I'm starting to make kydex sheaths for my knives and I'm not sure what kind of fasteners I should use. I've been using interlocking screws but I can't find an smaller the 1/4 long. I'm looking into rivets and am not sure what I should get has any one ever tried rapid rivets on kydex? I know they are intended for leather but I can get a bunch of them cheap and was wondering if they would work. Ifor not what should I use? Thanks
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ADVICE ON KYDEX SHEATH
- Thread starter Mase2k
- Start date
As the previous poster noted eyelets are the most popular. But, the fasteners are a very personal choice whether you feel the need to dissemble the sheaths later on. If that is the case usually people like to use screws with slotted posts which can also be used inside the eyelets when attaching items such as tech locks. I recommend taking a look at what kifekits and diyholsters have to offer.
In my experience rivets are usually not too smooth when used on thin kydex and tend to work themselves loose a bit over time and abuse. The only drawback to the eyelets besides being permanent is you really should have the proper tools to install them for a clean sheath. There are some cheaper setters but they take a bit of practice to get just right.
If you have any more questions I'm no expert but have been doing it as a hobby for the last few years.
In my experience rivets are usually not too smooth when used on thin kydex and tend to work themselves loose a bit over time and abuse. The only drawback to the eyelets besides being permanent is you really should have the proper tools to install them for a clean sheath. There are some cheaper setters but they take a bit of practice to get just right.
If you have any more questions I'm no expert but have been doing it as a hobby for the last few years.
115Italian
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Eyelets. Inexpensive and easy to use. And they give holes for installation of a belt clip/ loop
What size do I get?
115Italian
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Not sure of the size, sorry. I would check hardware size for screws used to attached tek lock clips, then go from there.
It depends on the thickness of your kydex if you look at knifekits they usually have the recommended size in the description. If you want to use 1/4 inch holes then you want the #8 diameter eyelets. These are the most common and used usually in 3/4 inch spacing for use with blade tech accessories.
115Italian
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From my brief research it looks like the standard eyelet is 1/4 inch.
Thank you very much for your reply sir!
Thank you for your very helpful feed back. I searched on ebay and found 1/4 eyelet grommets and a pair of setting pliers for 12 buck do you think that is something to look into?For my kydex sheaths for the knives I make I use .08 kydex (2 layers) and 8-8 eyelets. 8-9 eyelets work also..
Negative. Eyelets used for Kydex are a bit heavier duty and can not be set with pliers. You’ll need at least a hand setter (special punch and anvil) or a press. Check out knifekits.com or holstersmith.. handsetter is about $12
These are probably your best options for sure. I don't recommend spending more money on the better setters unless you plan on making a lot of sheaths. If you do want to make sheaths on a regular basis I recommend these dies with this guide. It's a bit of extra money but well worth it to get solid results.
The .08 kydex is pretty much standard with lots of different colors and patterns. I myself use .093 its a bit stiffer and holds up to hot cars a bit better. The biggest drawback to thicker kydex is more weight which really comes into play with larger knives.