Discover the rich history, craftsmanship, and evolution of leather holsters—from frontier gun belts to modern custom carry.

Leather holsters are more than simple firearm accessories. For generations, they have served as practical tools, protective gear, symbols of craftsmanship, and reflections of the people who carried them. The History of Leather Holster Making: From Frontier Carry to Modern Craftsmanship explores how holsters developed alongside firearms, military needs, law enforcement, frontier life, concealed carry, and the leatherworking trade.

Inside this book, readers will learn how early holsters were shaped by necessity, how the American frontier helped define the gun belt, how military and police holsters evolved, and how modern makers continue to preserve traditional handcraft while adapting to new firearms and carry methods.

This book covers:

The early purpose of holsters and why they mattered

The rise of the American gun belt and frontier carry

Military leather holsters and their practical designs

Law enforcement holsters and duty carry development

The transition from open carry to concealed carry

Traditional leatherworking tools, materials, and techniques

The importance of wet forming, stitching, molding, and retention

How modern custom holster makers keep the craft alive

Whether you are a leatherworker, holster maker, firearms enthusiast, history reader, or collector, this book offers a detailed look at the heritage behind one of the most important pieces of firearm gear ever made.

A tribute to leather, craftsmanship, history, and the enduring tradition of the handmade holster.