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First off, I need one of these. Second, what's the best way to install one on a leather holster. I obviously don't want to get one and break it in the process. I'm thinking avoiding the actual bends as much as possible would be best to not stress them. So maybe bending them a quarter inch in from the end, sliding it through and bending it back?
Soften the brass first before trying to bend it.
I soften brass by heating it hot and allowing it to cool in air but others will probably say dunk in water. The reality is that I don't believe that it matters provided that it is heated hot. I say heat to hot and not red because with something like a brass belt hanger it will be very easy to melt. The difference between heat treated, softened, brass and brass that has not been softened by heat treatment will be very noticeable.
When I needed a brass belt hanger, some years ago for a bayonet scabbard I made my own from a piece of brass rod, copying an original for size.
I have done that actually...Quote:
Originally Posted by Aragorn243
Holster arrived today and the stitching was already missing at the hanger location so bending to put it in wasn't an issue. I solved the problem by creating a more minor problem. I have a WWII canteen cover with a brass hanger. So I pulled that one out with some difficulty and put it on the holster. That I won't be too concerned with finding a brass replacement, steel will work fine with that unless I find out that this is a super rare cover because only 5 were made with brass hangers. 1943 dated so not likely a transitional of any sort. Holster condition is pretty good except for the missing stitching which I can replace. Leather if soft and flexible without any major cracks. It's been a while since a 45 was in it but only had one minor hang up and then it slid right in. Now I just need to find a WWI 45 to go with it.
Well crap, I have about three of those around here, could have sent one. I went and looked too, no brass. If you want one to put in the canteen again, let me know I'll throw it in a bubble wrap envelope and mail it.Quote:
Originally Posted by Aragorn243
I had a 1916 holster here once that was gritty and harsh sounding when I holstered a .45 so I threw it in the wash machine with work clothes and pulled it out after spin. It was clean as new and no more grittyness.