pros/cons between these ax sheath types

J

Joe R.

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Aug 6, 2013
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I'm going to make a sheath for a 4 pound, 32" ax.

The types of sheaths drawn below seem to be the most popular:


To my inexperienced eye, the advantages of ''model A'' is that it would be smaller and could easily fit in one's pocket when one was using the ax, thus keeping it clean. And the advantage of ''model B'' would be that it could be easily be made to fit multiple ax sizes (using a buckle on the strap).


Can anyone think of other reasons to choose one over the other?



If you favor any other type for a full-size ax, please feel free to mention it.
 
Given that most leather can stretch a bit, I wouldn't trust type A if I was out wandering the woods with it. Too easy to snag it and have it pop off.
 
Type A works fine if you switch the flap over to fasten under the beard/heel. I've used this method on several axes with no problems.

But I did use Sam Browne studs as a fastener rather than press studs.

Exhibit A:


I think a pronounced beard is essential for this method.

If you opt for Type B and are worried about the strap becoming loose, I would actually leave the press stood strap and have two (tight/slightly undersized) holes with which to feed a thick strap through, which can then be tied each end and pulled tight, to hold the mask on. It would be better to extend the sides of the mask down the cheeks/face of the axe, towards the poll for this method.

I've seen this method used on some Scandinavian axe sheaths in the past and I think Husqvarna used it for a while.

Love it's simplicity and the ease at which the strap could be replaced over time.
 
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Thanks for the replies thus far guys.

Nice sheath Scuffuk:thumbup:

scruffuk said:
...

If you opt for Type B and are worried about the strap becoming loose, I would actually leave the press stood strap and have two (tight/slightly undersized) holes with which to feed a thick strap through, which can then be tied each end and pulled tight, to hold the mask on. It would be better to extend the sides of the mask down the cheeks/face of the axe, towards the poll for this method.

I've seen this method used on some Scandinavian axe sheaths in the past and I think Husqvarna used it for a while.

Love it's simplicity and the ease at which the strap could be replaced over time.
Click to expand...


Is this the one you mean:

2s6scvq.jpg


(picture bibliographical credit: http://bushcraftusa.com/forum/showthread.php/7873-Got-a-new-Husqvarna-hatchet)


I just wonder if they would tend to slip?

Maybe slots would be better than holes?
 
I prefer type A, compact is better. Easier on and off during use too, so I am more likely to put it back on during a lull in the action, therefore safer. Fit properly, there is no reason to believe it would be prone to fall off, imo.
 
Joe R - Yup, those are the badgers!

You should give that Type A a try amigo.

Just plan it out in paper first, it should be easy to do in one piece (plus welt).
 
Thanks Scruffuk.

I took a closer look at the amount of leather I had left, and decided to make an "A" but for another axe I have that has a much more pronounced up sweep on the top edge.

We'll see how it goes.
 
Here is the sheath I ended up making:







It is all made from 1/8" veg tan leather, has a 1/8" welt, and the top includes 2 extra wedges inserted between the welt and outer pieces to build up the thickness:




Functionally, I'm pretty happy with it.


Thanks for the help.
 
Wow! Splendid work amigo. I'm pleased to be able to help a little.

Hope it does the job.
 
Go with A but set up a baldric with a loop for the axe handle and attach the sheath to it with a lanyard
 
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