This Piece of Plastic Launched a Company

Published on November 18, 2023
Duration: 11:39

This guide details the DIY process of creating Kydex holsters, drawing from the foundational techniques used by T.REX ARMS. It covers heating and forming Kydex, trimming, and attaching hardware, highlighting the evolution from primitive methods to modern precision manufacturing. The insights emphasize the importance of material properties, forming temperatures, and retention adjustments for effective firearm concealment and carry.

Quick Summary

T.REX ARMS started in 2013 with founder Luke using basic tools and Kydex to create custom holsters, initially for a Glock 17. The company's manufacturing evolved significantly from primitive DIY methods using hacksaws and manual forming to advanced techniques involving 3D scanned guns, CAD molds, and compression forming for precision and quality.

Chapters

  1. 00:33Company Origins 2013
  2. 00:54First Holster Creation
  3. 01:16The First T.REX ARMS Holster
  4. 01:31Early Kydex Molding Process
  5. 01:46Real Gun vs. Blue Gun
  6. 02:34First Holster Real-World Use
  7. 02:59Holster Retrieval 2018
  8. 03:17Early Holster Evolution
  9. 03:43Glock 26 Holster 2013
  10. 03:53No Optic Cuts Early On
  11. 04:02Second Generation Holster
  12. 04:34Variable Retention Experiments
  13. 04:54Blue Gun Molding Issues
  14. 05:31Transition to Real Guns & CAD
  15. 05:50Current Holster Production
  16. 06:00First vs. Current Holster
  17. 06:31Improved Compression Forming
  18. 06:51Current Holster Features
  19. 07:40Evolution of Holsters Over 10 Years
  20. 09:47Final Thoughts & Future

Frequently Asked Questions

How did T.REX ARMS start making holsters?

T.REX ARMS began in 2013 with founder Luke using $1000, an iPhone, and Kydex to make custom holsters, initially selling them on Instagram after a fire chief requested a Glock 17 holster.

What were the early challenges in DIY Kydex holster manufacturing?

Early DIY holster makers faced challenges like inconsistent fitment from using imprecise blue guns, difficulty achieving clean lines and definition, and the need to fabricate custom belt loops due to limited options and high costs.

How has Kydex holster manufacturing evolved at T.REX ARMS?

T.REX ARMS evolved from primitive methods using hacksaws and manual forming to using 3D scanned guns, custom CAD molds, and advanced compression forming techniques, resulting in superior definition, precision fit, and features like optic cuts.

What materials and tools are essential for basic Kydex holster making?

Essential materials include Kydex sheets and fasteners like grommets or Index Fasteners. Tools typically involve a heat source (oven or press), a mold (firearm or replica), vacuum forming equipment or foam, and cutting/finishing tools like a hacksaw or grinder.

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