Randall Knife Sheath Makers: A Journey Through Time

When it comes to Randall Made Knives (RMK), the sheaths that accompany these iconic blades are almost as collectible as the knives themselves. The history of RMK sheaths is rich and varied, with different makers contributing to the legacy over the decades. From the early days of Clarence Moore to the current production by Sullivan's Holster Shop, each sheath tells a part of the RMK story.

Very Early Sheaths

1937: Very early, seldom-seen 'Basket Weave' sheaths were produced by various makers in 1937. Clarence Moore of Orlando, FL, was the original sheath maker for Randall Knives, starting his production in 1937 and continuously supplying sheaths until the spring of 1954.

Introduction of the Sharpening Stone Pocket

1942: The 'A' Model sheath, introduced by Moore, was the first to include a sharpening stone pocket, a revolutionary idea at the time.

WWII and Increased Production

1943-1944: WWII increased demand for Randall Knives, prompting W.D. 'Bo' Randall to seek additional sheath makers. Southern Saddlery of Chattanooga, TN, and H.H. Heiser Saddlery Company of Denver, CO, answered the request for bids. Southern only produced sheaths from June 1943 to the spring of 1944. It's believed that by 1944, Moore and Heiser could meet RMK's needs adequately.

1943 Heiser Sheath

1943-1964: H.H. Heiser began production of sheaths for RMK in the spring of 1943 and continued after the war until late 1964. Starting in late 1943, two rivets were added to the throat of the sheath for extra security and strength. This was discontinued in 1947 but would return in 1954 with the introduction of the Heiser 'C' Model sheath.

Post-War Production

1946-1964: Heiser 'Brown Button' sheaths were made in 1946 and from 1949 to 1964. Red & Brown Button sheaths first appeared in 1946 and were simultaneously manufactured by Moore and Heiser.

Brown Button Sheaths

1954: Heiser riveted Model 'C' sheaths were introduced with the first Model 14's and 15's. These sheaths featured canteen-style 'Lift the Dot' straps and brown button snaps on the stone pocket.

1958: Heiser made the first waxed leather sheaths for RMK in 1958 for the Model 16 diver's knife. Demand waned for the waxed sheaths limiting the production.

Transition to Maurice Johnson

1965: By early 1965, Heiser was no longer making sheaths for Randall, and Maurice Johnson of Orlando, FL, took over the entire RMK sheath production. The earliest Johnson sheaths used Brown Buttons with smooth nickel-plated brass 'baby dot' snaps in 1964.

1965-1970s: By late 1965 and into the early 1970s, Johnson was making riveted sheaths for RMK in the 'Rough Back' form only. Heiser 'C' model sheaths used seven small brass or steel rivets, while early Johnson sheaths originally had large copper rivets at the sheath throat. Later Johnson sheaths used smaller rivets throughout, including a few early 'Split Back' sheaths.

The Johnson's Contribution

1965-1982: Johnson made 'Rough Back' sheaths for RMK. He handed over the company to his son Johnny Johnson, who ran the business until his untimely death in 1991. Paracord made its debut in the early 1970s Model 'C' sheaths. Gold Paracord was first used from 1971-1972 before being replaced with the standard OD color still in use today.

Johnson's early 1970s Gold Cord

1990-1991: Johnny Johnson made some rare 'Smooth Back' sheaths, most likely in response to the growing popularity of the new Sullivan's design of the late 1980s.

Transition to Sullivan's Holster Shop

1986: Sullivan's Holster Shop of Tampa Bay, FL, owned and operated by Greg Gutcher Sr., started a business relationship with RMK in late 1986. Sullivan's took over the sole production of RMK sheaths in December 1991 and is currently the only authorized sheath maker for RMK.

1987: The 'Double Stitch' Sullivan's Model 'C' for Model 14 and 18 was first introduced in early 1987. Model 'C' sheaths for shorter blade lengths on Models 15, 17, and 18 all use the 'single stitch' method.

1995: Originally, Sullivan's used linen thread for their stitching. In 1995, they switched to synthetic thread, initially white in color. This was followed by a limited run of 'brown stitch' sheaths from mid-1998 through early 1999. Current production features a synthetic 'Tan' thread. RMK enthusiasts appreciate Sullivan's willingness to provide a sheath tailored to their specifications and the high quality of manufacture.
Examples of Various Sheath Models Currently Offered by RMK via Sullivan’s

In Conclusion

The sheaths of Randall Made Knives are not only functional accessories but also cherished collectibles that tell the story of the knives' rich history. It’s important to understand that Bo Randall was frugal and didn’t let things go to waste. Sometimes a sheath would sit for years before being used if the model wasn’t a top seller. This led to interesting combinations of sheaths, stones, buttons, and knives from different years. It’s a range rather than an exact year when dating your Randall knife. Collectors and enthusiasts alike continue to seek out these sheaths for their historical significance and craftsmanship, making them a vital part of the Randall Made Knives heritage.

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