Holster makers information...........

[lawandorder]

.............the Moderator of the Gun Leather & Carry Gear section here on the Forum is one of the most knowledgeable persons I know on this subject, and I think John would be quick to tell you that there is a vast lack of knowledge on this subject in the form of reference material.
There are very few books on the subject.. One of the best is in the image below. Richard C. Rattenbury's "Packing Iron" is a must have for anyone interested in gun leather. Another is John Bianchi's book. Beyond that there are a few special editions like the late 70s early 80s "Gun Digest book of Holsters".



Another source of information is vintage catalogs from the various makers and companies involved in the production of holsters over the years.

When you consider that nearly every town in the country had a leather shop or saddlery in days gone by a complete list of folks who made holsters may well be impossible to compile.

I don't know if it would be possible but if a sticky could be added to this section where members could add makers names along with location, and any other possible data about time frame it might help to add to the body of knowledge for this segment of the hobby.

What say you John ? Lee ?

[turnerriver]

I absolutely agree that there is a lack of reference material on this subject.
I have been a moderator for too short a time to be able to speak to such things as stickys but I will look into it. It's a great idea.
I appreciate your comment on my knowledge, such as it is. The thing I enjoy most is adding to it and sharing it, I try to answer any questions I can and am always happy to discuss gun leather.
Here is another resource I use often. While not about holsters it has good information on a host of saddlers who also made gun leather. Copies are available on eBay and from some book sellers, there are also later editions with the same information.
I'm also very happy to see how many leather crafters we have here-please keep posting your latest rig or holster for all of us to admire and enjoy.
Thanks, Tony, for a great idea and for your continued participation and your own very impressive knowledge.

Regards,
turnerriver

[harley46580]

Good thread I just found the gun digest book on Ebay and managed to win it!