Making a belt clip? What metals are best?

[KDOG3]

I would really like to make a belt clip for my lights and I'm wonder what metals are best. Steel obviously, but what grade? I am building an aircraft as we speak and have plenty of 1/8th 6061T6 aluminum lying around but that might be too thick. I'm ordering some 1/16th next payday which is probably more appropriate. Any thoughts?

 

[ErickThakrar]

Don't think aluminum is gonna be a good choice. Generally too brittle and not flexible enough.
I've made pocket/belt clips from a number of different materials.
Kydex (for holsters), titanium and carbon fiber. Steel is also an option. All those materials will flex to a certain degree. Aluminum tends to deform rather than flex.

 

[BugOutGear_USA]

Titanium is one hell of a material to bend...especially for a pocket clip.

 

[ErickThakrar]

Heat it up with a blowtorch. Bends MUCH easier when red hot.

 

[Leeoniya]

spring steels are usually the best. look into that.

 

[idleprocess]

Second the comment about spring steel - not too difficult to obtain or work.

I used 22 gauge (0.030") 302 spring stainless for the VIP pocket clip.