You can now use a saw to remove the excess KYDEX and shape the sheath to your liking. The KYDEX Taco Press | 1-Piece Holster Presses and Thermoform M First things first, do a dry run at the press, just to make sure everything fits properly. I voted for you I think. Dont trim it to the exact size yet. Now, use your cutting implement of choice and cut along that line you traced. Not only will this look better, but it will also make your Kydex sheath stronger. (no stitching required, I suck at that.) When youre ready to make your first kydex press, the first thing to do is find a steel rod. Im using a bandsaw, but for those of us who are power-tool challenged, a coping saw would work just as well. Make sure to get the 8-8 eyelets, as those are just the right length for a double layer of .080 kydex, 3. Now, drill 1 hole, but just one. Sometimes referred to as a "fold-over" or "1-piece" holster, the taco-style holster and/or taco knife sheath is one of the simplest and most versatile holster designs in the business. Now you need to decide if you want to make your sheath from two pieces of KYDEX (a front and back) or from one piece wrapped around the blade. Again, making a Kydex sheath is a lot easier than you may think. What You Need To Craft Your Own Kydex Sheath, link to Nakiri Vs Santoku Knife: The Battle of the Japanese Knives, link to Swiss Army Vs Leatherman: 6 Astonishing Differences. Scribe a line around the outline of the knife, with about a 1/4" offset, like the picture. Here are the parts needed. You have almost everything you need to make this in your house! We recommend starting with a KYDEX Molding Press. Simple DIY Kydex Press - YouTube Anyway, now that the kydex is nice and malleable, move it to the press the exact same way as before. If it is wider or thinner, add more material to make it match. These substances could damage the Kydex and cause it to collapse upon itself. Do the gloves come free with purchase?,.. 3. Im sure most of the people here know of KYDEX and many of you probably own a KYDEX sheath or holster that was either sold with a blade or purchased for a hand gun. Now, mark out the spots for the rest of the eyelets. As you can see I drilled 3 holes and placed the tee . Most Kydex sheets are quite big, bigger than youll need. To do this, I place my Kydex sheets on my electric grill. Since the padding touching the hot kydex has "give", you want as large a surface area of pressure that you can get so that you have as much force against the entire area of the sheath without crushing anything. I'm starting to make my own kydex sheaths but standing on the kydex to form it onto the blade isn't producing the results I want. Experiment. When choosing leather for the mold, two main things must be considered. Before we get into the how, let me first answer the why. Whaddup denizens of the internet, its ya boy guz- wait, wrong intro. Get the stack assembled and get some pressure on it. I had lost some heat taking pictures but it will work just fine. Its so cheap and easy, anyone can make their own Kydex sheath. Book could work, if you have a lot of them. I will sometimes lay down a 3/16" thick piece of felt to slightly conforum the back. Hammer. Wrap it and press in another piece of metal to form the bend. This way, its easy to slip your knife in and out of the sheath. Official Simple Little Life video of a simple DIY Kydex Press.Subscribe to Simple Little Life: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUSzWatch More Simple Little Life: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUSzFollow Simple Little Life:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simplelittleInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplelittlFollow Homestead Knives:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hsknives/Official Website: www.simplelittlelife.caKnife Store: www.homesteadknives.comWatch More Simple Little Life:Latest Uploads: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwPJJPopular Videos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwPJJKnife Making: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8aXywDIY: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_2eyAbout Simple Little Life:This channel has sort of turned (inadvertently) into a knife making channel. Then cover or wrap your item with the heated material (see our video tutorials for examples). Foam Layer. Participated in the Knives and Blades Challenge. Next,Find a piece of wood that is at least as thick as your steel rod. At ITS, our goal is to foster a community dedicated to learning methods, ideas and knowledge that could save your life. If your knife is short, 5-6 should be enough. Nakiri Vs Santoku Knife: The Battle of the Japanese Knives. Contrast this to a 'taco" style sheath, which is made like a taco. But when Im not spending time with my hobby, Im here, writing about Knives and Sharpeners on KnifePulse to share with you what I learn along the way. Here they are: I do not. I made my own press out of a few hunks of 3/4" plywood ,I purchased a couple of big hinges I attached the hinges to one end and I use a fast close clamp for woodworking. Im not going to tell you where to buy a hammer, you know where to find one, 5. I connected them this way because I plan on making knife sheaths. Can a 7-Year-Old Vehicle Bag Stand Up to Texas Heat? This is one side repeat for the other side. However, it leaves less material available for mounting hardware. First off, stop screaming, youre freaking out the neighbors. When the KYDEX is sufficiently pliable, lay your knife on the surface with the spine of the blade in the center then fold the KYDEX over the blade. Trim the leather 8. Luckily, we have a few tips to make your second press perfect! I have bought most of my supplies from Tracy and he got them to me quick and everything was right. Consult the pictures for more detail on how it should look. Don't worry these are 3" screws I later went back and put in 2 1/2" screws and the no longer stick out. Be sure to check out his great photos on Flickr! And great sense of humor. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'knifepulse_com-leader-1','ezslot_11',171,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-knifepulse_com-leader-1-0');Remember, this is a rough cut. boy you made that look easy. How To Mold Kydex Holster - MoldProTips.com So, what do we need for this, youre probably asking. The Aluminum is acting as a skeleton and giving structural support. For those of you that do not know, Kydex is the trade name for a propriety thermoplastic sheet. But when Im not spending time with my hobby, Im here, writing about Knives and Sharpeners on KnifePulse to share with you what I learn along the way. Building a Kydex press and making a Kydex Sheath Tutorial At least until I got enough skill to try more complicated gun holsters. 6104 W Pioneer Pkwy Ste 212Arlington, TX 76013, Proudly managed inthe great state of Texas. Technology for understanding the digital world and mitigating electronic threats. There are many different ones, so let your creativity take you! With the KYDEX still hot, sandwich the knife between the two foam molds and clamp the entire unit down tight. Assuming both halfs of your sheath look good, lets get them stuck together! The 2x4's will act as feet for the bottom. Many offer free tutorials or just show you how to get started. I was not real sure about the hinge part but that is a simple awesome way. Knowledge and tips to give you the mental edge and prevail in any situation. There are several options for MOLLE or belt mounting hardware including making your own out of another piece of KYDEX, this is where the Chicago screws can come in handy. Many popular makers use this simple machine to start making products. Something I have noticed gun guys is that we all have a box of old holsters. After 10 minutes, check and see if its nice and floppy. First, cut a small piece of leather about one inch long and about half an inch wide. Basic Knife History Chemically formulated for low memory artifacts with durability to last longer. Step 2: The Base I first started out by cutting my 1X3 boards and making a frame. To begin, start by measuring and cutting your sheet. Easy DIY Vacuum Former : 7 Steps - Instructables Best damn advice I've gotten for kydex. To make the decoration sheets, I used leftover hot glue and cuttings from plants. Anyway, move over to your toaster oven and set it to 250 degrees, then pop both kydex pieces in for about 10 minutes. Place your Kydex sheets in at 250 degrees for ten minutes. Over the last 20 years, we have developed the number one selling steel design KYDEX molding press systems in the 12"- and 24"-inch KYDEX press. DIY Primer on How to Get Started Working with KYDEX Knife. CKK KYDEX Eyelet Flaring Press - Master Series - For KYDEX Sheath When Kydex is heated, it becomes soft and moldable. I love the griddle idea. DIY Kydex Press - YouTube You should also have your Vice/C-Clamps and Foam Press within arms reach. Then use the hydraulic press to press down on the Kydex and blade. Dont let any of that fool you though, just because its cheap doesnt mean its crap. Click here to view the full KYDEX photo set on Flickr. You need to heat Kydex using a home oven or heat gun before you can begin to mold it to whatever shape you choose. The kydex press is a pretty basic tool that most people make use of. The way I see it, life's no fun if you take it too seriously. It should flex easy, under its own weight. (Top 10) Best Foam For Kydex Press in 2023 Based On Customer Feedback Kydex. For Sale: Custom & Semi Production Knives (Dealer), KnifeMaker's Market: Knives & More for Sale, Wanted: Knifemaker / Craftsman / Related Services, Busse / Swamprat / Scrapyard Knives For Sale, For Sale: Traditionals, Slipjoints, "Old Timey", International (Non-US) For Sale & Trade Forums, http://www.blackanddecker.com/ProductGuide/CategoryOverview.aspx?cPath=1496.1506, http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/displayitem.taf?Itemnumber=42494. The Kydex can be placed either directly on the rack or on a cookie sheet if you prefer. Drilling the belt clip. i can hear a few of you screaming at your monitor. Because i said so. Great tutorial Tracy!!! Hybrid Holster Making Kit w/Cowhide Leather Backer - (KYDEX) - (Black) - (Medium) - (RH), QLH - Holster Molding Prop - for Glock 19/23/32 (Butterfly). The two Kydex sheets are now stuck together, but they need to be sealed. Here is the bottom. Youll also need a 1/4 drill bit, preferably a brad point bit. Remember, the shiny side of the kydex should be touching the knife, the rough side should be facing outward. Put the eyelets too far down the blade and the knife falls right out, put them too far up the handle and youll never get the knife out. Especially on a behind-the-back sheath, it's a good idea to have wider lips because you can't see to sheath. Yeah, I know! I made mine to follow the profile of the knife, pretty easy to do. Be careful if you do, too much force on the buff will melt the kydex. Standing head and shoulders above all Im James, the guy behind Knifepulse.com. Kydex press (from knifekits.com) Rivet Press (I prefer the hand set tools) The steps to make this holster are: 1. You will love it! To form this stuff, use a paint remover heat gun, around $20. 1 year ago. You will want to make sure that you keep pressure on the mold long enough for it to form correctly. Bend the wings 9. Knife Terminology A little heat on the sheath lips after the sheath is assembled will allow you to open them slightly to make inserting the knife a little easier. A sheath will give you so much convenience, and also prolong the life of your knife. These can be paper, yarn, fabric, and/or materials such as wood or ceramic. Why not something like leather? To use this tool, simply heat your thermoplastic material to 300-375 degrees (depending on heating time and oven used). Yours doesnt look that way, did the kydex not properly take the shape of the knife? Aug 20, 2018 - Explore Arcturus Enterprises's board "Kydex press & Holster Making" on Pinterest. Made right, your knife press will feel like a butter knife in your hand. You dont need to invest in special machines to build one of these. The flaring dies and sheath making foam can be found at knifekits.com, but all other tools (and hardware below) can be found at a hardware store. 2009-2023 ITS Tactical // Imminent Threat Solutions. Kit Instructions Whelp, its a short list: 1. Chosen for its high performance in the fabrication process; not only does it produce more detail in formed parts, it can be used on both sides but of its skin. The finished product!!! Amazon.com : 2 Sheets of Sheath/Holster Making Foam - Thermoform And there you have it! 8-8 Eyelets. Kydex layer numero dos. As a completely optional step, use a felt wheel or loose cotton wheel with some white compound to give a little polish to the edges. Fun With KYDEX!!! : 7 Steps - Instructables Its a lot easier than most people think. 2.0 1" neoprene foam 11.5 x 11.5 usaknifemaker.com. It may not display this or other websites correctly. A rubber mallet may also prove useful! Making a $21 Kydex Press (And my first kydex sheath) - YouTube 0:00 / 6:22 Making a $21 Kydex Press (And my first kydex sheath) The Bolt and the Beautiful 7.72K subscribers Subscribe 13K. Thanks for posting. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'knifepulse_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_9',170,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-knifepulse_com-large-leaderboard-2-0');To make a Kydex sheath, you will need: With these, you are ready to start making your Kydex sheath. Show more Show more Shop the Simple Little Life store Aspiring chefs who are getting around to learning more about Japanese knives will appreciate how they can improve your overall culinary skills. Thanks BD. If you have an oven toaster, you can also use this. While the back side with the belt loop is fairly flat. I wouldnt say that Kydex is better than leather. Total investment? Attach these boards to a cheap wood vise and you have your Kydex press for under $30. Specifications Master Series Flaring Press 22 LBS Pre-Tapped Set Screw = Yes (for holding top die) Its cheap, rugged, non-marring of your guns finish, moldable for good retention, smooth for a consistent draw, and does not react to normal temperatures or gun solvents or oils. I don't have any foam to sell you today. The tape will give a little breathing room for your knife in the finished product. Tips on staying active, fueled and ready to overcome all obstacles. Its possible the reason your moulds were not coming out well is that you waited a little too long and it wasn't flexible enough. Our KYDEX press foams are used in every level of holster making, from professional kydex presses all the the way to DIY kydex presses, and even homemade kydex press designs. Personally, i wanted a smoother look, so i turned to my 2x72 belt grinder and refined the shape a little. The heated Kydex is wrapped around whatever it will sheathe, and then sandwiched between the two pieces and then clamped or weighted heavily until the plastic cools. Youve now got a very functional knife sheath, ready for whatever you can throw at it. Cut the template 2. Im using a drill press because, hey, burn em if youve got em. How to make a Kydex Concealed Holster at Home? - Legionary During the molding process, you'll use your hands and fingers to manipulate the hot Kydex. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'knifepulse_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_6',167,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-knifepulse_com-medrectangle-4-0');But theres no need to worry. You can get a short length of steel rod, or you can buy extra long ones to make more presses. Start with the half you did the layout on, and make the holes using a 1/4" brad point drill bit. You could substitute rivets if you like, i like eyelets because they allow easy attachment of belt clips, lanyards, etc. Being a DIY enthusiast, it did not take me long to want to try my hand at molding Kydex. Red shows up best on black kydex. A hand drill would work just as well. At its simplest a Kydex press is a rigid board with a thick piece of foam glued to it as a base, with top made the same way. The heated Kydex is wrapped around whatever it will sheathe, and then sandwiched between the two pieces and then clamped or weighted heavily until the plastic cools. Assuming all went well in the dry run, now for the wet run, which involves no water. Kinda like spagetti, but, you know, not. I'm building one this week. Whats kydex you ask? if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'knifepulse_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_15',172,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-knifepulse_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0');The concept is the same for whatever you have. 2) Can I sit/push down, or set books on top of the foam setup, instead of clamping it while it cools? It also comes with a 3-piece hardened ram set that will assist with pin flaring and other shop chores (see image). Most people use either an oven or a heat gun. Share it with us! If not, leave it in there longer. Now that you have the locations marked, time to make some holes. The hot glue kept it in place well! Take your piece of KYDEX and lay it flat on a work bench. It's a vice with jaws that are padded in order to hold lumber without denting it. Takes some time for the kydex to cool, the foam is a good insulator. Gallery 481530.jpg 98.2 KB Views: 119 481531.jpg 116.3 KB Views: 64 481532.jpg Once you press, keep it that way for about 10 minutes. As you can see I drilled 3 holes and placed the tee nuts and screwed the pieces together tightly. (in order to get one formed side and one flat side) Is there a common type of foam or rubber heat resistant that I can pick up at a store? Also, before you press, make sure the shiny sides of your Kydex sheets are on the inside of the sandwich. i need to buy all the tools from you to do the rivots you need to make a kit. At its simplest a Kydex press is a rigid board with a thick piece of foam glued to it as a base, with top made the same way. Often I use a goodwill toaster oven. You can put weights on top to do this, or use clamps to hold it shut. After that, it should be floppy. In addition to this you will need a drill and a few drill bits. Kydex is a thermoforming plastic made for use in gun holsters and knife sheaths. Use keywords to find the product you are looking for. All you need is some Kydex and youre good to go! Our KYDEX press foams are used in every level of holster making, from professional kydex presses all the the way to DIY kydex presses, and even homemade kydex press designs. Kydex Holster Making Molds | DIY Tactical Gear | Oxcreek Tactical Reply I got mine from Tandy Leather. You must log in or register to reply here. You will use this wood to brace your kydex sheet against when pressing the release button on your wallet or card. Instead, Im going to teach you how to make your very own Kydex sheath. Normally I find the oven works best to begin the project, and I use a heat gun to spot heat for adjustments. Methods for Molding Kydex | eHow Ive owned several types of knives and sharpeners over the last few years and have become obsessed with everything to do with knives. After 10ish or so minutes, the kydex should be cool and holding its shape, which should be the shape of the knife with a fair degree of detail. Theres a lot of reasons why making your own Kydex sheath is a great idea. That way, you can stop walking around with it in your hands constantly, you creep. One of the few specialized tools you need, but well worth the $10. A hacksaw could do in a pinch. Im always trying to improve my cleaning and sharpening process, and always on the hunt for the next best knife. Color wise, there are some colors that do not work with each other. If you don't have any, Harbor Freight is an excellent source, 3 inch C clamps are only a few bucks and are extremely useful, Sorry, that should read "doesn't require buying extra materials than what's listed". I leave it there until it softens enough for me to bend it around. Its rigid and strong, but when heated it becomes pliable. Sheath/Holster Making Foam - Thermoform Molding - (Xtreme Form) - (8x12x1.5), Sheath/Holster Making Foam - Thermoform Molding - (Xtreme Form) - (8x12x1), Sheath/Holster Making Foam - Thermoform Molding - (Xtreme Form) - (8x12x.5), Sheath/Holster Making Foam - Thermoform Molding - (Mega Form) - (8x12x1), *CKK Sheath/Holster Molding Press (w/Mega Foam) - Bench Model - (8 x 12), *CKK Sheath/Holster Molding Press (w/Mega Foam) - Bench Model - (8 x 24), *CKK Sheath/Holster Molding Press (w/Xtreme Foam) - Bench Model - (8 x 12), *CKK Sheath/Holster Molding Press (w/Xtreme Foam) - Bench Model - (8 x 24), HolsterMolds - Curved Jig - Large Radius - (w/Xtreme Foam), HolsterMolds - Curved Jig - Medium Radius - (w/Xtreme Foam), KYDEX Taco Press - (6 x 12) - Press Only, KYDEX Taco Press - (6 x 12) - w/Maxx Center Foam, KYDEX Taco Press - (6 x 12) - w/Xtreme Center Foam, Scissortail Custom - Bender Angled Jig (w/Xtreme Foam), Sheath/Holster Making Foam - Thermoform Molding - (Maxx Form) - (12x11.5x1), Sheath/Holster Making Foam - Thermoform Molding - (Maxx Form) - (8x12x1), Sheath/Holster Making Foam - Thermoform Molding - (Mega Form) - (12x11.5x1), Sheath/Holster Making Foam - Thermoform Molding - (Mega Form) - (24x3.75x1), Sheath/Holster Making Foam - Thermoform Molding - (Xtreme Form) - (12x11.5x.5), Sheath/Holster Making Foam - Thermoform Molding - (Xtreme Form) - (12x11.5x1.5), Sheath/Holster Making Foam - Thermoform Molding - (Xtreme Form) - (12x11.5x1), Sheath/Holster Making Foam - Thermoform Molding - (Xtreme Form) - (24x3.75x 1), Vacuum Forming Membrane - Commercial Grade Silicone - (49" Width), Photo Gallery #1 Heat Source. JavaScript is disabled. The KYDEX Taco Holster press is similar in design to a book press. 8 Steps. I like doing this one half at a time, just to make sure everything lines up properly. Use your clamps to hold the frame together while drilling the holes. Dont skip this part, its a lot easier to find out a piece is undersize now, rather than when its hot and floppy. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'knifepulse_com-banner-1','ezslot_5',169,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-knifepulse_com-banner-1-0');But why Kydex? I went with it because it seemed to be a material I could work with easily.
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