This Piece of Plastic Launched a Company

Published on November 18, 2023
Duration: 11:39

This video details the foundational steps and evolution of Kydex holster manufacturing at T.REX ARMS, starting from its origins in 2013. It covers the initial primitive methods of heating Kydex and molding it around firearms, including the use of blue guns and the challenges faced with early designs. The narrative highlights the progression to more sophisticated techniques like compression forming and the use of 3D scanned guns for precise mold creation, showcasing a decade of innovation in holster production.

Quick Summary

T.REX ARMS started making Kydex holsters in 2013 using basic methods: heating Kydex to 330-340°F, molding it around a firearm with foam, and shaping with tools like a hacksaw. Early designs lacked features like optic cuts and relied on self-made belt loops, evolving significantly to modern precision-made holsters.

Chapters

  1. 00:33Company Origins & First Holster
  2. 01:31Early Kydex Molding Process
  3. 02:34First Holster Real-World Use
  4. 03:17Early Holster Evolution & Glock 26
  5. 04:02Second Generation Holster Updates
  6. 04:34Variable Retention Experiments
  7. 05:31Transition to Real Guns & CAD
  8. 06:00First vs. Current Holster Comparison
  9. 06:31Improved Compression Forming
  10. 06:51Current Holster Features
  11. 07:40Holster Evolution Over 10 Years
  12. 09:47Final Thoughts & Future

Frequently Asked Questions

How did T.REX ARMS start making holsters?

T.REX ARMS began as a custom holster company in 2013 with $1000, an iPhone, and Kydex. The founder was initially asked by his fire chief to make a Glock 17 holster, leading to the company's inception.

What were the early methods for making Kydex holsters?

Early Kydex holster making involved heating Kydex to 330-340 degrees Fahrenheit, then squishing it around a firearm mold using foam. Basic tools like hacksaws were used for shaping, and belt loops were often self-made.

How has T.REX ARMS improved its holster manufacturing over time?

T.REX ARMS transitioned from using blue guns to real firearms for fit testing and developed custom CAD molds from 3D scans. They now employ advanced compression forming for superior definition and precision, unlike early foam and clamp methods.

What are the key differences between early and current T.REX ARMS holsters?

Current T.REX ARMS holsters, like the Ironside, offer precise fitment with no slop, smooth draws, optic cuts, and exposed mag releases. This is a significant improvement over early primitive designs that lacked these advanced features.

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