What style of kydex sheaths do you like best ?

[David Brown]

Just curious what kind of kydex sheaths are most popular?
Do you like the fold over with the eyelets down one side ?
or
do you like the style where two pieces are put together with eyelets down both sides?

also do you like tech-locs or g-clips?

 

[Julian Elliot]

I always prefer foldover sheaths, since I don't need the double eyelet rows and the foldovers can be narrower and "cleaner" looking. Unfortunately, most kydex sheaths are 2-piece units. (Aren't the foldovers more efficient to make?). I like Tek-loks on field and camp knives since they have proven to be very secure, but prefer IWB for smaller fixed blades. Instead of a G-clip, I usually take a metal clip designed to be used on a pair of clip-on suspenders, clip that to my waistband, and secure it to the sheath with some paracord (basically a static cord setup, with a very short cord, so that the sheath stays IWB during a draw).

 

[BOK]

I like G clips. I find them more convenient since you can clip them to anything without using a belt.

 

[Matteo Escobar]

Fold over, G clip.

 

[TorzJohnson]

I really like the 2 piece construction with eyelets on both sides. The crossdraw sheath that came with my Dozier Straight Personal is a work of art!

No opinion on Tech-loks or G-clips.

 

[phatch]

Depends on the knife and my purposes for it. The fold over can have a lower profile, but it can also be a bit limited in options.

 

[rawhide_clyde]

Depends on the knife and my purposes for it. The fold over can have a lower profile, but it can also be a bit limited in options.

I'm with phatch. For most stuff I like a foldover with the eyelets down one side and a g-clip. If it's going to be lashed to webbing or a rucksack I like two pieces with eyelets down both sides.
Stay Safe,
Clyde

 

[papathud]

David,
Of the 50+ sheaths you have made for me I prefer the fold over, close fitting
Streamlined, friction held, with the Tech lock.
But I think it is best to tell you what I want the sheath (or Holster) to do,when, where and how often I want to wear it, then let you design what you think is best suited for that application.

Reading what I just wrote maybe you should just give me sheaths in the future,,looks like I am a walking, talking advertisement for you.

 

[Ilovetoolsteel]

I always prefer foldover sheaths, since I don't need the double eyelet rows and the foldovers can be narrower and "cleaner" looking. Unfortunately, most kydex sheaths are 2-piece units. (Aren't the foldovers more efficient to make?). I like Tek-loks on field and camp knives since they have proven to be very secure, but prefer IWB for smaller fixed blades. Instead of a G-clip, I usually take a metal clip designed to be used on a pair of clip-on suspenders, clip that to my waistband, and secure it to the sheath with some paracord (basically a static cord setup, with a very short cord, so that the sheath stays IWB during a draw).

From what I have seen nearly all kydex sheaths start out as fold-overs. Some makers just leave extra room on the fold side and cut the fold off and install eyelets.

All the Kydex sheaths I have made stared out as fold-overs.

Drew

 

[Tok]

Fold-over with iwb loop is my favourite config. The loops from Survival Sheath Systems are so cool to use and well-constructed too.

 

[Jason Cutter]

I prefer the fold-over "pouch" style more in Kydex since I feel the semi-tubular design actually increases lateral rigidity, But it may be minor anyway. My other main reason is for size and bulk of the sheath, but I agree about limiting one's options as to where you can screw things on etc.

I like the concept of the TekLok - very few belt systems are that versatile and convenient, but I find them a little uncomfortable and bulky. If the shape could be more rounded SOMEHOW... they'd be perfect. G-clips - it depends what the clip is made of. The Kydex clips are easy to make but of course are not as durable. The spring steel clips are much stronger but are stiffer and can potentially tear up your clothing. They also often have sharp edges from the stamping processes.

Its all preference. Jason.

 

[Dmax]

My experience with Kydex sheaths is somewhat limited, but I am under impression that two piece sheaths (like the Dozier sheath I have) are less likely to scratch the blade.

 

[Normark]

Hey DMax....

"I am under impression that two piece sheaths (like the Dozier sheath I have) are less likely to scratch the blade."

No,, thats absolutely not the case...

Two piece, One piece,, makes no difference at all..

It's all in how the sheath is designed and manufactured.. The scratching you get isn't from the kydex itself, but crap that enters the sheaths, and is trapped inside.

ttyle

Eric...

 

[Dmax]

I stand corrected then, Eric. That's why I put a disclaimer that my experience is limited. My only experience with one piece sheaths is the one that came with my Busse Assault Shaker. The sheath kept scratching the Busse knife and was not really secure. I guess I should order a one piece wrap around sheath from Yourself or BuyBrown and hope that may change my mind.

It is interesting that some sheath makers show one piece sheaths on their websites while others only show two piece ones. I guess each craftsman has his preferences.


Dimitry

 

[David Brown]

Thanks everyone this has been very informative

 

[Jason Cutter]

I think one of the main reasons why some makers make 2-piece sandwich constructions, some make fold-over pouch styles, is to do with the way Kydex and Concealex behaves while being moulded. There are little quirks with each style that need to be accommodated while making the sheath. Like anything else, its better to specialise and get it right... Just another 2cents. Jason.

 

[Normark]

Hi Jason....

I think the main reason is that some like to make 2 piece,,others like to make fold over.. Personally I don't see any advantage to 2 piece sheaths,other then extra lashing points.

The quirks with the Concealex "roll" can work in ones favor.. When it rolls I know it's in the first stage of getting ready to go....

The sheath makers such as Rob H. and Mike Sastre who have learned to use this "quirk" have no problems with it...In my opinion, the Concealex is coming to life....

Few people know that Concealex has a "grain",,cut it one way it reacts different than if you cut it from another....


ttyle

Eric....