Tips To Opt For Refined Leather When Manufacturing A Holster

Choosing leather for refined holster manufacturing is one of the most important decisions that can be made in the process. The leather’s quality and type will determine how well the holster will function, look, and last through time. In this article, we will break down the important factors regarding quality refined leather selection for the production of custom leather holsters.

1. What You Need To Know About The Types of Leather

Leather is classified according to how it is processed and the type of finish it has. Below are the most common categories for leather used in holsters.
Full Grain Leather

This is the most expensive type of leather but also the strongest.

Maintains its natural grain, therefore, making the leather strong and breathable.

Ideal for premium holsters since it is able to stand the test of time and develop a rich patina over time.

Top Grain Leather

Lightly sanded to get rid of any unwanted imperfections while keeping the leather strong.

Able to bend more than the full grain, but still very strong.

Has a smooth appearance making the leather the go to option for stylish and functional holsters.

Genuine Leather

Cut from the bottom layers of the hide and then bonded together.

Very weak and low quality.

Not able to withstand the rough treatment as much as top grain and full grain leather does.

Best for low cost holsters, but does not stand the test of time.

Vegetable-Tanned Leather

Uses tree bark tannins for processing.

Is environmentally friendly and changes color as it ages.

Preferred for molding rigid holsters to specific shapes.

Chrome-Tanned Leather

Softer and more water-resistant due to treatment of chromium salts.

Not as stiff as chrome tanned leather, but gives more bend.

Best for holsters needing a softer leather and quick-draw ability.

2. Factors to Consider When Choosing Leather

Durability and Strength

Most holsters undergo wear and tear over time. Durability is important. For maximum durability, full-grain and vegetable-tanned leather are the best options.

Flexibility and Firmness

Too much softness or stiffness in a leather holster will make it useless. Holsters need some balance. Leather that is too rigid in a holster may crack, but too soft will not hold the firearm.

Moisture Resistance

Aside from sweat, humidity can also have an effect. Moisture-resistant leathers such as the chrome-tanned ones can be ideal. Still, protective treated vegetable-tanned leather can also work well.

Moldability

Having the ability to shape and retain form to whatever desired is funcional in holster making. This is one of the reasons why vegetable tanned leather is preferred for custom molded holsters.

Aesthetics and Finish

Depending on the type of leather, the appearance of the holster may be finished. Full grain leather presents a strong and rugged look while top grain leather has that polished and sleek look.

3. Obtaining Quality Leather

Reputable Tanneries

American, Italian, and Argentine tanneries are well known to give premium leather and so they are from where the best hoses leather is procured.

Checking Leather Grades

It is important to check the grade off the leather everytime you want to purchase it. Greater grade leather will have more durability and less chances of defects.

Sustainability and Ethical Considerations

Always purchase leather that was obtained ethically. Vegetable tanning is more sustainable than chrome tanning.

Conclusion

Before full grain, top grain or vegetable tanned leather is chosen, it is important to have an understanding with the parameters off strength, flexibility and resistance prior to manufacturing high quality holsters that would do not fail customer expectations.