what leather would you use for this project?

[rmr]

Im getting ready to make a leather cover ( somewhat similar to pictures below- but different )for a fly reel while its on a fly rod. Will be used primarily to transport the rod/reel to and from the river and protect the reel from getting nicks/scratches while in transport. It will be exposed to the elements to a degree ( so might get wet, but hopefully not soaking wet)-  its not going to used to keep the reel waterproof

Most of the other outdoor products I have made - I have used Latigo. I can use that here also but am having a difficult time locating Latigo in the thickness I desire. I have seen other cases made from Bridle and English Bridle leather . I do not want to use a chrome tanned product because if it gets wet and the chromium slats leach onto the reel or rod they may corrode them.

So would you use Latigo or Bridle/english Bridle leather for this project - or other recommendations 

 

Thanks for any insight

RMR

[Mattsbagger]

I think Latigo would work best. Especially as it would be near water occasionally. Lol

[Jimmy McLaughlin]

That is a really nice case. If you aren't worried about the water try American Bison. I think it would look great and it is strong.

[buko]

Bridle or Latigo would work well for that. Ask your supplier to split it to the thickness you want.

[wlg190861]

I would use bison 6/7 oz

[Weaver Leather Supply]

You do know, that depending on the latigo there could be chrome in latigo.  A true latigo is a chrome veg retan.  It is chrome tanned first and then retanned in vegetable tannage to acquire some properties of both tannages.  Im not sure about Wickett but I do know that Hermann Oak's latigo is now all veg I dont think they do any chrome at all.  Our Chahin latigo is a true latigo and is a chrome veg retan.  The reason being is the chrome is what gives latigo its ability to be so durable in the elements.  

For your project I would definitely suggest english bridle however.  

[Big Sioux Saddlery]

I agree with Weaver, unless you know for a fact that the latigo you're using is pure veg-tan, I would avoid using it.  Russet harness leather might be another option. I think Hermann Oak makes a russet down to 8/10 in weight, or with pieces that small, it's easy to split it down.  Plenty of wax in their russet harness to repel any water that might get on the outside.  It would give a more rugged look than the English bridle.  Pretty cocky looking case, btw!

[Fire88]

Why not veg tan? If it's not getting dunked in the river I'd think it'd be fine if seal it. You can tool it/stamp then line it with pig? 

[Weaver Leather Supply]

13 hours ago, Fire88 said:

Why not veg tan? If it's not getting dunked in the river I'd think it'd be fine if seal it. You can tool it/stamp then line it with pig? 

I agree, if your going to do any tooling use natural veg, dye and finish it.  it will hold up fine.  Maybe a light coat of oil as well.