A straight utility knife rides in the 42520 (or the angle-head 42525); a long straight ground heritage blade — a square point, skiver, or mill knife — rides in the enclosing 56500 / 56505 sheaths rated to 6".
Dropping a straight knife into a curved hook sheath leaves it loose and unretained.
And the snap strap notwithstanding, it is a leather belt sheath, not a locking hard case — it captures and carries the hook knife, it does not armor it.
The retaining strap is the safety feature — a hooked blade that isn't snapped in can swing out; make closing the snap part of holstering, not an afterthought. Verify the seat by feel. Because hook knives vary, confirm the specific knife drops into the curve and the strap actually captures it before you trust the sheath in motion (see the fitment note below). Condition the leather. Flooring work is wet and abrasive; wipe the sheath down, let it dry, and dress it occasionally so the leather and the snap stay serviceable. Carry the hook edge aware — a hook cuts on the inside of the curve, so orient the sheath so a draw brings the hook up and away from your body.
Asked at the counter
BUYER QUESTIONS ANSWERED BEFORE THE CART, NOT AFTER THE RETURN
Why is it curved?
Because a hook blade won't sit in a straight pouch — the sheath's curve accepts the hook.
Why the snap strap?
To capture the hooked edge so it can't swing loose on a belt during kneeling, floor-level work.
Which knife fits?
Hyde's 67090 hook knife primarily, and per Hyde "most hook-style bladed knives" — but confirm your specific knife seats and snaps in (fit is a family claim, not a per-model guarantee).
Can I carry a straight knife in it?
No — straight utility knives use the 42520/42525; heritage straight blades use the 56500/56505.
Is it leather?
Yes — a heavy-duty leather sheath with a snap-button retaining strap.
