I spend a lot of work time where I cannot carry. I can keep a firearm in my personal vehicle, if it is unloaded and double locked (in a locked container which is in a locked vehicle). I don't like repeatedly unchambering and rechambering a round in a semi-auto pistol. When I can carry, my shirt must remain tucked in as a work requirement. My Model 49 seems like the right tool for the job - now I want a leather holster, with belt loops, that allows for a tucked shirt. I'm reasonably thin, with arms that are a little long for my height, so I like a little more cant than most holsters I've tried.
Without any previous leatherwork experience, I researched online, considered the design for a while, and Thanksgiving break seemed like as good a time as any to tool-up and get at it. Tandy's November sales were a welcome bonus!
I made up some card-stock templates to fine tune my idea, and practiced each skill on scrap pieces before moving to that stage on the actual holster. I finished it last night, and while it isn't completely perfect, I am very pleased. It is definitely serviceable and I'm anxious to get some real-world experience with it.
The width at the bottom helps to keep the grip close to my body without having to cinch my belt uncomfortably tight. Wide slots front and back allow for tucking in a shirt without binding up. I did not add any reinforcement to the opening - keeping this holster thin was a higher priority for me than easy reholstering, plus it makes assembly a lot simpler.
The back is oversize to prevent skin to metal contact, and gently molded to provide good retention. The revolver stays firmly in place while holding the holster upside-down and shaking it vigorously.
After some experimenting, I was able to get a pretty good match to my Beltman belt, and I'm pleased with how the loops blend in. Having to unfasten my belt to take the holster off and put it back on again is a compromise I'll live with.
Next in line - a speedstrip carrier.
