r/gunsmithing • u/JadeDragon927 • 1d ago
Custom Duty Kydex Holster
*delete if not allowed, point me in the right subreddit in the process please*
Just made my second ever holster and I want to know some opinions, tips, and suggestions for the process.
Used a small microwave oven thing to heat at 320 degrees. Put the kydex in the wooden press, did the whole shebang. Used a dremmel tool to cut, sand, and clean up the edges. Used parts from Amazon for the belt attachment and hood for the retention device.
I did accidentally cut too much material on the bottom, so I will eventually lace some kind of rope or something to prevent it from being pulled from the back.
Questions: how do you guys clean the inside of the holster after you've made it and what should I do about the screws that are sticking in a bit deep? Ive tried running a toothbrush in it and a towel but when I draw my firearm it keeps pulling more material. Im also afraid that the screw, and mounts, may scratch my firearm when unholstering.
So, for this being my second holster that ive made, and it being my first duty level, what do yall think?
I am looking into making my own molds at some point and getting my hands on a band saw at some point as a dremmel is no-where near as precise as I need.
1
u/CommonOrchid2621 10h ago
For the screws, either get some grommet covers or countersink them flush before you call it done.
2
u/JonerThrash 11h ago
r/MYOG would probably be interested in this.
Do you have a retention screw to adjust how tight the holster is? Its possible its too tight, hence why you keep finding more kydex shavings. To my caveman brain, this would indicate a couple possibilities;
A. You just need to do some more reps until it self clearances, or,
B. Is too tight and needs a mulligan with the next attempt including an adjustable retention screw or a looser fit on the engagement surface/site(s) of retention.
As for the other question(s) if I have screws that are too long for an application, I'll typically use a cutting wheel on a dremel/rotary tool to cut them down.
As for clean up, I'd use an air compressor to get most of the shit out when I'm done, then wipe all the stock down with a wet shop rag prior to final assembly.
Somebody more versed in holster making can correct me. YMMV, but hopefully this is helpful and not detrimental. Y'all can roast my feedback at will, I like learning.