Save Hundreds! DIY Kydex Holsters EASY!

[@TexCen]

Absolutely GREAT info. I now have the knowledge of how to make my own. That said - time is money, so I also now have the knowledge that the $75+ on my holsters is money well spent.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

That is very true. It is only worth it if you want to make multiple holsters for friends/family. For just one, you are right, time is money and it may not be worth it.

[@d_kortman]

Agreed. I’m mainly wanting to do this for a gun that doesn’t really have a holster I’m looking for. Ruger mkiv with a light and suppressor. I’d like to make an OWB holster for it as I can’t find one that works for this configuration.

[@jaredjimenez1833]

I was skeptical at 1st, but the finished product is super legit! awesome job!

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Thanks!

[@CadiV]

Please take a magazine, add a couple layers of blue tape to it and put it in your mag well before doing this again. You are going to collapse you Mag well this way. Polymer frames don’t like 350+ degree heat plus the pressure from your press.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

That would be a good idea. I luckily didn't have any issues, but better safe then sorry.

[@sdriza]

Yes.... this happens... (unfortunately)

[@tattooninja]

Are mag wells tapered, or are the same width all the way up?

[@CadiV]

@@tattooninjawho knows what the internal dimensions of the inside of the mag well is? I don’t think that matters

[@tattooninja]

@@CadiV You don't think it matters if someone tapes it evenly all the way up, vs tapered? Lol ok bud.

[@no_handle_required]

This video helped me make my first kydex holster tonight. 100% gratitude.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Awesome!

[@hrmIwonder]

Great vid! I love projects like this. When someone sees a fancy kydex holster, very few people think that it's something that's even feasible to make at home, yet it totally is something someone can make at home with a bit of effort and get their own exact design.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Thanks! I saw the price tag of the fancy holsters for lights, comps, and optics, and figured I could at least do 80% as good. Now years later I am still carrying in this exact holster. The next tricky thing I am going to attempt is a fancy holster with a spare mag holder on it. Hopefully it goes well. I will be posting a video on it once I figure it out.

[@ItsSkeletor]

This video helped me a ton to make my first folded KYDEX IWB hosster, the one thing I added to the process was when you were talking about pinching it with your fingers, I actually got the idea to leave the excess on the holster and heat the overhanging portions before pinching them in a Vice instead of my fingers. Came out perfect on each side and helped it it flat so I could put in the studs and grommets.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Awesome! I'm glad yours turned out great!

[@nevadadesertrat267]

lol Last week I could not figure out why I needed a kydex holster press or what it was good for. Now I have context. And I now have a clue how to make a custom holster. Good video thanks

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Haha yeah. I didn't have any videos queued up and the press video was easier and faster to do then this one so I did it first.

[@BeBreezy-zg8fl]

You can also use a vacuum sealer instead if you have one instead of making the press

[@DrOctagonaduck2]

Very straightforward! I’ve already made a press for knife kydex sheaths, so I’ve got all I need to do this for guns. Thanks for the vid!

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Nice if you have already done some knifes you will understand the principals pretty good. Firearm holsters are a touch harder, but all the same principals apply. Good luck!

[@usernamesmatter]

I use this holster regularly to practice my gun-fu cause it’s the only holster that actually tries to stay by my waist when I do my kicks n flips. Good vid btw it helped

[@vincentdivita7800]

*you're

[@usernamesmatter]

@@vincentdivita7800 your wrong

[@BannerTrucking2]

Thanks for this tutorial I think im gonna try to make me one. Nobody makes one for my firearm with light combo

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Yeah it is super hard to find some combinations. It is also nice to just make whatever holster you want. Also your first holster may not turn out so great so bank on making two...

[@BannerTrucking2]

@@TheLarkinsLair I got enough sheets to practice on 3 and a color piece for the final rendering.

[@nikolateoembeaireuhigrec4239]

Thx for the video, i always thought about making my owns, now i got a good idea of the process ! Much appreciated

[@TheLarkinsLair]

No problem 👍

[@MrJfred78]

Not bad. Not only can you save money on the holster, but also the light. All the holster manufacturers only make holsters for the name brand lights, with diy you can use any light.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

You got it.

[@bradleyporra4913]

Nice video im preparing to make a kydex holster for my schooling and this helps

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Good luck. In a couple of months I am going to do an outside the waist band with retention.

[@awesomedave8484]

thank you for sharing.

[@mista.PVE.VAMPIREGAMER]

I currently have the S&W M&P 10mm performance Center with the ported barrel ??? It’s my new EDC it also has a baldr pro R attachment … plus I want a side cart

[@TheLarkinsLair]

That is a nice setup you got, but I see why it would be hard to find something custom.

[@robertrenke3528]

I haven't found a single ccw holster yet for the m&p 2.0 5.6 barrel, so this is looking to be the only option tbh

[@1sinister80]

Thank you. This was a great video. I ordered a holster with the tack light, but it is not the right one. Can i reheat kydex to make it bigger to fit my Tac Light?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Yes you can, just be carful to not de-form it too much. If you go to far it can be hard to get it back into a good shape. This is a video where I modify a $200 holster to fit a compensator that wouldn't fit. kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4nWpHR9gLZrmsk

[@jmc112485]

Good video. I’d be careful re-holstering after firing with an uncovered comp.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Yeah, I just got to wear good underwear.

[@vincentdivita7800]

@@TheLarkinsLair Damn....never wanted to ask a stranger on the internet what kind of underwear he uses, but...what kind? I mean, if you found oven mitt boxers, leave a link. In all seriousness, has it ever burned? Did you ever go on to redesign it or is this holster still in use? Just got my first press today.

[@keithrange4457]

Thanks for the great vid. Im about ready to take my 1st try at a DIY kydex holster on my MC9. I got my work cut out for me. I will never find a holster premade to fit an MC9 with TLR7 light, TandemKross Game Changer 9mm Comp, TandemKross thumb ledge gas pedal, Holosun 507k dot, and ideally an attachable spare mag carrier This'll probably take 3-5 tries but still be way cheaper than the $200 i bet someone would charge for a custom job

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Yeah, it is super hard to find those ultra custom holsters. That or spend $200+. I hope it turns out well for you. The one in this video was my second holster and I have worn it for over a year without any issues. Good luck on the ultra custom holster!

[@clawjungleranger]

How did it go! I also carry a Canik MC9 and plan to use this video to make a custom holster for a bunch of different lights I have

[@keithrange4457]

@clawjungleranger it was really kinda easy. Time consuming, but without any experience I made 1 that isn't hideous and is perfectly functional. There's a few blemishes so Noone would pay money for it, but works just fine

[@commandernoodles2367]

Do you have a video on how you made the kydex press?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Yep, here is the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXyTqJ6lptSHi6csi=_RRjOiQsuT4kEKlz

[@commandernoodles2367]

@TheLarkinsLair , thank you!

[@mikehawk7490]

Confused on how retention works. Is it from that small amount you formed behind the trigger?

[@DirtyDirtbath]

Did you make that press yourself? What foam is used on it?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Yep: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXyTqJ6lptSHi6c

[@pws3rd170]

@@TheLarkinsLair wow those pads were pricey. I used an interlocking foam flooring tile that I cut up though it could’ve been a little better

[@EvronWard]

Great vid. I have trouble finding holsters for certain tools and the attachments. Customizing is the way to go. ❤

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Yep, a similar custom holster like this was going to cost me $80 bucks. All the supplies and equipment to make 10 holsters was only $120, and that was with the holster press that is only a one time cost.

[@EvronWard]

@The Larkin's Lair I absolutely love it. Nice side hustle as well.

[@rachelstephens3680]

Handy video, thanks for sharing!

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Thanks for watching!

[@ernestolorenzo86]

hi, what the material that you use for the press? thanks great video!!

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Here is the video on making the press (With links to parts): kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXyTqJ6lptSHi6c

[@mistold]

Def gunna try it. Done knives so why not!

[@Swagmoney696]

Hey man great informative vid, but my question is where did you find that small white regular cab silverado hot wheels truck? The one on your work bench. Seriously asking because i have been trying to find one of my truck and its like impossible.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Haha, that is a car I was given as a kid decades ago. I kept most of my matchbox cars and now my kids play with them. My son couldn't let this thing go for about a year. So the short answer is I don't know where it came from. Sorry I couldn't be more helpful. Good luck!

[@danielrusson7881]

Thanks for the video! I saw one video that used a vacuum seal bag instead of a foam press. Have you tried that yet? Does it actually work?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

I could give it a shot, my wife has one of those...

[@JamesBrown-rm2rd]

great job man thanks iam impressed.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Thanks, still the holster that I use today and is on my as I type this comment.

[@rapache1]

Thank you for posting

[@TheLarkinsLair]

You bet!

[@931PORSCHE]

What did you use for cutting/trimming and smoothing the kydex?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Just a Dremel cut off tool, then I used the sanding wheel and finished by using some polish and a Dremel polishing wheel.

[@matt.t2639]

Thanks for the video!

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Thanks!

[@mista.PVE.VAMPIREGAMER]

Do y’all make costume holsters???

[@TheLarkinsLair]

I have only done it for friends and family. I could do it for others, the issue is I don't have the correct FFL fore firearms transfers so you would have to be local. I need the actual firearm configuration to properly mold the kydex, without it, it would almost impossible.

[@alvindueck2104]

What is your press made of? Is it a lot like memory foam but for high heat?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Here is a link to the press making video with more details: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXyTqJ6lptSHi6csi=gkbHwap5mX0HJAIU

[@sgtcrusher66]

awesome video i love how you explained it

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Thank you!

[@TubbyTactical]

What was the piece that you put the gun and kydex in when you clamped it down?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

The foam or the vice? I used Kydex forming foam from Amazon in the Kydex holster form that I built. Then once everything was in the form I put it in a vice and clamped the heck out of it.

[@KingTut615]

Can you tell me what you used for your press like the material?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Here is the holster press video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXyTqJ6lptSHi6c I put a link in the description to the exact foam I am using in the video.

[@ceciliagoldey220]

thank you

[@TheLarkinsLair]

You're welcome

[@IsaiahChapter53isAboutJesus]

What's the name of the foam needed for the boards? TY!

[@TheLarkinsLair]

This is the foam I bought: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B096SYBZJC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[@ausdizzy8575]

good watch, i think im about to make my own since ive been waiting months for alpha omega to make mine.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Good luck. If you get hung up anywhere let me know.

[@the5seasons947]

Thanks

[@fadehug]

Can you build one for m9a1 beretta with nightstick twm-30 iwb

[@TheLarkinsLair]

This method works for any combination. However, I don't have that specific combination.

[@ImOnlyDon]

This was a great video from start to finish

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Thanks! I have some cook Kydex holster videos I am going to be doing later this year (not for a few months),.

[@Nick_Err42069]

What foam did you use for the press?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

www.amazon.com/gp/product/B096SYBZJC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[@quenamtuorlamu9646]

Hi, what is the material on you Board which press the kydex and gives shape ? Either it is rubber sheets on board or something else?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

a.co/d/4BPiG3P Press video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXyTqJ6lptSHi6csi=oEv-Q7tJnZaBgZ23

[@tattooninja]

Why does the barrel stick out the bottom? What kind of cutting wheel on the dremel?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

It is a compensator on the bottom, I could have covered it if I wanted. The cutting wheel is just a cheep one from Walmart.

[@lens7859]

Looking good !

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Thanks!

[@abbarkley]

What's your press made out of? I asume a layer of wood and some kind of cloth or sponge? Or what wall backing stuff... just wondering cause it looks like a simple idea for book and paper press.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Kydex press video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXyTqJ6lptSHi6c Wood an a kydex holster foam. You could even cut up a yoga mat.

[@ericmcmanus5179]

Hey man. So i have a springfield hellcat (NOT the pro) with a streamlight tlr7 sub and the hex wasp. Basically, the exact same set up as yours minus the comp. Can you guide me to some good holsters? I need something for concealed carry. Thank you.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

There are lots of options, but you will pay no less then $50ish. Here are a couple of options: wethepeopleholsters.com/products/springfield-hellcat-with-streamlight-tlr-7-sub-light-iwb-holster?variant=40480672350306&B18671383897%7D&B%7D&B%7Bad.name%7D%7D&nbt=nb%3Aadwords%3Ax%3A18671383897%3A%3A&nb_adtype=pla&nb_kwd=&nb_ti=&nb_mi=113107058&nb_pc=online&nb_pi=shopify_US_6909178609762_40480672350306&nb_ppi=&nb_placement=&nb_si=%7Bsourceid%7D&nb_li_ms=&nb_lp_ms=&nb_fii=&nb_ap=&nb_mt=&tw_source=google&tw_adid=&tw_campaign=18671383897&gclid=CjwKCAjws9ipBhB1EiwAccEi1KsGHThlupRQP0Ft0wYl0I-XdjceS4vh7-oV2rBV9WD4xm-LAu9rThoCwK4QAvD_BwE www.crossbreedholsters.com/product/freedom-carry-iwb-holster/ werkz.com/m62sphc39sttlr7s1r.html

[@tylershults7601]

So, a bit random, but I wanna make a kydex holster for a big ass crescent wrench. Can I use one of these kits to do that?

[@jkahre]

The potential problem there would be that most crescent wrench handles have a taper, making them wider at the end. Try to find a wrench with a straight handle and you should be fine.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

You can, but you may have to add some stuff to the side if the wrench had a tapered handle. If it was straight, then it would be pretty easy.

[@mr.nobody---]

Should have formed the comp. Going to run two mags, re holster and do the crap that's hot dance

[@TheLarkinsLair]

I have shot the crap out of this thing and have never noticed that.. I guess my undies do a good job insulating... Although I have thought about making another one with it formed around the comp.

[@mr.nobody---]

@@TheLarkinsLair what do you run in it... Sear kit , reduction spring..... I put a riser and a 1.1x4 scope on mine, Patriot trigger from hyve ,powder river sear kit and dpm recoil spring kit... And it's faaaaaast and flat AF.

[@netmag2002]

What the hight of foam for molding?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

One inch. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B096SYBZJC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1

[@NathanC-YT]

It seems like you know what your doing so here is a question. The holster I have has eyelets, I want to change it to Chicago screws. Bad idea? If it does work as planned would it be hard to put eyelets back in it? The reason I want to do this is because it is for a TLR-1 light and I want to use my TLR-2. It just adds a laser on the bottom. I think if I loosened the tension up it would work.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

It should work, I honestly haven't done much with eyelets, so I couldn't say how hard they are to re-install, but Chicago style screws will work just fine. Just be carful that it doesn't mess up the rest of your holster fitment. Sorry for taking forever to respond, life has been busy.

[@pterodox123]

I betcha there'll be a scalding surprise when that bare comp touches skin! 😂

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Haha, It does get a little warm, at least I still have a layer of cloth between my skin and the comp. But yes after some heavy shooting it is quite toast. I have thought about making another with it covered... but I haven't and I have carried in this holster for nearly two years.

[@joeibarra9003]

Question: why not also form the kydex over the red dot as well?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Because it would change where the bend ended up. It is easier to not have it on the gun and then just cut it out. That or you have to get creative and likely do a two piece holster.

[@capthappy345]

Nice work!

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Thanks!

[@darnautov]

Awesome video! Thanks!

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Thanks! Here in the next month or so I am going to go over outside the waste band holsters WITH retention.

[@gunnyrohn882]

Is this something I should have a dedicated toaster oven for? In other words, will my wife kill me for stinking up the house and ruining the toaster oven? If the oven would be fine but will make a stink, I could just take it outside. This would be doing just personal items so not a big usage.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Just warming up Kydex (acrylic-polyvinyl chloride) is not dangerous. However the plastic is not food grade so I wouldn't put it on any food dish without washing it afterward. However if you burn it then it is toxic and not good to breath in. So just don't forget about your Kydex in the oven. If you get into powder coating bullets... that is a complete different story.

[@PapaChief93]

Thanks!!!

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Thanks for watching.

[@ASapWheelie]

whats the press made of?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXyTqJ6lptSHi6c

[@mjasgaming9726]

What kydex thickness are you using

[@TheLarkinsLair]

.080"

[@gaveintothedarkness]

amazing video!

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Thanks!

[@mista.PVE.VAMPIREGAMER]

Is this a challenge you would like to accept I’ve tried a few places no luck…

[@daveosthoff6120]

What thickness Kyle’s would you recommend for a hybrid holster? Thank you for the video.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

I don't have much experience with hybrid holsters. To start I would just use .08" that seems to be the most common and is what I use for my regular IWB holsters.

[@chucky47240]

Obviously, the principle is simple. But when you live in a small apartment without a workshop, without a workbench, without space and with neighbors everywhere around stuck to the walls... For those who already have space, a workshop, and tools, of course, it is much simpler to make. Even having a real vise requires a real workbench. It would be my dream to have a place to tinker with space and, above all, no neighbors.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Yeah, that is rough. I would go crazy without some place to take things apart and fix (or break) them. Neighbors make it harder because running a compressor or other noisy saws makes it even harder. Back when I bought the house that this was recorded in I paid 128K, I sold it a year ago for 319K. Housing has gotten INSAIN expensive. Hopefully it gets better and you can get a place.

[@user-jo3qh1xg8b]

Great video, sir. Thank you.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Glad it was helpful!

[@prepertruckin8525]

⭕️you're obviously right handed, why did you male this for left-handed use?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

It is an inside the waistband holster for canceled carry.

[@prepertruckin8525]

@TheLarkinsLair ⭕️ ahhh ... i got it, you make them for others. guess i should put the captions on... I'm half deaf and can't hear, i gotta read lips half the time... been slapt a few times for it too... not fun. but i like your work and set up too.

[@lens7859]

Going into business? Taking orders yet??

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Not yet, maybe one day.

[@Extort713]

Hot razor blade makes cleaner cuts

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Yeah, but I am too lazy to keep heating it up, but it would work.

[@joash480]

with the amount of tools i need to buy to get in done will cost me thousands.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

The press and foam was $60, the kydex, clips, and Chicago style screws were another $60. I also got more Kydex then what I needed. Then pick up a harbor freight Dremel and cutting disk ~$10. Then just use your own oven. So out the door you are

[@mista.PVE.VAMPIREGAMER]

And it’s had to be IWB….

[@229glock]

Easy?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

I suppose "Easy" is a bit subjective.

[@BrianBlack-t5t]

Davis Carol Perez Amy Wilson Brian

[@BFArch0n]

Easy? Nah, ima go ahead and pay the $100. lol

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Yeah, if you only want one and don't want to play around with different holster configurations it is much easier to pay the hundred bucks.

[@dc5131]

Man - while I appreciate the idea - By the time you spend time and money on materials - tools - ect. It may be better to buy one online.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

If you are only doing one then that is true.

[@KingTut615]

Yeah but at the same time if you got a light that doesn’t have a holster made specifically for it this is great . And a lot. Cheaper

[@chrishunt1939]

It's true. Don't do this if you can buy any kind of holster with any attachment for 50 bucks. I'm here for the opposite reason tho.

[@JericoGoods]

There are literally thousands of holster making vids on yt. This is not a good one.

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Specific feed back is always welcome. I am thinking about re-doing this one to make it better so any tips, insults, or jokes are always welcome.

[@JericoGoods]

@@TheLarkinsLair well let's see ... I'm not going to sit and critique your whole video but it's almost as if you've never seen it done or are building one using directions someone told you about....meaning it doesn't seem like You have very much experience doing the video your giving the tutorial on. I suggest maybe watching a few good ones. Not trying to piss on your parade but you did ask...

[@alvin5122]

​@@JericoGoodsi think you need to work on giving feedback I recommend you read some good feedback. not trying to piss on your parade

[@seppi_dead_wavy]

Does anyone know what the press is made out of? is it just 2 hard surfaces?

[@TheLarkinsLair]

Here is a video I did of making the press: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXyTqJ6lptSHi6c