/ I do Not use other Maker's Belt sizes, following these instructions
is the only way to get the proper belt size.
/ Use a flexible tape measure, like a "seamstress" tape.
/ Wearing
comfortable pants, measure about 2 inches below the pants belt loops.
/ Pull tape measure firmly snug.
/ Do Not measure
other belts,
/ Do Not use pants sizes or guess.
This is the only way to insure a proper fit.
The belt will be
sized to the center hole using the measurement you provide. This will allow adjustment in and/or out.
It is your responsibility to provide a correct measurement.
I do
Not guarantee a proper fit unless you follow these instructions.
General FAQ List:
Q) What's the best way to determine your belt size.
A) The only way to get the right belt size for each person is to
measure yourself. Please follow the instruction listed.
Q) How are the belts sized.
A) I size all belt to the customer measurement using the inside
circumference, buckled at the center hole on the billet.
Q) what are "Billits".
A) the "Billit" is the pieces of leather sewn to the belt of a standard
Ranger style belt.
The Buckle billit hold the buckle( also referred to as the Buckle
Chap ) The other end of the belt is often called the "Tongue". It has the sizing hole punch into it. Common Version of a Ranger
belt is the design used with the CFDA Basic rig.
Q) What is a "Tapered" Belt.
A) A Tapered belt is a one piece design instead having
the sewn on billits, like the Ranger belts. The ends of the Tapered belt are narrowed down to the size of the buckle, usually
from 2 1/2" down to 1 1/2". Common versions of these belts are the Spaghetti Western rig.
Q) What is a "Liner". Or, what is meant when a holster or belt is
"Lined".
A) A liner is a second layer of leather use to cover the raw or
rough side of the leather used to make a belt or holster.
Holsters are typically lined with smooth tooling leather just
like the outside. This provides a smooth surface for easy draws and less wear of the finish on a gun. The tooling leather
also adds strength and rigidity to holster body, especially when wet molded.
Suede leather is also used, However, suede has more of a "grip"
and can impede the draw. Suede leather is more limber and has no rigidity. Holsters tend to be more flexible and collapse
easier, even when wet molded. Also, it can actually wear the finish on a gun quicker. Since Suede is fibrous, dirt and oil
can get trapped and cause more friction.
Belts are lined with either, suede or smooth tooling leather.
Suede provides more "grip" and are less likely to slip or slide.
Smooth tooling leather adds more "body" and strength but are more likely to slip and slide.
A) What is a "Toe Plug" in a holster.
A) A "Toe Plug" is exactly what is means. A piece of leather is
inserted into the end ( Toe) of the holster. This is the barrel end. Typically sewn and glued into place. The function of
a toe plug was originally to help hold the holster open. Since western period makers rarely lined and wet molded a holster,
they were flexible and would collapse.
Q) What is Holster "Cant".
A) "Cant" refers to the angle of a holster as it hang from a belt.
"Forward" cant means the muzzle is pointing in front of the shooter. "Reverse" cant means the muzzle is pointing back.
This term does not refer to the way a holster can be angled out,
away from the body.
The amount of cant is measure in degrees.
Typically, a Crossdraw holster would have 20 to 30 degrees of Forward
cant. SASS only allows 30 deg. of cant. CFDA only allows 20 deg. of cant.
Q) What is a "Strong or Weak Side Holster"
A) These terms refer to The Left or Right side of a shooter. Strong
side is a Right hand holster. Weak side is a Left hand holster. Typically the reference is to as "Straight drop" ( No Cant).
Some novice customers might use these terms incorrectly when
ordering two holsters. for example: "I need 2 strong side holsters". What they really mean is I need a right hand and
a left hand holster with a straight drop.
Leather Makers have learned to understand what customers mean and
if in doubt will ask questions. But, it is possible for a customer to end up with 2 right handed holsters. It's just as easy
to say "Left" or "Right".
Q) What is a "Deflector Plate".
A) A "Deflector Plate" is a safety device to protect the shooter
in case of accidental discharge of the weapon when drawing. It is typically a steel or heavy Raw Hide attached at the toe
( or end) of the holster. See the CFDA manual for more information.
