Hey Guys....
Ron...
Thank you very much for your nice comments....
As far as factory knives go....
Many knife companies have already seen the advantages to using synthetic sheaths. These types of sheaths are made quickly (usually) and at a reasonable cost compared to other materials.
Although there are some people that would rather have leather or Cordura, a synthetic sheath fits the bill quite well for certain types of knives, usually the more tactical or utility types of knives. In general these factory sheaths are of pretty decent quality and do the job for 99% of the users out there.
However there will always be that 1% or so that are looking for something better and more user friendly, a sheath that will do things a OEM sheath can't. Why use the factory deck in your car,when and aftermarket stereo can give you that much more.
To a knife maker, sheaths can be a real hassle. They can be time consuming, which to a busy knife maker is time away from the grinder. This effects the bottom line more than anything.
For them to sit there and press out sheaths isn't cost/time productive, espcially when you factor in that a custom sheath maker worth his salt, can produce (usually) a better sheath,that will give his product a professional look and quality equal to that of the knife. There are several makers who also make good quality sheaths. Trace being one of them, Dozier being another. They do the job they are asked to do and look pretty good doing it..
On the other hand
Having a brand name such as River City, Survival Sheath Systems, or for that matter On/Scene Tactical associated with your (product) knife can be a bonus, because these names are recognized by the consumer, more and more. A Really good sheath will help sell the product on the bottom line.
A poorly constructed sheath (can)take away from the quality of the knife, in some cases. Hopefully a well trained eye can see past a poor sheath.
Thats why there are custom sheath makers such as Rowe and Sandy working in leather and Sastre, Robert H, and myself working in synthetics, we specialize in our craft. Believe me when I say, and I think Robert and Mike will agree that we've seen the best of the best and the absolute worst of the worst. 3 different types of sheaths from 3 different makers. Theres some pretty decent options.
It really all boils down to personal preference with sheaths.You can't please 100% of users out there, so you make the best quality product you can and hope people will see your product as something they can count on for a very long time.
Hope that sheds a little light from my side of the tracks....
Rant Mode
*OFF*
ttyle
Eric...
