Knives are an essential tool in everyday life and are used for everything from preparing food to outdoor activities. One of the most important factors in choosing a knife is the handle material. The handle is where your hand comes into contact with the knife and it can greatly affect the overall performance and durability of the knife.
In this article, we will explore the different types of knife handle materials available and the pros and cons of each, so you can make an informed decision when choosing your next knife. From traditional materials like wood and bone to modern alternatives like G10 and Micarta, we’ll cover it all.
What is the purpose of a knife handle?
The purpose of a knife handle is to provide a secure and comfortable grip for the user, allowing them to control and manipulate the blade effectively. The handle also protects the user’s hand from coming into contact with the blade while in use. Some knife handles are also designed to provide a balance to the blade, making the knife more comfortable to use for longer periods of time.
In addition to providing a secure grip and protection for the user’s hand, knife handles also serve an important aesthetic and functional purpose. Many knife handles are made from materials such as wood, bone, or synthetic materials that are chosen for their durability and resistance to moisture. They can also be decorated with intricate designs and patterns, making them a decorative as well as practical tool.
The shape and size of a knife handle can also be designed to fit comfortably in the user’s hand, reducing the risk of hand fatigue and injury. Some knife handles are also ergonomically designed to provide a more natural grip and reduce strain on the user’s hand.
Another purpose of knife handle is that it also can be used to store knives safely by providing a safe place for the blade when not in use. Many kitchen knives, for example, have a protective sheath that can be placed over the blade to keep it safe and secure when not in use.
Natural knife handle materials
Traditionally knife handles were made from natural materials such as wood, bone, and antler. These materials were readily available and could be easily shaped and carved to fit the hand. Even today, many knives continue to use these natural materials for their handles as they are durable and provide a comfortable grip. However, with the development of modern materials such as plastics, metal and synthetic materials, these are also being used as handle materials.
Wooden knife handles
Wooden knife handles have been used for centuries and are still commonly used today. They are durable, lightweight, and can be carved or shaped to fit comfortably in the hand. Different types of wood have different characteristics that make them suitable for different types of knives. Hardwoods such as maple, hickory, and walnut are often used for kitchen knives and other tools that require a durable handle. Softer woods like rosewood and bocote are often used for folding knives and other knives that require a lightweight handle. Some other woods like cocobolo, ironwood and various burls are also used for knife handle because of their unique patterns and color. Additionally, wooden knife handles can be finished with oils or varnishes to protect them from moisture and improve their appearance.
Stabilized
Stabilized wood is a process where a wood blank is impregnated with a resin to improve its stability, durability and appearance. The process of stabilization typically involves vacuum sealing the wood in a chamber with a stabilizing resin, which is then heated and pressurized to force the resin deep into the wood fibers.
The resin used in the process can be either acrylic or epoxy. The stabilization process helps to fill any voids and cracks in the wood, making it more stable and resistant to warping, cracking, and splitting. It also helps to make the wood more dimensionally stable, which can be especially important for knife handles where precise tolerances are required.
Stabilized wood also has a unique and consistent appearance that is different from non-stabilized wood. The resin gives the wood a glass like appearance and also brings out the natural colors and patterns of the wood. It is often used for knife handle because of its durability and unique appearance.
Burl
A burl is a type of wood growth that occurs on the trunk or branches of a tree. It is characterized by a swirling, knotty grain pattern and can be found in many different types of trees. Burls are highly prized for their unique, decorative appearance and are often used in woodworking and knife making.
Burls are formed when the tree is under stress, such as disease, insect infestation, or injury, and they are usually found on the trunk or branches of the tree. The stress causes the tree to produce a large number of small buds all at once, which grow into a lumpy, irregular mass of wood. The wood in a burl is often denser and harder than the surrounding wood, making it more durable and resistant to wear.
Burl wood is highly sought after by woodworkers, knife makers, and other craftsmen because of its unique, decorative appearance. It is often used to make knife handles, inlays, and other decorative items. The unique pattern of burl wood can make each knife handle unique and one of a kind. Some popular types of burl wood used for knife handles are:
- Desert Ironwood burl – a dense, hard wood that is known for its dark, rich color and intricate grain patterns.
- Buckeye burl – a softwood that is known for its swirling, knotty grain pattern and light to medium color.
- Amboyna burl – a dense, hard wood that is known for its deep red or orange color and intricate grain patterns.
It’s worth noting that burls are not always easy to find, and when they are, they can be expensive due to their rarity and high demand.
Spalted
Spalted wood is wood that has been partially decomposed by fungi. It is characterized by dark lines or streaks, called spalting, that run through the wood. These lines are created by the fungi as they grow through the wood, altering its color and texture.
The process of spalting can happen naturally in wood that has been exposed to the elements, or it can be induced artificially by introducing specific types of fungi to the wood. The degree of spalting can vary depending on the type of wood, the age of the wood and the species of fungi.
Spalted wood is highly prized for its unique, decorative appearance and is often used in woodworking and knife making. The dark lines and streaks in the wood can add a lot of character and interest to a knife handle. Spalted wood is also often more lightweight than non-spalted wood and is known for being more stable and less prone to cracking or warping.
Some popular types of spalted wood used for knife handles are:
- Maple
- Oak
- Walnut
- Cherry
Just like stabilized wood, it’s worth noting that spalted wood is a term that is not regulated and different manufacturers may use different methods and materials to create spalted wood, so it’s important to research and know the source of the spalted wood you are using.
Ebony
Ebony is a dense, hard wood that is known for its deep black color and fine, tight grain. It is often used in high-end knife handles, as well as in other luxury items such as musical instruments, furniture, and carvings.
One of the main reasons why ebony is used for knife handles is its extreme durability. It is a very hard and dense wood, which makes it resistant to wear and tear. It is also a very stable wood and does not warp or split easily. The density of the wood also makes it heavy, providing a good balance for knives.
Another reason why ebony is used for knife handles is its aesthetic appeal. The deep black color of the wood is very striking and can add a lot of visual interest to a knife handle. The tight, fine grain of the wood can also be polished to a high gloss, which can make the handle very smooth to the touch.
Ebony is also very resistant to water and rot, making it a great choice for knives that will be used in wet environments, such as hunting knives or fishing knives.
It’s worth noting that ebony is a type of wood that is considered to be endangered and its trade is regulated by CITES, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. So, it’s important to make sure that any ebony used in knife handles is legally and sustainably sourced.
Cocobolo
Cocobolo is a tropical hardwood that is commonly used for knife handles because of its durability and natural resistance to decay. It is also prized for its beautiful coloration, which ranges from orange to deep red, and its intricate grain patterns. Cocobolo is often used in high-end knives, such as hunting knives and chef knives, due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and excellent workability. It is also used in other applications such as woodturning, musical instruments, and decorative items. It is important to note that while working with cocobolo it can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, as it contain compounds that can cause skin irritation.
Oak
Oak is a type of hardwood that is often used for knife handles because of its durability and resistance to wear and tear. It is also a relatively inexpensive wood, making it a popular choice for knife makers. Oak is heavy and dense, which makes it a great material for knife handles because it provides a good balance and a comfortable grip. Additionally, oak is also resistant to rot and decay, which is important for knives that will be used in outdoor or humid environments. The wood can be finished with oil, varnish or wax to enhance its natural look, or can be stained to achieve a certain color.
Leather knife handles
Leather knife handles are a traditional and popular choice for knives, particularly for hunting and outdoor knives. The leather provides a good grip and a comfortable feel in the hand, and can be easily shaped and customized to fit the user’s hand. Leather also has the ability to absorb moisture, which can help prevent slippage when using the knife in wet conditions. However, leather handles require regular maintenance and conditioning to keep them in good condition and prevent cracking or rotting.
Bone knife handles
Bone knife handles are a traditional material used for the handle of knives, particularly in the manufacturing of hunting knives and other outdoor knives. Bone is a durable and attractive material that can be shaped and carved into a variety of handle designs. It is also a natural material that is easy to grip and provides a comfortable hold.
Many different types of animal bones can be used to make knife handles, including those from deer, elk, moose, and other large mammals. Other materials such as horn, antler, and ivory are also commonly used. However, the use of bone from animals in knife handles has been controversial and is now illegal in some places.
Metal knife handle materials
Stainless steel knife handles
Stainless steel knife handles are a popular choice among knife makers and consumers because of their durability and resistance to corrosion. Stainless steel is a type of steel that contains at least 10.5% chromium, which gives it its resistance to rust and tarnish. This makes it a great material for knife handles, as it can withstand the constant use and exposure to moisture that comes with being a kitchen or pocket knife.
Another advantage of stainless steel knife handles is that they are relatively easy to clean and maintain. They can be wiped down with a damp cloth and dried off, or washed with soap and water without fear of damaging the handle. They also do not require any special oils or treatments to maintain their appearance and integrity, unlike other materials such as wood or bone. Additionally, stainless steel is relatively inexpensive compared to other materials, making it a cost-effective option for knife handles.
Aluminum knife handles
Aluminum knife handles are a popular choice among knife manufacturers and users alike. They offer a number of advantages over other materials, such as wood or plastic. One of the main advantages of aluminum is that it is lightweight, which makes it comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver. It is also strong and durable, which means that it can withstand heavy use without showing signs of wear and tear. Additionally, aluminum is non-porous and does not absorb moisture, which makes it resistant to bacteria and easy to clean.
Another advantage of aluminum knife handles is that they can be easily customized. Manufacturers can use a variety of techniques to add color, texture, and patterns to the handles, which makes them more visually appealing. Additionally, aluminum can be anodized, which means that it can be treated with an electrochemical process that adds a layer of protection to the surface of the metal. This makes the handles even more durable and resistant to wear and tear. Overall, aluminum knife handles are a great choice for anyone looking for a lightweight, durable, and customizable handle for their knife.
Titanium knife handles
Titanium is a metal that is known for its strength and durability, which makes it a popular choice for knife handles. It is also resistant to corrosion, which means it will not rust or corrode over time. This makes it ideal for use in knives that will be exposed to harsh environments, such as knives used for hunting or camping. Additionally, titanium is lightweight, which makes it comfortable to hold and easy to carry.
Titanium knife handles also offer a sleek and modern aesthetic. They are often smooth and featureless, and can be anodized to create a variety of color options. This allows knife manufacturers to create unique and visually appealing knives. Additionally, titanium is a hypoallergenic material, which means it is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction in those who handle it. This is an added benefit for those who have sensitive skin or are prone to allergic reactions. Overall, titanium knife handles are a great option for anyone looking for a durable, lightweight, and visually appealing knife handle.
Synthetic knife handle materials
There are a variety of synthetic knife handle materials that are commonly used in the knife-making industry. Some examples include:
Carbon fiber knife handles
Carbon fiber knife handles are a popular choice among knife enthusiasts due to their durability, strength, and light weight. Carbon fiber is a composite material made of carbon fibers embedded in a resin matrix. These fibers provide the handle with a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it resistant to impact, compression, and bending. Carbon fiber handles also have a sleek and modern look that is appealing to many knife users. They are typically more expensive than other handle materials, but are well worth the investment for those who want a durable and high-performance knife handle.
G-10 knife handles
G-10 is a type of composite material made of layers of fiberglass that are impregnated with epoxy resin. It is known for being lightweight, strong, and durable. G-10 is often used in the handles of knives and other hand tools because it provides a good grip and can withstand extreme temperatures and harsh environments. Additionally, G-10 is not affected by moisture and is resistant to impact and chemicals. This makes it a popular material for knife handles among outdoor enthusiasts and military personnel.
Micarta knife handles
Micarta is a brand name for a composite material made from layers of paper or fabric that have been impregnated with a phenolic resin. When used as a knife handle, it is known for its durability, resistance to moisture and heat, and its ability to provide a secure grip. It is a popular choice for knife handles because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to work with. However, it is not as lightweight as some other materials such as G-10, carbon fiber and titanium.
Plastic knife handles
Plastic knife handles are a common material used in the manufacturing of knives. They are lightweight, durable, and easy to manufacture, which makes them a popular choice among knife manufacturers. Additionally, plastic handles are often cheaper than other materials, such as wood or metal, which makes them a cost-effective option. However, they may not be as durable as other materials, and they may not provide as good of a grip as some other handle materials.
FRN knife handles
FRN stands for fiberglass-reinforced nylon, which is a type of synthetic material commonly used in knife handles. It is a composite material made of nylon fibers embedded in a matrix of fiberglass. The fiberglass reinforcement provides FRN with high strength and stiffness, while the nylon fibers give it a good balance of impact resistance and flexibility.
FRN is a lightweight material that is also moisture-resistant, which makes it a popular choice for knife handles. It does not expand or contract with changes in temperature, which helps to maintain the knife’s structural integrity over time. Additionally, it is also chemical-resistant, and does not absorb moisture, which makes it an ideal option for knives that may be used in wet environments.
FRN is also relatively inexpensive compared to other synthetic materials, which makes it an affordable option for many knife makers and manufacturers. It also comes in different colors and can be textured to improve grip, providing a variety of options to choose from.
FRN is also relatively easy to work with, and can be shaped, drilled, and machined to suit the desired design of the knife handle. This makes it a popular choice among knife makers and manufacturers.
Griv-Ex
Griv-Ex is a type of glass-reinforced polymer that is commonly used in knife handles. It is a composite material made of glass fibers embedded in a matrix of polymer. The glass fibers give Griv-Ex its high strength and stiffness, while the polymer provides it with impact resistance and flexibility.
One of the main advantages of Griv-Ex as a knife handle material is its durability. It is a tough and impact-resistant material that can withstand heavy use and abuse. It is also relatively lightweight, which makes it easy to handle and maneuver.
Griv-Ex also has a good grip, which makes it a popular choice for knives that will be used in wet or slippery conditions. It’s also resistant to chemicals, and does not absorb moisture, which makes it an ideal option for knives that may be used in wet environments.
Griv-Ex is also relatively easy to work with, and can be shaped, drilled, and machined to suit the desired design of the knife handle. This makes it a popular choice among knife makers and manufacturers.
Griv-Ex is a relatively new material in the knife handle market and is not as common as other materials like G10, Micarta and FRN, but it’s a great option for those who want a handle that is highly durable and lightweight at the same time.
Are any other materials used for knife handles?
Yes, there are many other materials that can be used for knife handles. Some examples include:
- Wood: various types of wood can be used for knife handles, such as maple, cherry, and walnut.
- Horn: knife handles can be made from various types of animal horn, such as elk or buffalo.
- Ivory: knife handles can be made from various types of ivory, such as elephant or mammoth.
- Pearl: knife handles can be made from various types of pearl, such as mother of pearl or abalone pearl.
- Stone: knife handles can be made from various types of stone, such as jade or turquoise.
- Synthetic materials: knife handles can be made from various types of synthetic materials, such as rubber or resin.
- Other materials: knife handles can also be made from other materials such as glass, ceramics, and various metals.
What is the ideal size and shape for a knife handle?
For kitchen knives, a handle length of around 4 to 5 inches is common, as this allows for a comfortable grip and good control of the blade while chopping and slicing. For hunting knives and survival knives, a handle length of around 4 to 6 inches is typical, as this allows for a comfortable grip and good control of the blade while performing tasks such as skinning and carving.
The ideal size and shape for a knife handle will vary depending on the intended use of the knife and the user’s personal preferences. In general, a handle should be large enough to comfortably fit the user’s hand and provide a secure grip, but not so large that it becomes unwieldy. The shape of the handle should also be designed to fit comfortably in the user’s hand and provide a secure grip. Common handle shapes include straight, cylindrical shape, curved shape, and contoured shape. Some knife handles are also designed with finger guards or textured surfaces to improve grip. Ultimately, the best handle size and shape is the one that feels most comfortable and secure to the user.
What are knife scales?
Knife scales refer to the handle material of a knife, which is typically attached to the blade on either side. They are used to provide a comfortable grip for the user and can also add to the aesthetic of the knife. They provide a surface for the user to grip onto, and can also be used to customize the look of the knife.
The scales are typically made from a variety of materials, including wood, bone, plastic, and metal. Some common types of wood used for knife scales include rosewood, cocobolo, and walnut. Bone is also a popular choice for knife scales, and can be made from various animal bones such as those of cows, sheep, and pigs.
Plastic is another popular option for knife scales. It is lightweight, durable, and easy to work with, making it a great choice for mass-produced knives. Metal scales, such as those made from aluminum or titanium, are also used in some knives. These materials are more durable and resistant to wear and tear, but are also more expensive.
The scales can be attached to the blade in different ways, including being screwed, pinned or glued to the tang of the knife. Some knives have full tang construction, where the tang of the knife extends through the handle, which provides a more secure and strong handle.
In addition to providing a comfortable grip for the user, knife scales can also be used to add to the aesthetic of the knife. Many custom knife makers will use exotic woods or intricate designs to create a unique look for their knives.
Natural vs metal vs synthetic knife handles
Natural materials, such as wood and bone, have been used for knife handles for centuries. They are often chosen for their aesthetic appeal, as well as their durability and warmth to the touch. Wood handles can be made from a variety of different types of wood, each with their own unique grain patterns and color variations. Hardwoods like rosewood, cocobolo, and walnut, are a popular choices for knife handles because they are dense, strong, and resistant to warping and cracking. Bone handles, on the other hand, can be made from various animal bones such as cow, sheep, and pig bones. These materials are also dense and strong, and they can be polished to a smooth finish. One of the downsides of natural materials is that they can be affected by environmental factors such as moisture and temperature changes. This can cause warping or cracking over time.
Metal handles, such as those made from aluminum or titanium, are another popular option for knife handles. These materials are more durable and resistant to wear and tear than natural materials. They are also resistant to environmental factors, making them ideal for knives that will be used in harsh conditions. However, metal handles can be heavy and can conduct heat or cold, which can make them uncomfortable to hold in certain situations. They are also more expensive than natural materials.
Synthetic materials, such as plastic and rubber, are also commonly used for knife handles. These materials are lightweight, durable, and easy to work with, making them a great choice for mass-produced knives. They are also less expensive than natural and metal materials. They can be molded into a variety of shapes and sizes, which makes them easy to customize for different types of knives. They are also resistant to environmental factors, making them suitable for knives that will be used in harsh conditions. However, synthetic materials can be less durable than natural and metal materials and may not have the same aesthetic appeal.
In conclusion, natural, metal, and synthetic materials all have their own unique properties and are suitable for different types of knives and uses. Natural materials such as wood and bone are often chosen for their aesthetic appeal, while metal handles are more durable and resistant to wear and tear. Synthetic materials such as plastic and rubber are lightweight, durable, and easy to work with, making them a great choice for mass-produced knives. Ultimately, the choice of handle material will depend on personal preference, the intended use of the knife, and budget.
Final Words
Hnadle selection can depend on factors such as the size and shape of the handle, the material it is made of, and the individual’s hand size and shape. Some people may prefer a larger handle for a better grip, while others may prefer a smaller handle for a more delicate touch. The material of the handle can also play a role, as some people may prefer a softer material for a more comfortable grip, while others may prefer a harder material for a more secure hold. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference and what feels most comfortable and secure for the individual.
