Shield Kydex Holster - it can be DIY!

[hawk44]

I wanted to save a few bucks and speed the time until I owned an IWB Kydex holster. There are some beautiful products out there, but everybody and their brother wants them I didn't want to wait. I ordered a couple sheets of kydex, made careful observations and set out to make my own.
I do have many hours under my belt, no pun intended, of completing similar projects. This one was slightly tricky, but I am very happy with the end result.
If anyone would want to take on this project, make sure you have a heat gun to tweak things as needed. I used youtube for my instruction. I used my oven and plenty of measuring and re-measuring to ensure a good fit. No fancy press to form it. I didn't care to have the super cut detail. Just enough to hold it firmly in place.
Thought I would share here in this community. No one else would quite get it.

Yes, I have practice to do on my target shooting. You can maybe tell by the left of center grouping. I'm just a novice, but not bad for first time out with my new Shield at 7 yards!

 

[Lost Lake]

Nice job!

I have a couple sheets of Kydex in my office, waiting for my next holster too. It's so easy to form I don't know why anyone wouldn't try it.

For a really tight retention, just press the kydex over your gun with some foam. Nearly any foam will work, but most will use a sleeping pad foam or thick packing foam.

.

 

[vipermd]

Forgive my ignorance but, you said IWB in post. It looks like a belt loop for strong side hip or does it go over the belt and snap closed?? Thank You Be Safe,

 

[hawk44]

It is an IWB. I made it so the belt goes through the closed loop and the holster tucks inside my waistband. No ignorance, good question. I modeled it after PJHolster and his designs for one piece holsters. If I wanted to be a lefty, I could wear it strong side on the outside of my belt I suppose.

 

[ICD]

Looking good boss.

I've actually been wanting to buy some supplies and try it for myself after watching this 1.5 hr DIY on it.

 

[rvanpelt]

Here is a paddle holster made of Kydex for my S&W .40VE. Love it!

Here's a Kydex IWB holster my son made for me for my Glock 26. It's the most comfortable and secure holster I've ever owned.

 

[vipermd]

Thank You for clearing that up for me. Be Safe,