Safe and at Hand

The function of a sheath is to protect the knife and its user whenever the knife is not being used. A knife can be hung on a belt from the sheath's loop. A sheath is always custom designed for each knife model. The fine details on a sheath are decorative, but they often have a practical significance as well. For instance, the triangular piece of leather at the tip of many sheaths prevents the distracting back and forth motion of a sheath hung on a belt when walking.

Leather sheath

The leather sheaths of Marttiini knives are made of either vegetable or chrome tanned ox hide. The leather hides are purchased from both Europe and South America. The sheaths are made of both dyed and natural colored leather.

The knife sheaths are still made mostly by hand. Each sheath has to be exactly the right size and shape, so it forms a fitting pair with the knife. A section of the leather is cut with a die cut tool, and the seams are glued before sewing. Most sheaths have a plastic skeleton inside that supports the sheath and prevents the blade from cutting the leather sheath.

The printing on the sheath is made on either the cut leather piece or the finished sheath. Rivets, and in some cases a bronze collar band, strengthen and adorn the sheath.

Nylon fabric

Extremely durable high-grade nylon fabric, which is puncture-proof and tear-resistant, as well as heat and wear resistant and fast-drying. These properties make it easy to maintain, light and pleasant to use.

Plastic sheath

The technical characteristics of plastic, like strength, water proofness and lightness make it a reliable choice for a sheath material. A durable and hygienic plastic sheath is very practical with knives used in wet and dirty conditions.