Leather softeners for IWB holster

[Calhoun]

Good morning! This is my first post, figured it is about time I stop watching and begin to wade into the waters of the forum.
I just received my first IWB holster, a Cross Breed Super Tuck Deluxe (Black Cow hide). I like the fit but the leather, as I expected, is a bit stiff. I am wondering if any of you out there can recommend a softening agent that might help expedite the breaking in process.
I understand that the TT Gunleather holsters are the way to go but for now this is what I have so I’d like it to be a comfortable as possible. Thanks a bunch!

[sealbeach]

Welcome to the forum calhoun! RE: leather treatment, if you put too much leather softener on a holster, it may retain the gun properly--since they usually rely on a tight fit for the friction, you don't want the gun slipping out.

Just wear it, sweat a lot, dry-practice drawing and re-holstering, you will see it get into shape pretty soon. Some advice, eh?

Just remember, its NOT a baseball glove, that you can work leather conditioner or neatsfoot oil into--and once you ruin a good holster with too much oil and gunk, it will be very difficult to ever get it cleaned up.

[Dan M.]

Originally Posted by sealbeach

if you put too much leather softener on a holster, it may retain the gun IMproperly--

Fixed it for you.

[Keith92555]

Originally Posted by sealbeach

Welcome to the forum calhoun! RE: leather treatment, if you put too much leather softener on a holster, it may NOT retain the gun properly--since they usually rely on a tight fit for the friction, you don't want the gun slipping out.

Just wear it, sweat a lot, dry-practice drawing and re-holstering, you will see it get into shape pretty soon. Some advice, eh?

Just remember, its NOT a baseball glove, that you can work leather conditioner or neatsfoot oil into--and once you ruin a good holster with too much oil and gunk, it will be very difficult to ever get it cleaned up.

Fixed it for ya.... Welcome Calhoun, glad you stopped lurking and started participating. You do not want a loose gun holster allowing the gun to slip out when least expected. It is better to have it a little snug on the gun, but not too snug. If the holster comes out of your pants with the gun, that might be too snug. I only have one all leather holster right now (the rest are Kydex) and it was so tight that it took two of us to remove the gun from the holster once inserted. I stored that gun in the holster, removing it and reinserting it a few times a day and with in a couple of weeks I was able to draw the pistol without pulling the holster out of my pants. I did order a couple of TTGunleather holsters a while back, can't wait for those to arrive. Good luck with your new holster and don't mess it up with any leather conditioners. BTW...you didn't mention if you have the permit already or not. Keep us posted.

Keith

[sealbeach]

Thanks for having my back guys! I fat-fingered that one! LOL!

[Calhoun]

Thanks for the advise, this holster has leather and "plastic". I was hoping to get the rear leather portion that rubs against my side a bit softer but I will just wear it everywhere and break it in that way.
I do not have the permit yet, in fact I was just told I need one but have been told in the past that I did not. I am a reserve deputy and have been getting conflicting info about needing a CCW. Some are telling me that with my badge and county ID I don't need the CCW.

[BonoVox]

Putting your firearm in a ziplock bag and holstering it overnight seems to help break it in a bit. From my experience that gets it just about right.

[mjones]

Originally Posted by Calhoun

I do not have the permit yet, in fact I was just told I need one but have been told in the past that I did not. I am a reserve deputy and have been getting conflicting info about needing a CCW. Some are telling me that with my badge and county ID I don't need the CCW.

Take a look at Law Enforcement Safety Act (LEOSA) HR 218 - Bureau of Firearms - California Dept. of Justice - Office of the Attorney General for information on the federal level Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act of 2004

Also keep in mind that although you may meet every single bullet to federally 'qualify' under LEOSA, it is sometimes against department policy to carry off duty as a reserve. So ultimately even though you might not be 'breaking the law' that doesn't mean there isn't the possibility of department discipline.

This is a very similar situation to a College Student with a CCW.

[Calhoun]

Yes, I agree, this is exactly the part that gets confusing I am going to go through the CCW process to make sure I am legal regardless. I am, however, trying to get in to see the Sheriff to make sure he and I are on the same page.

[Keith92555]

Originally Posted by Calhoun

Yes, I agree, this is exactly the part that gets confusing I am going to go through the CCW process to make sure I am legal regardless. I am, however, trying to get in to see the Sheriff to make sure he and I are on the same page.

Great plan!

[Mtn. Medic]

Best way I know to soften a holster is to apply some tincture of time.

[Mad Geek]

Welcome to CalCCW, Calhoun.

Be careful when choosing a TTGunLeather holster. One won't be enough after you've had one. One won't be enough after you've used one of Tim's holsters.

I'd be cautious about treating a holster with a softener, like sealbeach stated. Keep it clean and dry and it will likely outlast you.

Tim at TTGunleather can speak better to "care and feeding" than me, but I do like Mtn. Medic's suggestion.

[rogerthedodger]

Milt Sparks leather holster web site says to put the weapon in the plastic the holster came in, insert into holster, leave overnite, and weapon will then fit, of course remove plastic.

[Yoda]

First of all, Welcome !!!

Second, call Tim @ TT Gunleather and get on the wait list, he'll help you order the right holster for you.

Third, be sure to wear an under shirt. If concerened about the leather rubbing against your side, you need to have something between you and the holster no matter who makes it.

Forth....Order another TT holster...sorry, a little carried away

[Calhoun]

Thanks for all of the input. It seems the concensious is to just call and order a TT Gunleather holster I guess I know what to ask the better-half for Christmas.