Is anyone working with kydex?

[adam330]

I was looking for some ideas for either a kydex press or for making a thermoformer. If anyone has used both and can give some input as to which style worked better I would appreciate it.

 

[Fred @ Bison Tactical]

My buddy makes holsters and started with some type of former, but gave it up and heats it up and forms it by hand somehow. I think there are a bunch of how to's on youtube...

 

[adam330]

Yeah I have watched a view videos on youtube. It seems like most people use some type of foam press, I was just wondering if anyone hear had used a thermoform.

 

[Jerrrrstanley]

I have used a press. 2 pieces of particle board with foam on both pieces. A hole drilled in each corner with 6 inch bolts and wing nuts to tighten it down. Works pretty good for me.

 

[jcfd2201]

I have two pieces of plywood with dense cellulose foam attached. I used two pieces of angle iron on the back of the plywood that fit over the jaws of my vice. I use a heat gun and large toaster oven to heat the Kydex and then form using the plywood/foam. This has worked great for holsters, knife sheaths, and cheek rests.

 

[RedDog3]

I also use the plywood press with foam. Got the design idea from a youtube video, uses clamps to hold it down. It works good for me.

 

[grizzleypiper]

Look up garrett industries. They make some great products.
http://garrettindustries.mybigcommerce.com

 

[Brad993]

http://www.knifekits.com/vcom/product_info.php?products_id=636

Knifekits.com will have all the hardware, press, kydex etc.

 

[johnson8861]

I use a knifekits.com press, and also a low grade heat gun. I have made all sorts of bullshit I need and don't need.

 

[Punisher3]

I have my own holster business.

I made a press with some furniture wood (plywood would be fine) and some dense foam from usaknifemaker.com

I use a toaster over to heat my kydex and a heat gun to control retention and roll the edges. PM me if you need any more info. Be glad to help.

 

[woogie_man]

Falcon kydex tech
Falcon Kydex Tech

Know the owner personally, and he makes some good stuff. Very robust, and willing to do custom orders as well.

 

[malinkyhoy]

I made a press for about $20, with materials from home depot.