Knife Sheaths 101: Protect Your Knives and Prolong Their Lifespan

 

What Is a Knife Sheath?

source: chuboknives.com

Well, a knife sheath also known as knife saya is a protective knife cover designed to keep the knife safe and sound. Regardless of the type of knife you have, having a cover will help you keep it protected all the time, while also making it easy and safe to carry around. Even though most knives look and feel strong and durable, this doesn’t mean that they cannot be damaged. If not keeping it safe, the knife blade can chip, dent and even wrap, so having a protective case will keep them in perfect condition all the time. On the other hand, having your knife in a protective case also makes it safer for you and the environment, especially when not in use.

Types

The choice of these knife covers is huge since they are available in a variety of materials. Considering all of them with their pros and cons will help you find a durable and sturdy knife sheath.

Wood

Wooden knife covers are the oldest and most traditional version of covers. They are a popular choice for Japanese knives and are known for their durability, sturdiness and impeccable look. The wood's natural texture and pattern are what make it even more popular among users. Quite often, wooden sheaths have magnets on their inside to keep the knife safely and properly placed. These covers can be made from an array of woods and all of them range in appearance, pattern and colour, making them great for being displayed.

Leather

This is another popular knife cover option that you can find in stores. Just like wood, leather is just another traditional and old type of case used for keeping and protecting knives. Unlike wood, leather is a soft material which makes it soft and more pleasant to hold in hands. These covers are known for their ability to hold knives in fixed position, however, when compared to wood, it seems that leather isn’t the most durable option on the market. In fact, leather is known for its ability to degrade over time, and since this cover will be used quite often, it will get damaged in a short period of time. Plus, if it gets wet or exposed to heat, the leather cover can instantly break and crack, causing permanent damage to it.

Plastic

Nowadays, you can also take advantage of the large selection of hard-moulded thermoplastic covers for knives. They are a durable and pretty affordable option which makes them a good option for daily use. Thanks to today’s technology, this plastic can even imitate wood which is another reason why so many people rely on its use. Plus, covers made from plastic are easier to clean and maintain which is just another reason why you should invest in one.

How to Choose the Best One for You?

source: adventuresworn.com

Well, in order to find the right one for you, first you should take into account some important things.

Moisture Absorption

The truth is that plastic might be the lightest and easiest to use cover, however, this doesn’t mean that it’s the best. For instance, you really should stay away from covers that trap moisture because this can damage the knife and its blade. Ideally, you should look for covers made from natural materials like wood and leather as they can wick away moisture.

Design

The design is just another thing you should have in mind when choosing the right model for your knives. Even though the design is mainly associated with the cover’s material, still don’t forget the design fool you. Consider the material and its properties as well if you want to get the best of both worlds.

Ease of Access

This feature is of vital importance especially if using the knife on a daily basis. When in the search for the right model, pick one that allows you to take off and put on the knife with ease. Even though wooden and plastic covers seem easier to use, some people still prefer the use of leather covers.

Given the fact that the choice of sheaths for knives is huge, it won’t be difficult to find the ones that will suit your needs the most. However, in case you cannot find any that meets your needs, you can always find a store that can custom-make one for you. All it takes is to go online, browse through the large selection of covers for knives and see whether one grabs your eye. Take your time to browse through the large selection where you can compare different or the same sheaths coming from different manufacturers in order to make the right choice. One thing is certain, stick to covers that are safe and easy to use and not to ones that are pretty only on the outside.