Bushcraft sheath design - let's get some input

[Daniel Koster]

Ok, I've spoken with a number of sheathmakers...and have some prototypes coming.

Let's hear some ideas.

The sheath price isn't set in stone yet...if it comes in cheaper, I'll issue refunds to those who have already prepaid, if it comes in higher, I'll send out invoices...not a big deal.

That said, I would like to get the "right sheath" for this knife.

In my mind it would be inexpensive, basic (no tooling), fold-over pouch style (easiest/quickest to make) and have a high-riding belt loop.


I've seen other ideas...like a firesteel loop, pouch for SAK/etc, double-loop belt loop...and so on.

What are the most important features to you guys? Is it worth paying the extra for the extra features?


I can see it both ways. I could have a simple sheath available...and those that want to order a special sheath can get one from their prefered sheathmaker.

Or...on the flip side, if I have the same pattern drawn up and repeated 60-70 times...chances are I can get a better price for us....but everybody will have the same sheath design...I can't afford to have options...which would create excess. (except for making LH sheaths - ok by me)


I've included some options in a poll....time to make your vote known!

:thumbup:

Dan

 

[Morrow]

I'm not a fan of piggy-backing stuff on a sheath so simple is my choice.

 

[hollowdweller]

Dan,

I didn't order a sheath with mine because I had just figured on having JRE make me one since I've dealt with them before.

However if you come up with one that has a firesteel loop and extra pouch for tinder for instance I'd be interested for sure:thumbup:

I figure one with a firesteel loop you could probably come in pretty close to your quoted figure but if you include another pouch on there it's going to cost more??

Personally I'd be willing to pay more for one that had an extra little pouch that you could put a mini zip lock with some tinder quick tabs or cotton balls in:thumbup:

 

[SpookyPistolero]

Something simple like you had in mind was what I was thinking. A fold-over pouch style, no fanfare, single high belt loop. The only extra feature that I'd want is a firesteel loop.

 

[IH8U]

I voted firesteel loop on the front, but it doesn't matter if its on the side either. That is really the only feature I would like to add.

 

[Jeff Clark]

I haven't ordered a sheath yet so maybe you don't want to count my vote. The reason that I haven't ordered a sheath yet is that I figured you wouldn't make one that I would use. I don't wear a belt so I need an alternate kind of sheath hanger. With that in mind I just voted that you make a sheath with a dangler. I generally prefer a strong waistband clip, but that seems expensive.

 

[Myakka]

Simple leather pouch style sheath with and FireSteel loop. "Lefty"

 

[Brian Andrews]

Here is my idea:
- Fold over pouch sheath.
- The opening could be a nice upward sweep, rather than cut off square.
- The belt loop should be integral......same piece of leather folded over and stitched down.
- The belt loop when folded over should contain one small loop, get stitched down, then contain a larger loop for the belt. (See attached link for sketch). The small loop is for a small cord to wear the knife around the neck. The larger loop is obviously for the belt.
- Nevermind the firesteel loop. I have thought about this for quite a while. If you leave it off, the design will be more flexible. The upper smaller loop not be noticeable if you wear the sheath on your belt. If you should decide to wear it around your neck (using the smaller loop) then you wan the entire unit to be as small and light as possible. I am afraid the extra size and weight would keep you from wanting to do this. Besides, the firesteel could always be worked into an "on your body system." If you decide to wear the knife around your neck, you can using carabiners or fishing swivels or whatever, to attach multiple things, including a firesteel. If you decide to wear it on your belt, you still may have an around the next system, or might decide to have the firesteel (along with other stuff) inside your pocket, on a tether, etc.

View a PDF sketch here: Ignore the tooling.

Hopefully that makes sense and was not too much rambling. I build my own sheaths, and this was what I was intending anyway.

Brian

 

[Fiddleback]

I'm not getting a sheath with mine, but I voted anyway. Neato options.

 

[Esav Benyamin]

Keep it a simple, natural leather sheath. Maybe list good sheathmakers willing to provide custom sheaths for those who want them.

 

[Karl5]

Plain natural leather sheath, plain and simple for me.
But I can't find the other option for belt loop I'd like to see: which is a double dangler!!!
And yes, I'd be willing to pay extra for that.

/ Karl

 

[mikeymoto]

My vote is you don't let sheath decisions keep you from getting knives done and out the door! (since I did not order any sheaths)

 

[Daniel Koster]

Oh...no worries, mate. :thumbup:

Me and the grinder are TIGHT!!!

 

[WA Martin]

I'm not too up on what the correct verbage for all this stuff is. I saw a neat looking sheath on another forum here on BFC.

Is this the "basic" style of what you are talking about without the tooling and perhaps a different retention system? I like the loop placement on this sheath but don't know if that's what is meant by a high ride loop.

I personally don't want a sheath that holds the middle of the blade at the belt level and sticks the handle up in your ribs or armpit. Just my $.02

 

[syrinx]

nat.leather firesteel on the front,I'm with Hollowdweller on the tinder pouch on the sheath.

 

[Chinpo]

Firesteel loop would be handy, but not essential. I'd go with whatever was the best option for you, Dan.

 

[STAGE 2]

Hey Dan, something like this would be muy bueno.

http://bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=514144

 

[hollowdweller]

This one doesn't have a tinder pouch but I put a ziplock with fire starters under the paracord:thumbup:

 

[Daniel Koster]

I've sent the prototype to JRE - we'll set what they come up with. :thumbup:

 

[Myakka]

I've sent the prototype to JRE - we'll set what they come up with. :thumbup:

Cool!
I cant wait to get my Skookum Bush Tool sheath from JRE. Good choice Dan. :thumbup: