Holster making

[Mauser lover]

I am a complete novice at any sort of leather work, but I would like to try my hand at it.

Does anybody know where I can download some pdf holster templates? Or can somebody here post one?

The gun (wannabe gun, I know) I am starting with is a GAMO PT-85... I figured I would start on a pellet gun because I cannot get a commercial holster easily. And I won't be too disappointed if I am some sort of an epic failure working with leather. Or at least on this holster.

 

[rcmodel]

No PDF templates that I know of.

I make my own holster patterns out of grey cardboard.

Just fold it around the gun, and cut off everything that doesn't look like a holster.

Once you are satisfied with the looks of it, transfer to the leather and cut it out.

There are some other good tips in this thread.
http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=358100&highlight=sewing+leather

rc

 

[CraigC]

You'll probably find something useful here.

http://leatherworker.net/forum/index.php?&showforum=29

I also make my own patterns out of file folders. They're thick enough to last for a while but conveniently already folded. Unfold the folder and stand your shooter up on its sights. Center the sights on the fold and gently roll it over on its side, taking care not to let it slip or slide. Trace its outline with a pencil. You can then draw up your pattern around the gun. Obviously different designs have different shapes but you typically want a half to three quarters of an inch outside your pistol's tracing. Slightly less with a welt, full or partial. All holsters are at least partly symmetrical. Fold the pattern so that the parts that are symmetrical can be cut out at the same time for uniformity.

I really need to do a tutorial because it's not as hard as it sounds.

 

[oldandslow]

ml, 9/9/13

I was in your position a few years ago and wanted to make some holsters for some older pistols that were hard to find holsters for. The leatherworker.net site that Craig referenced is excellent- not just for holsters but for all aspects of leatherwork. There is a learning curve where the first few holsters may not look the best but you'll see improvement with each new one you make. Then you can expand to other leather items like mag pouches, etc. It's a fun and practical skill that you'll enjoy. Good luck.

best wishes- oldandslow

 

[Mauser lover]

Thanks all! Will definitely be checking out that site, and oldandslow, that is one of the reasons I am starting with a pellet pistol!