Question for a 'Leathersmith'

[RVTECH]

I really like this old Bucheimer holster I am restoring and it fits me well BUT I want to add a snap strap on it for a bit of extra security.

The non snap inside end I'll secure with a 'Chicago Screw' but I need to attach a snap on the holster and the strap (I'll be making a new one as this one is getting used on another holster) HOWEVER in my LIFE of making almost 'everything' one of the things I have NEVER done is to attach snaps to leather.

I assume Its just a simple case of buying a snap 'kit' with the punch and just follow the instructions but is there anything 'specific' I should know ? I only have one chance to eff this up and don't want to! FWIW I already HAVE a leather hole punch.

Thanks!

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[MacReady]

Paging ddjchemist

 

[2Wheels4Ever]

Super simple, just make sure the snap rivet is long enough to make it through the leather and clamp into the opposing piece. Lots of light taps as opposed to one hard one has helped me. Also, they are incredibly easy to drill out and try again if you mess up. I've probably done 500 at this point.

 

[Member 55555]

In the second picture, the position of that strap will not retain that firearm if turned upside down.
It should go over the top, behind the hammer.

 

[RVTECH]

Super simple, just make sure the snap rivet is long enough to make it through the leather and clamp into the opposing piece. Lots of light taps as opposed to one hard one has helped me. Also, they are incredibly easy to drill out and try again if you mess up. I've probably done 500 at this point.

Cool! I'll be right over and you can help me with this! LOL!

In the second picture, the position of that strap will not retain that firearm if turned upside down.It should go over the top, behind the hammer.

GOOD point! Like this then.
View attachment

 

[RVTECH]

GOOD point! Like this then?

 

[jbett98]

When seating a snap rivet, I use an arbor press, as I've found that using a hammer and anvil rod to seat the rivet is really hard to get just the right amount of consistent straight down pressure. Harbor Freight sells them rather cheap. I've also used a heavy duty drill press with the anvil rod in the chuck jaws.
Also, I would shorten the crossover strap as short as possible, since a longer strap will be flopping around when you want to re-holster the pistol.
Plus, a stiffer leather strap might be advantages when drawing the pistol when using your thumb to keeping it away from the back of the hammer as you draw.

 

[RVTECH]

Also, I would shorten the crossover strap as short as possible,

I'm thinkin' like this short!

 

[thorborg]

if your ever in Beaverton area i would be glad to help you with that, I have all the stuff you need no cost to you to apply a new snap. most of mine i've used old dimes or nickels soldered to the rivet, but i have plain ones too, I've been doing that sort of things for decades. its no big deal except if you are a one shot then you need more than is cost effective for a one off.

 

[RVTECH]

if your ever in Beaverton area i would be glad to help you with that,

Oh man if I were CLOSER to ya I'd take ya up on that - and thanks for the offer!

Oh, BTW, nice braid on that strap !

 

[jbett98]

Another thing to confider is how to keep the inside of the strap rivet from scratching the pistols finish.
I've seen thin patches of leather glued over the rivet and another way had a circular section of leather removed so the rivet flange was recessed.

 

[Deavis]

When seating a snap rivet, I use an arbor press, as I've found that using a hammer and anvil rod to seat the rivet is really hard to get just the right amount of consistent straight down pressure. Harbor Freight sells them rather cheap. I've also used a heavy duty drill press with the anvil rod in the chuck jaws.
Also, I would shorten the crossover strap as short as possible, since a longer strap will be flopping around when you want to re-holster the pistol.
Plus, a stiffer leather strap might be advantages when drawing the pistol when using your thumb to keeping it away from the back of the hammer as you draw.

I have not thought this out fully but:


I have had the thought of using a single stage loading press as an arbor press… I have an old Pacific C press that would be perfect.

A 7/8 threaded something as the anvil and a shell holder modded to take the to be squished /formed part.

 

[titsonritz]

I'm thinkin' like this short!
View attachment 2250243

I would cock the hammer so leather strap is between the slide and hammer.

 

[RVTECH]

I would cock the hammer so leather strap is between the slide and hammer.

You must have 'heard' my thinking as this was what I had considered as well!

 

[titsonritz]

if your ever in Beaverton area i would be glad to help you with that, I have all the stuff you need no cost to you to apply a new snap. most of mine i've used old dimes or nickels soldered to the rivet, but i have plain ones too, I've been doing that sort of things for decades. its no big deal except if you are a one shot then you need more than is cost effective for a one off.
View attachment 2250261

I loathe that strap location, I want to be able to establish a full firing grip without interference, the only exception I've found to that simple rule is a full flap holster designed to not only retain but protect the weapon.

 

[thorborg]

I loathe that strap location, I want to be able to establish a full firing grip without interference, the only exception I've found to that simple rule is a full flap holster designed to not only retain but protect the weapon.

Sweet, but what's that have to do with snap info ask for?
It's becoming rather amusing, so here, you can do what ever makes you feel good with that.
Again!

 

[titsonritz]

Sweet, but what's that have to do with snap info ask for?
It's becoming rather amusing, so here, you can do what ever makes you feel good with that.
Again!
View attachment 2252531

Speaking of "feels", here's some more amusement for you…

SAFETY WARNING! Worn Leather Holsters Can Cause Accidental Discharges!

Editor-in-chief’s note: We’d like to thank the anonymous individual who came forward with this important information and allowed us to... View Article

www.itstactical.com

 

[thorborg]

Speaking of "feels", here's some more amusement for you…

SAFETY WARNING! Worn Leather Holsters Can Cause Accidental Discharges!

Editor-in-chief’s note: We’d like to thank the anonymous individual who came forward with this important information and allowed us to... View Article

www.itstactical.com