Maintaining my new holster... what kind of belt?

E

error426

New member





I'm loving my new holster from HBE, but I do have a few questions.

1. What should I maintain my holster with? Standard leather cleaner / moisturizer?
2. What kind of belt should I be looking at? I'm in college, money is tight; hell the holster was an investment. Anything somewhat affordable around a 30" waist (maybe 29").
3. Any comments or suggestions?

P.S. - You might have noticed the picture of the wear in the coating. It developed after the first 200 rounds, and has continued to enlarge since then (currently at 600 rounds). The CZ rep I spoke to said I can send it in whenever I feel like it, as long as it's within the 5 year warranty period. He even recommended that I break in my holster and wait for any additional wear to occur until I send it on. Not bad, not bad at all! :D
 
Whatever type of belt you decide on, remember to try it on before you use it to make sure it fits with the holster. Buy one with a width just about as wide as the loops on the holsters, this way it will not ride loosely. I use paste shoe polish on my holsters, I try to avoid things like leather conditioner or waterproof because it helps allow the leather to stretch.

All the best,
Glenn B
 
+1 to Glenn's advice. Avoid using anything that is supposed to soften leather or moisturize it. This will allow the holster to stretch out of shape and loosen its hold.

As to a belt - buy quality as it will greatly enhance both your comfort and security of your firearm. Expect to pay anywhere from $45 to $80 for a high quality belt. Check out K&D holsters or even Galco.

The belt loops on your pants should be about the same size as the belt that fits your holster to prevent it from moving around. If you're using a typical belt, you'll find it allows the weapon to "lean out" because it's not stiff enough. The rule of thumb is if you can squeeze the top & bottom of a belt with thumb & forefinger and it folds easily it's too weak to support your gun.
 
But if I'm wearing IWB am I as effected by a "non-strengthened" belt? I guess it could be my lack of experience / knowledge that leads me to believe that it really can't go anywhere secured inside my waist-band. Am I wrong? Thanks!
 
Error426,

An IWB is less dependent on a stiff belt to keep it from "leaning out". However, a belt that is too soft and flexible can make drawing the gun more difficult by not remaining in a fixed position when you pull up to overcome the retension device.
 
error426,
I would give Eric at H.B.E. a call or e-mail him regarding what maintenance products to use on his holster. His advice would be the best. Different holster makers use a variety methods and products for final finishes, from acrylics to waxes. Using the wrong product could be a big mistake and result in a damaged holster. Eric also makes quality gunbelts that will properly fit the holster as well.
FWIW a smooth leather lined holster (higher cost) would minimize the ruboff of your handguns finish and add service life to the holster. Keep in mind that a handgun that is drawn and reholstered repeatadly over time will show signs of wear. Hope this helps. :cool:
 
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