how tight should saya fit

[Jpgied]

If my knife is ⅛" thick at the ricasso, could you just layer 3 pieces of ⅛" thick wood? The first time i made one i layered .002 g10 between the layers to let the blade seat easier but i think that probably leaves it too loose. I've heard someone mention tapering the middle welt layer of wood. Is this necessary or desired? Finally, would a wood like paduak be fine for the outside, if the welt is basswood? Thanks.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

We need a little info here? In general, it is a good idea to post photos of the knife and saya so we know what you are doing.
Sword, tanto, kitchen knife/yanagiba, kiridashi, pocket puukko?

On most blades, the habaki or ricasso is the only part that fits snugly imto the saya. The rest of te saya should be just a tad larger than the blade to prevent rattling, but not rubbing the blade.
On kitchen kmnife sayas, the saya is pretty loose, and retained by a pin (mekigi) that goes behind the heel.

 

[Jpgied]

Sorry. It's a k-tip gyuto that's not finished yet. If links to Google drive work, here's a pic as it sits now, just trying to plan out the saya. I think you've answered most of the questions.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-RMiBw_8J4oJVmwW7IazTzwGbJvM8qPl/view?usp=drivesdk

 

[John mc c]

You could use a pin to hold it

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Yes, make a somewhat loose saya and retain it with a pin that goes behind the curved heel section. This knife is by DanielC:

 

[Jpgied]

"Somewhat loose" works. I just wasn't sure if they were supposed to be held tight enough not to move around at all. Wish i could see that pic, though. Thanks for your help, Stacy.

 

[John mc c]

You should be able to see that pic
Nice hamon and blade profile btw

 

[Jpgied]

You should be able to see that pic
Nice hamon and blade profile btw

Guess it was a browser issue, i see it now. Beautiful knife.
And thank you!