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Hey Folks,
My Ruger SP101 needed a new holster. My philosophy before buying anything is 1. Do I need it? 2. Can I make it?
Since leather holsters generally start in the $45 range, with the majority being closer to $80, I thought I'd give making it a shot.
I have zero experience working with leather of any sort. Not wanting to waste my money on expensive material to have it all go to waste I decided to pick up some scrap leather at the local cobbler and do a test run.
Material:
Scrap Leather from cobbler - $3
Waxed Thread - $7 (I used 1/20th of the spool so actual cost here is closer to $0.35)
Large Needle (I had one on hand but they can be picked up for less than $1)
Neatsfoot Oil (I had some on hand but a bottle is about $4, I used 1/10 of a bottle for $0.40)
Beeswax (Not sure of the cost here. I've had a brick laying around for forever)
Leather Dye (I made my own using steel wool and vinegar - about $0.30)
Brass Eyelet is clipped from the end of a .357 Mag casing (free)
*A leather punch or drill makes the process much easier
I learned some lessons and there are some things I would do different. However, I'm happy with the result and am confident that I can pick up some thicker leather and make a Concealed Carry holster.
My Ruger SP101 needed a new holster. My philosophy before buying anything is 1. Do I need it? 2. Can I make it?
Since leather holsters generally start in the $45 range, with the majority being closer to $80, I thought I'd give making it a shot.
I have zero experience working with leather of any sort. Not wanting to waste my money on expensive material to have it all go to waste I decided to pick up some scrap leather at the local cobbler and do a test run.
Material:
Scrap Leather from cobbler - $3
Waxed Thread - $7 (I used 1/20th of the spool so actual cost here is closer to $0.35)
Large Needle (I had one on hand but they can be picked up for less than $1)
Neatsfoot Oil (I had some on hand but a bottle is about $4, I used 1/10 of a bottle for $0.40)
Beeswax (Not sure of the cost here. I've had a brick laying around for forever)
Leather Dye (I made my own using steel wool and vinegar - about $0.30)
Brass Eyelet is clipped from the end of a .357 Mag casing (free)
*A leather punch or drill makes the process much easier
I learned some lessons and there are some things I would do different. However, I'm happy with the result and am confident that I can pick up some thicker leather and make a Concealed Carry holster.