Leather holster and accessory storage

John Sabato · 02-27-2001, 01:25 PM

Since the influx of new members has made this a thriving site, I suggest that we re-open the discussion on the cleaning and storage of leather accessories that took place just before the movement of our site from Taiwan.

Since all original holsters and accessories are at least 50 years old, the method of preservation is becoming critical in order to make these items survive for another 50 years.

We have a wealth of knowledge on this forum, and hopefully with all this new blood, we can come to a consensus on the best methods to preserve finish and flexability of these antiques. The results can then be posted in the FAQ?

I have little expertise in this area and welcome anyone who does to comment on how to preserve these precious items. My only knowledge is that neetsfoot oil will keep leather pliable, but in the case of hardshell holsters, the only items that should be pliable are the belt loops, the closure straps, the tool pouch, and the flap cover hinge.

I possess an original German belt and buckle that came with the holster from my vet bring back byf 41, but the belt is dry enough that I would never attempt to use it even if it fit me (not to mention that it is several inches too short to go around my girth).

Ladies and Gentlemen, Those of you who know how, please tell us how to preserve these items for my heirs.

-Thanks, John

02-27-2001, 01:25 PM	#1
John Sabato Lifer Lifetime Forum Patron Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: The Capital of the Free World Posts: 10,154 Thanks: 3,003 Thanked 2,306 Times in 1,097 Posts	Leather holster and accessory storage Since the influx of new members has made this a thriving site, I suggest that we re-open the discussion on the cleaning and storage of leather accessories that took place just before the movement of our site from Taiwan. Since all original holsters and accessories are at least 50 years old, the method of preservation is becoming critical in order to make these items survive for another 50 years. We have a wealth of knowledge on this forum, and hopefully with all this new blood, we can come to a consensus on the best methods to preserve finish and flexability of these antiques. The results can then be posted in the FAQ? I have little expertise in this area and welcome anyone who does to comment on how to preserve these precious items. My only knowledge is that neetsfoot oil will keep leather pliable, but in the case of hardshell holsters, the only items that should be pliable are the belt loops, the closure straps, the tool pouch, and the flap cover hinge. I possess an original German belt and buckle that came with the holster from my vet bring back byf 41, but the belt is dry enough that I would never attempt to use it even if it fit me (not to mention that it is several inches too short to go around my girth). Ladies and Gentlemen, Those of you who know how, please tell us how to preserve these items for my heirs. -Thanks, John