cartridge belt for 22 LR - suggestions/advice?

[bedbugbilly]

I have several cartridge/pistol belts to make to go with 22 LR Single Action revolvers (Heritage Roughj Rider and Ruger Super Bearcat).  I normally use a 3/4" bag or slot punch for 38 spl/357 cartridges - 2/3/4 oz leather for weaving the cartridge loops depending on what I can get hide wise.

Any suggestions for doing the 22 LR belts?  I was thinking of getting a 1/2 or 5/8 slot punch and utilize the same strap material weight but am wondering if the width of the slot will be too wide for the small cartridge?  I'm also thinking that a 1/2" punch would be the better width to use for the length of the 22 LR cartridge?

I prefer to "weave" the cartridge loops rather than sew them.  Anybody made any for the 22 LR cartridges?  Any suggestions for the best method of doing the slots?

Thanks   

[Cliff Fendley]

Bugs, I've made a few and prefer using the semi-woven method for making 22 loops.

Do your layout and then use a very small hole punch to punch a hole at the top and bottom of your slot, then use a wood chisel to cut a slot between the holes. That's the best way I've found to make very narrow slots.

Here's one a made a couple months ago.

[bedbugbilly]

Thanks Cliff - excellent suggestion!  I can make a jig for spacing holes and then follow up with a chisel.  Your outfit looks great!  I see you riveted between the loops which also looks like it would be a good idea for the smaller/tighter loop for the 22.  Thanks for the suggestions - greatly appreciated and I'll try it out.   

[Cliff Fendley]

Those cartridges are 22mag. That's what the customer said he planned to carry. I believe that strap was 5/8 inch. Narrower loops of maybe 1/2 inch may look better with 22 long rifle.

[GunClick Rick]

Jeeeez,that's mighty fine Cliff! Bueatiful color and shadeing~

[Cliff Fendley]

Thank ya Rick. It was done with home made walnut stain. Shaded it with some neatsfoot oil that was darkened with walnut.