Here is the start of my GB2 Belt build log. I will do all that I can to document my progress in their development. It should be noted that all of my measurements and reference came from these photos contained in the Equipment section under the Pistol Belt sub section.
These are what I have been referencing during my time seeking out parts and formulating a plan of action.
And now here are the parts I have purchased.
First, 100 yards of 3" Polypropylene Nylon Webbing, this will become the outside of the belts main body.
Second, 100 yards of 2" Polyethylene Nylon Webbing, in a 4 panel design. OK, I feel that this is the accurate material used in the production of the belts. If you study the reference pictures above you will find that there is a sheen on the seat belt webbing. The sheen shows a pattern in the webbing. I feel this is the 4 panel pattern and is the reason why I picked this material.
Third, 1000 A500 Eyelets and washers. Ok, the eyelets were chosen not be me but by a profession whom works with these things on a daily basis. I contacted a company in New Jersey called Siska Inc. and spoke with a man named Andy. Andy was very helpful in my task. Upon explaining my project he asked to see the reference photo above. Upon his further inspection and actually taking a section of 3" Nylon Webbing was able to identify the Eyelet as the A500. This is why I talk to the pros when I need to.
Because some of you know me and know I will not take half measures on anything, I bought this. This is a 1/2 Ton Eyelet press. Use of this press will not only make production efficient but, provide a end product “That you will have to rip out with a pair of Vise Grips!”. Those are Andy’s words not mine. from the few tests that I have done already I do believe his statement will be found true.
At present I am still waiting on the 3" Cotton Webbing and the 2" Buckles. When those arrive there will be more to come.
These are gonna be bomb proof Awesome stuff so far George!
Oooh ooooooh show them the sewing machine!!!
Also, here are some additional pics of what we can only assume was a prototype design for the belts to be worn with the khaki suits. We took these shots in the lobby of Sony in Culver City, CA
The design looks basically the same, just a different color scheme.
Just a minor update for today. I am still waiting on the last piece of webbing to show up then work begins.
What I did get in the mail today is this, it’s a sewing fence. What it will do is allow me to stitch the Polypro Nylon and the Cotton webbing together at the top and bottom with a nice even stitch the whole length.
Walking foot machines are great. I’m currently looking for a double needle for my higher end upholstery jobs. Hopefully I can make room for one more machine.
But yeah, nice investment for the project! The eyelet press is pretty handy since you can swap different tools.
Its just too bad that I really don’t like the look of that belt.
The Female Buckle End, Inside and out. The Buckle is attached 5 1/2 inches form the end with 4 inches of Seat belt material.
The Male Buckle End with Extension, Inside and Outside. The Extension end is attached 5 inches from the end and the total length of the Extension is 20 inches from attachment to tip. The Tip is doubled over twice as a preventive measure incase the tension slips and causes the buckle to slide.
I am currently waiting on a punch to make the holes for the eyelets. However, I feel the construction method is sound. More awaits, yet to be created.
Looks great! You might try using either white or light grey cotton webbing instead of black for the underside. I’m still thinking that it’s fusable interfacing on the screen-used belts, but that’s just me. Either way, the construction looks extremely solid.
Hi folks, I just want to put these here. I have made an adjustment.
The Original Prototype
The Version 2 Prototype
What I have done here is I have moved the eyelets from a 1/2 inch off of the edges to 3/4 inch from the edge. I feel that this more closely matches the SA used belts. I have also included a pic of the inside of the belt so that you may see how the eyelets are attached.
You will notice that I have Crix’s name written on the inside of the belt. That is because he is going to be testing this for me. I want to provide those who buy this with the best I can make. Crix and a few others are going to be beating the ■■■■ out of these to help me make a few improvements before production begin.
Awesome stuff so far George!