holster metal lining question

[TexasToby]

I made a holster with a metal between the double leather that I made the holster out of. And I also made a 3" gun belt. It was made in the buscadero style. The metal went between the leathers just like the holster. It completely surrounded the slot where the holster was hung and about 2" in front of and behind the slot. It also went to the top of the belt. The metal in the holster went completly around the inside of the holster, over the belt and the full length of the backflap.  I made this in 1968. It was made for my Ruger Single Six with alot of 22 bullet loops I don't remember how many. Every time I wore it some one asked about buying it. I just never wanted to sell it. Finally in 1988 some one stole it out of my house. That was the only thing that was stolen. Bact to the subject, I don't know what guage the metal was but, I do remember it was some kind of aluminun. You could bend it with your hand for a long bend but, needed a hammer for tight bends. Like for across the belt you could bend it quite a bit but had to finish the bend with a hammer. I don't know how long it would last and I don't know about any chemical changes that might would take place. All I can say is that after 20 years I had it, it never showed any sign if corrosion or any other changes. Oh by the way, I forgot to say this was made with latigo leather.

[Slowhand Bob]

I found the pictures of the WG heritage holsters, started with his exact Black Canyon pattern and a pattern knife.  I did not wet form or allow water in the area of the belt fold and this was just the natural shape for a fold with this much leather.  I do not think the belt tunnel has closed any since being made.  I think most shooters/customers still think metal is a plus though and thats that.

[Marshal Will Wingam]

Here's a sheet metal converter for you, BB. I don't know what the nettovinst system is, but this will show the thickness in inches and mm.

http://www.onlineconversion.com/gauge_sheet_metal.htm

[ChuckBurrows]

Another option is Kydex - a heat moldable plastic used by holster makers and sheath makers. Easy to form and will hold glue better than metal usually. It's available from my most knife maker supply houses such as Midwest Knifemaker's supply. It also will never rust which any of the plated steels will do eventually.

[Boothill Bob]

Chuck. How do I bend  and shape the kydex when Its between the leather 

[Slowhand Bob]

Good question Bob, I had to shape the metal after the sewing was finished.  It can be done because Kirkpatrick does it but I have not seen them sharing any secrets!

[Boothill Bob]

But the kydex need to be heated, dont I damage the leather then?

[ChuckBurrows]

Chuck. How do I bend  and shape the kydex when Its between the leather 

Bend and shape first before putting it between the leather......

[Boothill Bob]

Ok, sounds hard. I maby try with metal first.