leather or plastic sheath?

[paul brown]

Wanting my first Ka-Bar probably a 1211. Which do you prefer and why leather or plastic? thanks a lot!

 

[zzyzzogeton]

I prefer leather, but will use plastic in certain environments - rainy, muddy, oily, chemicals, etc. Easier to clean and decontaminate. I have both leather and plastic for every full size or 3/4 shorty Kabar I have and switch out sheaths as the situation dictates.

 

[paul brown]

I was kinda thinking the same. I'm concerned the leather will rust the blade.

 

[jux t]

I like both just fine. I tend to carry my plastic one more because I cut off the belt loop and can carry upside down/inverted with a g-clip mounted.

 

[eveled]

Order both and enjoy the flexibility.

 

[GIRLYmann]

concerns about leather over time -
absorbs moisture mould magnet and rot
(there is such a thing as dry rot too if
you're talking years and years on)
no after care needed with plastic
just remember to keep away from
hot furnaces and naked flames
but you know what?!
to date its all easily replaceble.

 

[zanussi01]

^This!

 

[Alberta Ed]

Treat your leather with SnowSeal inside and out to keep it from absorbing moisture. Melt in 2-3 coats.

 

[killgar]

If the sheath was going to be exposed to dirt, dust, or salt water I'd want plastic so I could simply rinse it out clean. Then it could air-dry with no concern of mold/mildew.