Max Capdebarthes is a master leather craftsman located in the tiny (pop. 800) 12th-century village of Sauveterre de Rouergue in the southwest of France.
With only five craftsmen (actually primarily women), Max Capdebarthes has mastered every aspect of leathercrafting to produce the best knife sheaths money can buy at any price. Most knife manufacturers consider Max Capdebarthes the best leather sheath craftsman in Europe, perhaps the world. Some of France's most acclaimed cutlers, such as Forge de Laguiole and Fontenille Pataud, contract Max for their sheath needs.
About this sheath: This full grain leather sheath is designed to hold any 11 or 12 cm ( 4.33 cm - 4.72 cm) Laguiole Knife. It features a metal snap closure and two belt loops. The vertical loop can accommodate a 1.3/4" inches wide belt and the horizontal loop will take a 1-inch wide belt for the 12 cm model and 3/4 inch belt for the 11 cm model.Double stitching can be found on all stress areas to provide years of use without stitch failure. This sheath is made of 1/8 inch thick ultra-soft cowhide full-grain leather. Pictured Knife not included.
This sheath is for: Any 11 or 12 cm Laguiole knife handle.
Outer dimensions: 6" x 2" (15.24 cm x 5.08 cm)
Max Capdebarthes only works with full-grain leather, which is the highest quality grade of leather money can buy. This leather type comes from the hide's top layer and may includes all of the natural grain and marks. This type of leather is more expensive to buy and often difficult to craft.
Raw leather parts at the Max Capdebarthes shop
Break-In period
Your new sheath may appear to be a little stiff at first, this is normal. As full-grain leather ages, it will adapt to the shape of your knife. Over time, the sheath will develop a much sought-after patina and a unique character that cannot be duplicated. The more you use it, the better it will look and feel.
Care
The beauty of your leather sheath is only matched by its durability. To keep it looking like new, avoid exposure to sun and water for long periods as this can cause fading and cracks over time. Cleaning isn't enough - periodically apply some premium leather conditioner!
Stitching of a Max Capdebarth leather sheath
I ordered my sheath to carry and protect a new knife I received as a gift. The sheath is high quality and fits my knife perfectly; exactly what I expected from Laguiole.
