Year: 2022

COLT COMMANDER 1911-4.25″ BARREL-HOLSTERS-STORY-45ACP-MTR CUSTOM LEATHER, LLC

May 4, 2022 by MTR Custom Leather in Uncategorized with No Comments

The story behind the Colt Commander is an interesting one. In 1951, the US military opened up a gun trial looking for pistol candidates to replace the full-size Colt Government model 1911 that military officers were carrying. The full size government was somewhat large and heavy for military officers who weren’t station in a combat zone, so the military was looking for a lighter weight alternative.

The military requirements for the trial stated that the pistol had to be chambered in 9mm that did not exceed 7 inches in overall length or weigh more than 25 ounces unloaded. Colt entered a cut down version of their 1911 that featured a 4.25 inch barrel, was chambered in 9mm, and used a 9 round magazine. As the trials were underway, Colt elected to go ahead and push the trial gun into production under the name of a “Colt Commander”. Although primarily known as being chambered in 45 ACP these days, the first few years of production, the Commander was also chambered in 9mm and 38 Super calibers.

Over the years, a number of Commander variations have been offered by Colt, including the following:

  • Lightweight Commander – In 1970, Colt introduced an all steel version of the Commander and named it the Colt Combat Commander. To avoid confusion between the aluminum frame original model and the all steel version, Colt renamed the original Commander to the Colt Lightweight commander.
  • Combat Commander – An all steel version of the Commander that was released in 1970.
  • Commander Gold Cup – Designed for competition right out of the box
  • Combat Elite – Designed for combat competition shooters right out of the box

Since the Commander was introduced, it has steadily gained a following among 1911 fans as it offers the same round capacity of the full size 5” model, but weighs anywhere from 6 to 8 ounces less depending on the Commander version.

In terms of holsters and concealed carry, the single stack Commander features a thin grip and overall profile that is ideal for IWB carry at the 3 or 4 o’clock position on the waist. It also carries and rides on the waist in OWB carry very well. One point to mention about thumb break holster models for the Commander: most all holster makers produce holster models with a thumb break or retention strap that is designed to be worn with the Commander in the cocked & locked (hammer cocked) position. So if you prefer to carry your Commander in the hammer down position, you’ll be better suited to purchase an open top style holster.

Holsters listed below are produced to fit the Colt Commander 1911 with a 4.25” barrel.

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HOW-TO-CARRY-YOUR-WEAPON TEST-MTR CUSTOM LEATHER, LLC

May 3, 2022 by MTR Custom Leather in Uncategorized with No Comments
HOW-TO-CARRY-YOUR-WEAPON-TEST-1Download

CLICK THE LINK TO DOWNLOAD THE DIAGRAM OF MANY OPTIONS TO CARRY YOUR WEAPON. QUESTIONS LIKE SIZE OF WEAPON, POSITION OF CARRY, SAFTEY STRAP, ETC.

There are many ways to conceal carry your weapon, but you must obtain your Concealed Carry License or permit. Before you do anything else, you first need to make sure that you’re in compliance with your state’s laws. Next, there is NO consensus on the method of carry; It is just a matter of personal preferences. There are two things I would recommend you focus on. Select a method that allows you to comfortably carry and adequately conceal your weapon ALL the time. Of course, this can be a challenge depending on your body type and build, style of dress, lifestyle, location and temperature changes, preferences for where on your body you want to carry, etc. Which can often dictate where you can and cannot place your weapon. Think about your daily activities that you would be doing when wearing the holster: riding, sitting, outdoors, indoors, hiking, line of work etc.








IF YOU PLAN ON DOING ANY SORT OF ACTIVITES: FISHING, MOTORCYCLE/BICYCLE, HUNTING, HIKING, ETC-CONSIDER ADDING A THUMB BREAK STRAP TO YOUR HOLSTER. WHAT IS A THUMB BREAK STRAP? IT’S A SAFTEY STRAP THAT GOES AROUND THE HAMMER/SLIDE OF THE WEAPON. CHECK OUT OUR FAQ PAGE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE OPTIONS FOR EACH PRODUCTS. IF YOU DO NOT WEAR A BELT, WE RECOMMEND UPGRADING THE HOLSTER WITH ULTICLIPS.

IF YOU PLAN ON DOING ANY SORT OF ACTIVITES: FISHING, MOTORCYCLE/BICYCLE, HORSEBACK RIDING, HUNTING, HIKING, ETC-CONSIDER ADDING A THUMB BREAK STRAP TO YOUR HOLSTER. WHAT IS A THUMB BREAK STRAP? IT’S A SAFTEY STRAP THAT GOES AROUND THE HAMMER/SLIDE OF THE WEAPON. IF YOU PLAN ON WEARING THE HOLSTER OUTSIDE A LOT IN THE SUMMER OR LIVE IN A HOT HUMID CLIMATE OR SWEAT A LOT, CONSIDER ADDING A SWEAT SHIELD/BODY SHIELD TO THE HOLSTER. WHAT IS THAT? A PIECE OF LEATHER THAT EXTENDS PAST THE HAMMER/SLIDE OF THE WEAPON TO PREVENT SWEAT AND BODY OILS FROM ENTERING THE WEAPON AND PREVENTS THE WEAPON (SHARP EDGES/SERRATIONS) FROM RUBBING AGAINST THE SKIN. CHECK OUT OUR FAQ PAGE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE OPTIONS FOR EACH PRODUCTS.

Gun Holsters – 1911 Pistols with a Rail-Accessory rail for lights and laser attachments-MTR Custom Leather

May 3, 2022 by MTR Custom Leather in Uncategorized with No Comments

Few things will spark a debate between 1911 lovers as whether or not the “railed” 1911’s are better or worse than the traditional non-railed models.

However, before weighing on that topic, it’s important to understand exactly what a railed 1911 is. The rail is a common abbreviation for a Picatinny rail (also called a 1913 Rail, Tactical Rail, or STANAG Rail). These rails are basically a bracket that is built into the weapon frame which serves as a platform for accessories such as lights or lasers. For the purposes of this discussion, we’ll be using the rail term to define a tactical rail that either mounted or built into the frame of a pistol underneath the barrel (see the picture above).

The first railed 1911’s were custom ordered models that began to surface for military and LEO use in the early parts of 2000. The first production 1911 with an integrated rail is believed to be the Kimber TLE/RL series which debuted in 2001. Currently, railed 1911 weapons are made with either a full rail (where the rail extends the entire length of the barrel) or a half rail (pictured above).

The idea behind adding a rail to a 1911 gave the user the ability to integrate a pistol light or laser underneath the barrel for added functionality. For classic 1911 aficionados, this was blasphemy, but for law enforcement and special military units, this concept brought the 1911 into the modern era.

From a gun holster standpoint, the slightly added width of the rail means that a railed 1911 won’t fit into a holster molded or designed for a non-railed (traditional) 1911 frame. Railed 1911 weapons require holsters that are specifically produced to accommodate the rail. However, in most cases, a non-railed 1911 can fit into a holster made for a railed 1911 model. All railed holster models are designed on a full rail mold and should fit both a full or half railed model. If you are looking for a holster to fit a 4″ 1911 with a rail (like the Kimber TRL/RL II), try going here.

All the holster models listed below are produced in a version to fit a railed 5” 1911 weapon.

LINKS

Inside the Waistband (IWB) Archives — MTR Custom Leather

Outside the Waistband (OWB) Archives — MTR Custom Leather

Products Archive — MTR Custom Leather

FAQS — MTR Custom Leather

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***CHOOSE ANY HOLSTER FROM OUR SITE-MTR CUSTOM LEATHER.COM AND YOU WILL FIND YOUR WEAPON AND LIGHT/LASER ATTACHMENT ALONG WITH MANY OTHER WEAPONS AND OPTIONS LISTED > SHOP PAGE TO ALL HOLSTERS INCLUDING ANKLE RIGS, FROP LEGS HOLSTER, SHOULDER RIGS, AMMO POUCHES>

Colt Government 5″ 1911 Holsters-MTR CUSTOM LEATHER, LLC-1911- FRAME WEAPONS

May 3, 2022 by MTR Custom Leather in Uncategorized with No Comments

Designed in the late 1890’s by famed gun designer, John Browning, the Colt 1911 has a storied history, and still remains one of the top selling pistol models in the world. The Browning design was submitted in the 1906 pistol trials where the US Army was searching for a semi-automatic pistol in 45 caliber as a replacement for the currently issued Colt revolvers chambered in .38 Special. The 1911 won the trials in 1910 and was formally adopted by the US Army on March, 26th 1911. This led to the pistol being named the M1911.

 

Scroll Down To See All The Colt 1911 Holster Models That We Carry.

Although the US military switched from the Colt 1911 to the Beretta M9 in 1985, the Colt 1911 has many fans. Even today, after almost 100 years of service, the 1911 is still one of the top selling handgun models in the world.

Although predominately chambered for the 45 ACP round, the 1911 series has also been offered in other calibers including:

  • .38 Special
  • .38 Super
  • 9mm
  • 10mm

The standard single stack 1911 magazine holds 7+1 in 45 ACP, although extended magazines are available that will increase the round count to 10+1. Some handgun manufacturers also deviated from the classic John Browning single stack design and offer a 1911 series pistol in a double stack magazine configuration, which increase the round capacity to 14 +1.

Factors such as the interesting history of the 1911, and the battle tested effectiveness of the 45 ACP round, coupled with its ability for easy customizations played a significant role in the popularity of the model. Also, the design sparked a number of equally popular, yet smaller variations such as the Colt Commander model with a 4 ¼” barrel, Colt Officers model with a 3.5” barrel, and Colt Defender model with a 3” barrel.

Despite the overall length of 8.25”, the thin grip of the single stack design, along with the grip angle, make the 5” 1911 a popular choice for concealed carry. The 1911 and its smaller cousin models are especially popular for IWB carry thanks to the grip width and size.

Given the popularity of the 1911 handgun series, nearly every holster maker in the world offers a holster model to fit it. Finding a holster for this model should not be an issue.

Here are some commonly asked questions that we see regarding 1911 holster models:

I have a Charles Daly 5” 1911, but I’m having trouble locating a holster specifically made for that brand of 1911? Do you have anything that will fit it?

John Browning’s 1911 design has spawned more copies and clones that any other modern day pistol. There are literally nearly 100 firearm brands that offer some version of the 1911 design. For the most part, most brands follow the same dimensions and specs of the original and most popular 1911 frame sizes. As such, you may not see anyone who offers a holster specifically made for a Charles Daly 5” 1911 or a Kimber 5” 1911. Most holster makers group all the 1911 models together in fits based on the barrel lengths and most common sizes are:

  • 5” 1911 model (commonly called the Government model)
  • 4 ¼” 1911 model (commonly called the Commander model)
  • 3 ½” 1911 model (Commonly called the Officers model)
  • 3” 1911 model (commonly called the Defender model)

As long as your 1911 is a “standard” model (as in built on a standard 1911 frame) and you know the barrel length, then it should fit in one of the frame sizes listed above. Now, there are brands out there that don’t follow the original Colt barrel lengths verbatim. For example, brands like Kimber and Springfield don’t offer a 4 ¼” 1911 model, but do offer a 4” 1911 model. Again, as long as you know the barrel length, finding a holster that fits your 1911 shouldn’t be a problem.

I have a Colt Commander and I’m having trouble finding a 1911 holster to fit it on your website? Can you please direct me to the page listing all the Commander holsters that you carry?

Be glad to help. Here are links to all the 1911 holster pages that are on our site:

Inside the Waistband (IWB) Archives — MTR Custom Leather

Outside the Waistband (OWB) Archives — MTR Custom Leather

Products Archive — MTR Custom Leather

FAQS — MTR Custom Leather

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***CHOOSE ANY HOLSTER FROM OUR SITE-MTR CUSTOM LEATHER.COM AND YOU WILL FIND YOUR WEAPON AND LIGHT/LASER ATTACHMENT ALONG WITH MANY OTHER WEAPONS AND OPTIONS LISTED > SHOP PAGE TO ALL HOLSTERS INCLUDING ANKLE RIGS, FROP LEGS HOLSTER, SHOULDER RIGS, AMMO POUCHES>

TAKE OUR HOLSTER TEST TO SEE HOW TO CARRY YOUR WEAPON AND ALL THE OPTIONS.

1911 COLTS Gun Holsters-MTR CUSTOM LEATHER-1911 FRAME WEAPONS

May 3, 2022 by MTR Custom Leather in Uncategorized with No Comments

The Colt 1911 series of handguns will go down as the best-selling pistol series in history. And speaking of history, the 1911 series has more than 100 years of storied history in America and abroad. Today there are more companies producing 1911 patterned pistols than any other handgun on the market. Although there are a number of different models that are associated with the 1911, most only differ in barrel length:

colt-1911-5-inch.jpg 5” 1911 – This is the original barrel length manufactured by Colt and remains the most popular size today. In addition to Colt, 5” models are produced by manufacturers such as Kimber, Springfield, Para-Ordnance, Rock River Arms, etc.
colt-commander-1911.jpg 4.25” 1911 – Known as the Commander size, this version was first produced by Colt and called the Commander. Possibly the 2nd most popular 1911 variation, it’s also produced by a number of 1911 manufacturers.
kimber-pro-carry-1911.jpg 4” 1911 – A variation on the Commander, the 4” model was introduced by 1911 makers such a Kimber and Springfield. It’s important to point out that most holster makers fit for the slightly larger Commander model so the 4” 1911 models are commonly fit into a holster built for a 4.25” model.
colt-officers-1911.jpg 3.5” 1911 – Known as the Officers model, this version was also introduced by Colt as a slightly smaller model for Army officers to carry in lieu of the full size 5” model.
colt-defender-1911.jpg 3” 1911 – Known as the Defender series, this model was also introduced by Colt. The smaller size of this model makes it popular for concealed carry.

LINKS TO HOLSTERS FOR 1911

Inside the Waistband (IWB) Archives — MTR Custom Leather

Outside the Waistband (OWB) Archives — MTR Custom Leather

Products Archive — MTR Custom Leather

FAQS — MTR Custom Leather

 

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***CHOOSE ANY HOLSTER FROM OUR SITE-MTR CUSTOM LEATHER.COM AND YOU WILL FIND YOUR WEAPON AND LIGHT/LASER ATTACHMENT ALONG WITH MANY OTHER WEAPONS AND OPTIONS LISTED > SHOP PAGE TO ALL HOLSTERS INCLUDING ANKLE RIGS, FROP LEGS HOLSTER, SHOULDER RIGS, AMMO POUCHES>

**view our show calendar on this link** 

Concealment Bags Made for Both Men and Women 

 

Customer Service:

em: sales@mtrcustomleather.com
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Gun holsters – Sig P238 with Sig Laser-SIG SAUER P238 -380 LIMA 38 LASER-SIG SAUER P238 CRIMSON TRACE LASER AND VIRIDIAN LASER-MTR CUSTOM LEATHER

May 2, 2022 by MTR Custom Leather in Uncategorized with No Comments

Given the success of the Sig P238, it wasn’t long before Sig started fielding questions about laser options for the P238. Although Crimson Trace was able to get their laser for the P238 out to market first, Sig wasn’t far behind when they introduced the Sig laser for the P238.

 

The Sig laser differs from the Crimson Trace version somewhat as the Sig laser uses a push button activator located on the laser body while the Crimson Trace model uses a button activator integrated into the grip area.

The Sig laser for the P238 can be acquired either one of 2 ways:

#1 – Purchased separately as an aftermarket option from Sig

#2 – Purchased as a P238 model with a factory added Sig laser directly from Sig (model 238-380-B-LSR)

Here are some commonly asked questions that we see regarding the Sig P238 with a Sig laser:

#1 – I see holsters being made for the Sig P238 with a Crimson Trace laser? Will my P238 with a Sig laser fit in to that holster?

Sorry, but it won’t because the Sig laser and the Crimson Trace model for the P238 are completely different and have different dimensions. A holster made for the P238 with a CT won’t properly fit for a P238 running a Sig laser.

#2 – Given the way location of the activation button on the Sig laser, will any of the holsters that you offer accidentally activate the laser?

The holsters that we carry for this model are custom molded specifically to a P238 with a Sig laser. The button activation area is slightly recessed on the Sig laser, so it usually isn’t an issue. There are occasions than the holster is brand new, that inserting the weapon into the holster activates the laser. These scenarios are few and far between, and generally resolve themselves once the holster is appropriately broken in.

#3 – Do you offer any IWB holster models for a P238 with a Sig laser?

Yes, and our most popular seller for this model is the MTR Custom Adversary IWB.

ALL IWB HOLSTERS FOR THIS WEAPON CAN BE FOUND HERE: Inside the Waistband (IWB) Archives — MTR Custom Leather

#4 – I’m thinking about carrying my P238 with a Sig laser in my front pocket. Do you offer a front pocket holster for that model?

We do, but don’t typically recommend a single action weapon for pocket carry since the C&L carry means there’s some exposed edges to potentially be caught on during the draw. Also, while the P238 is a small weapon on its own, when you add a Sig laser, it’s a little on the big side to be carried in some pockets. It’s entirely up to each individual person, but we think there are better CCW options for the P238 with a laser over front pocket carry.

#5 – I see you talk about offering holsters for the P238 with a Sig laser, but about those of us who are carrying the P238 with a Crimson Trace laser?

We offer holster to fit that option (P238 with CT laser) as well and those can be seen here: ***CHOOSE AY HOLSTER FROM WWW.MTRCUSTOMLEATHER.COM AND YOU WILL SEE YOUR WEAPON AND LASER ATTACHMENT LISTED.

#6 – Do you offer any OWB holster models for a P238 with a Sig laser?

YES, we do!! Link>

Outside the Waistband (OWB) Archives — MTR Custom Leather

***CHOOSE ANY HOLSTER FROM OUR SITE-MTR CUSTOM LEATHER.COM AND YOU WILL FIND YOUR WEAPON AND LIGHT/LASER ATTACHMENT ALONG WITH MANY OTHER WEAPONS AND OPTIONS LISTED > SHOP PAGE TO ALL HOLSTERS INCLUDING ANKLE RIGS, FROP LEGS HOLSTER, SHOULDER RIGS, AMMO POUCHES>

Products Archive — MTR Custom Leather

#7 – Do you offer other holsters models for a P238 with a Sig laser that’s not leather, like nylon (cloth) or Kydex?

We at MTR Custom Leather do not have any on our site, however we do have a sister site called SouthernEDC all your everyday carry needs can be found here www.southernedc.com 

 

FAQ—-Any of the holster models listed below are offered in a version to fit the Sig P238 with an attached Sig laser.

FAQS — MTR Custom Leather

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Types of Leather from Different Animal Hides-MTR Custom Leather, LLC

April 27, 2022 by MTR Custom Leather in Uncategorized with No Comments

Types of Leather from Different Animal Hides

 

Cattle

Leather can be produced from the skin of any animal. Throughout history many leathers have been made across times, regions, and through different methods.

The most common today are cow, sheep, goat, and pig. Though, most any type can be obtained if needed for a project. Let’s explore some of the more common, and less common types of leather below.

In general, when speaking about animal leathers, those from larger animals such as cattle are referred to as “hides”. Those from smaller animals such as rabbits or pigs are referred to as skins. Also in terms of volume, cattle leather makes up about 67% of the total annual leather production around the world.

Cattle – Bulls

Bulls are un-castrated male cattle. They have higher levels of testosterone and in general, thick, heavy hides. Bull leather is useful for thicker leather uses such as in heavy belts and show and boot soles. A low ratio number of male cattle are kept as bulls, to reproduce the breeds, so much lower amounts of bull leather are usually available than other types.

Cattle – Steers

Steers are castrated male cattle. They are one of the most popular types of animal leather sought. There are also many more steers kept than bulls, so steer leather is more widely available. It works well for leather applications such as saddlery, belts, some shoes, and other strap items.

Cattle – Cows

Cows are female cattle that have had calves. They are very common, and popular. Cow leather is a thick, soft leather that works well for most common leather needs.

Cattle – Heifers

Heifers are female cows that have not yet had a calf. This type of leather is generally soft and pliable, great for shoes, boots, and other similar leather applications.

Cattle – Dairy Cows

Dairy cows are female cattle that are bred primarily for the production of milk. Their hides are generally soft and thin. This makes it a great leather for lighter belts, wallets, clothing, upholstery, and straps.

Cattle – Calves

Calves are young male or female cattle. Their hides are generally very soft, thin, and supple. This makes it useful for finer leather applications such as wallets, watchbands, and smaller leather accessories including handbags.

Pigs

 

Pigs

Pig leather mostly is produced in China. It is used primarily in clothing, due to the breathability and lightness of the skins. Pig leather makes up about 10% of the total leather production around the world.

Sheep

 

Sheep

Sheep leather, also called sheep skin, is popular because it often has one side as leather and the other covered in wool. the wool naturally draws perspiration away from the wearer. This makes it an ideal leather for use in year-round seat upholstery, shoes, slippers, boots, and moccasins. Sheep leather, including lamb leather) makes up about 12% of the total leather production around the world.

Goat

 

Goats

Goat leather is a very soft, strong, and durable leather. It is used often in the production of shoes, boots, gloves, rugs, and bags. The skins are supple and flexible, making for a comfortable feel. Goat and kid (young goat) leather makes up about 11% of the total leather production around the world.

Horse

 

Horse

Horse leather is most commonly associated with the premium “cordovan” leather. It is made from the butt section of horses. Cordovan leather is very thick, smooth, and dense. It works excellently for fine shoes and gloves. Also, when compared to cattle hides, horse butts cover a relatively small surface area. This is why cordovan leather products are usually small items such as shoes, gloves, and small accessories.

Source: Types of Leather: All Qualities, Grades, Finishes, & Cuts

Types of Leather Used for Furs-MTR Custom Leather

April 26, 2022 by MTR Custom Leather in Uncategorized with No Comments

Some animals have a desirable fur as part of their hide. They are used to make clothing and accessories that utilize the hair left on the hide, in the double face type of leather finishing. One face is finished leather, the other race is the animal fur. Here is a non-inclusive list of leathers used for furs:

  • Beaver
  • Chinchila
  • Coyote
  • Fox
  • Lynx
  • Mink
  • Muskrat
  • Opossum
  • Rabbit
  • Raccoon
  • Sable
  • Seal
  • Wolf

Source: Types of Leather: All Qualities, Grades, Finishes, & Cuts

Exotic Animal Leathers-Types of Animal-MTR Custom Leather, LLC

April 25, 2022 by MTR Custom Leather in Uncategorized with No Comments

Exotic Animal Leathers

 

Fur Coat

Since leather can be made from any animal, there are often a variety of leather types available. They are often referred to as “exotic” leathers, since they’re less common and sometimes difficult to obtain, make, or find. Here is non-inclusive exotic leather list:

  • Alligator
  • Alpaca
  • Antelope
  • Armadillo
  • Bear
  • Buffalo
  • Caiman
  • Camel
  • Deer
  • Dog
  • Elk
  • Frog
  • Giraffe
  • Hippo
  • Kangaroo
  • Moose
  • Mules
  • Ostrich
  • Rabbit
  • Seal
  • Shark
  • Snake
  • Wallaby
  • Walrus
  • Yak
  • Zebra

Source: Types of Leather: All Qualities, Grades, Finishes, & Cuts

Types of Leather Finishes – Finished Leathers-MTR Custom Leather, LLC

April 24, 2022 by MTR Custom Leather in Uncategorized with No Comments

Types of Leather Finishes – Finished Leathers

 

Leathers with Different Textured Surfaces

When leathers are made, they can be finished in many different ways. These methods yield leathers that can be used for a variety of different purposes. Variations can include texture, flexibility, color, and finish. Let’s explore some of the major types of finished leather.

Aniline Leather

Aniline leather is a type of leather dyed only with soluble dyes. They allow the natural surface of the leather to show through (blemishes, cuts, etc.). Generally only higher quality leathers are used since they have nice, even surfaces.

It is then finished with a thin protective coating to help prevent fast wear of the leather, or any other staying or discoloration from showing up on the surface.This can be a visually appealing dye approach, since it does allow the original surface of the leather to show through.

Semi Aniline Leather

Semi-aniline leather is a type of leather that is dyed only with soluble dyes. It is similar to aniline leather, though it is only slightly pigmented. Semi-aniline leathers allow the natural surface of the leather to show through (blemishes, cuts, etc.).

It is then finished with a thin protective coating to help prevent fast wear of the leather, or any other staying or discoloration from showing up on the surface.Generally only higher quality leathers are used since they have nice, even surfaces. This can be a visually appealing dye approach, since it does allow the original surface of the leather to show through.

Antique Grain Leather

Antique grain is a type of leather that has been treated with a surface affect to give an aged and worn appearance. It might involve several tones of finish, or a rubbed patten to mimic wear over time. Antique grain leather allows one to utilize an aged look in their finished product, without requiring the leather to be very old or worn out.

Bicast Leather
Bicast is a type of leather made with a split leather backing and an embossed/impressed layer of polyurethane or vinyl on the top. This gives the appearance of a patterned/shiny leather, without the cost of a true top or full grain leather piece.

Brush Colored Leather

Brush colored leather is a type of leather that has pigment applied via a brush. This creates a unique pattern of color on each piece. The variations might be in gradient, blending, or overall tone. Bruch colored leather is nice for finished pieces that seek a distinct and creative visual appeal.

Degrained Leather

Degrained leather is a type of leather that has had the grain layer removed. This generally occurs towards the end of the production process. Benefits of degrained leather include a smooth, consistent surface that looks quite nice. However, removing the grain also weakens the outer surface of the layer, making it more susceptible to wear and moisture penetration.

Double Face Leather (Double Sided Leather)

Double face leather, also referred to as double sided leather, is a type of leather that has two uniquely finished sides. Some examples include sheep skins, where one side is finished leather and the other is wool. Another is leather that might have different embossed surfaces, one on each side. It could also relate to color, with each side being a unique color or variation of colors.

Embossed Leather

Embossed leather is a type of leather created by producing raised patterns on the finished hide. This can be done by stamping, pressing, rolling, moulding, or forming the leather. the embossed elements can be designs, lettering, or any visual enhancement to the leather’s surface.

Embroidered Leather

Embroidered leather is a type of leather that has had embroidery applied to it. Embroidery is the craft of embellishing materials with needle and thread. The pattern of the thread is usually placed in such a way as to result in a decorative pattern or motif that is now part of the embroidered material. this is done mainly for visual or aesthetic reasons.

Faux Leather

Faux leather is a type of synthetic leather made generally of polyurethane or vinyl. Faux leather is intended to look like real leather yet cost significantly less. It is used often in the furniture industry and has the benefits of being inexpensive (compared to real leather), durable, and easy to clean.

It does however not reflect real leather qualities such as wearing better over time, having natural stretchability, breathability, and resistance to cuts and other abrasions, and a unique natural look/feel.

Faux leather can be referred to by a number of names, which can include:

  • Faux Leather
  • PU Leather
  • Vinyl Leather
  • Vegan Leather

For a detailed look at this type of material, click here for my article about synthetic leather and how it’s made.

Hand Worked Leather

Handworked Leather is a type of leather created by the manual application of leather tools. This can result in leather with tooled, stamped, etched, or embossed surfaces. The results can look quite stunning as the craft of hand working leather is an art in itself.

Interwoven Leather

Interwoven Leather is a type of leather that has been braided together. Often seen in belts, the weave of the leather laces or strips creates a unique looking , textured piece. Weaving leather can be used for straps or belts, as well as small bags and pouches, depending on the skill of the weaver.

Metallic Leather

Metallic Leather is a type of leather that has had a metal layer of material added to it during the finishing process. This layer creates a metallic, shiny, reflective look to the finished leather. It provides a finishing option that is most often used in clothing, accessories, and handbags.

Nappa (Napa)

Napa is type of leather this is more a general marketing term for a soft, smooth, full grain leather. Some napa comes from genuine leather and isn’t the highest of quality; the term itself isn’t a clear identifier of quality or material. Moreso, it can be used to connote a smooth, soft leather. The history and more details on nubck are available in my Napa leather article here.

Nubuck Leather

Nubuck is a type of leather that is a top-grain leather that has has the surface sanded in such a way as to leave the surface with a slight nap of short protein fibers. This produces a soft, velvet-like surface that is pleasing to touch, and also has a unique visual appearance. Nubuck leather is often used in jackets, gloves, and accessories. More details are available in my nubuck-specific article here.

Oil Leather (Pull-Up Leather, Waxy Leather, Waxed Leather)

Oil Leather, also known as pull-up leather, waxy leather, and waxed leather, is a type of leather that has a larger volume than average amount of oils and waxes in the surface finish. When the leather pieces are flexed and moved, the surface catches the light in different ways, do to the reflections on the oils and waxes. This provides for a varied look across surface tones, which could be quite visually appealing.

Patent Leather

Patent leather is a type of leather that has a high-gloss finish applied via a coating, generally linseed oil. It was developed in 1818 (by inventor Seth Boyden in Newark, New Jersey). Patent leather finishing is often very noticeable with a highly-reflective finish. More modern patent leather replaces the linseed oil finish with a plastic coating finish. Click here for my detailed article on patent leather.

Pearlized Leather

Pearlized Leather is a type of leather that has had a liquid layer of color added to the surface during finishing. It provides for a soft, subtle shine and reflection to the leather. While not as reflective as metallic leather, pearlized leather is a subtler implementation of the same concept. It is popularly used on clothing, accessories, and handbags.

Pigmented Leather

Pigmented leather is a type of leather that is finished with a top coat of pigment (or paint). That pigment helps both provide an even surface on the leather, and also a protective coating. Pigmented leather is often coated with a clear protective sealer, to help protect the pigment layer.

Printed Leather

Printed Leather is a type of leather that has has the surface texture printer, to stamped into it. This creates various leather surface types that might serve both functional and aesthetic purposed. Functional purposes might include helping make the leather surface more scratch and abrasion resistant. Aesthetic purposes might include making it look uniformly pebbled or nubbed. The textures of printed leathers can feel preferable as well. Saffiano leather is an example of a printed leather. For a deeper look into pebbled leather, click here to check out my article with more details.

Quilon Leather

Quilon is a tyle of leather produced by the Doc Martens footwear comapny. It is a unique style of smooth leather that is finished with a “haircell” pattern; a fine, textured print that gives the surface a stylish look. Quilon leather was developed in 2007, based on the now-vintage Doc Marten leather from the 1970s. For a detailed look, click here for my article about quilon leather.

Stretch Leather

Stretch Leather is a type of leather that is usually a composite leather made to be able to stretch when used. It can use a processed leather surface mixed with a synthetic under layer that allows the material to stretch yet still retain a uniform look with most of the usual performance qualities. Stretch leathers are often used in clothing and leather goods that will be worn and flex with human movement.

Suede Leather

Suede is a type of leather made using a similar approach as Nubuck, where the surface is sanded in such a way as to leave the surface with a slight nap of short protein fibers. Though, instead of being made from full grain leather, suede is made from split grain leather. Here is my article that dives deeply into suede.

Washable Leather

Washable Leather is a type of leather that is better suited to cleaning. While leather should not be roughly cleaned often (and likely shouldn’t if well-cared for), special leather washing methods are available. For items that have an expected use requiring frequent cleaning, such as some clothes, a washable leather can be used to help ensure the items last longer and stay in great shape.

There are so many types of leather available, suitable for a range of needs. If you’re curious what thicknesses of leather would work well for your next project, click here to read my guide on leather weights. Depending on the type of project you’re working on, or preference for leather qualities, you’ll likely find a great leather that will help make some incredible leather goods. If you’d like to learn more about becoming a leatherworker, click here for my article on the leatherworker career path.

Source: Types of Leather: All Qualities, Grades, Finishes, & Cuts

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