Kerambit and Sheathing

Kerambit and Sheaths and Carry

By Guro Jeff Chung

2007

I have seen many different types of sheaths used to holster and make a Kerambit accessible to its user. I've handled a variety of sheath materials that were used ranging from string, to a coat hanger, to cloth, wood, leather and different types of kydex or synthetic materials. A Kerambit due to its unique shape poses some unique sheathing solutions.

My own personal preference is leather. I find leather wears much more comfortably and is much quieter in use than Kydex. In the warmer weather I find that kydex is uncomfortable and that this material sometimes "pinches" or "pokes" more so than leather. Kydex definitely has advantages in providing different types of carry.

To carry a fixed blade Kerambit it is important to consider first what material will be chosen for the sheath, and then how would it be positioned for easy access while retaining security so that it doesn't easily get lost in one's day to day activities. Kydex is nice with modern Kerambits usually offering the most security in carry. I often see my students carrying their Kerambits in an upside down, ring and handle hanging downward upon their persons, whether it be on a suspension around the neck or beneath the shoulder/arm via a figure 8 or other such type of harness.

Learning how to sheath, make sheaths, and learning how to comfortably carry, and practice of access to the Kerambit blade has been challenging over the years. Like all the other aspects of learning about a Kerambit, and understanding and appreciating application, sheath and carry options are necessary components to study and research. In the near future I will be offering my sheathing options to the public and those interested in ordering sheaths to meet their own individual needs for their Kerambit use. In the meantime, good luck!


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