At the gunshow today, I picked up a very nice leather single magazine pouch for my EDC 380 (along with a decent OWB leather holster). Not a name brand, but a quality product made by a local craftsman.

The mag pouch is so tight, that it is impossible to pull the mag out while the pouch is on the belt. I know they need to be tight, for retention purposes, but this one is WAY too tight.

I'm leaving the mag in the pouch for a day or two, to really "form" it, but I was wondering if there's a recommended way to soften/stretch the leather? Obviously, I want to retain a good fit and retention, but I'd like to be able to pull the mag out of the pouch without pulling my belt up to my armpits, lol.

Thoughts/ideas??

Thanks

TRE

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Fine guns and fine smokes.

Wrap the magazine tightly in wax paper, force it al the way in and leave it for a month. Works for new leather holsters also, and does not soften the leather, which causes later problems.

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Science plus Art

A sandwich baggie also works very well. Don't try and stretch it too fast! Fast is NOT GOOD as far as leather is concerned. The good news is that once you get it to the proper fit, it should last a long time with the proper retention qualities. DO NOT USE ANY CHEMICALS OR SADDLE SOAP! It will make the leather too soft and too loose to work properly. Have patience!! Like breaking in a good pair of leather boots, gloves or a holster - patience is a virtue but worth it once the deed is done.

Just remember, nothing you do is going to "stretch" leather. What you're actually doing is loosening the stitches . . .

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Wisdom comes thru fear . . .

You can always put the magazine in a plastic bag, and wet the mag pouch and then insert the magazine an let it sit for an hour or so.

A wet paper towel usually works well, depending on what kind if top coat or finish coat is on the leather

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Thanks everyone, I'll try the plastic bag wrap.

TRE

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Fine guns and fine smokes.