What is KYDEX™?

It is an acrylic-polyvinyl chloride composite engineered for thermoforming fabrication, and combines properties of both the acrylic and the polyvinyl chloride components. From acrylic, it obtains rigidity and formability; from PVC, toughness, chemical resistance and good interior finish ratings. Sheet thickness ranges from .028 to .375 and can be thermoformed, post formed, brake formed and laminated.

  • modulus of elasticity in flexure is 330,000 psi.
  • parts formed from sheet will be rigid and will see moderate deformation when loaded. This is of particular importance in deep formed parts with thin wall sections.
  • relatively hard thermoplastic, with a hardness of 90 on the Rockwell R scale. This hardness, combined with a grained surface, increases its abrasive resistance.
  • low flammability, UL 94 classification V-0
For some applications it is used as replacement for leather, where it has the following advantages:

  • waterproof
  • scratch resistant (Rockwell "R" hardness of 90)
  • holds its shape better, and will not stretch or shrink under normal conditions
  • lower friction.
Will Kydex scratch my gun? Yes. Given long enough a silk scarf will scratch your gun. Will it scratch it as bad a throwing it into a bucket of bolts ? NO.
If you are looking of a holster for you new $ 3000 Kimber a plastic holster is most likely not the answer.
Kydex is a line of thermoplastic acrylic-polyvinyl chloride materials manufactured by Kydex LLC.
Fun stuff in and around Amarillo ,TX
Helium Monument
The Helium Centennial Time Columns Monument was erected in Amarillo, Texas during 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the discovery of helium. Amarillo was selected for its central role in the US Government's strategic helium reserve and the gas production from the Cliffside Gas Field beginning in 1927. The Bureau of Mines placed the Amarillo Helium Plant in operation in 1929 and has maintained its headquarters for the Federal Helium Program in Amarillo. In 1982 the Helium Monument was airlifted by helicopter from I-40 and Nelson to its current site at the Don Harrington Discovery Center.