When the question arises of what material to make the scabbard from, the answer for many is obvious - from genuine leather. The scabbard is also made of wood, but they turn out to be heavier, although stronger.
But there is another material that harmoniously combines the advantages of leather and wood - this is Kydex thermoplastic. Thermoplastic does not absorb moisture and is shock resistant.
To make Kydex thermoplastic sheath for a knife, you will first need to make a simple molding tool.
Cut two pieces of the board and connect them using two loops. Between the boards we put two pieces of thermal foam, which is specially designed for molding Kydex and other thermoplastics. Thermal foam must be glued to the inner surface of the boards.
Scabbard manufacturing process
First, cut off two pieces of thermoplastics, suitable in size. Then they will need to be subjected to heat treatment in the oven at a temperature of 165-170 degrees.
We put the first piece of thermoplastic on the thermal foam, we put the knife on it. The knife blade must first be pasted with masking tape.
We cover the knife with the second piece of softened thermoplastic, and press down with thermo-foam. Leave for about 10-20 minutes.
As a result, we get ready-made scabbard for a knife, which will only need to be given the desired shape by trimming the edges with ordinary scissors.
In the end, the author makes a marking and drills holes so that screws or rivets can be installed.
For a detailed process of making homemade scabbard, see the video on our website.