About Us

Handcrafted in Anthem, AZ — Built to Last a Lifetime

At Desert Gun Leather, every holster starts with a simple belief: if you're going to carry a firearm, it deserves to be carried right. That means a holster that fits perfectly, holds securely, and is built from materials that only get better with age.

Desert Gun Leather was founded by Rick Jorgenson right here in Arizona. What started as a passion for leather working and a deep respect for quality craftsmanship has grown into a small-batch workshop dedicated to producing some of the finest custom holsters and gun belts available — with a specialty in North American Arms firearms.

The Material: Wickett & Craig Vegetable-Tanned Leather

Not all leather is created equal. Desert Gun Leather uses only #1 grade vegetable-tanned hides from Wickett & Craig Tannery in Pennsylvania — one of the last traditional tanneries in the United States. Veg-tan leather is tanned using natural plant-based tannins rather than harsh chemicals, resulting in a hide that is dense, durable, and responsive to shaping.

Why does this matter? Because veg-tan leather molds beautifully, holds its shape over decades of use, and develops a rich patina over time that tells the story of the person carrying it. It's the same material that craftsmen have relied on for centuries — and for good reason.

Every holster is hand-cut from Wickett & Craig leather, giving it the rigidity and structure needed for safe, reliable carry without sacrificing comfort.

The Process: Wet-Molded to Your Firearm

Every Desert Gun Leather holster is wet-molded to the specific firearm it's ordered for. This isn't a one-size-fits-all operation. The leather is cased with water, then carefully formed around the exact model of your firearm, creating a custom fit with perfect retention right out of the box — little to no break-in period required.

Once molded and dried, each holster is:

  • Stitched with industrial-grade bonded nylon thread for strength that outlasts the leather itself
  • Finished with hand-burnished edges for a clean, professional look and feel
  • Lined with a smooth interior to protect your firearm's finish

Every stitch, every edge, every detail is done by Rick so its correct the first time

Custom Options

Desert Gun Leather offers a range of customization options to make your holster truly your own:

  • Custom tooling — hand-carved designs and patterns
  • Exotic hide overlays for a distinctive look

Have a specific vision? Reach out — Rick works directly with customers to bring custom ideas to life.

Rush Orders Welcome

Need it fast? Rush jobs are available. A 50% rush fee applies, and availability is based on current workload. Contact Rick directly to discuss your timeline.

The Workshop: Anthem, AZ

Desert Gun Leather is a one-person workshop located at 1832 W. Morse Dr., Anthem, AZ 85086. Every holster that leaves this shop has been touched, shaped, stitched, and inspected by Rick personally. There's no assembly line here — just a craftsman who takes pride in every piece that goes out the door.

Get in Touch

Questions about a custom order, lead times, or anything else? Rick is happy to talk shop.

📧 Rick@DesertGunLeather.com
📞 (623) 271-3309

Thank you for supporting American craftsmanship. We hope to earn your trust — one holster at a time.