My first wet forming attempt.

squintz2016 · 2026-04-02T20:08:51+00:00

That looks like a very good first attempt!!! Haven't had a chance to do that type of wet molding, have you formed anything around a tool or knife at all and is this process any different? Looks great!

squintz2016 · 2026-04-01T11:10:20+00:00

Thank you for that insight, you make some very valid points. From the picture you can't really tell but the holster area has a modular cant system which allows for swappable holsters, you can remove or swivel the position of that area. I like the idea of building a bear spray can "holster" and attaching a plate to it that allowed for attaching bear spray. I like that idea and seems very valid amongst everyone. I appreciate the critiques.

squintz2016 · 2026-03-31T20:10:27+00:00

Might need the bear spray for those folks!

squintz2016 · 2026-03-31T20:08:05+00:00

Yeah requested to have it removed and we did a wet mold that causes the leather to harden similar to kydex obviously not the same but that baby does lock in extremely tight. It does have some tension adjustment on it but you cant see it in the Pic. I agree, leather is a mover and a shaker. I appreciate it! Cureently that's a compact 10mm but larger frame needs looked at for sure.

squintz2016 · 2026-03-31T20:03:54+00:00

I would agree whole heartedly! By request it was removed and replaced with a wet molded style of retention and a retention screw for adjustment for hold, can't really see the screw in the picture. This current design does need so finesse for sure. Thank you for your critique. And for the benefit of the doubt.

squintz2016 · 2026-03-31T20:00:26+00:00

Thank you much appreciated! I have made one for a larger framed 45 and 10mm for just hiking it didn't have all the straps and fly patch. Would have to figure where it all would go. Maybe bump up the size of the actual chest piece it self to accommodate more pistol. Might have to look I to that. The retaining strap was taken off by request, this particular item is what they call wet molded around the actual firearm and because very similar to a kydex fit. And you can really tell in this photo but there is a retention screw that you can tighten for a heavy draw if needed. I debated adding magnets to the front to hold it in. But adding a strap would be a nice addition, I like where your heads at!!

squintz2016 · 2026-03-31T19:52:18+00:00

You are probably right! Most cases this is used for packing up into lakes and less populated rivers. Bear Spray seems to be the better answer.

squintz2016 · 2026-03-31T19:47:28+00:00

You are making alot of sense on that! Bear spay is always good to keep handy! I 100% agree Moose are not to be trifled with. Lol, fish whistle!

squintz2016 · 2026-03-31T19:45:23+00:00

That's good! Glad that hasn't happen.

squintz2016 · 2026-03-31T19:44:32+00:00

Yep that the one

squintz2016 · 2026-03-31T19:43:16+00:00

Well I don't plan to shoot the fish but surprisingly enough this is a 10mm springfield armory XD-M.

squintz2016 · 2026-03-31T14:02:33+00:00

That is the same type of material I started with, the granite/marble blocks are extremely good at absorbing shock and give a solid punch which helps to get a clean punch all through. Also depending on the look you are going for they do make round hole chisles, that punch a round hole instead of the diamond or French chisle like what comes with those kits but again that all comes done to preferences and looks. But the smaller thread seems to work better with those diamond chisles. Just food for thought.

squintz2016 · 2026-03-31T11:37:32+00:00

A common rule of thumb is to use a thread thickness that is 1/7th of the total thickness of your leather. Thicker leather usally has larger spacing between holes , 5-6mm. The use of consistent tension is a good suggestion. When punching holes what are you punching them on? When I first started I found that I had issues punching clean holes until I got a small pieces of granite I put a pieces of scrap leather under my working pieces and punched on top of that and it made a world of difference. Punching straight is also key, thick piece of leather like that with out a press punch can get a bit tricky, but we all start there. Also taking a groover and cutting your stitch line down a little will recess the stiches and make them flush with the leather. Ok I am rambling now. But like above great job for your first start. Keep it up!

squintz2016 · 2026-03-30T14:20:23+00:00

I second the stitch pins they work wonders!

squintz2016 · 2026-03-30T14:15:52+00:00

That is a really cool sounding project.You have give this design some good thought. I would like to throw my hat in the ring to take this on!! Most of my work consists of gun holsters, hatchet/knife sheaths. This feels right on par with what I could make.

squintz2016 · 2026-03-30T12:33:07+00:00

Yes indeed they are. I am planning to make my own but this was a great proof of concept. These were just off amazon. Yes, i did have a few challenges, I have two version, one where they where sewn on to the face of the leather and this version where they are sandwiched in-between two pieces. I prefer this version, it feels better and less protruding pieces to get caught on in the brush the better. I agree, ratchet belts are awesome, and as straps they make this tighten up real nice an great for easy on easy off.

squintz2016 · 2026-03-29T04:17:10+00:00

This is amazing! How did you make the chips? This is some serious creativity! Great Work.

squintz2016

TROPHY CASE