For VT Hiking : Behind Back or Shoulder Rig?

knifedaddy84 · Sep 11, 2003

Looking to get a sheath for my Cold Steel Master Hunter for upcoming day hikes in Vermont in November. Should I get a shoulder rig, or opt for behind the back horizontal sheath carry?

Thanks!

joeshredd · Sep 11, 2003

If you're carrying a backpack... forget anything behind the back... or depending on the pack, you'll probably find anything from the belt that rides high to also be a problem.
I've found that a kydex sheath built to hang from the shoulderstrap of my pack to be ideal - I have a Wegner made sheath, inverted, made to slide onto the packstrap that goes over the shoulderstrap... for over a decade, this has always gone with me and I have never had a problem with retention or deployment.
I also carruy an Eric Berglund puukko in a traditional sheath that dangles from my belt... it extends well down from my pack's waistbelt, so I have no probs with access to it, either...

PlaceKnives · Sep 11, 2003

Hey, I live in Vermont, where are you going hiking?

My Handmade Knives

bquinlan · Sep 11, 2003

Originally posted by knifedaddy84
Should I get a shoulder rig, or opt for behind the back horizontal sheath carry?

If you will not be carrying a pack I recommend the back sheath from Survival Sheath Systems. I have one for my Camillus Southwest Bowie. It is both comfortable and quick to access. Robert also makes a very nice shoulder rig if you decide to go that way.

If you will be carrying a pack, I would second the recommendation that you attach it to either the pack or a front strap.

--Bob Q

RL · Sep 11, 2003

hey "k-diddy"

If the backpack is not an issue, I say go for across the back...I have a couple of back rigs and i wear them a heck of a lot more than my shoulder rig (if that says anything)..IMHO, it's the best way to carry a big blade.

RL

knifedaddy84 · Sep 18, 2003

Originally posted by PlaceKnives
Hey, I live in Vermont, where are you going hiking?

My Handmade Knives

Around Manchester. Any suggestions for trails? Any blade restrictions in Vermont? Thanks!

...and R.L. those sheaths are wild, you actually walk around like that? I salute you.

PlaceKnives · Sep 18, 2003

I couldn't find any blade restrictions here. Concealed weapons laws here are pretty relaxed and if it's in plain sight, there's no problem. There's tons of places to go hiking in the Green Mountain National Forest, the Long Trail cuts right through it.

RL · Sep 19, 2003

Originally posted by knifedaddy84

...and R.L. those sheaths are wild, you actually walk around like that? I salute you.

sorry, just caught your reply now...

I have been known to take my Panther (and Brend) for a walk

Ditto the Lightfoot Combat Axe (LCA)

(on shoulder harness...shown here with Mr. Lightfoot)

RL