ABS as a desert-temperature Kydex alternative? Other options?

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gomipile

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Apr 17, 2010
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I've heard that Kydex doesn't do well in desert heat. I know that ABS doesn't have as good of a "feel" as kydex, but is effective as a similar sheath material. Since ABS has a higher melting point, is it better for desert temps than Kydex?

Is there an even better alternative which still retains the ability to make a snappy form-fit sheath which is also waterproof when used in wetter environments?
 
When it comes to plastics, melting temperature doesn't tell you the whole story. While ABS may be a good alternative, you'll want to look at things like stiffness and creep resistance at different temperatures. There are things like the "66 PSI heat deflection temperature" that may be more relevant.

Of the thermoformable plastics, polycarbonate is the most "snappy" across a wide temperature range that I can think of. It is also extremely tough and relatively easy to work with.
 
If you use polycarbonate do some research first .It absorbs moisture and if you don't take out the moisture first by preheating there will be bubbles in the plastic.
 
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