Holster kits

[Slowhand Bob]

I received a new M&S catalog from Tandy today and can you believe it, they are offering a new array of holster kits.  There is a western style version for the 1911, a couple of different Cheyenne styles and a couple of others that are reminiscent of the old generic Hunters.  There is even a tapered gun belt kit offered in a 2 1/4" width to go along with those holsters.  Based on the prices in the catalog some of them are very reasonably priced.  I cant wait to get over to Columbia and actually see them.  Some years back I actually talked with Tandy concerning supplying them with a line somewhat similar to this but it never went anywhere.  The good news is that they are selling them at a better dealer price than I offered to supply them at and their kit quality is usually right on....

[JD Alan]

Hey Bob, I've been at Tandy this week for a class with Chan Geer. I took a look inside the box of one of the Mexican Loop holsters. It was cut out exceptionally well, very smooth on both sides. They pre-punched it for lacing the main seem with really big holes; at least they look big to me! They have included some lace, and instructions, plus a possible carving pattern. I'll take a look at the 1911 holster kit this morning. 

[Ace Lungger]

Howdy Bob,
I think those kits would be great for someone that realy isn't in to leather work, but wanted to put his own rig toghter for the sastisfaction of making your own rig! For me, they would take all the fun out of it, that is one of the things i like about leather work is the creative of do it! I am not trying to take away from the kits, because I think they are a good thing!! I was just stating the way I feel. Just taking a peice of leather and making a rig out of it is a rewarding feeling that you might not feel the same if you just put a kit toghter??
Later
ACE

[Slowhand Bob]

Remember, you are in effect getting a nice pattern if you trace before assembly.  When you cut your own it will be a simple matter to use it as a sewn rather than laced holster.  At any rate I am glad to see Tandy adding to their catalog as it had gotten pretty thin in recent years.  Wanting to thick a catalog may have been George Hursts problem but he sure offered lots of variety and educational materials though.

[cowboy316]

heck with the holster patterns ive gotten good enough with holsters i just want the new ASB damascus line of knives LOL
Cowboy316

[Dalton Masterson]

I agree with Bob, that they may be a good source for new patterns. I will have to look in my old catalogs, and see if any of them are regurgitated patterns from the old days. I have some catalogs from the 50s, that show a LOT more cool Tandy stuff than they have now.
DM

[Slowhand Bob]

I feel more like it is a pattern from someone who is bidding the job with Tandy.  I spect it will also be somewhat generic in fit for the more popular guns.  Though I am not a fan of the laced seams, I do find them to be attractive, and that is an easier assembly technique for first time leather workers.  Not sure but I do not think they came in left hand?  Shux, I'll probably get one of each the next time I am in the store.  One could always assemble them nicely and get their money back at a local match!!!   

[RollingThunder]

I kinda had mixed feelings about this when I saw them. At first I was feelin' a bit cheated because I had to fit the pattern to the gun, cut the leather by hand, match it all up, skive it, carve it, dye it and finish it, and now the harder parts are done for you. Not a real fan of that, as I already had a guy saying he could make one like my Slim Jim and he had no previous edumacashun with leather tools.

On the other hand, this is a fantastic resource for folks who are out there needing gunleather and wanting to try out leather working, but don't want to start with a key fob.

As for me, well, I'll stick with Will's patterns (and now my own) and hand cut my work.

[Ten Wolves Fiveshooter]

Howdy all

       The first holster I made back in 1956 was a kit holster, I bought from my town Hobby Shop, I was really excited about being able to make a holster, and then a gun belt, so I think there is still a need for these beginner kits, little did I know how deep that seed was planted in me, until it spouted, about four years ago, and now I can make and design my own gun leather, and thanks to Will Ghormely for his more advanced patterns, his patterns alone taught me a lot.

                    Here is a picture of that first holster

                           Regards

                      tEN wOLVES   

[Marshal Will Wingam]

Cool to have that pic of the first one you made, TW. I never made anything from a kit. Not that I wouldn't have, it just didn't occur to me. I've been making my own patterns for years although I've made one or two from Stohlman's "How to Make Holsters". I bought one of Will's patterns but still ended up making my own. His patterns are really good but I always want something different so I just modify one of my older patterns or start over.

[RollingThunder]

The very first pattern I ever made totally from scratch was that .357 S&W with custom tie down. And you know, it gave me a sense of accomplishment for it to actually hold the pistol nice and snug.