Restoring old leather

David LaPell · May 2, 2010

I picked up an old Tex Shoemaker & Sons holster today. It was a bit weatherworn, mostly faded but the stitching is all still good. It has gotten alot of dust and some of the black has faded from the leather, but this thing is an old duty style holster that has the most gorgeous floral scrollwork all over, even on the strap. How do I bring this old timer back to life? It will look so nice with my old M & P which fits in it like a glove.

bamabiker · May 2, 2010

I have been trying my hand at making some holsters and a couple of weeks ago I was looking for something new to finish one with. I went by a Tack shop, they sell horse stuff, saddles, bridles, etc. Talking to the store guy he told me about some stuff they use on old saddles and such. It's Horseman's One Step cleaner and conditioner. I used it like using neatsfoot oil to finish a holster and must say it didn't come out like I thought. I was hoping it would be darker. But it did make the leather very soft and smooth. I probably won't use it again for a finish but I think it might work good for something like you need.
I'd love to see a picture of your holster if you get the chance.

TennTony · May 2, 2010

I would recommend a good black shoe dye followed by black or neutral polish. Alternately, you might want to check out a polyurethane leather coating. I have seen the urethane sold in craft stores and skating rinks.

handejector · May 2, 2010

Blackrock Leather 'N' Rich.
Comes in a small jar.
It is truly magic.

H Richard · May 2, 2010

On this subject, how do you strip the finish on a holster? Quality holsters, as well as belts, etc have a "finish" applied over the dye or carving to protect it. After years of use, corners and edges, get worn, but the item is still very good. To just touch it up may be spotty looking. What would be used to "break" the finish all over the article to re-dye it all over?

kennyb · May 2, 2010

renaissance wax also works wonders on leather

Papaw · May 2, 2010

As Lee says Blackrock Leather 'N' Rich is great for any sort of leather.

4864 · May 3, 2010

I have had good luck using Pecard Oil and dressing. Work better on newer leather to break it in. Have used it on some older dry leather and retored it very well.

Have never heard of Blackrock Leather "N" Rich. May have to find some and give it a try.

handejector · May 3, 2010

4864 said:
I have had good luck using Pecard Oil and dressing. Work better on newer leather to break it in. Have used it on some older dry leather and retored it very well.

Have never heard of Blackrock Leather "N" Rich. May have to find some and give it a try.

I'll put it this way-
I used Pecard's, and it was the best I had ever used, till I tried Blackrock!

cobra44 · May 4, 2010

The Blackrock Leather n Rich - does it soften up the leather any?
I was wondering as I do not want my holsters to get very soft.
I have some that I need to do something with.

Restoring old leather

David LaPell

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bamabiker

Member

TennTony

US Veteran

handejector

H Richard

US Veteran

kennyb

Papaw

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4864

Member

handejector

cobra44

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