“If my gun isn’t listed on your website, can you custom make it for me?”
This is a question that we get asked multiple times per day all pertaining to different firearm models. Unfortunately the answer is “No, we can’t.” There are so many specific makes and models of handguns that it is impossible to offer holsters for every one (no matter how much we wish we could!). Even though two firearms may look similar, any one single frame dissimilarity can make a world of difference in regards to a holster.
We thought it might be helpful to walk you through the process of how we design and produce our outstanding products. Below is an overview of the Comp-Tac process from start to finish along with some notes about our products.
CHOOSING THE NEXT MAKE AND MODEL
How do we decide which make and model of a particular firearm to offer next? It starts with you, our customers. Every request for a specific make and model that we do not manufacture is recorded in our Request Log. This list is analyzed over the course of several months to ensure a consistent trend of demand. We also monitor the actual and projected sales of the firearm itself. Once demand for that make and model is achieved, we can then start the process explained below.
PURCHASING THE FIREARM
The first order of business is to purchase the exact make and model of the handgun. Comp-Tac must own the particular firearm for two important reasons. First, our Research and Development (R&D) team creates molds based off the handgun being released. The second reason is for quality control. Both reasons tie in to the production process throughout different stages.
RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
Once the pistol is purchased, our Research & Development (R&D) team gets precise measurements off of the firearm itself. These measurements are then used to create the molds needed for that particular handgun. All of our molds are designed and developed in-house on state-of-the-art CAD and CNC machines.
The process of developing a new mold to perfection can take anywhere from days to weeks. It is a costly process but ensures a high, consistent level of quality that Comp-Tac products have become famous for. The same process is utilized for the magazine pouches that we produce. Once the mold has been thoroughly tested and approved for production, we can start making the holster.
R&D: LEATHER VS. KYDEX
There are many ways that a Kydex holster differs from that of a leather holster; that’s an entirely separate issue that many articles have addressed. The thing we’d like to point out is about the patterns used for both types of holsters. On a pattern for a leather holster, simply moving a stitch over by a fraction of an inch will allow for a wider or thicker pistol to fit into the same base model. With Kydex holsters, even the smallest frame difference will almost always require an entirely new pattern to be created. This is particularly due to the tolerance standards we hold our holsters to. (Tolerance is how close we can get the holster to reflect the frame of firearm; think of it as the “Fits-Like-A-Glove” factor.)
A perfect example of this modification process is when Sig first started incorporating accessory rails on their firearms. Leather holster manufacturers were able to move their stitching over to make room for the accessory rail. Kydex manufacturers had to purchase the new firearm to create entirely new molds and patterns to make room for the new feature. This same concept and process generally applies to all firearms.
CUT ROOM
All Comp-Tac holsters are made by skilled craftsmen right here in our manufacturing facility located in Houston, Texas. The first step in producing your holster is the Cut Room. Here, flat sheets of Kydex are cut into the necessary outline for your make and model of handgun. From the Cut Room, your order then goes to the Press Room.
PRESS ROOM
In this step of the process, the Kydex is heated and then pressed into shape utilizing the mold created by R&D. It is this mold that allows for the detailed definition of each make and model to be formed by the Kydex. The pressed holster is cooled after pressing and then goes to The Bench.
NOTE: Kydex is a thermoplastic and is manipulated into shape by the application of heat. Our technicians heat and cool the Kydex in a controlled process so as to maintain the integrity of the material. If overexposed to temperatures too high for the grade of Kydex being used, the material can become brittle or fracture.
THE BENCH
After the holster leaves the Press Room, it is assembled by our highly skilled craftsmen. Holes are drilled into the Kydex and the appropriate hardware is installed. Once assembled, the craftsman inspects the holster for fit and functionality. This inspection is completed using the actual make and model of the firearm the holster is produced for. During this inspection, our craftsmen set the retention level to a factory standard. Once the holster meets our quality standards, it goes to the Quality Assurance department for final inspection.
QUALITY ASSURANCE
Every Comp-Tac product goes through a detailed inspection process which includes fit checking the holster or magazine pouch. This “Fit Check” is performed by testing the actual make and model of the firearm in the holster to ensure proper fit and retention. When the product passes all Comp-Tac standards and requirements, it is sent to the shipping department to be processed and shipped out.
SHIPPING
Now this is the crucial point in which the Comp-Tac “Finishing Touch” is added to your order—the Smarties. Each order is sent with a roll of Smarties and a personal “Thank you!” note written from one of our office staff.
We feel that these little details make a big difference and can only begin to demonstrate just how much we appreciate you choosing Comp-Tac. The simple fact is: without your support, Comp-Tac wouldn’t exist. You are the reason that we can continue to produce the top-of-the-line CCW and competition gear for all your favorite firearms. Thank you and have a victorious day!
-Tiffany F.
Customer Service: 281-209-3040
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