integral loops?

[zignal_zero]

i saw Tmaring's thread on the "unitary" (rivetless) sheath, right before i posted this. so, i know he does it, but does anyonelse use integral loops? i see most people attaching loops and i was on one maker's site where he said - "i don't use integral loops because they suck." i was really surprised. i like integral loops. i find they are a totall pain in the ass to do properly, but (when done right) come out soooo nice.

i just did an IWB for a Gerber Big Rock with an integral loop, i'll show y'all a pic as soon as i figure out how to resize them.

but why are there so few people who use this method?

 

[mikeymoto]

A lot of people use "integral" loops when called for, including me. It's not always appropriate and may not be what the buyer wants. I am assuming by integral you mean that the belt loop is made from the same piece of material as the back or other part of the body.

 

[zignal_zero]

A lot of people use "integral" loops when called for, including me. It's not always appropriate and may not be what the buyer wants. I am assuming by integral you mean that the belt loop is made from the same piece of material as the back or other part of the body.

yes, exactly. i've seen very few like this. i think it's the best way for an IWB. i find it ALOT easier just to attach the IWB loop, but they come out so much nicer as one piece.

 

[DC KNIVES]

For integrals on leather I only like them if the sheath is lined.I think the flesh side of the leather showing even if smooth, still looks unfinished to me.It is probably acceptable to most if its a working sheath,but not on a nice sheath.Dave

 

[Kiah]

i was on one maker's site where he said - "i don't use integral loops because they suck."

Only because they do, in fact, suck.

Seriously though, I may have worded it a bit harsh.

Pros:

-Integral loops give a simpler, more elegant, look to a sheath if done properly.

-They are easy to do, and require less or no hardware

-They bring the sheath in a hair closer than a standard removable loop.


Cons:

-They are always there. No option for removal for pocket carry, etc. Not really an issue on big blades.

-Your carry options are reduced to one unless you don't mind working around the loop.

-They can be a weak point if done in certain styles.

-They hinder sheath design. The way I lay out a lot of my sheaths would leave no room for an integral loop to remain attached. Having to work around a subpar attachment method is not an option in my opinion.


These points are of course my opinion. I know some people like them, and to be honest, if that's really what someone wanted, I would do it for them. I just think they are a limiting option that gets in the way.

If it makes any difference, I can't personally stand removable kydex loops or Tek-Loks for my personal sheaths either. Paracord and webbing are the only attachments I personally use.