I know there are several "scabbard" how-tos out there and such but I was curious if anyone actually put together a comprehensive list of woods that actually work and are safe for a blade (since some types of wood actually can be harmful).

Also I was curious what wood/linings were historically used by period.

Hi Bryan,

Most woods will be fine for a scabbard, but avoid any with high tannin levels, so chestnut, oak and I am sure there are a few others. These will rust the blade very quickly.

The wood you ideally want is low acid, tough, soft and quite knot free. Baltic pine is OK, but poplar and birch fit these criteria well.

Tod