Leather or Kydex for survival knife?

[mlanghornes]

I'm in the market for a SHTF fixed-blade knife. Some models come with leather sheaths, some with kydex. I like leather, but I'm wondering what type of care/protection from the elements it would need. Would it be better to go with kydex, or is field care of a leather sheath pretty easy?

 

[leatherman]

Leather and kydex both have their pro's and con's, my best advice is to go with what you want, especially when it comes to a survival knife.

Leather care is easy if you have prepped it before hand with a good protectant. Sno Seal is a great example, just avoid those protectants with petroleum distillates.

In the field, if your rig gets seriously soaked, let it dry as slow as possible. Dont lay it too close to the fire or you'll end up with a small brittle shoe sole. The leather will be fine till you get back home, even if it stays wet the entire time especially if you conditioned it well beforehand.

 

[kdstrick]

If you were in Seattle, I'd say kydex... but in SA you can get whatever you want. We just don't get that much humidity or rain down here to worry about leather's durability.

Check out leatherman's website (above) he is local and does fantastic work. I'm sure he could help you out.