My leatherwork

[Infidel]

I got the itch a while back to try my hand at leatherworking so I invested some money in a few tools and a sheet of leather and started doing a few things here and there. I enjoy the work and it keeps me busy. It seems like as soon as I finish a project my mind is already on to the next thing so I guess that's a good thing. I found this a lot more rewarding than I would have suspected, just watching the projects come to fruition and knowing that I made them with my own hands makes up for any little imperfections that may show up in the work. Anyway, here's the projects I've done so far:

This was my first project, a sheath for my old Gerber Multi-tool
https://i.imgur.com/ItnFn43.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/ES2Rens.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/djaf6s0.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/2SJY97B.jpg

[Infidel]

A holster I made for my newest acquisition a Ruger Blackhawk convertible .45ACP/.45 Colt
https://i.imgur.com/AzLlMuG.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/FfNGOZq.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/G4SNSbq.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/0jXomJW.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/FEnmb3H.jpg

[Infidel]

A baton ring for work (I've begun taking orders for this one at work, it's very popular so far)
https://i.imgur.com/yy5aWAW.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/IEhsYyB.jpg

My newest project was this rifle but cuff for a Marlin 336 in .35 Remington. I deviated from most cartridge loops on this as the loop leather is not attached to the front, those loops are actually fed through slots in the cuff and the leather strap is attached behind. The loop strap is glued and stitched so it should stay on forever.
https://i.imgur.com/qwngGLL.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/3wJYuVY.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/NNOESz6.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/szfOUyG.jpg

Pictures of those last 2 projects didn't turn out so well, they were taken on a cell phone.

-Infidel

[Inor]

Holy crap Infidel! That is some NICE work! Atta boy!

[Deebo]

Brother, you need to burn or stamp a logo on your stuff, becouse its awesome.

[Infidel]

Thanks guys I appreciate it. I'll have to put some thought into the logo idea I hadn't really considered it, thanks for the idea.

-Infidel

[1moretoy]

Very nice work. I like making things also and it is very rewarding.

[Eagle1803]

Nice Job....Leather...just can't go wrong when its done right.

[Infidel]

I ordered some heavy 2 1/2" straps (blems really) from Tandy figuring it might make good belt material. One will, the other has a cut in it so it'll probably end up a rifle sling before it's over with. Anyway here's the fruits of today's labor, turned that strap into a 1 3/4" wide belt. That heavy duty leather is so much better than my old belt it's unbelievable. There's definitely some small pock marks in the leather and what actually looks like it may have been a branding scar. Looks like part of a CF with the F being inside the C, I can only see part of that though. The branding scar ended up on the inside after I folded the leather to put the buckle on so it's not even visible. Anyway, here's a pic:
https://i.imgur.com/bmgaPOK.jpg

The best part is the whole thing cost me less than $15 to make, no way I could buy one of any kind of quality for that.

-Infidel

[Conundrum99]

Very nice,

[Infidel]

Figured I'd throw up a quick picture of my latest project.

https://i.imgur.com/u9LWtZ4.jpg
Leather glove pouch for carrying latex gloves. This one's pretty popular at work too so I've been keeping busy making them along with key clips (haven't taken a picture of that one yet but since I need to make one up here shortly to fill an order maybe I'll get a picture of that.

-Infidel

[BugMan]

Thought about making money clips? I want a leather one that folds and has a set of strong magnets to hold everything together. I had one years ago, and it held everything together pretty well and stayed deal in my pocket.

[Infidel]

Money clips never even crossed my mind actually, probably because I never have any money. I'll have to look into that, I would think there'd have to be a piece of spring steel in it to give it some rigidity although I could be wrong. I'm sure it would require thinner leather than the stuff I've got here. I've been using 9oz leather for all the projects except my belt which I think was 13oz (right around 1/4" or so thick). Certainly worth looking into and if it looks like something I can pull off I'll let you know.

-Infidel

[Deebo]

How much are you charging for the glove holders? I need two.

[Infidel]

Deebo I sent you an e-mail about the glove pouches. While I'm here I might as well show off the key clips I've been making too. Personally I don't like them because key rings have a tendency to get tangled up on each other but a bunch of guys at work have been asking for them so I make them for them. Different strokes I suppose.

https://i.imgur.com/DV3cIgK.jpg

-Infidel

[Just Sayin']

Now all you've gotta do is make a sheath for your new pig sticker. Nice work there dude!

[Infidel]

Now all you've gotta do is make a sheath for your new pig sticker. Nice work there dude!

Yep working on that as soon as I get some time between projects. Made a quick sheath for it but am not happy with the fit of it so I scrapped it and decided to make a better one. Just finished this project this afternoon. It's a flashlight belt carrier for a Surefire 6P, I like the way the stitching came out on this one, probably one of my nicest stitching jobs yet.

https://i.imgur.com/JXvcxQf.jpg

-Infidel

[nephilim]

Infidel...I have this axe on its way to me > Linky for the Axe < (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Camco-Athletics-Exercise-Workout-Fitness/dp/B00KDCB98C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1406125200&sr=8-1&keywords=camco+axe).

Would you interested or would you be able to do me a nice sheath for the blade? I am in the UK and can pay a sum (well, depends on how much you want to charge).

[Infidel]

Infidel...I have this axe on its way to me > Linky for the Axe < (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Camco-Athletics-Exercise-Workout-Fitness/dp/B00KDCB98C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1406125200&sr=8-1&keywords=camco+axe).

Would you interested or would you be able to do me a nice sheath for the blade? I am in the UK and can pay a sum (well, depends on how much you want to charge).

That axe looks exactly like my Coleman camp axe. Probably made by the same sub contractor. I'm sure I could come up with a sheath for it and I doubt it would cost much but I'm wondering about shipping to the UK, seems that might be a bit prohibitive price wise. I'll send you a PM and we'll discuss it.

-Infidel

[nephilim]

That axe looks exactly like my Coleman camp axe. Probably made by the same sub contractor. I'm sure I could come up with a sheath for it and I doubt it would cost much but I'm wondering about shipping to the UK, seems that might be a bit prohibitive price wise. I'll send you a PM and we'll discuss it.

-Infidel

Well anything under $20 won't incur a customs fee. There would be no need to do DHL or FedEx etc for the delivery. Standard US post would be fine.

[Bigdogbuc]

That's some nice work Infidel...it's nice to find a hobby you enjoy.

[Deebo]

Infadel, you should be seeing a "special envelope" today or tommorro.
Thanks, and I will show it off, do a thread, and hope to send some bussines your way.

[MI.oldguy]

Very nice work I.

[Denton]

Beautiful job!

I'm thinking that talent oughta be making you some extra income!

[Infidel]

Beautiful job!

I'm thinking that talent oughta be making you some extra income!

Yep it's making a couple bucks here and there, nice to have cash in my pocket once in a while. Here's the latest project, guy wanted a duty belt for work. You guys get to see it before he does. I didn't have the tools to do a Sam Browne belt and kind of like this design better anyway. What do you guys think?

https://i.imgur.com/Gklp941.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/HRb4jzc.jpg

-Infidel

[Denton]

I'm thinking he is getting a very nice looking belt.

[Arklatex]

I'm thinking I'm gonna get a very nice belt holster for my lm wave.

[machinejjh]

Wow, good stuff! I agree with "branding" your work, we could be the guys who swore we knew you before you made millions from your leatherwork! :)

[Infidel]

Wow, good stuff! I agree with "branding" your work, we could be the guys who swore we knew you before you made millions from your leatherwork! :)

I don't know about millions but I promise not to forget all the "little people" if I do make my fortune.

Ark, I'll do my very best on that sheath.
-Infidel

[Infidel]

Another completed project, finished this one a couple of days ago. I'm very happy with the fit of the cuffs in the case and I think this may be one of my best stitching jobs yet. Too bad the pictures are a little fuzzy, sorry about that.

https://i.imgur.com/p9PY5D6.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/2e4aJ1C.jpg

Wish I'd taken a picture of the back of the case as it's the only spot I'm not too thrilled with. I did the belt loop as a fold over type which makes it stand off the belt just a little bit too far, next one won't be that way. Otherwise I'm very happy with how it came out.

-Infidel

[Slippy]

Thanks guys I appreciate it. I'll have to put some thought into the logo idea I hadn't really considered it, thanks for the idea.

-Infidel

Great work Infidel!

Idea for a Logo;

"Infidel Leather; Helping muslimes Meet Virgins since 2014!

[Infidel]

Great work Infidel!

Idea for a Logo;

"Infidel Leather; Helping muslimes Meet Virgins since 2014!

That's pretty good Slippy, I particularly like your spelling although maybe it should be muSLIMES? I gonna be laughing about that for a while I think.

-Infidel

[Tachammer73]

Got my very own piece of Infidel leatherwork in the mail today and all I can say is WOW!! Could not be more pleased with his work , definitely recommend to anyone looking for quality custom leather work http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/08/3093caacc96d7a996d00ebbff2289e7b.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/08/382bea8cb77e8a981c42407d88c349f4.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/09/08/cf3e6571e4a0e2a2d9cda4a6191c81d1.jpg

[Infidel]

Thank you for the kind words. I'm glad you like it and I hope it gives you years of service.

-Infidel

[Arklatex]

I too am an owner of one of his multitool sheaths. It is excellent quality and I wear it most of the time now. Actually feels weird when I don't have it. Highly recommended.

[Infidel]

Thanks again guys for the kind words. You guys have been excellent publicity and I'm glad you guys like those sheaths. Keep me in mind for any future projects.

Now on to the new stuff. I've spent the last 2 days trying to get orders filled for guys at work. By far the most requested item has been for a radio clip (for lack of a better name for it). We used a Kenwood 2 way radio at work which has a belt clip on the back. Clipping it to your belt is a major inconvenience so guys have been looking for something like these clips to put on their belts to attach the radio to. I was skeptical of it at first but once I prototyped it I realized how wrong I was and how much more convenient it is to get the radio on and off the clip. So between yesterday and today I've done 8 radio clips with another 4 of them ready for assembly plus one Baton ring. The one at the top of the picture looks a little bigger because it's for a 2 1/4" duty belt rather than the standard 1 3/4" belt most guys use. It's been a busy couple of days.

https://i.imgur.com/HU96zQm.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/z9OHTem.jpg

-Infidel

[Just Sayin']

Ha, y'all just wait until you see the cool knife sheath he made for my 30 year old Case hunter!

It's supposed to be here tomorrow, first time I can remember actually looking forward to a Monday!

[Just Sayin']

Story line, I had a Case Hunting knife that my dad gave me over 35 years ago when I was in the Boy Scouts and although I never managed to lose the knife, I did end up losing the sheath somehow. I finally found a knife supply co. that I could order a machine made sheath that would fit my knife, but after seeing Infidel's work, let him have a go at it.

Damn fine work!

766

767

Thanks Stu for bringing life back to an old friend with a really cool sheath!

[Infidel]

That fits pretty well, I was a little anxious about that. Looks great but I should have sent you a small vial of neatsfoot oil for that stacked leather handle on that knife, those leather washers look pretty dry. Mink oil would probably work just as well. The plus side of oiling those washers up is that they should swell a little when oiled and tighten up the handle if there's any looseness in it. That sheath was a lot of fun to make and gave me an idea of what to make for a sheath for my next home made knife. I sure am glad you're happy with the sheath.

-Infidel

[Just Sayin']

Thanks, I've got some of both oils, and that was my gonna be my next project.

[Infidel]

I had a guy at work ask me if I could make him a pancake holster for a Glock 22. I kiddingly told him a plastic holster would be better for a plastic pistol but that sure I'd give it a shot. Well after what seemed like 6 weeks worth of template making I finally made one I was happy with and the pictures below are of the final product. The leather is 7-8oz and the lining is pigskin (this may become a trademark for Infidel & Sons Custom Leather). He wanted it black but if I were making it for me it would have been either Natural oil finish or light brown with white stitching so the stitching would really stand out. I picked up some Diamond chisels which really helped tighten up my stitching especially on the back side. There's a couple of very minor flaws of which the belt loops are the biggest issue. I need a slot cutter so they aren't so ragged. The only other obvious issue is the retention strap is about 1/8" to far forward, I should have cut that so it was just a hair more vertical at the top of the slide. Not sure that issue will even show up in the pictures. This holster should also fit Glock Models: 17, 20, 21, 31, 34, 35, 37 & 41 as well as the 22.
Front side with Blackhawk Demo gun in it.
https://i.imgur.com/hmdp2Dn.jpg

Back side with demo gun
https://i.imgur.com/zFnt9NI.jpg

Front empty
https://i.imgur.com/xcRBoqt.jpg

A quick shot of the inside with the pigskin lining
https://i.imgur.com/gteSZdM.jpg


Continued.....

[Infidel]

The stitching is kind of hard to see against the black leather so here's a couple of pictures I took prior to dyeing the leather. In these pictures you can really see how much tighter my stitching is compared to earlier projects.

Inside stitching (this would be the back side)
https://i.imgur.com/mGXheZ3.jpg

More inside stitching
https://i.imgur.com/Dhsnx7c.jpg

Some outside stitching
https://i.imgur.com/O40ScMY.jpg

More outside stitching
https://i.imgur.com/4lDoXIh.jpg

I can't tell you how happy I am that the stitching is finally starting to come together for me, it's been one of my biggest stumbling blocks.

Now if you'll all excuse me I have to go fight with some wallet templates so I can get that job going.

-Infidel

[Inor]

You are becoming damn good! Nice work!

[Deebo]

Get ready for more orders, and it looks amazing.
Love the pigskin.

[Infidel]

Thank you both. The Pig skin really helped that holster come together. I sweated over this holster for a while but once the template was done it went very well. The biggest problem with holsters is the fact that I need either the gun or a demo gun to mold it, I don't have an issue buying demo guns for popular guns but less common guns would be an issue unless the customer is willing to pay extra for it. I still need to buy a maker's mark stamp, that's coming I suppose once I settle on a design.

-Infidel

[1moretoy]

Very nice work. You have no limits to your ability.

[Infidel]

Had one of the women at work order a cuff case from me a while back. Once I had the job completed I decided I wasn't happy with the way it came out so I told her to just hang on a little bit longer and I would scrap it and come up with a new design. I'm pretty sure she'll be happy with the new design. I figured I would show both designs here and see if you guys agree that I did the right thing. So here's version 1.0:

https://i.imgur.com/En0xIEF.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/w1CYYgx.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/a2s4ehI.jpg

The molding job on this one just didn't look right to me and I had the snap set a bit too high so when you try to close it the leather pushes in to the opening in the cuffs. That makes it kind of hard to close the case up, especially if you wear it at the 4 or 7 o'clock positions on your belt.

Version 2.0 worked out much better. I made a form from some scrap lumber I had laying around and then using my foodsaver, I vacuum formed the wet leather. I had to do a bit of smoothing out when I took the form out of the vacuum bag, the leather was embossed in a crosshatch pattern from the bag. But once smoothed out and dry I knew this one was going to work out.

https://i.imgur.com/pdYHMfI.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/siKhNap.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/HBXurWt.jpg

My only complaint with this one is that there's a scar that I didn't think was that bad until it was all assembled. Whoever skinned that cow got kind of careless with the knife and nicked it pretty good. Shouldn't affect the case at all, it's just not too pretty. Other than that scar I'm very happy with the way it turned out and I can see me selling a few of these. This will probably be my permanent design for cuff cases unless someone requests something else.

-Infidel

[Deebo]

I love it.
I spoke with my safety coordinator, explained to him that I had an American made, hand made glove holder, that he should buy some for his ten or so first responders.
He wants me to let him look it over.
Spreading the word..

[Infidel]

Thanks Deebo, I appreciate the effort.

-Infidel

[Deebo]

He likes them, everyone at the shop does, so now it's on him.
And your welcome, like I said, just trying to spread the word.

[Infidel]

Anyone that hunts and carries a handgun knows the compromise involved. In my case it's always been a choice between strong side carry or cross draw. Lately I've been carrying cross draw so as not to have my rifle banging against my side arm. I've got a couple nice dings in my stocks from the wood banging against the hammer of my revolver. The problem with cross draw is my holster isn't really designed for it and it ends up being quite a reach to get to the handgun. I considered a shoulder holster but I've had a few of them and haven't found one yet that's comfortable. I've been noticing an upsurge in the tactical style chest rigs and thought that might be adaptable to my style of hunting but it's doubtful I'd be able to find such for my revolvers. So after the first couple days of rifle season I set about making my own. Rather than reinvent the wheel I decided to take an existing hip holster and find a way to attach it to a chest rig. This gives me the best of both worlds a hip holster for range use and banging around the woods when I'm not carrying a rifle and a chest holster for hunting. The chest rig can be built to just about any style holster as long as I have the holster and will eventually have a buckle attachment method rather than snaps. This is a prototype of the rig and is not final production. The whole thing is held together with Chicago screws rather than rivets or stitching which makes it a bit more versatile and will hold up better to hard use. The screws also make strap replacement a breeze if necessary. I can tell you that after wearing this in the woods for a week or so now I wish I had done this a whole lot sooner, the handgun is out of the way but still super easy and fast to get to should you need it in a hurry.

https://i.imgur.com/OOYaZYM.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/w67QSAN.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/HQ37eEz.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/WX3z5na.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/IYxBr8e.jpg

Your thoughts on this one as always are appreciated.

-Infidel

[nephilim]

It looks good, however I have a question. Why the holster for the holster? Leather in leather, why not make it a single piece, or stitch it together?

[Infidel]

I already had the hip holster and I really didn't want to make a whole new holster for it. I may eventually do just that, this is a prototype so I'm just trying to get a feel for what works and what doesn't. Also most handgun owners have a drawer full of holsters for their guns some that worked great and some that didn't, a system like this would give them an opportunity to put some of those crappy holster to use in a new way and keep the cost down on the chest holster. I will probably offer this system either with it's own dedicated holster or as just the plate and straps to attach your own holster to it. I like the versatility that offers.

-Infidel

[nephilim]

Good point :)

[Infidel]

Just finished this project yesterday. She wanted a 1 1/2" wide collar for her new pup. We settled on adjustments from 15-21" in 1 inch increments. Hardware is all brass and I used a punch a little over sized for the holes to make it a little easier to get on the pooch if he's feeling feisty.

https://i.imgur.com/gE8sj8e.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/e7c1LsT.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ryQbMJz.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/jAvNpRA.jpg

No rest for the wicked, I got a multi-tool sheath to finish up.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

Yeah, get to it already. :)

It's been a long road with this one but I'm hoping to have it done tonight. I'll get pics up as soon as it's finished. I can tell you stitching this one was no fun.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

Well it was a tough project but I finally finished Sockpuppet's multi-tool sheath. Took 3 tries to figure out how to get the bit storage right but I finally got it to where I'm happy with it. The multi-tool is a Winchester brand tool with bits. It's a bit on the bulky side but in order to make enough room for the bits it had to be kind of thick. I like the look of the sides quite a bit, it reminds me of a stack leather handle on an old knife. The front flap and lettering came out very well I think. You guys tell me what you think.

https://i.imgur.com/xOxCavv.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/xOxCavv.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/BUAyxsn.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/re5IL6l.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/08JyeO2.jpg
To be continued...

[Infidel]

More pictures:
https://i.imgur.com/69iblw4.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/0vEekbV.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/A2ZoJKn.jpg
Stitching got a little whacky on the back but trying to get through all that leather was near impossible. I finally ended up starting the holes from the front with my chisels and then drilling the rest when the chisels bottomed out. A drill press would make this step a hole lot easier but alas I don't own one (yet).

https://i.imgur.com/6ONrw0e.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/dpYsuvj.jpg

-Infidel

[1moretoy]

Just curious...how do you take the thick leather and form it like that? Looks great!

[Just Sayin']

As usual Infidel, some really nice work man! I would be happy with it!

That is a pretty cool design.

[Infidel]

Just curious...how do you take the thick leather and form it like that? Looks great!

Usually I would wrap whatever I'm forming it to in plastic wrap, soak the leather and then form it around the item. In this case since the possibility exists of making more I actually built a wooden form for it and just soak the leather and staple it down. You need to leave a little excess leather so you can cut off where you staple it. Once the leather is dry it'll hold the shape forever. At some point I need to pick up a bone folder and a V groover so I can get my corners a little sharper but for now this system seems to be working pretty well.


As usual Infidel, some really nice work man! I would be happy with it!

That is a pretty cool design.

Thank you, I appreciate that but in actuality the design is my take on Ian Atkinson's work (he's got some great videos on youtube). He does some amazing leather work and I doubt that he would mind if I borrowed an idea from him. It's hard to believe I've been at this less than a year and how much I've done already. I think for the most part the work is getting better with every project but I still have my WTF did I just do moments. There's still a lot of trial and error in my work but I imagine as it progresses there will be a lot less error.

Thanks again for the comments guys I'm glad you guys like the work.

-Infidel

[Just Sayin']

I just wish you'd stamped and serial numbered my sheath so when you're famous I could make a killing off of it on Ebay! LOL

[1moretoy]

Well Infidel...your work is spot on in my book.

[Infidel]

I just wish you'd stamped and serial numbered my sheath so when you're famous I could make a killing off of it on Ebay! LOL

Tell you what when I'm famous I'll send you a certificate of authenticity for it, LOL. That should get you more money at auction

[Infidel]

You should advertise in the BDSM community. :spankin:

:)

LOL, I'm not sure I could take those orders with a straight face.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

You don't have to. You can make yourself a fetish hood.

958

WTF is wrong with people? That thing just looks wrong.

-Infidel

[Just Sayin']

WTF is wrong with people? That thing just looks wrong.

-Infidel

She's really quite attractive...

[Deebo]

Once again, beautiful work.
Keep at it. I'll ask the safety coordinator for and update, but he's been slammed lately.
Awesome work, done by an AMERICAN.

[Pauls]

There is nothing wrong with a little kink... as long as they get their work done first!

[Pauls]

I always tried to multi task the womenfolk and talk them into doing the dishes whence bent over the sink. :)

Broken dishes and water all over the floor! ;)

[Infidel]

Just finished this one today. Customer wanted a belt slide type holster for his 1911. He was very specific that it had to have a retention strap on it and that he wanted an oil finish with no top coat on it. Took some time to figure out where that strap needed to be but I think the finished product came out well. There's a small scar on the leather next to the left belt loop but that piece rides behind the belt so it shouldn't be a huge issue. I put it on my belt this evening and it rides nice and tight to the body and draws and reholsters well. I'm not crazy about the exposed muzzle but that's what he wanted. I could get it to ride a bit higher with a full holster and that's going to be my next "for me" project, a High Ride pancake style holster, I will probably forgo the retention strap in favor of a Chicago Screw for tensioning although that's yet to be decided. Anyway, here's a few pics of the project.
https://i.imgur.com/S9NyIOI.jpg
I like the finish but would prefer it with a satin shene top coat

https://i.imgur.com/pAYtBXt.jpg
You can see in this picture how the holster contours to the body as you can imagine that contour allows it to pull in nice and tight with little printing through the cover garment.

https://i.imgur.com/WMjpx9K.jpg
Back side, you can see how much improvement there's been in my stitching from earlier projects.

https://i.imgur.com/Dor0T9h.jpg
View of the retention strap and how it sits on the handgun.

https://i.imgur.com/wrHceKv.jpg
A view of the inside, had a spot where the neatsfoot oil dripped on the inside of the holster, I thought about doing the entire inside with neatsfoot oil but was afraid it would soften the leather too much and ruin my molding work.

As always I look forward to your comments. If you have any ideas for improvement fire away, I'm always willing to get input from fellow gun nuts.

-Infidel

[Baglady]

Just finished this project yesterday. She wanted a 1 1/2" wide collar for her new pup. We settled on adjustments from 15-21" in 1 inch increments. Hardware is all brass and I used a punch a little over sized for the holes to make it a little easier to get on the pooch if he's feeling feisty.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc492/stu925/Bag%20Ladys%20Dog%20Collar/Collar_4_zps009121d1.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/stu925/media/Bag%20Ladys%20Dog%20Collar/Collar_4_zps009121d1.jpg.html)

Good shot of the hardware
http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc492/stu925/Bag%20Ladys%20Dog%20Collar/Collar_1_zpsde37bba1.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/stu925/media/Bag%20Ladys%20Dog%20Collar/Collar_1_zpsde37bba1.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc492/stu925/Bag%20Ladys%20Dog%20Collar/Collar_2_zps1d2e6a62.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/stu925/media/Bag%20Ladys%20Dog%20Collar/Collar_2_zps1d2e6a62.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc492/stu925/Bag%20Ladys%20Dog%20Collar/Collar_3_zps3b912d72.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/stu925/media/Bag%20Ladys%20Dog%20Collar/Collar_3_zps3b912d72.jpg.html)

No rest for the wicked, I got a multi-tool sheath to finish up.

-InfidelAnd I love it!! Tomorrow's the day Hubby will get it! Merry Christmas!!

[Baglady]

Will take pic's tomorrow, if the weather holds.

[1moretoy]

Just finished this one today. Customer wanted a belt slide type holster for his 1911. He was very specific that it had to have a retention strap on it and that he wanted an oil finish with no top coat on it. Took some time to figure out where that strap needed to be but I think the finished product came out well. There's a small scar on the leather next to the left belt loop but that piece rides behind the belt so it shouldn't be a huge issue. I put it on my belt this evening and it rides nice and tight to the body and draws and reholsters well. I'm not crazy about the exposed muzzle but that's what he wanted. I could get it to ride a bit higher with a full holster and that's going to be my next "for me" project, a High Ride pancake style holster, I will probably forgo the retention strap in favor of a Chicago Screw for tensioning although that's yet to be decided. Anyway, here's a few pics of the project.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc492/stu925/1911%20Slide/Front_zps039d8bbf.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/stu925/media/1911%20Slide/Front_zps039d8bbf.jpg.html)
I like the finish but would prefer it with a satin shene top coat

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc492/stu925/1911%20Slide/Bottom_zps9bcdafa6.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/stu925/media/1911%20Slide/Bottom_zps9bcdafa6.jpg.html)
You can see in this picture how the holster contours to the body as you can imagine that contour allows it to pull in nice and tight with little printing through the cover garment.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc492/stu925/1911%20Slide/Back_zps176f4ede.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/stu925/media/1911%20Slide/Back_zps176f4ede.jpg.html)
Back side, you can see how much improvement there's been in my stitching from earlier projects.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc492/stu925/1911%20Slide/Top_zps76403106.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/stu925/media/1911%20Slide/Top_zps76403106.jpg.html)
View of the retention strap and how it sits on the handgun.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc492/stu925/1911%20Slide/Inside_zps16cedd3b.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/stu925/media/1911%20Slide/Inside_zps16cedd3b.jpg.html)
A view of the inside, had a spot where the neatsfoot oil dripped on the inside of the holster, I thought about doing the entire inside with neatsfoot oil but was afraid it would soften the leather too much and ruin my molding work.

As always I look forward to your comments. If you have any ideas for improvement fire away, I'm always willing to get input from fellow gun nuts.

-Infidel

Oh wow...I love the finish

[Infidel]

Oh wow...I love the finish

I was kind of surprised how well the oil finish turned out. The only issue I have with it is it softens the leather a bit which isn't a huge issue. I do like the look of it though. I would have preferred a top coat of satin shene on it to give it a more finished look but he wants to be able to put more neatsfoot oil on it and have it penetrate the leather. The customer is always right.

-Infidel

[hawgrider]

I was kind of surprised how well the oil finish turned out. The only issue I have with it is it softens the leather a bit which isn't a huge issue. I do like the look of it though. I would have preferred a top coat of satin shene on it to give it a more finished look but he wants to be able to put more neatsfoot oil on it and have it penetrate the leather. The customer is always right.

-InfidelHe will be sorry. Leather softened for a holster is never a good Idea. Don't ask me how I know.

[Infidel]

He will be sorry. Leather softened for a holster is never a good Idea. Don't ask me how I know.

Yeah I can already see how much it's softened the molding lines. I'm going to try and talk him into a top coat on it. Before I put the first coat of oil on it the line where the slide meets the frame was nice and shrap and the ejection port molding was very pronounced. Since the oild was applied those lines have become kind of vague. More oil and I'm afraid the holster will collapse making reholstering difficult. I'd be more concerned about that if it was an IWB holster though. I think if I explain that to him he'll be ok with it. The satin shene should help stiffen it back up a little too.

-Infidel

[hawgrider]

Yeah I can already see how much it's softened the molding lines. I'm going to try and talk him into a top coat on it. Before I put the first coat of oil on it the line where the slide meets the frame was nice and shrap and the ejection port molding was very pronounced. Since the oild was applied those lines have become kind of vague. More oil and I'm afraid the holster will collapse making reholstering difficult. I'd be more concerned about that if it was an IWB holster though. I think if I explain that to him he'll be ok with it. The satin shene should help stiffen it back up a little too.

-Infidel

This is exactly what I learned.

*I'm afraid the holster will collapse making reholstering difficult.*

[Infidel]

Yep just finished up another flashlight holder, this time for a AA Mini-Mag. The guy that ordered it has an LED version which I didn't even realize they made so his is a little bigger than my beat up old Mini Mag that rides around in my gun cleaning box. His is about 1/2" longer so mine looks a little weird in the holder, his fits great.

https://i.imgur.com/Si2Vty9.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/qm2m8yS.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/qm2m8yS.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/GKtQXfP.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/xb26gNN.jpg

That last picture you can actually see where I covered the inside portion of the snap so it wouldn't scratch the hell out of the flashlight.

-Infidel

[hawgrider]

Nice work!

[DerBiermeister]

Just finished this one today. Customer wanted a belt slide type holster for his 1911.

I'm not crazy about the exposed muzzle but that's what he wanted.

As always I look forward to your comments. If you have any ideas for improvement fire away, I'm always willing to get input from fellow gun nuts.

-Infidel

Yeah, that front sight looks like it could catch on the leather.

Something about leather that I just love ... always have.

Btw, now that you are getting proficient in making holsters, you need to come up with your own "leather brand-emblem".

Update -- aw geez, what a dumbass I am. I am just now noticing your webpage and brand!

[1moretoy]

How about:

Infidel's Leather Works-"Only a Bull gets a better piece of hide"

[Inor]

Nice work Infidel!

[Infidel]

Yeah, that front sight looks like it could catch on the leather.

Something about leather that I just love ... always have.

Btw, now that you are getting proficient in making holsters, you need to come up with your own "leather brand-emblem".

Update -- aw geez, what a dumbass I am. I am just now noticing your webpage and brand!

Yep you're right about the front sight but surprisingly enough it doesn't snag on the draw. It's a little tough to see in the pictures but there is a sight tunnel molded in for it. Don't know what will happen if drawn under stress but that's what he wanted so who am I to argue?

"Infidel & Sons" is a working brand as of right now, I noticed on the leather workers forum there is another person using the Infidel moniker and emblem so I'm not sure that I'll continue using it. I doubt there will be an issue since most of my work is bought locally but I don't want anyone getting confused with on-line sales/contracts. His stamp says "Crafted by Infidel" so there's a definite difference. Glad I haven't ordered my stamp yet though just in case I decide to switch up.


How about:

Infidel's Leather Works-"Only a Bull gets a better piece of hide"

LOL, that's pretty good.


Nice work Infidel!

Thank you. It's hard to believe I've been doing this less than a year and how much my work has improved even though I still have a long way to go. I still plan on doing the How-To for a knife sheath, just have to get to it. It would help to finish up the knife first I guess.

Thank you all for your comments, they are greatly appreciated. I'm glad I'm not the only one who had some issues over the belt slide holster, different strokes for different folks I guess. I should have an IWB holster job for a Glock 22 coming up also, just waiting for the guy to get back to me on it. That one will probably be another Pig Skin lined holster.

-Infidel

[Jeep]

First time I have seen this thread, good work Boss.

[Infidel]

Been a while since I posted anything new. I just finished this one tonight, it's a double mag pouch for an officer's size 1911. I of course don't have an officer's size gun so I am unable to show you how well the magazines fit when closed but you guys will get the general idea of it I'm sure. So the details: it's a wet molded pouch so the leather is formed exactly to the shape of the magazine, color is Feibings light brown which I happen to really like and it will fit belts up to 1 3/4". I tried to get the guy to go for belt clips instead of loops but he wasn't having any of that, I thought the clips would be a lot more convenient in for removal of the pouch but he was more concerned with security of the magazines. The customer is always right. Anyway here's a few pictures:

https://i.imgur.com/WZT1wj7.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/VZdDMUn.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/YzpXjRM.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/tAlhB9w.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/PPguhiP.jpg

I'm thinking I like this enough that I may have to do one for myself although I think I would prefer a single mag pouch, I'll have to think on that one for a bit.

-Infidel

[Deebo]

Beautiful, as always.

[Inor]

Nice work! You are getting to be damn good!

[hawgrider]

Stitching looks good!

[Infidel]

Thanks guys I appreciate it. Wish I could find a way to keep that white thread white when stitching. The dye always turns it a muddy color, have to research that some I guess.

-Infidel

[Inor]

Actually, I think the muddy color looks better. It does not look like it is brand new.

Could you put wax on the thread before you dye it?

[Infidel]

Actually, I think the muddy color looks better. It does not look like it is brand new.

Could you put wax on the thread before you dye it?

The thread is already waxed maybe next thing I sew I'll try a little extra wax and see if that helps it. Actually I think the friction from pulling the thread through the leather is causing the wax to seep into the thread and that's where the color is coming from. Small stitching runs don't suffer from the issue but those long one's do for sure. There's about 4.5' of thread in that mag pouch and I'm pulling all of that thread through each hole so the the end I start on is always whiter that the end I finish up on. Some day I'll have to break down and buy a machine for this stuff and that will end the color issue plus it'll save my hands from cramping up. After stitching a holster my hands feel like claws.

-Infidel

[Pauls]

Infidel,
if you are using the same thread that I do it is probably waxed with bees wax. Run a length of it through melted parafin to see if that helps.

I like the color that the thread picks up - it makes it look like sinue to me.

[Infidel]

Infidel,
if you are using the same thread that I do it is probably waxed with bees wax. Run a length of it through melted parafin to see if that helps.

I like the color that the thread picks up - it makes it look like sinue to me.

I think you're right, I seem to recall that the thread is waxed with beeswax, I'll give the paraffin a shot. I like the muddy color as well but I also like the contrast of the white thread on the brown leather. What I'm not crazy about is that it's white on one side and changes to the muddy color as I stitch.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

After spending several hours restoring the edges and sharpening these chisels I decided I didn't want to just throw them back in the tool box to let them get all banged up again. So I dug around in my scrap leather box and came up with a bunch of pieces to build sheaths out of. I decided to use a different spacing for the stitching this time just to see how it looks, I really like the way it turned out and I especially like the fewer stitches per inch. The wider spacing equates to fewer stitches on the whole run which my hands like quite a bit. The leather is 8-9oz economy grade leather and the dye is the same light brown from the mag pouch I made. This time though I did a coat of oil after dying and it darkened it to almost a medium brown. I also did a heavy oil coat on the inside which I will follow up with another heavy coat in a couple of days to help prevent the chisels from rusting. The fit is great and I really like the color of that dye with the oil coat. These are pretty cheap chisels and probably the sheaths are worth more than the chisels themselves but if you've got a good set of woodworking chisel or a set of timber framing chisels you might consider a set of these for them. Especially if you want to keep those edges shaving sharp.

https://i.imgur.com/sLXNDV7.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/B4Zw9Ff.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/FQeGiTX.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Qh3DpQu.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/MgRHAti.jpg

-Infidel

[hawgrider]

Good Idea. Pretty nice for scrap leather.

[Inor]

These are pretty cheap chisels and probably the sheaths are worth more than the chisels themselves but if you've got a good set of woodworking chisel or a set of timber framing chisels you might consider a set of these for them. Especially if you want to keep those edges shaving sharp.

Don't be dissin' those Stanleys! Even though they are inexpensive, those are very good quality bench chisels. I have three sets of woodworking bench chisels:

1 - a set of German chisels with boxwood handles. Those are not even stored in my shop. They live in the house and not even Mrs Inor is allowed to touch them. I do not even use them unless I am making heirloom quality furniture.

2 - a set of the Stanleys pictured above. They are excellent steel and are made really well. These are my day-to-day chisels but other than folks that I know for a fact, know how to use tools, nobody else uses them.

3 - A set of really cheap home depot specials that I paid about $15 for the set. Those are my loaners that anybody can use.

Very nice sheaths. You should also consider making a chisel roll for them. It keeps them organized and all in one place.

[Infidel]

Don't be dissin' those Stanleys! Even though they are inexpensive, those are very good quality bench chisels. I have three sets of woodworking bench chisels:

1 - a set of German chisels with boxwood handles. Those are not even stored in my shop. They live in the house and not even Mrs Inor is allowed to touch them. I do not even use them unless I am making heirloom quality furniture.

2 - a set of the Stanleys pictured above. They are excellent steel and are made really well. These are my day-to-day chisels but other than folks that I know for a fact, know how to use tools, nobody else uses them.

3 - A set of really cheap home depot specials that I paid about $15 for the set. Those are my loaners that anybody can use.

Very nice sheaths. You should also consider making a chisel roll for them. It keeps them organized and all in one place.

The roll will be for the good woodworking chisels I buy later on down the road, the Stanley Sweethearts are pretty nice chisels and not too exorbitantly priced. I beat the hell out of these chisels for a long time and basically trashed the edges on them so I was pretty surprised I was able to bring them back. These chisels are strictly for leatherworking these days (you'd be surprised how handy a sharp chisel can be with leather). The roll idea wouldn't work for these chisels since they would take up too much space in my leatherworking box. I also have a cheap set of Kobalt chisels that I keep in the shop that I sharpened and was surprised at the quality of the steel, I put a razors edge on all of them so we'll see how long they hold up.

-Infidel

[Inor]

I picked up a new Stanley Sweetheart jack plane a few years ago. It is one of the nicest hand planes I own. The plane iron on it is almost 1/4 inch thick! I am really happy Stanley brought back the Sweetheart line. They are awesome quality tools and reasonably priced.

[Infidel]

Just finished this one this morning. I think it came out great, my only complaint is where it covers the trigger guard. It covers the trigger just fine but the next one will completely cover the trigger guard. The style of the holster pulls it in nice and tight to the body to keep the gun from printing. These are large frame guns and as such need all the help they can get. Unfortunately I do not have the revolver so I can't say how well it distributes the weight of that larger frame but based on the bluegun it should carry well. The holster is very stiff so it should keep the gun from leaning out too much and the belt slots will fit belts up to 1 3/4". A 1 3/4" belt fits the slots so well it locks the holster in place once you tighten the belt, this holster is definitely not going to move around on you. As always your comments are appreciated.

https://i.imgur.com/YCmUw61.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/x4wr4vt.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/9dVEIQ9.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/iefsWGH.jpg
Here you can see how tight to the body the gun rides.

Continued in next post, I exceeded the picture limit.

[Infidel]

These pictures are to show the level of detail that went into it. Particularly the burnishing on the edges. I covered the snap on the inside of the strap with a small piece of leather so it won't scratch the gun, this has always been a pet peeve of mine with production holsters. For what they charge for a production holster it damn well should have that little piece of leather in there to protect the finish on my gun.

https://i.imgur.com/I7X8UMR.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/LZFhCGD.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/FOCL7SA.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/KTmF862.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/QSdzKmC.jpg

-Infidel

[Inor]

WOW! Nice work!

[hawgrider]

I like the finish on that one!

[Infidel]

I like the finish on that one!

Me too but you know what's funny? It's the same light brown dye I've used on a bunch of different projects. It comes out a little different every time. The Johnson's Paste Wax really helped even out the sheen on this one. I'm going to try an antique finish one of these days, maybe sooner rather than later, probably be on a sample piece just to get a feel for it. We'll see how that turns out. Thanks again for the comments guys.

-Infidel

[DerBiermeister]

I am partial to leather holsters myself - and have a good number of them. Don Hume, Winthrop, RGrizzle, Galco .. to name a few.

You do good work guy!

[Infidel]

Here's my first shot at an IWB holster for an S&W M&P .45. I had a stitching issue with it which I'm sure you'll see more on the back side of the holster, the stitching got a lot closer to the edge than I like but it will still hold. I added a stiffener to this piece to aid in one handed reholstering. This time instead of a final finish of Satin Shene I went with Feibing's Tan Kote which will help waterproof the leather keeping sweat away from your firearm. I Tan Koted the interior of the holster too as an added layer of waterproofing. The clips are from Tandy and will accommodate belts up to 1 3/4" in width which is what my belt is and they work great. The bonus is that the holster is tuckable so you can tuck your shirt in and no one can see anything but the belt clips. You could if you chose to make this holster convertible giving you the option of wearing it as a pancake style holster. The coloring on the back side came out interesting and almost looks antique although I didn't try for that effect at all, must have been an imperfection in the tanning process that caused it or something in the wet molding process (more likely). The fit of the gun in the holster is great and requires no tension screw although I would add it if asked.

Front:
https://i.imgur.com/5Hk4Tvi.jpg

Front with belt blank so you can see how it will ride:
https://i.imgur.com/RgYnWZQ.jpg

Back, here you can see the stitching issue:
https://i.imgur.com/yocOf5z.jpg

Right side, here you can see the molded in sight tunnel:
https://i.imgur.com/OT8QmSu.jpg

Left side with a better view of the stitching around the trigger guard:
https://i.imgur.com/Po6aQut.jpg

Continued in next post:

[Infidel]

A view of the Muzzle end to show fit:
https://i.imgur.com/7B0KLcj.jpg

Top down view:
https://i.imgur.com/MxaWYn3.jpg

View of the interior:
https://i.imgur.com/bPzYqLa.jpg

Here it is in use, with my shirt untucked:
https://i.imgur.com/v7cSn90.jpg

And with shirt tucked in:
https://i.imgur.com/ORmdjAg.jpg

You can't tuck a lot of the shirt in and if I were to another one of these to make it tuckable I would make the paddles on the sides smaller so that you could get more shirt tucked in. It works though and I like the look of the final product.

-Infidel

[hawgrider]

The color on that one is sweet!

[Infidel]

Had a customer order an IWB holster for his Glock 22. I did a pancake holster for this guy a while back and he decided he wanted something for summer carry. The guy is pretty thin so I didn't think my other design would work to well for him so I decided to try something new, this is what I came up with:

https://i.imgur.com/EqxvW8O.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/L9qSGGO.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Odi03hd.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/uKKy9UU.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/vbOnr7D.jpg

To be continued:

[Infidel]

Here's a chance to see how well it retains the weapon. Granted the mold gun is not the actual weight of a loaded Glock 22 but it's pretty secure.
https://i.imgur.com/pbC9Rs6.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/U0NlFTm.jpg

Yep this another tuckable design
https://i.imgur.com/7wQCX1g.jpg

The stiffener around the mouth does a great job of keeping the holster open for reholstering. The draw feels great, I got the angle just right on this one.

I like the way this one came out. I based my design off a holster by Dwight's Gunleather (thanks for the tips Dwight). His Cactus model is a great design and I wanted that same feel in this holster. I may go to Pull the dot snaps on the next one of these just so there's no issues with snaps popping loose. You guys let me know what you think of this one, I like it better than the other design I think although I do like the simplicity of the belt clips. There may be another version of this one with the belt clips for my personal use in the future. Need to get through the rest of my orders first though.

-Infidel

[Arklatex]

Seems like you get better with every project Infidel. My leatherman sheath is holding up really well! I stretched it a Lil bit so I can get a bit card in there.

[Infidel]

Seems like you get better with every project Infidel. My leatherman sheath is holding up really well! I stretched it a Lil bit so I can get a bit card in there.

Glad to hear it's holding up well, as always if there's any issues at all please let me know and I'll take care of it. By the way that's still one of my favorite pieces, I really like the way that one turned out.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

This one is a variation on a theme I guess but figured I'd post it anyway. This one is for a 2 1/2" 686. I'm very happy with this one, I think you'll see why. It's one of the first projects with no stitching issues at all and a lot of work went into the edge burnishing. It's also the first project that one of my sons has helped with, my oldest boy did some of the edge burnishing and earned himself a couple of bucks for his Lego fund. The cant of the holster as well as the thumb break are just about perfect and I don't think I could ask for more there. Kind of hate to see this one go but it's off to Texas for this one shortly. Lots of pictures so it'll be at least 2 posts again.

Went a little soft on the molding on this one, thought it fit the project a little better.
https://i.imgur.com/596a7jp.jpg


https://i.imgur.com/k0OJVDn.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/2N1tt5G.jpg

Look at those edges:
https://i.imgur.com/3b8ngsN.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/4Wom6xJ.jpg

Continued

[Infidel]

Dyed the inside on this one, something I don't normally do but felt this guy deserved it since he was so patient. I actually built 2 of these but scrapped the first one since I wasn't happy with how it turned out, the guy was very understanding and ultimately was rewarded for his patience with a better quality holster.

https://i.imgur.com/2oBd8Hh.jpg

The mold gun is a 4" barrel which is why it sticks out a bit. I decided with this one to leave a little extra at the muzzle end to protect the muzzle a little better. The customer runs a bit of farm type equipment and I was concerned that his gun might get banged up a bit on the homestead so wanted to provide a bit more muzzle protection. This holster would also fit a 3" gun.

https://i.imgur.com/SQrb6Pd.jpg
A view from the top of the fit.
https://i.imgur.com/SlKsgxx.jpg

And the bottom.
https://i.imgur.com/T9OmNaM.jpg

Continued

[Infidel]

Last but not least, a couple shots of it on the body to see how it rides and get a good idea of what the cant really looks like. Now you see it:
https://i.imgur.com/3TTGXYJ.jpg

Now you dont:
https://i.imgur.com/vsM63JP.jpg

The holster conceals very well, I have to make one of these for my 1911. Maybe if I ever get caught up on my orders I'll get a chance to do just that.

Now for the sad news. I have decided to dump the Infidel moniker for my leatherwork. I've given this a lot of thought and really just don't want to be confused with anyone else. There is already someone using Infidel on the leather working forum and actively selling his goods, since he was using it before me I think it's only fair to him for me to move on to something else. I haven't decided on a name as of yet but when I do I'll post it here and update the link in my signature. I'll be keeping Infidel as my user name here so no worries there, it'll only be the leatherworking side of it that will be changing. As always I look forward to any and all comments on this project so fire away.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

I can't believe it's been this long since I posted here. This one is a custom job for a guy that bought an IWB holster from me. He told me the other one was uncomfortable while riding a horse and he wanted a holster to wear behind the back while riding. After kicking it around with him for a bit he decided what he wanted was a small IWB holster with a belt clip. He wanted it to ride completely vertical so no cant at all and the kicker is even though he's right handed he wanted a left handed holster so that when holstered the butt of the gun is easily accessible by his right hand. The holster came out great, the triple black (thread, exterior, interior) gives it a classier look than I expected which I attribute to the resolene top coat. The holster is a lot more comfortable to carry than I expected but I imagine if you were going to be riding in a car or sitting in a chair with a back it might become uncomfortable. Luckily he has the other holster for that. I actually think this one is one of my better pieces, the stiffener with the belt clip attached in between layers is my favorite part of it.

https://i.imgur.com/TcHCtBh.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/37P2an0.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/GIJ6tqw.jpg

-Infidel

[hawgrider]

Looks great! Stitch work is nice!

[Infidel]

Looks great! Stitch work is nice!

Thanks Hawg, it's probably some of my best stitching yet. I really struggled with my stitching in the beginning but after buying some appropriate diamond chisels and watching a couple of youtube videos buy some master leatherworkers I think my stitching has improved greatly. I need to invest in some better quality chisels as the ones I bought were a fairly cheap set but that's a little further on down the road. Have to do another M&P 45 holster this week, guy at work wants one for his old man for Father's Day. That one will be suede lined so keep an eye on the thread here for that one, should be a nice piece (provided I don't screw something up).

-Infidel

[hawgrider]

Thanks Hawg, it's probably some of my best stitching yet. I really struggled with my stitching in the beginning but after buying some appropriate diamond chisels and watching a couple of youtube videos buy some master leatherworkers I think my stitching has improved greatly. I need to invest in some better quality chisels as the ones I bought were a fairly cheap set but that's a little further on down the road. Have to do another M&P 45 holster this week, guy at work wants one for his old man for Father's Day. That one will be suede lined so keep an eye on the thread here for that one, should be a nice piece (provided I don't screw something up).

-InfidelThe stitching improvements have been noticeable. I see the progression. Looks very professional.

[Infidel]

One of the guys that bought a holster from me asked about a holster for his Dad for Father's Day. It's for a Smith & Wesson M&P .45 and is suede lined. I don't generally do lined holsters because I feel the softer inner lining tends to allow dirt or debris to become embedded in it and accelerate wear. However the customer is always right (even if I don't agree) so I told him I'd do it after I told him my thoughts on it. The lining is actually a medium brown 2-3oz suede and the shell of the holster is a 8-9oz leather in light brown so all together 20-24oz thick which in this case equates to about 7/16" at the belt slots. Cutting those slots was interesting for sure and they are definitely not my best slots.
https://i.imgur.com/U6j16j4.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/XZo3eQg.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Wgsv1Pv.jpg


https://i.imgur.com/XZo3eQg.jpg

It's going to take some work to make the draw smooth on this one, the suede tends to grab my mold gun although his gun may preform better. If not it'll take some draw practice to smooth it out a bit and everything should be fine.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

Had a request for a left handed holster for a Smith & Wesson J-Frame. Figured I'd share here I know a couple of guys here are wrong handed:biglaugh: Simple pancake style holster in black with a resolene top coat and will accommodate belts up to 1 3/4". Inside of the snap where it rests against the gun is covered with leather to avoid scratching the finish. Not much else to say on this one.
https://i.imgur.com/WPGYEt2.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/4mUaWcN.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/DxXK5Ks.jpg

This one should give you a pretty good idea of the cant angle:
https://i.imgur.com/oVQPbNf.jpg

I have a guy at work asking about a shoulder holster right now so if I can nail down specifics and come up with a decent design I'll be posting that one here too. I haven't made one of them yet so that should be an interesting project.

-Infidel

[Arklatex]

Looks good as always. My leatherman wave sheath has held up nicely and gets a lot of time on my belt.

[Infidel]

Looks good as always. My leatherman wave sheath has held up nicely and gets a lot of time on my belt.

Glad to hear that. It's nice to get some feedback after stuff has been used for a while it gives me some idea what if anything needs to be changed. I'm pleased to hear that it's getting a lot of use.

-Infidel

[Dwight55]

We have a common interest, . . . Infidel, . . . besides being on here.

Here are a few of the favorite ones I've done: http://www.dwightsgunleather.com/product-examples.html

The patch on the gun bag has 2400 beads in it, . . . of course it is the USMC logo, . . . did it for a very special customer.

May God bless,
Dwight

[hawgrider]

We have a common interest, . . . Infidel, . . . besides being on here.

Here are a few of the favorite ones I've done: http://www.dwightsgunleather.com/product-examples.html

The patch on the gun bag has 2400 beads in it, . . . of course it is the USMC logo, . . . did it for a very special customer.

May God bless,
Dwight
Nice leather work Dwight you've been holding out on us.:thumb:

[Infidel]

Actually Dwight gave me his notes (over at PF) on holster template making when I first started all this and they have been invaluable. I owe him a great big thank you, he also is the one that pointed me towards one of the IWB designs I use, it's very similar to his. Dwight does beautiful work of that there is no doubt, some day hopefully my work will be as good. Again Dwight, I thank you for the help and the guidance you've given.

-Infidel

[Pauls]

Dwight always did like you best...

he never sent me....mumble mumble mumble.

Dwight is a very nice guy! I am glad he helped you out! It seems his help has paid off well. :)

[Moose]

I dig the ammo saddle on the 336.

[Infidel]

I dig the ammo saddle on the 336.

Thanks, I'm in the process of building another one of those right now actually. I worked out a trade, my leather for the rarest of the rare .35 Rem brass. May end up making the guy a matching sling before it's over, he really likes the saddle tan color sample pic I sent.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

There's just something about leather with wood and blued steel that just looks right. This is an order from a guy on another forum I belong to. Made for a Marlin 336 in .35 Remington. The color is saddle tan and is rapidly becoming one of my favorites. I do my cartridge loops a bit different than most I've seen, the strap that forms the loop is attached from behind and fed through slots in the cuff. I wouldn't want to do a cartridge belt that way but for the 6 loops here it's not a problem, I like the way it looks as opposed to the strap being stitched to the front. I decided to try something a bit different with my skiving technique on this one so instead of using my safety beveler I got an old Stanley 110 block plane out and made sure the iron was razor sharp. Worked like a charm and the strap came out so much more consistent that this will be the way I do it from now on. As a side note I sent the guy pictures last night and he's so pleased with it he wants a matching sling to go along with it. Stay tuned for pics of the matched pair.

https://i.imgur.com/B3yDctS.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/tmzvGNz.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/I07q8w1.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/VgvIpKA.jpg

-Infidel

[hawgrider]

Very nice addition for any rifle! Damn your getting Good!!!!!!

[Infidel]

Thank you Hawg, I appreciate it. I'm getting a little faster with stuff too which helps a lot. I enjoy the work, I like the challenge of making something I haven't made before. Glove pouches, baton rings, radio holder, etc are fine but it get's kind of boring making them over and over. Holsters, knife sheaths, butt cuffs and new designs are a lot more fun to build because it's different than what makes up the bulk of my work.

-Infidel

[dsdmmat]

What kind of sewing machine do you have? Back when I was doing life support equipment we had a huge singer industrial sewing machine. I never got the hang of it but it was a blast to use.

[Infidel]

What kind of sewing machine do you have? Back when I was doing life support equipment we had a huge singer industrial sewing machine. I never got the hang of it but it was a blast to use.

No machine, it's all hand stitched. I've considered investing in a machine I just don't have enough work right now to justify the expense. Maybe when I retire from my real job and take up the leatherworking full time I'll be able to justify it. My biggest issue would be finding a machine that would be able to stitch the thick leather that I use without spending a fortune.

For most of the stuff that I've been making a machine isn't a necessity, I could definitely see it becoming one if I started taking on bigger projects. Cartridge belts for instance would require a machine as would rifle scabbards which is something I've been considering making lately.

-Infidel

[dsdmmat]

No machine, it's all hand stitched. I've considered investing in a machine I just don't have enough work right now to justify the expense. Maybe when I retire from my real job and take up the leatherworking full time I'll be able to justify it. My biggest issue would be finding a machine that would be able to stitch the thick leather that I use without spending a fortune.

For most of the stuff that I've been making a machine isn't a necessity, I could definitely see it becoming one if I started taking on bigger projects. Cartridge belts for instance would require a machine as would rifle scabbards which is something I've been considering making lately.

-Infidel
Wow, that speaks volumes for your talent. The stitching definately looked too precise for hand stitched, you sir are an artist!

[Pauls]

You use a stitching punch and it makes it easier to hold a line. I have two that I made when I was making my own holsters and sheaths. One punch has two prongs and one has four prongs. I made all my own leather working tools - it was part of the experience.

[Infidel]

You use a stitching punch and it makes it easier to hold a line. I have two that I made when I was making my own holsters and sheaths. One punch has two prongs and one has four prongs. I made all my own leather working tools - it was part of the experience.

Yeah man you got it. Although it seems you're a lot more dedicated than I, I haven't made any of my own leather working tools yet. I have a set of 10 chisel heads that thread on to a handle, they all correspond to different stitch spacing (3 heads for each 3/32", 1/8", and 5/32" plus a single hole chisel). I used to use a single diamond awl and an overstitch wheel but it's so hard to punch those holes so they end up straight on the back side that I eventually had to cave in and buy the diamond chisel set. It made a vast improvement in my stitching.


Wow, that speaks volumes for your talent. The stitching definately looked too precise for hand stitched, you sir are an artist!

I dunno about all that artist stuff, I can't even draw stick figures but thank you for the kind words.

-Infidel

[Pauls]

I'm not so dedicated that I make stuff for anyone else. I just can't see paying for things I can make myself.... Well, I do buy some guns...

[Infidel]

Here's a matching set for a Marlin 336 I did for a member of another forum. Both pieces were dyed with Saddle tan and finished with a Resolene top coat. The sling actually ended up a shade darker than the cuff but should lighten up a bit with use. I ran into some issues skiving the leather for the cartridge loops on the but cuff and had to make the piece over again but I worked out a new method of skiving them that works great. I took an old Stanley 110 block plane and put a razor sharp edge on the iron then used that as my skiving knife. It gives a perfectly flat surface that is a consistent thickness the entire length of the piece. I'll never go back to the safety beveler for skiving again.

https://i.imgur.com/B3yDctS.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/I07q8w1.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/uDMLAJ4.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/okU8Kmx.jpg

-Infidel

[Infidel]

A guy at work wanted a new sheath for his old Monarch "Original Bowie" knife. His only requirement was that it have his initials on it. So here's what I came up with, a heavy duty sheath in saddle tan with a good heavy welt to protect the stitching. Overall thickness of the sheath is over 3/8" so it's pretty heavy duty and should last for generations if it's taken care of. Take a good look at the side view pics to get a good idea how thick it is. Hope he likes it.

https://i.imgur.com/z57mJzS.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/I4CuDE2.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/l3ugkVN.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/l3ugkVN.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ICiPwbl.jpg

-Infidel

[Infidel]

I've been working on this one for about a week now and it's finally finished. What I thought would be the hard parts (the holster and mag pouch) actually ended up being the easiest, the shoulder straps and the yoke in the back were a pain in the ass to figure out and get everything right. I'm not a shoulder holster guy at all, I've had 2 of them and wasn't real happy with either one. That said I'm happy with the way this one came out even if I would never personally use it. It's loosely based on Galco's Miami Classic in that it's a horizontal style shoulder holster. The handgun is a S&W M&P 45 so between the magazine in the gun and the 2 spares I figure you're carrying 25 rounds of ammo, if you can't get it done with that I suppose it's time to call in the SWAT team. I figure I've got just shy of 10 hours in this one which isn't terrible but when you're used to 3hrs or so of actual work on a pancake holster it's a pretty significant amount of work. Next one will be faster but hopefully it'll be a bit before I do another one, this one kicked my butt. Lots of pictures on this one due to the sheer volume of work. Had to go out and draft a fat guy to use as a model.

https://i.imgur.com/bVSztbs.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Pnj5cpc.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/1VECyIl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Jt5r3yv.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ANUxutV.jpg

There is some adjustability built into it in the straps, I punched extra holes for those Chicago screws in case he needed it larger (he's taller and in much better shape than I am).

[Infidel]

More Pics:
https://i.imgur.com/ylThHDL.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/hmSoZAu.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/yAXAuiS.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/gNfenEz.jpg

As always your comments and critiques are appreciated. Hope you guys like this one.

-Infidel

[Inor]

Nice looking rig Infidel! Like you, I am not a big shoulder holster guy. But that is a nice looking setup.

[hawgrider]

Nice work !

[TJC44]

That looks REAL nice!

[Infidel]

Just a head's up if anyone is interested. USPS dropped of a S&W M&P Shield bluegun today so holsters for the shield are now available for order if anyone has a shield they need a holster for. I should have the first holster completed in a week or so, got another couple small jobs to finish first. Keep an eye out for pictures when it's done.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

I had a request for a holster for a Kel Tec P-11, unfortunately Blueguns doesn't make a dummy gun for it. I could get away with using a Ruger LC9 mold gun but not sure it's worth investing in at this point. Is there any interest here in a holster for an LC9/P-11? For me to buy a bluegun I need to be able to get at least 2 holsters out of it since the first one will pay for the bluegun and materials on the holster only. My labor basically ends up being free on that first holster so I need to be able to sell at least 2 of them to make any money. I realize that the LC9 is pretty popular but I'd like to have a couple people wanting holsters up front. So if anyone is interested, let me know and we'll see if we can work something out.

-Infidel

[Arklatex]

Hey Infidel, you aught to post up a list of what guns you are able to make holsters for. I'm sure we could help you out if we knew what was available.

[Infidel]

Hey Infidel, you aught to post up a list of what guns you are able to make holsters for. I'm sure we could help you out if we knew what was available.

That's a good Idea Ark.

So far the list goes something like this:

Smith & Wesson:
J Frame
K Frame
L Frame
N Frame

M&P series:
9mm, .40 & .45 (standard and compacts, same frame for all M&Ps)
Shield

Glock 17/22 (and any other Glock using that size frame I know there's about 8 of them)

Ruger:
Blackhawk (not Super)
Mark series (although I'm not 100% sure they're all the same, they should be)

Sig Sauer P232

Walther PP

Ortgies/Deutches Werke Vest Pocket Model(not a stunningly popular gun but I have one if anyone needs a holster)

1911 mine is a commander but longer barrel lengths are certainly possible

Any other guns I'll pick up a mold for if there's enough demand, I need to be able to get at least 2 holsters out of a mold gun for it to be worth the purchase. Unfortunately they rarely come up used and when they do they're almost as expensive as new. I'll probably end up buying the LC9 gun so if anyone decides they want a holster for one, let me know. Looks like it's the same as the LC380.

-Infidel

[Tachammer73]

I would love to have a authentic Infidel made holster for my .357 Blackhawk. How much for one?

[hawgrider]

I would love to have a authentic Infidel made holster for my .357 Blackhawk. How much for one?
Interested also but south paw. Mine is old 3 screw model .357 4 5/8 length barrel.

[Tachammer73]

Mines an old three screw too, but I do prefer cross draw. Would that be doable?

[Infidel]

I would love to have a authentic Infidel made holster for my .357 Blackhawk. How much for one?
Belt holsters (IWB or OWB) run $75+ shipping normally. I've been running a special (which ends 11/1 but I'll extend through next weekend for you guys) which is $65+ shipping. Just shoot me a PM and we'll nail down specifics. Just be advised I'm a one man operation and the work is stacking up on me quickly, currently I've got 5 holster and 2 single point slings on my sheet so lead time is somewhere around 4-6 weeks depending on how much work I can get done at night.


Interested also but south paw. Mine is old 3 screw model .357 4 5/8 length barrel. No problem there and same deal, order by next weekend and get the discounted rate. Just shoot me a PM and we'll hash it out.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

I had a father from Kansas contact me a couple of weeks ago via another forum I belong to asking about single point slings for Marlin 336 Saddle Ring Carbines. He mentioned one he had seen that was made out of nylon webbing and wanted to know if it would be possible to make one out of leather. He wanted 2 of them since both he and his son hunt with these rifles. So after much discussion we settled on the specifics and I went to work. We went with 1 1/4" wide slings with brass hardware and a nylon swivel snap as the connector to the rifle. I picked up a couple of 1 1/4" belt buckles for adjustment and some Chicago screws. He wanted an aged look on the brass to cut down on glare so I had to figure out how to age the Chicago screws. I found a recipe online of salt & vinegar and heated the screws up then dropped them in, a week later the brass started to develop a nice greenish patina. The dye is Fiebings light brown with a satin shene top coat so there should be no glare and a tan kote top coat on the interior to protect the leather. I included 3 extra swivel snaps with each sling as I feel these are the weakest point of the system. I told him up front I can guarantee the leather and the work but not the swivel snaps. They're cheap enough at $1 or so each to consider them expendable. I would like to find some plastic coated metal swivel snaps but so far no luck, I'm afraid even brass would mar the finish on the receiver. Anyway, here's a few pictures.

https://i.imgur.com/dZKLKVv.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/zshRElB.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/C9cQVan.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/EWvWy6B.jpg[/img

[img]https://i.imgur.com/Ko2H8fG.jpg

[Infidel]

Hopefully the pictures are showing up, photobucket is giving me a bunch of crap again.

https://i.imgur.com/LuY44u6.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/zFubw2B.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ddIDdmQ.jpg

The second keeper just slides down over the belt end to keep it in place. The slings are identical and both slings have the second keeper. I included an extra Chicago screw with each sling because they have a habit of getting lost, hell I almost lost one in the build process, that would have set the whole project back another week. Hope you guys like them, I enjoyed building them. It's nice to build something different every once in a while it gives me a challenge and makes me think a bit more than just working from a template.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

Must be the fact that deer season is just around the corner but I've been very busy lately. Had a guy ask about making a new sheath for his old hunting knife (an old Schrade). Apparently he had someone make him a sheath a few years ago and it just didn't hold up, the retaining strap loosened up to the point that the knife can be partially drawn without popping the snap and the edge started to de-laminate from the welt. After some discussion we settled on a friction style sheath so there would be no more strap issues and the entire blade, guard and a portion of the handle would be contained within the sheath. He didn't much care what color I used so I went with Fiebing's dark brown which is a new color in my arsenal. I'm especially proud of this one and think it's probably my best sheath to date. The edges burnished up nice and with the gluing and stitching it will never come apart.

Here's the old sheath:
https://i.imgur.com/NuYHRiD.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/gIWBw4i.jpg

Not a bad looking sheath, just not properly constructed.

Here's the new one:
https://i.imgur.com/tYYzAgu.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/1RPLwgI.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/jGNaBN6.jpg

[Infidel]

https://i.imgur.com/zTgOr4G.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/2CRmg3I.jpg

-Infidel

[Infidel]

I've always kind of considered pocket guns to be mouse guns. I know that's not always the case but it's kind of the way I've always seen them. Not so anymore, a buddy of mine asked about a pocket holster for a Kimber Solo. I didn't know much about the Solo other than it was a 9mm which I wrongly assumed would make it a little big for a pocket gun. I ordered up a bluegun and when it got here I was amazed by how small the thing is. It's actually smaller than my wife's Sig Sauer P232 in .380. So anyway I set about making a pocket holster for it. The pictures are a little deceiving because looking at them your brain says it's a lefty holster but in reality the back piece goes to the outside in your right pocket to break up the outline of the gun. It came out pretty nice, I really like the color (Saddle Tan). The holster fits the gun very nicely without being tight which would hinder your draw. It also stays put in your pocket when you draw. The only issue I have with the whole thing is the fact that with the back piece there you can't get a full firing grip on the gun before drawing. You will have to readjust your grip after drawing the gun. This really is a trade-off concealability for rapid deployment. The gun just about disappears when the holster is dropped in the pocket and really looks like an over sized wallet or cell phone. A really savvy gun guy (or gal) might spot it but 99.9% of the general population will never notice it. Here's the pics:
https://i.imgur.com/h5vsEgA.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/3x7TxuW.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ck2lIHG.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Tj7Kyup.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/vtJkb13.jpg

The holster will stay open in your pocket so reholstering is a snap although you may want to remove the holster first so that the trigger is covered when you stick it in your pocket.

-Infidel

[Baglady]

Hey Stu! Been awhile since I've read your thread. Really impressive work you've been doing. It's giving me some other gift idea's for next year.

[Infidel]

Hey Stu! Been awhile since I've read your thread. Really impressive work you've been doing. It's giving me some other gift idea's for next year.

Glad I could help you out with that. I'm sure you'll come up with something, just let me know what you're thinking and we'll see what we can come up with.

[Baglady]

Glad I could help you out with that. I'm sure you'll come up with something, just let me know what you're thinking and we'll see what we can come up with.
Will do. I'm hoping I'll be the winner of a .45 that we bought tickets for. Will let you know if I need a holster!

[Infidel]

I've been off from my real job for about 12 days so I could get some deer hunting in. Of course I couldn't get in the woods every day but I've been making every attempt at it. In between I've been doing some leather projects on my list. First up is a Holster for a J frame Model 60 S&W. It's for a buddies wife and her gun has a grip laser mounted on it. I had to clearance the leather a bit for the laser after the holster was done but honestly you can't even tell the difference. The gun in the holster is my M36 not her 60. She had no color preference for the holster so since I had the Saddle Tan out, that's what she got. I really like this color too.
https://i.imgur.com/jzRtuDD.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/1uE2X82.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/WtVvREl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/tWeKANB.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/iimjOvJ.jpg

The edge shots are more to showcase how my burnishing has progressed than for any other reason. You'll see on the next 2 projects that it's getting better every day even though edge burnishing is one of my least favorite parts of the work.

[Infidel]

Next up, one of my hunting partners (not the same as above) was complaining about the factory sheath of his Buck 105. The knife rattles around in the sheath and for some reason Buck chose to put some sort of a plastic liner in there where the spine of the knife rides. So I took it upon myself to make him a new sheath for his 105. I own the same knife (as I'm sure a lot of you do also) but mine is an older production knife from the 60's or 70's and thus mine came with a quality leather sheath. I decided to base the new sheath loosely off of my old one and this is what I came up with.
https://i.imgur.com/q3vxeKl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/pJYBZ7a.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/TxOUvUY.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/P5mpMvS.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/x3n98L8.jpg

I thought I had a picture of the back of the sheath but apparently I didn't take one. I'll have to rectify that before I give him his new sheath. He actually didn't know about the sheath until I sent him a text telling him "I think this is yours. I'd like to keep it but those aren't my initials." I was initially going to carve the deer skull into the leather but it's only 1.5x1.5" and I was having a lot of trouble controlling the swivel knife on a piece that small when I was practicing. So I decided an embossed look might be the way to go, I kind of like the fact that it's not quite so prominent. The embossing reminds me of the ghost flames effect seen on many custom paint jobs.

[Infidel]

Lastly is a holster for a KelTec P-11. I did a bunch of research on this to start with and what I found is that there isn't a bluegun for a P-11 but all the P-11 holsters made are listed as Ruger LC9 holsters so I ordered me up an LC9 bluegun and went to work. Saddle Tan again with some great looking edges. This holster rides about as high as you could possibly ask of any belt holster although if I were going to do another one I might cut the ears down on it as they look a little long for my liking. They should however provide a nice stable rig with little movement.

https://i.imgur.com/knrwAoE.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/OODIVKs.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/QbnmCS8.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/zXYUmeq.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/x4TZYZx.jpg


As always I look forward to your comments and critiques, you guys always provide helpful insights for me.

-Infidel

[Arklatex]

Hey Infidel, I hate the sheath for my Buck 119. The knife appears the same, maybe a little shorter? Maybe you can hook me up with another sheath.

[Arklatex]

BTW the leatherman wave sheath is holding up very nicely!

[hawgrider]

Stitching work keeps improving and looking great. The edge burnishing looks very good.

[Slippy]

Really nice work Infidel!

[RubberDuck]

I like the Buck knife sheath thats how they use to be then they went to open top with cross loop snap. I hate trying to resheath especially with bloody hands.
I may have to put in a order for one of those.

[Infidel]

Hey Infidel, I hate the sheath for my Buck 119. The knife appears the same, maybe a little shorter? Maybe you can hook me up with another sheath.

Your knife is actually quite a bit larger than the 105. The 119 is a 6" blade where the 105 is a dainty 5" and the 119 is a full 1 1/2" longer overall. To build this style of sheath I would have to have the knife on hand. I might have to mull that over a bit because I've been considering buying a 119 for some time so if you decided to pull the trigger on a new sheath that would probably be the catalyst I need to go buy one. The 119 is certainly a good looking knife and I like bigger blades, I'm just drawn to them for some reason even if they're not always the most practical blade for a given job. As a side note the 119 is a very popular knife so if I bought one I'm sure I could sell a bunch of sheaths for them (sounds like I just convinced myself doesn't it?). Shoot me a PM if you want the sheath and we'll work out details. Glad to hear the Leatherman sheath is still hanging in there.


I like the Buck knife sheath thats how they use to be then they went to open top with cross loop snap. I hate trying to resheath especially with bloody hands.
I may have to put in a order for one of those.
You're right, I have no idea why they changed up the sheath. Might be a case of form over function but I suspect it has more to do with the bottom line. The plastic liner in the new 105 sheaths is what had me scratching my head. I could understand it if it was where the edge rides to protect the stitching (unnecessary with the welt) but to put it inside the back portion under the spine makes no sense to me. The only reason I can come up with is to prevent deformation of the leather in case it gets sat on. You can order at any time if you like, just shoot me a PM and we can nail down specifics from there.

I'm glad you all like the work and I appreciate all the comments. You guys make a great sounding board for my work.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

I had a bit of time in between orders so I decided to do a project for me and get one knocked of my list. This is a 2 part project Part A being a high rise pancake style holster for my 1911 (Kimber Pro CDP). I have other holsters for this gun but the IWB (Desantis) holster isn't really necessary this time of year and isn't particularly comfortable and the paddle holster doesn't ride high enough and sticks out too far. I also decided to embellish the holster a bit with some basket weave. I learned a bit about this process while I was at it. #1 basket weave tends to disappear in the wet molding process so go extra heavy with the stamping and #2 don't take the basket weave all the way up the retention strap. If you don't get a full stamp on the strap it looks a little weird. I decided to make the sweat shield on this one a bit larger than normal as I plan on wearing it all the time. Since I didn't mold this holster as tight as I normally would to keep the basket weave intact, the draw from this holster is very fast. The retention strap isn't exactly where I wanted it due to the extended safety, I was concerned about the strap knocking the safety off. The strap still retains the gun I just would have like it back over top of the slide more. Overall I'm pleased with the end result, it's comfortable, fast to draw from, easy to reholster and conceals well, what more could I ask. Oh yeah it looks pretty ok too.

Part B will be finished in a couple of days probably, it's a matching spare mag pouch.
https://i.imgur.com/ike43ij.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/5yCtdgq.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/cltxq8f.jpg

-Infidel

[hawgrider]

Love the basket weave.... nice !

[Inor]

Very nice! Excellent work! You are a true craftsman.

[Infidel]

Thanks guys, I can tell you Basket Weave is a pain in the hands. My left hand is like a claw after working on the mag pouch tonight. It doesn't help that I've already had carpal tunnel surgery on my left hand, it seems to cramp up pretty quick. I have a whole new appreciation for guys that make big projects like belts using basket weave stamps. I think I'd want a machine for that. Oh well it should look pretty good when it's all finished anyway.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

I guess you're not truly prepare unless you're carrying a reload. I finally finished up the mag pouch for my 1911. It took a little longer than I expected but since it's almost Christmas time I should have seen that coming. I'm very happy with this one, came out just as I had anticipated. I'm particularly happy with the back of it where the belt clip is, there's just something about the smooth leather with the basket weave and the stitching and rivet seem to add to the effect for me. Oh well enough talk...
https://i.imgur.com/0J5DThW.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/wmordNK.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/XOzwiyx.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/W2ogQci.jpg

Upcoming projects: an IWB holster (lefty) for a Sigpro 2340, an OWB holster for a Glock 27 and 2 Hatchet belt sheaths then if the work drops off it's back to my own projects. Planning a Bill Jordan Border Patrol style holster for a S&W Model 10. and a couple of other things. Stay tuned.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

Hey Infidel, I hate the sheath for my Buck 119. The knife appears the same, maybe a little shorter? Maybe you can hook me up with another sheath.

I've been out of work with a bad back again for 2 days now so I've been surfing ebay looking for a 119 at a reasonable price. I'm going to try my auction sniping skills and try to win a 119. I'm currently watch 7 auctions so I'll let you know if I score one.

-Infidel

[RubberDuck]

Do you have plans for a low ride 1911 an mag
I have dunlap disease an high rides are a bit un comfortable.
I have one that fits good but the comfort pad isn't quite large enough.
Here is a pic of what I have an even lower would probably work.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20151218/1c38fb454524b8deadc4c7072f789abc.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20151218/a3e521947641ba7951db791b61188a65.jpg

[Infidel]

Do you have plans for a low ride 1911 an mag
I have dunlap disease an high rides are a bit un comfortable.
I have one that fits good but the comfort pad isn't quite large enough.
Here is a pic of what I have an even lower would probably work.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20151218/1c38fb454524b8deadc4c7072f789abc.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20151218/a3e521947641ba7951db791b61188a65.jpg

Would you be looking for another belt slide style holster or a full holster? If you want to discuss it in detail shoot me a PM and we can hash it out and see if we can come up with something. By the way that's a pretty nice holster there and whoever AC is has got some talent when it comes to tooling leather. That's a skill that still eludes me mostly because I rarely have time to do any practice work.

-Infidel

[Arklatex]

I've been out of work with a bad back again for 2 days now so I've been surfing ebay looking for a 119 at a reasonable price. I'm going to try my auction sniping skills and try to win a 119. I'm currently watch 7 auctions so I'll let you know if I score one.

-Infidel
I will send you mine if you want. Use it as your template unless you got your heart set in owning a 119...

[Infidel]

I will send you mine if you want. Use it as your template unless you got your heart set in owning a 119...

I do really want one, I just needed a reason to buy one. If I don't win then we'll talk about sending yours up. I'll know in a couple of hours if I win. This one is 67-72 vintage so it comes with the old style sheath, not that I'll use it.

-Infidel

Edited to add:
Looks like I won, knife ended up costing me $22.77 plus shipping so a pretty good deal considering what a new one goes for. So on to designing a new sheath once it gets here.

[Infidel]

Took a job to build an IWB holster for the boy friend of one of the girls that works in the barber shop I use. He has one now that's tuckable but uses metal clips to hold it in place and she said it tears his shirts up. So after gathering all the pertinent info and ordering a bluegun for a SigPro 2340 I started building. I decided to change the design of my belt straps a bit because I never liked the snaps on the front of the belt. It always seemed to me that they would catch on things and pop loose. So I decided to put the snaps on the back side of the belt. I'm sure this isn't an original idea but I was pretty proud of myself for "inventing" it. As an added benefit the snaps now will not scratch up the front side of your belt. I took her some color samples and she settled on the light brown. I'm pretty happy with the final result although I can almost always find something to nitpick but then again we are usually our own worst critics right? So without further adieu:
https://i.imgur.com/bfGsbzq.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/KvrMqMU.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/LO2pztl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ZcGvCs9.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/SqtTaX2.jpg


-Infidel

[Infidel]

As I'm sure many of you are now aware, Inor contacted me about a holster as a gift for Mrs. Inor. We talked back and forth a bit via e-mail and settled on a high rise belt holster for a S&W M&P Shield in dark brown. I took a bunch of pictures of this one as I'm especially proud of it. Honestly this is probably the first holster I've made that I really couldn't find anything to nitpick. I'll let the pictures do the talking on this one.

https://i.imgur.com/j2gdDRl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/SePoTp9.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/BBRzRQG.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/HvQ2oz4.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Kob4iTu.jpg


To be continued.....

[Deebo]

Man, that is beautiful.
Mrs Inor is an angel.

[Deebo]

I never noticed your Facebook page link, but I just put it on my page, on Facebook. Hope it gets you some business.

[Infidel]

https://i.imgur.com/NPmXFI5.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/DVHHQTU.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/cll5ADq.jpg


I couldn't be happier with the way it turned out but I have to admit I was a bit anxious about whether or not she would like it. In the end I think everyone is happy and Mrs. Inor now owns the finest holster I've made to date may it serve her well. As with all my work there's a lifetime warranty on it, if there's ever a problem ship it on back and I will take care of it.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

I never noticed your Facebook page link, but I just put it on my page, on Facebook. Hope it gets you some business.

I appreciate that Deebo.

[Inor]

I couldn't be happier with the way it turned out but I have to admit I was a bit anxious about whether or not she would like it. In the end I think everyone is happy and Mrs. Inor now owns the finest holster I've made to date may it serve her well. As with all my work there's a lifetime warranty on it, if there's ever a problem ship it on back and I will take care of it.

-Infidel

It turned out GREAT and we could not be happier! It looks even better in person than on these photos and it fits the pistol absolutely perfectly.

The only problem this presents is whether I order my next holster from Dwight or Infidel. I guess I'll just have to double up on my collection of holsters. Damn... :biglaugh: Both are EXCELLENT craftsmen.

[Infidel]

I would not be at all offended to lose a job to Dwight, he is a master craftsman. I'm still learning the craft but from what I've seen of Dwight's work on his page he is light years ahead of me, his work is amazing. I do appreciate the compliment though Inor, to be considered at even near the level of Dwight is high praise.

[Inor]

I would not be at all offended to lose a job to Dwight, he is a master craftsman. I'm still learning the craft but from what I've seen of Dwight's work on his page he is light years ahead of me, his work is amazing. I do appreciate the compliment though Inor, to be considered at even near the level of Dwight is high praise.

Dwight's work is amazing. But do not sell yourself short. You are also in the ranks of the top leatherworkers that I have seen - and that is more than a few. I just need to buy twice as many holsters! Poor me. :biglaugh:

[shootbrownelk]

I would not be at all offended to lose a job to Dwight, he is a master craftsman. I'm still learning the craft but from what I've seen of Dwight's work on his page he is light years ahead of me, his work is amazing. I do appreciate the compliment though Inor, to be considered at even near the level of Dwight is high praise.

That is beautiful leatherwork Infidel. That Butcuff on the Marlin is outstanding. Looks like it belongs on that rifle. Thanks for posting pictures.

[DerBiermeister]

Something about good leather that you just can't beat.

NICE work Infidel

[Arklatex]

Infidel, can you mod your 2340 holster to take a 2022? The only difference is the shape of the trigger guard. It's squared off. All other dimensions are the same.

[Infidel]

Infidel, can you mod your 2340 holster to take a 2022? The only difference is the shape of the trigger guard. It's squared off. All other dimensions are the same.

The front rail on the 2022 is a bit different too, looks like it sticks out a little lower than on the 2340. I'm not sure either difference would be an issue, the holster might be a bit tighter for the 2022 but I'm pretty sure the 2022 would fit as is. In fact most of the leather holsters I've seen for the 2340 also fit the 2022. Seems the 2022 is an updated version of the older 2340. If you're interested in a holster shoot me a PM and we'll hash out the details.

Stu

[Arklatex]

I'll pm you soon. Thanks!

[Infidel]

So I got around to making the sheath for my new to me Buck 119. I kicked around a few ideas for a bit and even had a go at making a Scout style sheath (Horizontal carry) which actually could have been carried Scout, vertical, or crossdraw. That design was a failure for this knife it's just too big for anything other than standard vertical carry. I even though about doing a reproduction of the original Buck sheath but in the end I decided a woodsman or buschraft style sheath would be the best bet. I wanted one piece construction meaning I didn't want the belt loop to be a separate piece but instead to be a fold over off the main body of the holster. However I didn't want the flesh side of the leather to be seen on the belt loop, maybe I'm just too picky or maybe I needed a challenge. Either way the only way to accomplish that goal was to laminate a second thin piece of leather over top of the piece for the belt loop. So this is how it turned out. The color is the same dark brown from Mrs. Inor's holster (love the color by the way Mrs. Inor) and a lot of time spent burnishing the edges. This is not a sheath that I could build for my standard sheath price due to the amount of work and the amount of stitching, skiving the second piece for the belt loop alone was probably a solid 1/2 hour to make sure it was all the same thickness and nice and smooth (a low angle block plane and some nice sharp chisels makes this task a lot easier). This sheath would probably sell for what I sell my holsters for so I don't imagine I'll be making many more like this one. If anyone is interested the knife while not done is cleaning up fairly well. Although it'll never be perfect, I really like it.

https://i.imgur.com/WAMQi0I.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/AEhXLHD.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/gPKh2xA.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/IWpWdCO.jpg

In the interest of full disclosure I managed to nick the sheath with the point of the knife before I got the pictures taken. Right on the top of the belt loop too. I ended up putting a very small slit in the top layer of leather, you can well imagine the foul words that were flying about the house when I did it too.
https://i.imgur.com/jIhYayS.jpg

Arklatex what do you think of this one for your 119?

-Infidel

[Arklatex]

That's freakin sweet Infidel! I love the way you made it without straps. Kinda reminds me of a Scandinavian type sheath. Love it.

[Infidel]

It's been a while since I posted anything so I figured I'd post this IWB holster for a Glock 17. The design is tuckable so you can tuck your shirt in and still keep your firearm concealed under the shirt. The color is Saddle Tan with white stitching. I decided this time around I'd burnish the inside of the holster as well as the flesh side of the belt loops, I like the look a lot but it does make wet molding a bit tougher because the hide doesn't soak up as much water and remains stiffer. The edges came out really well, nice and glossy. Fit is great although if I were going to do another I'd clearance a little more where the grip meets the trigger guard to get a little better grip for the draw.

https://i.imgur.com/dP92GHK.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/sLgPiMG.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/l1Sx5Ui.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/nbARCq8.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ZxFU0Mi.jpg

To be continued...

[Infidel]

https://i.imgur.com/snWuDgT.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/1J8Z9oK.jpg

Hope you guys like it.

-Infidel

[hawgrider]

Looking great Infidel! How much does one of those go for?

[Infidel]

Looking great Infidel! How much does one of those go for?

Both IWB and OWB holsters run $75, OTP members get shipping included.

-Infidel

[DerBiermeister]

That looks really nice. IMO, there is nothing more comfortable for IWB than a good quality LEATHER holster. And yours looks about as good as they get.

Here is my favorite IWB .. holds my Shield. Holster made by Winthrop. It has had a lot of use.
I have extra large belt loops because my carry belt is very wide and 1/4" thick (single piece leather, not laminated). The snaps are also locking snaps for security.

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Der1/003_zpsjp4ss8sx.jpg

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Der1/002_zpswtfkroy8.jpg

[Infidel]

That's a good looking holster you've got there. I have yet to get into Pull the dot snaps although it's something I've been considering for a bit now. Your choice of belt is excellent for concealed carry. In my opinion a good heavy belt makes all the difference in how comfortable you're going to be carrying a handgun. My next belt will be laminated 9oz leather so 2 pieces of 8-9oz glued and stitched and should be well over 1/4" thick probably closer to 3/8". I am not looking forward to all the stitching but I'll get it done.

-Infidel

[Sparkyprep]

Infidel, what would you charge me for a leather holster for a Leatherman Wave? PM me, or answer here, I don't care which.

[DerBiermeister]

Your choice of belt is excellent for concealed carry. In my opinion a good heavy belt makes all the difference in how comfortable you're going to be carrying a handgun. My next belt will be laminated 9oz leather so 2 pieces of 8-9oz glued and stitched and should be well over 1/4" thick probably closer to 3/8". I am not looking forward to all the stitching but I'll get it done.

-Infidel

Here's the belt

http://dwguheb7ln5c.cloudfront.net/image.aspx/media/images/products/20526_coiled.jpg-395x395



http://www.duluthtrading.com/store/product/heavy-belts-beefy-leather-belt-20526.aspx?ev3=pdp-related-products

I bought it about 4 years ago. I didn't like the light tan color, so I studied up on to do a professional job of leather staining and bought the stains. And now it is a deep rich mahogany color. In fact it looks a lot like my holster. The belt is definitely a lifetime belt. Mine shows zero wear - and that is after 4 years of wearing.

[Baglady]

Damn nice work. I really like the knife sheath too.

[Infidel]

Here's the belt

http://dwguheb7ln5c.cloudfront.net/image.aspx/media/images/products/20526_coiled.jpg-395x395



http://www.duluthtrading.com/store/product/heavy-belts-beefy-leather-belt-20526.aspx?ev3=pdp-related-products

I bought it about 4 years ago. I didn't like the light tan color, so I studied up on to do a professional job of leather staining and bought the stains. And now it is a deep rich mahogany color. In fact it looks a lot like my holster. The belt is definitely a lifetime belt. Mine shows zero wear - and that is after 4 years of wearing.

That's a pretty thick chunk of leather, probably 10-12oz. It should last a lifetime if taken care of.

-Infidel

[Arklatex]

Infidel, what would you charge me for a leather holster for a Leatherman Wave? PM me, or answer here, I don't care which.
I can't remember what he charged me but Infidel made me one. It's held up really well and it's a mainstay for my off work edc. Here is a pic from today after I took it off my belt.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160301/3d21df95b47e6e5cb43cd61d11ca8bd1.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160301/b5b6370a83891488a57fe66f896c5b82.jpg

Carries great. I requested the firesteel loop and it will also carry the bit extention if desired. Highly satisfied and recommended!

Edit: this pouch is at least a year old. Judge for yourself the wear and tear bit it's seen lotsa belt time.

[Infidel]

I can't remember what he charged me but Infidel made me one. It's held up really well and it's a mainstay for my off work edc. Here is a pic from today after I took it off my belt.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160301/3d21df95b47e6e5cb43cd61d11ca8bd1.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160301/b5b6370a83891488a57fe66f896c5b82.jpg

Carries great. I requested the firesteel loop and it will also carry the bit extention if desired. Highly satisfied and recommended!

Edit: this pouch is at least a year old. Judge for yourself the wear and tear bit it's seen lotsa belt time.

I knew I had made one for a Wave before, just couldn't come up with it fast enough. That thing still looks pretty good you must take good care of it. The one I made for myself is pretty chewed up but then again I have a tendency to have it on my side when I'm crawling around under the car in the driveway. Blacktop is not good for leather, LOL. I had to consult my sheet on that one, August 2014 is when I finished that one up. It's still one of my favorites with the ferro rod loop. I'm glad it's holding up well.

-Infidel

[Infidel]

My nephew asked me to build him a sheath for a Bark River Huntsman that he's carrying as part of his EDC. It's a nice little knife and he figured it would ride well in a crossdraw sheath. This is what I came up with for him. You'll notice the belt loop is wet formed, he was very concerned about the thickness of his belt no fitting the loop so I doubled up 2 8-9oz belt blanks and formed the slot to that. I'm happy with the sheath and he's right it does carry well crossdraw but a word of caution is in order for larger men. If you can see your belt then this is not the sheath for you, I could see me cutting the heck out of my gut trying to re sheath the knife. A skinny kid like my nephew should have no problems with it. Enough talk how about some pictures.

https://i.imgur.com/Tjaytrl.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/3V1HaVQ.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/mnKke6G.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ZAgsgdu.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/FprLJ7X.jpg

[Infidel]

https://i.imgur.com/iN21M7r.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/i3eP0L2.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/oVL3Ssd.jpg

-Infidel

[Infidel]

It's been pretty busy around here lately, I've been doing a bunch of the same old stuff. Got in a couple of new projects here just recently and thought I'd share. First up is a Mag pouch for a Kel Tec PMR-30. Open top and dark brown with white stitching which tends to yellow a bit giving it an aged look. He opted for a spring metal clip instead of a belt loop which is what I prefer for a mag pouch since I don't care for completely unthreading my belt to put a mag pouch on.

https://i.imgur.com/X19hAUJ.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/jPtoiBP.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Rev3HY8.jpg

To be continued.....

[Infidel]

This one was a big project as well as making the sheath the knife is my work also, well at least the finish work is. Back in September I had my oldest son's Cub Scout Den here to let them learn about forging and knife making. We fired up the coal forge and hammered an old Mill file into a knife blank. I told the Den leader that the knife was for a friend and thought the boys might enjoy the experience and he was all in. So the plan was to have the boys forge that blank and I would turn it into a knife for the Den leader who spent the last 5 years taking these boys through Cub Scouting and got all but our newest scouts (new this year) their Arrow of Light which for those unfamiliar with it is the only Cub Scout award that you can wear on your Boy Scout uniform and is Cub Scouting's highest award. I've seen some dedicated people over the years but this guy takes the cake, even continuing to hold meetings after a fairly substantial heart attack last year. The parents of the boys stepped up as much as they could to take some of the load but none of it would have been possible without him. So the knife is a 4" drop point blade with a 90° spine. The handle scales are black walnut harvested locally with 1/4" brass pins and a 1/4" brass lanyard tube.

The sheath is a simple bushcraft style sheath wet molded and embossed with the Arrow of Light and stamped with his initials (MCC). Light brown dye and double stitching makes this one of the nicest sheaths I've made to date. I especially like the double stitch lines, it just seems to make it a little extra special.

https://i.imgur.com/bfgNayp.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/xMD8vQP.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/NokrYGC.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/CBxlobA.jpg

-Infidel

[Infidel]

So a guy on another forum just bought himself a Colt 1911 and asked if I could build him a Crossdraw Yaqui slide. He wanted it open top and black with about a 15° cant. I think it turned out pretty well, it's certainly a minimalist design. I'm not sure I'd ever carry in one but it seems comfortable enough that it might be a great thing for anyone who spends a lot of time driving. It certainly would make getting to your handgun a lot easier in the vehicle.

[https://i.imgur.com/nDTq0iQ.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/PGGTGru.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/T4tqaba.jpg

-Infidel

[Inor]

Very nice! As you said, I do not know that I would carry it, but nice none the less.

[hawgrider]

Nice set up. Thin to win! The 1911 is not to bad to carry. Overall weight is hefty but the thiness of the 1911 is comfortable unlike a double stack.

[Infidel]

So awhile back a guy I work with asked me to build a sling for his Kel Tec KSG shotgun. He wanted 16 shell loops on the sling so he could have a full reload + a couple extras right close to hand. I was really not looking forward to this one because all those shell loops can really be difficult when hand stitching. I took the job anyway and this is the end result:
https://i.imgur.com/8KNCCgg.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/ZlnIrkX.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/YDPXwM3.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/wftktHA.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Qf1gEYa.jpg

I think the keeper is actually my favorite part of the whole sling, I've done keepers in the past and wasn't thrilled with them but I think the X pattern stitching really makes this one stand out. It's too bad that stitching is on the back side where no one will see it but the owner. I found when the sling was all finished that some of the shell loops were tighter than others so I ended up wet molding them to stretch them a bit and make them consistent. I'm happy with the way this one turned out even though it was a very time consuming build. Since each loop is glued and stitched I could only do a few each day, I think the most I did in one day was 5.

[hawgrider]

Nice! I like it.

Couple of bandoleros would be pretty cool!

[Infidel]

Last year I picked up this old late 50's era S&W Model 10 (no dash). It was purchased by a buddy with an FFL from a retired NYPD officer. It's a bit beat up but shoots well and deserves it's own rig. So when I started thinking about a holster for this one I kept coming back to the idea of building a Bill Jordan style Border Patrol holster. I did a ton of research on the original design and spent a good bit of time on the template design. In the end what I ended up with is my interpretation of the original Jordan style holster and I think it's very appropriate for the revolver. This holster differs from the original in that it's a bit narrower at the toe, there is no metal stitched into the belt loop or welt and the retention strap pivots out of the way if desired (not my idea, something I picked up in research). I'm very pleased with the result and think the black dye and basket weave is a fitting homage to the original design, it's just too bad some of the basket weave washed out in wet molding. The welt between the belt loop and body kicks the butt of the weapon out away from the body so as not to impede the draw. The original design had a piece of metal stitched in there to accomplish this but the thickness of this welt doesn't require it. 5 layers of leather at the top of the holster equals almost 7/8" of leather to stitch. The holster hangs perfect and the butt of the weapon sits right under my hand which would make it very quick to draw from if unsnapped prior to draw. Hope you guys like it.
https://i.imgur.com/is1gtMG.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/Y2CaszU.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/pNlu0pD.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/prU2NpS.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/lTBKEUU.jpg

-Infidel

[Inor]

Nicely done! I like the revolver a lot too!

[Slippy]

Last year I picked up this old late 50's era S&W Model 10 (no dash). It was purchased by a buddy with an FFL from a retired NYPD officer. It's a bit beat up but shoots well and deserves it's own rig. So when I started thinking about a holster for this one I kept coming back to the idea of building a Bill Jordan style Border Patrol holster. I did a ton of research on the original design and spent a good bit of time on the template design. In the end what I ended up with is my interpretation of the original Jordan style holster and I think it's very appropriate for the revolver. This holster differs from the original in that it's a bit narrower at the toe, there is no metal stitched into the belt loop or welt and the retention strap pivots out of the way if desired (not my idea, something I picked up in research). I'm very pleased with the result and think the black dye and basket weave is a fitting homage to the original design, it's just too bad some of the basket weave washed out in wet molding. The welt between the belt loop and body kicks the butt of the weapon out away from the body so as not to impede the draw. The original design had a piece of metal stitched in there to accomplish this but the thickness of this welt doesn't require it. 5 layers of leather at the top of the holster equals almost 7/8" of leather to stitch. The holster hangs perfect and the butt of the weapon sits right under my hand which would make it very quick to draw from if unsnapped prior to draw. Hope you guys like it.

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc492/stu925/Jordan%20holster/Front_zpsrdotslws.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/stu925/media/Jordan%20holster/Front_zpsrdotslws.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc492/stu925/Jordan%20holster/Front%20empty_zpsia4sxpro.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/stu925/media/Jordan%20holster/Front%20empty_zpsia4sxpro.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc492/stu925/Jordan%20holster/Back_zpsx21bakxr.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/stu925/media/Jordan%20holster/Back_zpsx21bakxr.jpg.html).

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc492/stu925/Jordan%20holster/Welt_1_zpsqs7o7irk.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/stu925/media/Jordan%20holster/Welt_1_zpsqs7o7irk.jpg.html)

http://i1214.photobucket.com/albums/cc492/stu925/Jordan%20holster/Back%20empty_zpse88qxisq.jpg (http://s1214.photobucket.com/user/stu925/media/Jordan%20holster/Back%20empty_zpse88qxisq.jpg.html)

-Infidel

That is beautiful...

[Infidel]

Thank you both. The revolver has definitely spent a lot of time in a holster looking at the right side grip panel you can see the checkering is all but worn off (probably from rubbing against the seat belt latch in a police cruiser). There's a couple spots on the frame with some good dings too so looks like maybe it's seen some action too. I can tell you I now understand why Bill Jordan designed this rig, it's fast to draw from, the butt of the weapon rests right under your hand and if that safety strap is disengaged and pushed aside it's super quick.

[Gambit]

really nice work I know a few people in the SCA who would loved to have you make some stuff for them.

1. are you water stiffening or oil hardening them ?
some of my old leather I have was fat harden and one item was water stiffen and I am seeing that the water treated was more stiffer then the oil and the leather was all saddle skirting at the same thickness so I am confused why this be that the water treated item had a better outcome then the oil ones.
2. also when cleaning I notice the wax on the water treated item seems to have scales that don't come out for #### anything I can do to fix this issue?

[Infidel]

Water will draw all the natural oils out of leather where excess oil will tend to make it mushy. After wet molding I give everything a light coat of neatsfoot oil prior to the final finish being applied and I generally don't recommend customers do anything else to the leather for at least the first year. Generally a light coat of conditioner about once a year is plenty unless it's seen hard use and been soaked through with water. In that case I recommend drying out completely and then a light coat of conditioner or neatsfoot oil to replace the natural oils lost. As for your wax issue I'm not sure what may be causing the issue but I'd try heating it up a bit with a hair dryer and spreading it around a bit. I don't use wax for anything, all of my top coats are either Tan Kote, Satin Shene or Resolene with the Resolene being my favorite. There are guys out there that finish with wax but I'm not one of them. If you frequent youtube Ian Attkinson has a channel and I've seen him use waxes to finish so you might pop over there and ask him about it.

-Infidel

[Gambit]

ty fore info my man

[Infidel]

Hard to believe it's been 4 months since I posted anything here, it's not that I'm not working but I've been doing a lot of stuff that I've posted already. So here's a new project fresh off the bench. It's an Avenger style holster for a commander length 1911. My eye has been drawn to these for a while now and I decided that it was time to build one and try it out. This one sits just a little bit higher than it probably ought to and so the center of gravity is a bit high and it requires a good stiff gun belt to keep it from canting outward. It was a fun build and I'm happy with the design but I'd move those belt loops up a little higher on the next one. Seems like it will be comfortable to carry in, time will tell.

https://i.imgur.com/v1wwduK.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/3SXfl2G.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/XJsP9Iq.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/wMoEoPA.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/im19cX6.jpg

As always your thoughts and comments are appreciated, so fire away and let me know what you guys think.

-Infidel

[hawgrider]

Are you hand stitching those?

[DerBiermeister]

Do you use your own guns for models or do you use blue guns?

[Infidel]

Are you hand stitching those?
All hand stitched for now. Eventually I'll end up buying a machine, probably when I end up doing this full time in a few years. The plan is to start pedaling holsters at gun shows and maybe some of my other wares at local craft shows, we'll have to see about that though.


Do you use your own guns for models or do you use blue guns?
I use both actually, if it's something I have I 'll use mine if not then I order a blue gun for it. Some guns I can't even get a blue gun for, I have a holster here to finish for an American Derringer DA-38, good luck finding a blue gun for that. So I make the holster up and then he'll stop by with the gun for molding and he can pick the holster up when it's finished.

-Infidel

[hawgrider]

The stiching looks great so thats why I was wondering if it was done by machine.

[Infidel]

The stiching looks great so thats why I was wondering if it was done by machine.

Thank you, I struggled with stitching for a long time but after a while it just seemed to come together for me.

[DerBiermeister]

I use both actually, if it's something I have I 'll use mine if not then I order a blue gun for it. Some guns I can't even get a blue gun for, I have a holster here to finish for an American Derringer DA-38, good luck finding a blue gun for that. So I make the holster up and then he'll stop by with the gun for molding and he can pick the holster up when it's finished.

-Infidel

Can you get a blue gun for a Browning BuckMark? Specifically the Hunter model with 7 1/4" barrel?

[Infidel]

Can you get a blue gun for a Browning BuckMark? Specifically the Hunter model with 7 1/4" barrel?

Doesn't look like they make a blue gun for the buckmark. I have a friend that has a buckmark though and I'm sure he wouldn't be opposed to getting out of the house for a bit to bring it up so I can mold a holster to it. Not sure what bbl length his is but I can always make an extension out of wood if necessary.

[Infidel]

Well I didn't have much going on for orders this week so I figured I'd knock out another project for me. I picked this old Germantown shingle hatchet head up at a yard sale for $2, didn't even haggle with the lady. I made a handle for it (Hickory) a couple weeks ago and figured it needed a sheath before I put a real edge on it. So a few hours later this is what I came up with. I like the look of the stitching with the rivets. This one is Dark brown and you can definitely see the difference in color between this one and the holster I posted previously.

https://i.imgur.com/pQXy72V.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/DZJerJB.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/o0jvfXe.jpg]

-Infidel

[DerBiermeister]

Doesn't look like they make a blue gun for the buckmark. I have a friend that has a buckmark though and I'm sure he wouldn't be opposed to getting out of the house for a bit to bring it up so I can mold a holster to it. Not sure what bbl length his is but I can always make an extension out of wood if necessary.

There is one other twist -- the holster would also need to be cut large enough for a Red-dot.

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Der1/DSC_0001_zps3wnh7lzq.jpg (http://s13.photobucket.com/user/Der1/media/DSC_0001_zps3wnh7lzq.jpg.html)

[Arklatex]

Doesn't look like they make a blue gun for the buckmark. I have a friend that has a buckmark though and I'm sure he wouldn't be opposed to getting out of the house for a bit to bring it up so I can mold a holster to it. Not sure what bbl length his is but I can always make an extension out of wood if necessary.
A holster pattern for a Ruger mk should work. They are basically the same.

[DerBiermeister]

There is one other twist -- the holster would also need to be cut large enough for a Red-dot.

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Der1/DSC_0001_zps3wnh7lzq.jpg (http://s13.photobucket.com/user/Der1/media/DSC_0001_zps3wnh7lzq.jpg.html)

There can be a work-around for the red-dot. Get a large dowel (1 1/4" in dia), cut to a length of 3.00" and tape it to the top of the gun.

BTW, the length of the top (muzzle to end of charging handle) is 11 1/8"

[Dwight55]

There can be a work-around for the red-dot. Get a large dowel (1 1/4" in dia), cut to a length of 3.00" and tape it to the top of the gun.

BTW, the length of the top (muzzle to end of charging handle) is 11 1/8"

Last one of these I made, . . . I left a slot in the top for his scope to slide down through. The scope was not inside the holster.

He was tickled pink with it, . . . and I was too, . . . that it was done :bounce:

May God bless,
Dwight

[Targetshooter]

kool work, very nice hobby , I would love a holster for buck mark it looks like this one but with out the red dot and has a 5.5 barrel on it . hint, hint , what would it cost me ?http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Der1/DSC_0001_zps3wnh7lzq.jpgm

[Infidel]

There is one other twist -- the holster would also need to be cut large enough for a Red-dot.

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Der1/DSC_0001_zps3wnh7lzq.jpg (http://s13.photobucket.com/user/Der1/media/DSC_0001_zps3wnh7lzq.jpg.html)
I like a challenge and it really shouldn't be to much of an issue. If you want to discuss it further shoot me a PM and we'll go into more detail and see if we can come up with something.

A holster pattern for a Ruger mk should work. They are basically the same.
I was thinking they had to be close, Dwight might be able to answer that question for sure.


Last one of these I made, . . . I left a slot in the top for his scope to slide down through. The scope was not inside the holster.

He was tickled pink with it, . . . and I was too, . . . that it was done :bounce:

May God bless,
Dwight
That's the lines I was thinking along also. Do you happen to know off hand if a Ruger MK series pistol would work as a substitute for the buckmark when it comes time to mold the holster? They look to be pretty close but don't know how close they really are.

kool work, very nice hobby , I would love a holster for buck mark it looks like this one but with out the red dot and has a 5.5 barrel on it . hint, hint , what would it cost me ?http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a260/Der1/DSC_0001_zps3wnh7lzq.jpgm
Thank you. Holster prices kind of depend on what exactly it is you're looking for, shoot me a PM and we'll talk some details and I'll give you a quote. I used to quote all my holsters at the same price but the more I do the more I realize that one price doesn't always fit all.

[Dwight55]

Personally, I would not use a Ruger to pattern for a Buckmark, . . .

These are just online images, . . . but they adequately show why the molding and shaping would not come out correctly.

This will also sound snooty and bigoted, . . . but I also would not put my Brownings in a holster that was molded by a Ruger. Just would not do that.

May God bless,
Dwight

[DerBiermeister]

I like a challenge and it really shouldn't be to much of an issue. If you want to discuss it further shoot me a PM and we'll go into more detail and see if we can come up with something.

I was thinking they had to be close, Dwight might be able to answer that question for sure.


That's the lines I was thinking along also. Do you happen to know off hand if a Ruger MK series pistol would work as a substitute for the buckmark when it comes time to mold the holster? They look to be pretty close but don't know how close they really are.

Thank you. Holster prices kind of depend on what exactly it is you're looking for, shoot me a PM and we'll talk some details and I'll give you a quote. I used to quote all my holsters at the same price but the more I do the more I realize that one price doesn't always fit all.


From these images, all of the Buckmarks have bigger grips. You can tell which is which -- the MkIIIs all have a red Ruger logo in the middle of the grip. The grips are also at a slightly different angle.

https://www.google.com/search?q=Ruger+MKIII+vs+Buckmark&biw=1280&bih=584&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwixwuDV3-fOAhULWhQKHQv8BcYQ_AUICCgD

[Arklatex]

I have one that was made for a Ruger and my Buckmark fits ok in it. But it is a more universal type design. Similar to this one

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160830/26d999b3cc25316c5449d7c5d775dc0a.jpg

[Infidel]

Personally, I would not use a Ruger to pattern for a Buckmark, . . .

These are just online images, . . . but they adequately show why the molding and shaping would not come out correctly.

This will also sound snooty and bigoted, . . . but I also would not put my Brownings in a holster that was molded by a Ruger. Just would not do that.

May God bless,
Dwight

The grip angle is different for sure what else might be different is anyone's guess. Doesn't sound snooty or bigoted to me. I do like my Mk III though and it fit me better than the Buckmark did for some reason.

Oh well I'll have to see if my buddy's Buckmark is available for a little work. Might eventually have to revisit the thought of buying one for myself since the boys have taken a liking to my Mk III.

[Dwight55]

The grip angle is different for sure what else might be different is anyone's guess. Doesn't sound snooty or bigoted to me. I do like my Mk III though and it fit me better than the Buckmark did for some reason.

Oh well I'll have to see if my buddy's Buckmark is available for a little work. Might eventually have to revisit the thought of buying one for myself since the boys have taken a liking to my Mk III.

Back in the early 70's and probably up to about '80, . . . I could keep 10 shots inside the bottom of a styrofoam coffee cup at 50 feet with my Ruger Target pistol. But I just never was really happy with it. It would jam on me, . . . (carbon up front holding the bolt from going all the way home), . . . changing mags was an absolute bear, . . . loading the mags was a chore for whoever I hated the most that particular day.

15 years later, my son and I bought a Buckmark silhouette shooter together, . . . and I just fell in love with them. We've got 3 now, . . . and at '71, I cannot shoot as good as I did " way back when ", . . . but it is for me, just so much more enjoyable to shoot.

AND, . . . as dependable as they are, . . . I would never think twice about leaving the house with one of them strapped in my CHL holster.

But, . . . it's like a horse race, . . . there are differences that appeal to different folks.

May God bless,
Dwight

[Baglady]

Your work is beautiful Stu. The attention to detail shows in the quality of the products you produce.
Even tho Rascal died, I wasn't going to let your craftsmanship go to waste. Luke wears the collar. Has for 2 yrs now, and it's
still a strong collar. :thumb:

[DerBiermeister]

Last one of these I made, . . . I left a slot in the top for his scope to slide down through. The scope was not inside the holster.

He was tickled pink with it, . . . and I was too



You'd be thinking something like this

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61fiSZ4RI3L._SL256_.jpg

[Dwight55]

You'd be thinking something like this

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61fiSZ4RI3L._SL256_.jpg

That is very similar to the one I made for my customer. He wanted to use a .22 pistol for squirrel hunting if I recollect correctly.

Haven't seen him since he got it, . . . but got word back that he was happy as a picked jaybird.

That's what it's all about.............

May God bless,
Dwight

[Infidel]

Back in the early 70's and probably up to about '80, . . . I could keep 10 shots inside the bottom of a styrofoam coffee cup at 50 feet with my Ruger Target pistol. But I just never was really happy with it. It would jam on me, . . . (carbon up front holding the bolt from going all the way home), . . . changing mags was an absolute bear, . . . loading the mags was a chore for whoever I hated the most that particular day.

15 years later, my son and I bought a Buckmark silhouette shooter together, . . . and I just fell in love with them. We've got 3 now, . . . and at '71, I cannot shoot as good as I did " way back when ", . . . but it is for me, just so much more enjoyable to shoot.

AND, . . . as dependable as they are, . . . I would never think twice about leaving the house with one of them strapped in my CHL holster.

But, . . . it's like a horse race, . . . there are differences that appeal to different folks.

May God bless,
Dwight
Yours must have had the heel mag release, thank god the MK III's don't have that. My Mk III has never jammed on me, I've had a bunch of bulk ammo not fire (mostly old Remington stuff) but never a jam. I can see why you'd get rid of it. The only things I would change on the Mk III would be the damn Magazine disconnect (took care of that myself) and the take down procedure. Taking down a Mk pistol is probably the single biggest reason Ruger doesn't sell more of these guns.


Your work is beautiful Stu. The attention to detail shows in the quality of the products you produce.
Even tho Rascal died, I wasn't going to let your craftsmanship go to waste. Luke wears the collar. Has for 2 yrs now, and it's
still a strong collar. :thumb:
Thank you Baglady. I'm sorry to hear about Rascal but glad Luke is enjoying the collar. If he wears it out let me know and the next one will be all his.

[Infidel]

Ok for the Buckmark owners, I'm still waiting to hear back from my buddy about using his Buckmark to mold the holsters. I doubt very seriously that there will be any issue with this so if you're interested in a holster let me know via PM and we'll get the details all hammered out before I get the gun here for design phase and molding. Ok that's the old business out of the way.

New business. I was trolling ebay last week while I was laid up with a bad back (again) when I happened on a Schrade Old Timer 25OT for $13 and some change. I wasn't going to let it go unbid at that price so I bid and won. The original sheath has seen better days but certainly a lot better shape than the last ebay knife. But I decided to try something new so I started working on a pancake knife sheath. It's built like a pancake style holster so it sits nice and tight to the body, this design is perfect for hunting folders and would be easily adaptable to say a Buck 110 or Schrade LB7. Anyway here's a few pictures:

First the knife:
https://i.imgur.com/XGknD2t.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/O7sZ7jq.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/7QZGRf6.jpg

There's a little side to side play in the clip point main blade but otherwise the knife is in great shape for it's age.

Now the new sheath:
https://i.imgur.com/nHegYpt.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/5YZwXk3.jpg

https://i.imgur.com/W2B5O1w.jpg

To Be Continued....

[Infidel]

https://i.imgur.com/dDIoPJ7.jpg

Hope you guys like it.

-Infidel