Remold the insert on SpecOps sheath

[mapper66]

I've got a SpecOps Survival Sheath that I'd like to remold the insert to better fit the blade I'm putting in there and had a couple of questions for you sheath guys.

Whats the best way to heat the insert up to get it pliable?

Do I need to protect the blade in anyway or just stick it in there?

Thanks!

 

[Robert H]

That stuff is hard to heat well and reshape. What blade are you using?

 

[mapper66]

Small sheath, Batac LE. The large fits the Chopweiler real well. I've got some foam, plywood, and a 25lb weight plate. Thinking about making a makeshift press.

 

[Martin Swinkels]

You could use a heatgun, or better, put the liner in the oven, very carefully, not too hot, til you see it get soft. You have to be carefull because it's just plastic that has no memory like kydex does. It will melt or deform beyond repair when things get too hot.
Just leave the knife inside the liner to get a proper fit. Don't worry about the temper of the blade or plastic sticking, cause things won't get thát hot.
I succesfully formed a couple of handsfull spec-ops plastic that way, and never ruined one. Just take it easy on the temperatures.

:thumbup:

or send it over and I'll make you a kydex liner that secures the blade with that lovely 'klack'

 

[mapper66]

Thanks Martin! So just put the liner, knife and all into the oven? I think the lowest my oven goes is like about 200° F (hang on, googling.. 93.3° C). So everything would be OK at that temp? Scales and all? Should I press it between foam or something like you do with Kydex when it comes out?

 

[Martin Swinkels]

Try it at the lowest temperature, keep the door open, and the knife in your hand. Move the liner inside the oven so that the heat will disperse evenly. Don't put the liner on the rooster (dutch word, don't know it in english, the metal thing inside the oven on which you put your items to be baked, you also find them on bbq's). When it gets soft, get it out, put it flat on a table (or inside press-like construction), and mold it with your fingers (or press with an improvised press). Be quick!