tEN wOLVES ;) :D ;D
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Howdy Curly,
Ten Wolves expressed my sentiments exactly. The story is perfect! Many thanks for sharing this with us.
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Looks good, Curly. You captured the ex-military look exactly right. Nice touch to leave the flap keeper on. Thanks.
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I don't know about that "Not by best effort" comment. The holster looks great to me!
Thanks for sharing, it's a good inspiration. I'm going to try a Slim Jim pretty soon, using one of WIll G's patterns.
Also, thanks for sharing the information on how things are in France regarding firearms and CAS. Very interesting.
JD
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Curley, I will have to agree with those comments made above! Awesome job, and a great story! Keep up the good work and thanks for sharing!
ACE
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I don't know about that "Not by best effort" comment. The holster looks great to me!
Thanks for sharing, it's a good inspiration. I'm going to try a Slim Jim pretty soon, using one of WIll G's patterns.
Also, thanks for sharing the information on how things are in France regarding firearms and CAS. Very interesting.
JD
Thanks to the whole gang for your appreciation.
It was a fast done project and a funny work without too much stamping (just along the seam and some rolling with a no 5 spacer on the middle of the body.
About WW2 holsters, the model 1916 for the Colt 1911 or 1911 A1 can be easily modified to one strap mexican holster. I've done that many years ago, A way to make a cheap holster with some surplus item (when done the surplus holsters were cheaper and less collectable than now)
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About WW2 holsters, the model 1916 for the Colt 1911 or 1911 A1 can be easily modified to one strap mexican holster. I've done that many years ago:
[edit:links to images lost]
I just discarded the brass button, the rear hanging device, the inner wooden block and oppened the bottom as I was using a 5 1/2" . Folded the flap rearward to be used as the belt slide and opened this flap around the "US" stamp to make the "mexican" band, with some scalloping done with a small punch around this band.
A way to make a cheap holster with some surplus item (when done the surplus holsters were cheaper and less collectable than now)
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Howdy All
This is a holster I just finished , it is a Mexican one loop variation with a wide skirt, adorned with brass and nickel spots and two concho's, the color was done with cold cowboy dark roast coffee, cooked over two days, the finish is distressed and made to look old and used, I used Chuck Burrows method for this, and it works really well, the leather is a 7/8 ounce veg-tan, I'm making a money belt two that will be used with it.
Thanks for stopping by and taking a look
tEN wOLVES ;) :D ;D
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Howdy Ten Wolves,
Simply Beautiful! You have created a museum piece and a work of art Pard!
Many thanks for sharing this with us
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This is the 49er holster completed. The spilled dye that lead to the darker overall color only helped (Yeah, you guys were right).
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Howdy Santee,
Very nice! Your Holster looks like something I've seen in "Packing Iron". Your lookin' good.
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Howdy Gents
Thanks for compliments on my holster Johnny it's much appreciated Pard. I posted it over here in the Variations thread so there would be easy access to the different styles.
Santee
Pard your holster looks great, really nice knife work, and the spelled dye just adds character to it, your finish looks good too.
tEN wOLVES ;) :D ;D
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Santee
very sharp lookin i love the design sitting here pacing back and forth waiting for the mail but none on sunday so ill have a hole in the floor by tomorrow waiting on your letter cant wait to get it and play with the design LOL
Cowboy316
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You two guys just knocked my socks off! :o ;D ;) Both of those holsters are beautiful!
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'ppreciate it, gents.
Cowboy316, I heard the stage was stopped by road agents up by Bloody Horse Basin. Hopefully them scalawags didn't make off with yer pattern.
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Santee, very nice looking leatherwork, the color came out great.
Wiley
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Thanks for adding that holster to this thread, TW. It has a nice look. The "blood" spots add character to it. Fine job, there.
Santee, that holster came our really beautiful. I like the color. You'll have to spill dye more often. Well done, pard.
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Howdy Santee
Very good lookin. The spilled dye worked.
WC
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Howdy Pards
I just finished my Slim Jim cross draw holster to go along with my Mexican one loop and money belt, I used 9/10 ounce veg-tan leather, I dyed it in my Cowboy dark roast coffee, and adorned it with brass spots and nickel spots the same as the other, and finished it the same way as the other, the wide money belt makes a real easy and comfortable way to carry a couple large six guns.
Regards
tEN wOLVES ;) ;D
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10 W,
Great looking rig there. Where ever you wear it, you'll set folks to drooling! ::) ;D ;)
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That's a fine rig, TW. I like the overall look with that coffee coloring. Good work.
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Marshal as a farley new member to sass almost a yr now and a amanture lether maker i would like to thank every one that this reaches you gentelman give suport to us that do not know and hope that are work is not in vain the people that iv met or more so or not read are some of the finist people in the world and i know people ive been in the transportation bussiness for over 35 yrs and meet a few i wont drage this out but thanks to all the pards out ther and Vaya con Dios
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Scary good stuff...Cool old holster Ten Wolves,i like that story. :)
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Thank you GCR, much appreciated pard
tEN
Missouri Half Breed, it's nice to have you joining in with us, we're glad to have you sit at the fire, so make yourself at home.
tEN wOLVES
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TW, that is some mighty fine leatherwork, Pard. I love the color and the design is perfect.
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50 yrs, or just starting in this fine hobby, these piks show the best of the best. A person can never get too good, there;s always something new out there that needs to be tried.
I was lucky enough to have a sidekick who coached me after 50 yrs. of this fine hobby, I learned a lot from him.
Never too old Pards ;D
M.Slick :)
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Very nice examples of different styles folks. For some reason, I didnt have a subscription to this topic, so have been missing a LOT of posts!
Good to see it all again.
DM
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This was the first rig I made, is a west Texas holster with a antique brown color
:) Boothill Bob :)
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Ooops... Here it is ;D
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Well Boothill Bob, I'd say you did a dandy job, for a first gun rig, the West Texas style was very popular, Well done pard. :D
tEN wOLVES ;D
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BH Bob, Great looking rig!! ;D :o ;D
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Nice WT rig, BH. Very good with that color.
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Great looking holster Bob. Not to fussy, I like that.
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Here ya are Marshall Wingham,
Here are a couple a southern plains holsters from Texas and Oklahoma around the late 1870's -80's. The top one is actually the second one I started and the bottom one is still a work in progress. I had to alter the pattern to fit my "51 Colt civilian. The first one is slightly bigger and fits my Remington. Now.....off to sew the toe plug and finish the Remmy holster. ;D
(http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d133/lennowenoxie/P5290010.jpg)
I love that style. Have u made the pattern your self or can i bye it somewere?
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Sent you a pm BB.
DM
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Bob -
I sent that pattern to HPH - I'll dig it out and send email a copy along with the other one we discussed.
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I have to clean virtually all my leather goods before I take pics. They have been stored for ten to twelve years. Been so much going on, funny how time slips by...
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Bob -
I sent that pattern to HPH - I'll dig it out and send email a copy along with the other one we discussed.
Thats sounds very nice Chuck, will be fun to make some outer holster ;D
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Great looking leather! Now . . . I have a question and am looking for suggestions. While many of the holsters shown are for C & B, SAA, etc. I am looking for suggestions for a style of a little later date. I have a Colt Army Special - 38 special with a 6 inch barrel - made in 1909. This model was the forerunner of the Colt Official Police - actually, the same revolver, just renamed. The Army Special was made from 1908 to 1927 and then renamed the Official Police after that. Mine was made in 1909. At any rate . . . . I winter in Arizona and I want to make a holster for it that would be appropriate for my pistol that would have been around in 1909. I have looked in Packing Iron - lots of good holsters but mainly for C & B, SAA, etc. Arizona was still a Territory in 1909 and still somewhat of a "frontier", so to speak. Can any of you make suggestions on the style of holster - civilian that is - and of a "western nature" that would be appropriate? I make holsters, etc. but am in somewhat of a quandry over this - a partial skirted holster, full skirted, loop or attached belt loop with strap, ? ? ? ? I'm not looking for a "fast draw" - rather one that is carried higher on the right hip. Any suggestions would be appreciated! I'll try and attach a photo of the pistol. Many thanks.
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Hey Chuck, is there a way I could get one too. I know I am a bit late, but I only found this recently. Thanks
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Matt & Bob - send me an email to chuck@wrtcleather.com as a reminder and I will shoot a copy to you both - I finally found the bloody thing!
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Hey Chuck, Message has been sent. Thanks
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This is a fantastic thread which deserves a little bump. I'm partial to the Slim Jim Holsters myself ....but there are some real beauties pictured over the last 7 pages.
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This thread hasn't been updated in a while so here are a few.
[edit:links to images no longer valid]
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Beautiful work Skeet, you have come a long ways in the years I've known you, well done Pard.
tEN wOLVES ;D
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Thanks, compadre.
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This thread hasn't been updated in a while so here are a few.
[edit:links to images no longer valid]
Great stitching on these!
Ron
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Very nice Skeeter! Did you make the chaps in the background too?
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Thanks, guys. Yes, I made the chaps. Now I know a little more about leatherwork I might have a go at another pair.
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Real pretty work Skeeter ...I wish I had that kind of talent, experience and ability to make leather gear like that.
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This thread hasn't been updated in a while so here are a few.
Photo 1 = Outstanding
Photo 2 = Outstanding
Photo 3 = Outstanding
Photo 4 = Outstanding
Photo 5 = Outstanding
Very fine work, Skeet.
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Wow. Thanks, guys. Your words mean a whole lot to me. Skeet
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I've said it before,i don't want to ever be a judge comparing you guys,i wish i had a bunch of money,i would have something from each one of ya and display it with honor!Friggin museum around here!
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I've shown this on the other thread and, at the risk of flogging it to death, here it is again over here. I've decided to call it 'The Arnie'.
(http://)(http://i995.photobucket.com/albums/af75/Skeeter-Lewis/Westernleather36.jpg)
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Or da Kaddyfornian~ ;D
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Beautiful, Skeet. Thanks for posting it here.
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Outstanding Skeet, well done for sure, thanks for the look see pard.
tEN wOLVES ;D
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Dang Skeeter, you do some really fine work! ;D
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Skeeter some darn nice leather work your showing. KT
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I've said it before but I'm sayin it again, dang nice tooling there Skeeter.
Did you make the pattern for that?
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Thanks, guys. Yes Cliff, all my patterns are my own work based, of course, on PI and 'Trappings'. This jockstrap is based on the holster on page 124 of PI, made c1925-30 by George Lawrence. That's about as late as I feel comfortable going though, like you Cliff, I have a fondness for the later holsters.The tricky part with a jockstrap is - uh - the jockstrap, which has to be riveted in three places. It's the devil to get it to sit right, though you seem to have no trouble, Cliff.
Skeet
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Thats why I asked Skeeter, I've had trouble getting the T shaped strap right on patterns I've made. Just wondered if there was some trick too it.
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This was my first jockstrap holster and it was just trial and error fitting the strap. I'm not even sure I got it quite right, although I tried hard to get the strap parallel to the skirt. I did the top right rivet first, then the bottom, then top left. But who knows? I'd need to do a couple more from that pattern to get it down.
Also. there can be a problem with the strap tilting along the vertical axis, if that makes sense. It might help to lay the strap along the top of the ejector rod.
Another problem with this style, particularly with the 7.5" barrel, is getting the tip of the holster to lay still, because one side of the cross-strap is angled so high. I see in the photo on page 124 that there's a piece of string around the bottom of the strap which the owner may have added to fix the holster to the strap.
Still, it's a pretty cool style.
Hope this helps.
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I agree on the tilting since the only strap going around the pouch is up high. The style lends itself to shorter barrels for sure.
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Guys I have a question. I notice that a lot of holsters have a double line border around the edges. What tool do you use to make those lines? I think a boning knife or crease knife would work well. Not to hijack the thread but I want to make a holster and have the double line border.
Thanks,
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Daddyeaux, you can use a stitch groover or you can use dividers on dampened leather. The line made with dividers can then be strengthened, if you wish, with a freehand creaser or the back of a table knife. If there are other techniques, pards can chime in.
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Thanks Skeeter, I didn't want to use the stitch groover or dividers, I didn't want to cut the leather, just make a nice line in the leather.
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Some original work I've looked at appears to have been done with a beading blade. I've done it that way but actually wound up making my own double line blade that goes in a stitch grooving tool.
It make lines without cutting the leather as seen here.
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f67/30WCF/knives%20and%20craft%20work/DSCN3200.jpg)
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Could you tell us more about that tool, Cliff? And a pic maybe? I'm intrigued.
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I took one of the stitch grooving blades and ground it off. I cut a slot in the end with a cutoff wheel and a dremel. Then beveled the sides and rounded the end so it made two blades but not sharp enough to cut the leather.
It is very small but I'll try and get a pic of it tomorrow.
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Cliff that is genius......and that rig is fantastic...........
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Yes - that toe plug is as neat as it gets.
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Thanks fellas.
Here is a pic of the tool
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f67/30WCF/RSCN3397.jpg)
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Thanks for the pic, Cliff. That looks much easier to use than a swivel knife with a guide on it. I need to make one of those, for sure.
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Great idea Cliff, thanks for sharing this, I'm going to try it myself as soon as I get set up again.
tEN wOLVES ;D
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Nice one, Cliff. I'll try that, too.
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This idea is so good I got straight on it. It still needs some finagling.
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Thumbs up, Skeet!
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That looks like a hand tool i have in the garage,it made a good tool for removing the keys from a guitar i am redoing,took the screws right out :-X OOPS :-\
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Tandy should sell those blades for the tools. They come with a single which is what gave me the idea. It works much better than a swivel knife and beader blade IMO.
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Cliff maybe you should come up with a price to make these or send a picture to Tandys and see if they could get there manufacturer start making them.
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I might show it to Steve at our Tandy store and see if he can make some suggestions they start offering a double line blade. The new tools come with a single line and a stitch groove.
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I would definitely buy one.
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At Marshal Will's suggestion, here's a pic of the three Collins/Roosevelts I've made...
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Triple thumbs-up to these, Skeet. You definitely are the Collins/Roosevelt expert around here. Thanks.
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Wow! those three are super fine.
Bro Tim
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Thanks, Bro.
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Here are a few more to update this thread. Hopefully it'll inspire a few more to post some newer photos.
SC Gallup inspired Slim Jim:
(https://i.imgur.com/u5bFiA2.jpg)
A few more Slim Jim variants:
(https://i.imgur.com/DRhxwTX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/yNTPGWb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TuyVWnS.jpg)
A Hickock style cross-draw Slim Jim:
(https://i.imgur.com/CWuRJNd.jpg)
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Slim Jim
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Double Mexican Loop
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Single Mexican Loop