Kydex.....how to form properly.

[gundy]

Hi all.
Has anybody got ideas on how to form Kydex in a conventional oven or with a gas torch?

I know all about the fasterners etc, just need to form that top sheet over the blade and bottom handle section.

Any advise before I waste material would be appreciated - LOL

(**Sorry for double post - forgot email notification**)

Guy

 

[raker]

I use a heat gun such as used to take up tile. I have heard of them using the oven toaster, blow dryer, oven, and such. The main thing is to heat it up uniformly and while hot, press it over the knife and hold it till it sets, or cools. With the heat gun, you can heat certain areas that need reformed with out redoing the whole thing. If you mess up, just reheat it. You might want to put a layer or two of masking tape on the blade for a little looser fit. It also helps to reduce scratching of the blade.
I hope this will help you.

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Ray Kirk
http://www.tah-usa.net/raker

 

[MAURICE]

hey ray,
im loving this knife i bought from you.
i was gonna sell it so i could make it to blade,but im keeping it!thank you sir for a fine blade (and sheath,too).see you at the show.
MAURICE

 

[toxicavenger]

Gundy,

Here's what I do. I take 1' square pieces of that blue closed-cell foam (camping pad) and glue it to 1/2" plywood. Heat the kydex in 350 degree oven until plyable. Fold it over the blade and place between two of the plywood/foam sandwiches. Stand on the whole thing for a few minutes.
Make sure and decide how you are going to attach any belt loops/clips before you form! Knives Illustrated has had several great how-to's about kydex. I'll try to find that issue for you.

I just realized that you are going to only form the top part. use one of the foam pads and place the knife on something hard and flat (i use a book) that way the edges will mate to the flat back piece.

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A Paladin in Hell

[This message has been edited by toxicavenger (edited 05-31-2001).]