reshaping kydex sheath - how

C

Core

Joined
Jun 4, 2001
Messages
60
I have a Fallkniven A1 and a purchased a new sheath for it.

The sheath holds the knife extremely tight which means that it takes two hands to remove it. I was wondering if there is any way to loosen the top end of the sheath. Can this be done myself ?

I once read here on the forum of someone remodling their kydex sheath with a hairdryer some how is that possible and if so how is there other ways. Any help is appreciated.
 
Just pull on it to loosen it. If that doesn't work, I'd apply a bit of heat (like a hair dryer), but be careful! You can destroy the sheath if you aren't careful!
 
Kydex can be formed by pre-heating a toaster oven to 350 degrees and placing the sheath in the oven for 90 seconds. Then remove and insert the blade and press with towels--forming the hot kydex to the knife.

CAUTION: This applies to kydex only! Other "plastic-type" materials may react very differently.

Good luck.:)

PS--You can repeat the process if it you aren't satisfied with it on the first try.
 
Core,
I had a tight sheath, in moderately thick concealex or kydex, and a knife sheath, that all combined to result in the problem you are having. I would prefer a overly tight sheath to one that is overly loose, but at some point it becomes a problem. If it wasn't for the lanyard, I don't know if I could get the knife out.

I tried beeswax, a little help. I then tried silicone grease and that has ameliorated the problem sufficiently that I have not tried more drastic measures such as reforming the sheath or sending it back to the maker. It did result in getting a little on one small area of the micarta handle, but it was not enough to particularly affect my grip. In other words, use the minimum, and make sure it has not affected your grip.

It has been some time since I did this and so far, so good. I got the silicone grease at a dive store several years ago and it continues to be useful, e.g. on maglight o-rings.
 
you can loosen it up after using a heat gun, be careful though as the heat from it can get pretty distructive if you dont watch it!!!
 
If you are going to try to reshape the sheath with a hairdryer, I would just point the hairdryer at the opening of the sheath, once the kydex gets too warm to touch, that should be about all the heat you need, the kydex will loosen up just a little, which is all that you want. There is no need to heat the whole sheath, this will probably just cause you problems. I would aim the heat at the mouth of the sheath, and every couple of seconds put the knife in and out, until it is loose enough for you. As you heat the sheath it will start to become flat again. You could also try removing a little kydex around the mouth of the sheath, with a sander this sometimes makes them less tight.
Kyle
 
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