Cartridge belt help and guidance --- Please

[Black River Smith]

I'm wanting to do a rendition of the cartrigde belt in Packing Iron page 89, bottom photo.  The rig is a holster and simple belt with 45 collt.  I am going to make this for 44/40 and 44 Spec.

I have measured out the belt width at 2".  Does that seem correct - to you?  I have already purchased (the present day available) clip corner buckle that measures 1 1/2" inside and 2 1/4" outside.  This looks correct from the photo angle that the buckle is wider than the belt(I like that look).  So a 2" wide belt still seems to be correct. ?

Now the real issue that I need help on is the chape for this buckle.  From my measurements, I come up with a 3" chape (fold to point) attached about 3 1/2" from belt edge.  First does this all seem correct to you?  Then the final question is -- how would you make this chape?  With this only being 3" from fold how much of a thinned fold would you make it?  I have done 1 1/2" to 1 7/8" for longer tongues but this seem too much for only 3".  Would you instead use a double thickness of 4 to 5oz folded in half?  Suggestions or comments needed.......

My estimated count of loops is 32 but this will depend on my overall length.  I also plan to stitch every loop separately not up-across-down.

I will make the holster for a Cim Old Model P - 7 1/2", later.

Thanks for the help.

[Black River Smith]

No help needed  --  the belt is finished and looks close to original.

Could only get 30 loop for my waist and my desired holster placement.

[Trailrider]

Post some pics, if possible. Sounds like you did it right! I just sent out a 2" belt, but used a 1-1/4" inside clip-corner buckle, which comes out about even with the edges of the belt width.  Customer preference.  I. too, use 4-5 oz. leather folded in half to make the buckle billet.
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[Black River Smith]

The first photo below is the finished belt.  The colour is a little washed out by the light.  It is Fiebings Saddle tan.  My only mistake was sewing the loops only 1/4" off the top edge.  Probably would have been better with 3/8" on that 2" belt.

The second photo below is the finished belt and the 4 3/4" Cheyenne loop holster (as shown in an earlier posting) together .  The holster has a Meanea welt and toe.  Two items I have never incorporated into any of my CAS holsters before.

Thanks
BRS

[Cliff Fendley]

Looks great!

[Marshal Will Wingam]

I agree with Cliff. Nice work.