Quote Originally Posted by browningautorifleicon View Post
Tell me dt, how has the Neatsfoot oil affected the scabbard? Is it Hard? Like glass? I have one here that a friend "helped"out by oiling and it's hard.
That would be interesting to know, but if "pure" neatsfoot oil is used it won't cause any problems at all, just don't drown the leather, a light coat is all that is necessary. Too often people try to soften hard leather with neatsfoot oil and other "preservatives". Your friend likely applied too much neatsfoot oil compound not pure neatsfoot oil. If it is "hard like glass" it has has likely been store in a very dry, hot place and is suffering from dry rot, this scabbard shows no sign of that and pure neatsfoot oil will not cause it, only a lack of moisture and heat will.

As far as stiffness, remember that leather used on a scabbard of this type should have a firm hand - that means that it will be relatively stiff but still flexible. If soft leather is used, the scabbard can flex when the blade is inserted and will eventually (sooner than you think) cut through the scabbard causing the user to be injured. It doesn't seem to have been harmed by oiling, if nothing else leather will darken with age, especially if stored or displayed in a place where sunlight shines on it, causing more damage than darkening.