These Buckling Gauntlets are a larger, heavier version of buckling cuffs. They are extremely sturdy, and more comfortable for most people (those very bony of wrist may find them a tad annoying). Like the Wrist Suspension Cuffs, these are designed for pull _away_ from the body. Ideal for partial suspension, spread-eagle, crosses, etc. The Gauntlets are not designed for full suspension, but work passably well. The smaller D-rings on the belt straps can make for some interesting positions as well.
This plan is quite simple to modify, if you want something more impressive. Use four belt straps and run the Gauntlet all the way to your honey's elbow, if you'd like!
This project should be lined with felt or fur of some kind.
Mallet, Utility Knife, Scissors, Square, Rivet Setter, Punch, 1" Oblong Punch, Edge Beveler #2, Edge Slicker, Strap-Cutter (optional), Grommet Setter and Anvil (optional)
1" Roller Buckle (4)
1.5" Welded D-ring (2)
1" Welded D-ring (4)
Long Rivets (16)
¼" Key Posts (8)
Grommets (optional) (12+)
Base Strap (2): X+2" x 7"
Belt Strap (4): X+6" x 1" [Note: alternately, you might want (2) X+6" x 1" and (2) Y+6" x 1"]
D-Ring Straps (2): 4.5" x 1.5"
You need to measure the circumference of two locations on the target wrist: front and back of the gauntlet. We'll follow the plan below, but adjust accordingly if you're making a longer version. First, measure at the wrist, right over the ends of the forearm bones. This is Y is Diagram 1. Move 4 inches up the forearm, and measure there. This is X. X is normally somewhat larger than Y.
Note that Diagram 1 assumes that the distance between the first and fourth big knuckles is about 3.5". If the target hand significantly differs from this, you might want to adjust accordingly.
Cut the two base straps, as shown in Diagram 1. Round the four corners of each base strap, as indicated by 'Rounded Corner'. This rounding is not shown in the main Diagram, but makes things ever so much more comfortable.
Cut the four belt straps from 1" strap stock. As indicated in the Leather Checkist, you may find it more aesthetically pleasing if the lower straps are longer than the uppers. The Diagram, however, shows these straps as equal.. note that the belt holes end up in different locations.
Cut two D-ring straps, 4.5" x 1.5".
Following the plan in Diagram 1, punch required holes in the base straps. Four rivets will secure each belt strap, and four key posts hold each D-ring strap. A template for the 4-hole D-strap pattern comes in handy, since this gets punched six times.
Punch holes in the buckle-end of the belt straps. The Buckling Restraints project shows this pattern in more detail, if you don't already have a pattern. Note that the distance between the securing holes may be different on these Diagrams.
Punch eight holes in each D-ring strap, one 4-hole pattern at each end.
Hold off on the belt holes for now.
Finish the edges before attaching hardware. Use a #2 edge beveller to bevel all outer edges, top and bottom, on all straps. Rub all of the outer edges briefly with an edge slicker and apply Edge Coat. Allow to dry, about 15 minutes.
Secure the belt strap to the primary strap using long rivets. Use key posts for greater strength when attaching the D-ring straps. Of course, the buckles and D-rings must all be in place during this process.
These Gauntlets are much more comfortable with a felt lining, fur if you like things really soft. Cut a piece of lining slightly wider and longer than the base strap. The entire bottom surface of the base strap should be lined. Lay the lining on a flat surface, with the side to be glued up. Coat the inside of the primary strap liberally with Fabri-Tac. Starting from one end, firmly lay the strap (glue-side down) onto the lining. Press down hard for several seconds. Allow the glue to set, then trim off the excess lining carefully with a pair of scissors.
Punch the belt holes. Mark the location for the first hole in place. Put the restraint on the target location, pull the belt straps through the buckle (the buckle-side base strap should go OVER the opposite end), and mark a comfortable location. Punch another belt hole on either side of the marked location.
If desired, you may place grommets in the belt holes. This definitely increases the life of the piece by reducing wear and tear on the belt strap, but does cause the action to be a little rough. Your choice.
