Leather Holster Making
For details, call Donna Haddow at 719-846-5724.
Continuing Education only - not for college credit
This class was created to teach students how to construct quality gun leather using
methods and techniques requiring a minimum number of leather tools. Since the work
is by hand (no sewing machines, etc.) reasonable hand strength and dexterity is necessary
for class participation.
Students will learn the methods I used to design, layout, stitch, wet mold, edge,
burnish, apply oil or antique finish, and basket stamp holsters. As the class progresses,
each student will construct two holsters for guns of their choice. I would suggest
a pancake holster for a semi auto (model 1911’s are great) as well as a revolver holster
of either a conventional or western design. You will have the opportunity to basket
stamp one of these holsters if you so desire. Students may wish to bring two personal
handguns to use in constructing these holsters (no scoped handguns, please). If time
permits, we will discuss construction of gun belts, cartridge loop sewing, magazine
cases, saddle scabbards, and knife sheaths.
Robert (Bob) Calkins is an active shooter, hunter and firearms collector who has made gun leather for
himself, friends, and customers for over 50 years. In 1990, he and his wife, LaVon,
decided to establish 3 Cross Custom Gunleather as a part-time business. Upon retiring
from the Department of the Interior in 1994, gun leather became a full-time occupation.
Bob crafts gun rigs for cowboy competitors, which has included State, National, and
World Champion shooters. Hunters, outdoorsmen, casual shooters, and concealed-carry
holders, make up the balance of his business.
At age 81, Bob has cut back on working hours, but still produces several holsters
and gun belts every week. In his opinion, there are numerous good leather craftsmen.
However, he believes an individual with a true appreciation of firearms and their
use is essential to building a truly functional piece of gun leather.
Bob Calkins 505-598-0208 (h) 505-716-3233 (c) or three.cross@hotmail.com
Leather Holster Making Tool List Quality leather will be made available to students through the college bookstore.
Costs will be based on projects to be developed. Students will go to the bookstore
as a group at the beginning of class in order to pay for their share of the leather.
Needles, thread, oil, stamping tools, etc. will be furnished at no charge by the instructor.
(Please keep in mind that the tools suggested for each class are the minimum tools
you should bring. Please feel free to bring any additional tools you feel you may
need)
Three Dremel drill presses will be available in class
• ¼” light weight electric drill (optional)
• Dremel tool with sanding drums
• Clear safety glasses
• Sponge and quart size water container (large butter tub is great)
• Straight edge ruler
• 16: x 20” piece of ¾” plywood with smooth side
• Exacto knife with blades
• Rawhide #4 Mallet (such as Tandy #3300-04)
• Craft Tool Leather Shears (such as Tandy #3050-00)
• Grooving tool (such as Tandy 8074-00)
• Edging tool (such as Tandy #8077-03 or Osborne #127-4 preferred)
• Craft tool Overstitcher #6 (such as Tandy 8079-06)
• #14 Punch (such as Tandy 3777-14)
• #9 Punch (such as Tandy 3777-9)
• 12” x 12” Granite piece (minimum 1” thick)