Custom Holster Making By James Hwang
Making holsters can be fun but challenging to do. When I started this journey a couple of years ago, I thought to myself, “How hard could it be?”. I searched on the internet and found simple instructions. Look at the instructions below.
Materials Needed:
- Kydex sheet (typically .08" thickness for OWB holsters, .06" for IWB)
- Foam press or DIY press (two foam pads + clamps)
- Heat gun or toaster oven
- Drill and bits
- Eyelets (and eyelet setter)
- Belt clips or loops
- Rivet or Chicago screws
- Dremel or belt sander (for shaping)
- Craft foam or blue gun (optional for molding)
- Gloves (heat-resistant)
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Prepare the Firearm (or Mold)
- Use a real firearm only if you're 100% sure it's unloaded.
- Ideally, use a blue gun or a replica.
- Cover any sharp edges or sights with masking tape or foam to ensure smooth molding.
2. Cut and Heat the Kydex
- Cut the Kydex to size — generally twice the width of your firearm + a margin.
- Heat it evenly in a toaster oven at around 300°F (150°C) until it becomes pliable (~2-3 minutes).
3. Mold the Kydex
- Place the hot Kydex over the firearm.
- Press it immediately in your foam press or clamp between foam pads.
- Let it cool for about 10-15 minutes.
4. Trim and Shape
- Once hardened, cut out the basic shape using a bandsaw or Dremel.
- Smooth and shape the edges with a belt sander or file.
5. Drill Holes
- Mark and drill holes for eyelets and belt attachments.
- Use a drill press or hand drill.
6. Install Eyelets and Hardware
- Set the eyelets using a rivet press or setter tool.
- Attach belt clips or loops using Chicago screws or rivets.
7. Final Fit and Finish
- Test the retention and draw.
- You can adjust retention by heating specific areas slightly and pressing in.
- Polish edges using sandpaper and a polishing wheel for a smooth finish.
Simple right? After ruining our family toaster oven, sorry fam. Multiple burns on my fingers, polymer shavings everywhere, and the pleasant smell of burning polymer (toxic). I finally finished my first holster which I was so proud about.
But when I asked some of my co-workers, I could tell right away that they were trying to not hurt my feelings. When I look at my first holster ever made, I cringe-laugh loudly. But due to my love for toxic fumes and polymer dust everywhere, I can now say that I can make holsters. It takes patience, mistakes, it takes growth to understand how to form the holsters. There are lots of DYI videos for you to see, but the real question is this, it is worth all the equipment for you to make a holster for yourself. And the answer is yes if you have time, if you plan on doing business with it, or you just have a lot of guns that you need holsters for.
It is satisfying to do if you like working with your hands. But if you do not, we can help you find the perfect holster for you. If we can’t find it Here or at our storefronts, we can certainly make it at our Auburn storefront.
James - Rainier Arms
Auburn, Washington
