Kydex heating

[Gthimgan]

Looking at getting started using kydex for knife and gun sheaths. I see that a lot of people use traditional heating element toaster ovens to heat up the kydex. Its quite evident that these ovens can be inconsistent with temperatures, and may or may not heat the material evenly. My question to all the experts out there is, would using a toaster oven that uses convection be a better option than the ovens with just heating elements? Keeping in mind that I will still need to use an temp gun to check surface temp of the material. I have searched the internet and there doesn't seem to be any mention of people using convection for Kydex. Also using a T-shirt press seems to be a good idea, any recommendations of dependable models?

 

[Crag the Brewer]

Years ago when convection ovens were all the rage ....we bought one. Double to triple the price of "regular".....using it, idk IF it's all that much better at all?

Definitely Not needed for kydex.
I too am looking to update My equipment.
Curious what the replies are going to lead?

I'm learning towards a large electric griddle, but I'm listening

 

[Blade Lady]

Looking at getting started using kydex for knife and gun sheaths. I see that a lot of people use traditional heating element toaster ovens to heat up the kydex. Its quite evident that these ovens can be inconsistent with temperatures, and may or may not heat the material evenly. My question to all the experts out there is, would using a toaster oven that uses convection be a better option than the ovens with just heating elements? Keeping in mind that I will still need to use an temp gun to check surface temp of the material. I have searched the internet and there doesn't seem to be any mention of people using convection for Kydex. Also using a T-shirt press seems to be a good idea, any recommendations of dependable models?

Hello. I have been pondering the same thing about the small ovens as I sure do not want to mess up my oven in the kitchen. Seems Amazon has a good selection of ovens not only the price but levels of oven performance.

To make my own sheaths is a must for me, too many larger custom made knives with some very ragged looking cheap leather that just takes away from the knife itself.

 

[AmericanPrideProducts]

Rather than using a toaster oven, if you can make a bigger investment use a tshirt heating press. you can actually set the temperature so no need to use a temp gun. Most kydex companies use these

 

[Linus Knives]

I have used a small element oven but I do own a t-shirt press... I never thought of using it before!
I don't really care if the temperature isn't exact because I just gauge how hot it is with my eye. I don't set it for a specific time or anything- It's very easy to see and feel when it's ready to mold.
Linus

 

[DeadPineKnives]

I like an electric griddle for kydex personally. Just gotta play around and find your sweet spot and just keep the dial there.