Getting the strap over the lower strap button

[Zohn]

A 3/8 inch punch does the trick. I dont want to stretch or tear the leather as this promotes further stretching and tearing. The punch really is just right.
Someone on this forum suggested this a couple of years ago [can't remember who] and that's what I did and it has worked like a charm. Even after I installed K&Ks in a couple of my Larrivees.

  - a simple solution 

[PortHueneme]

I usually soak the end of the strap in some warm water.
While it is wet I put a "AA" battery in the hole and let the strap dry.
The button hole comes out just a bit bigger and all is good.