Knife handle scales are the thin slabs of material that are attached to either side of a knife tang. They form the handles for folding knives.
A wide variety of materials are used to make knife handle scales. Some are better suited to specific knife types and designs while others are more versatile.
Materials
There are a number of different materials that can be used to make knife handle scales. Some of them are more durable than others and some are easier to work with.
Some of the most common are wood, bone, and horn. These can all be cut into a variety of shapes and sizes.
Another popular material is carbon fiber, which is a very strong, lightweight material that’s often used as a handle material. However, it suffers from being brittle and can break if subjected to sharp impacts.
Other materials that can be used to make knife handle liners include aluminum, brass, and micarta. These can all be textured for added grip and stability.
Tools
The materials you choose for the scales of your knife handle can have a huge impact on its appearance and performance. A wide variety of natural handle materials are available, including wood, bone, horn, and shells like abalone or mother of pearl.
Aluminum and titanium handle scales are also popular choices for knife handles. They’re lightweight and easy to anodize in any color you want.
Stainless steel scales are also common on many knives. They’re durable, and a good choice for budget-friendly knives.
Regardless of the material you choose, make sure the blade is positioned securely in a vise. This will prevent the tang from shifting while you work. Once the tang is secure, you can move on to the next step in making your knife handle.
Preparation
If you’re a knifemaker, you know that the handle material can make or break a knife. Not only does it determine the aesthetic appeal, but it also can make or break how well the blade holds up.
There are a number of different materials that can be used to make knife handles. Some of the most common are wood, metal, and bone.
Wood is a popular option because it offers classic looks, is relatively inexpensive, and can be customized with different species, grain patterns, colors, and chatoyance. It also feels great in the hand and is fairly durable.
Cutting
There’s a lot to consider when making knife handle scales, from which material to use to the design. These factors all play a part in developing a handle that’s comfortable to use and lets you cut the blade effectively.
Whether made from wood, brass or plastic, handle scales allow bade smiths to personalize their designs. Some makers combine wood burls with alumilite casting resin to create one-of-a-kind handles, while others prefer a more traditional look.
To make a handle, first determine the shape you want it to have. Then, using a band saw, cut it out. Next, insert pins into each of the scales and sand them down until they’re flush with the blade.
Joining
Wood is a popular choice for knife handles, but it can be difficult to find high-quality hardwoods without flaws. And, it is a resource-intensive material to produce.
For this reason, many knifemakers opt for metal alternatives, such as titanium and aluminum. These materials are lighter and more durable than wood, and they won’t rust.
Once you’ve selected the knife handle material, you can start the joining process. It’s important to make sure the pins are square to the scales before gluing them together.