I'M AWAKE!!!
Thanks, guys!
Per Bear's specifications, these are as light as they can be. I got a pretty thorough spec too and a vicarious education on the use and carry of machetes in the jungle. I am hoping that I was a good student. There are differences so Bear can critique, select, reject as the situation dictates so that we can evolve these into the right solution for safely stowing and transporting a machete. They both have clearance for the stuff that sticks to your blade and to allow easy presentation and return of the the same to its sheath. One has extra clearance with an "anti-rattle pinch point" near the front portion of the edge, and the other is a bit more "daring" in that it was made more trim at the possible expense of unincumbered deployment. Remember, I am doing this through Bear's experience, not my own so I was trying to imagine what would work. We shall find out. I have had a few ideas since sending these off and I envision at least a couple more prototypes are in the future, combining a few of my ideas and a lot more of Bear's ideas. The gaping drainage hole also serves to stiffen the tip of the sheath a bit and the copious use of rivets should keep the blade from being twisted out of the seam. Screws to hold the detachable belt loops were eliminated so no one would have to remember to carry a screwdrive in the jungle. I won't bore anyone further with details but there was a lot more to these than their minimalistic appearance shows. I have the "process" figured out and am working on a couple "tools" that will make it a quicker endeavor on the next pass.
I truly appreciate being able to be a little part of Bear's adventure in this way and I hope that these serve well. I am eager to hear the feedback on his return so we can put together the ultimate machete sheath.
Thanks, Bear.:thumbup: