Knife enthusiasts the world over have argued over the best knife scales available for decades. Knife scales, for clarification, are the materials that make the handle of the knife, which are affixed to the blade (more specifically the tang) via rivets.
There are numerous options to choose from, providing knife users and collectors with various advantages and disadvantages (depending on their personal preferences and their specific uses).
However, according to our diligent research and our experts’ advice, we have finally come to a decision: carbon fiber is the best material for knife scales.
There are other contenders in the race for best knife scales as well, such as Micarta, G-10, natural materials (wood and animal bone), fiberglass reinforced nylon (FRN), titanium, stainless steel, and aluminum. Yet, through countless tests and reviews, we’ve found that carbon fiber holds the throne as the best with an iron grip.
Advantages of Carbon Fiber Knife Handle Material
So, what exactly makes carbon fiber such an ideal material for knife scales anyway?
Lightweight
No one wants to lug around a heavy knife, let alone use one! That’s one of the main advantages of carbon fiber: it’s remarkably lightweight. In fact, it is five times lighter than steel! Therefore, when it’s used as a material in knife scales, it makes the overall knife an excellent and easy-to-wield weight.
Superior Specific Strength
You may be thinking a knife scale material’s weight doesn’t really mean anything if it isn’t strong too– and we hear you on that. That’s why our next point is all about carbon fiber’s impressive specific strength. Specific strength is a material’s strength-to-weight ratio– and carbon fiber is one of the best out there.
Carbon fiber’s specific strength is a whopping 2457! For comparison, aluminum alloy’s specific strength is just 254.
Doesn’t Corrode and Can Last Forever!
Various knife scales are more susceptible to corrosion, but not carbon fiber. Carbon fiber is chemically stable and resistant to corrosion, which means that it won’t break down. In fact, so long as it is kept safe from traumatic instances, it can last forever!
Exceptional Strength
We know that we mentioned specific strength earlier, but we would be remiss to leave out its overall strength, which in and of itself is impressive. For just some perspective, it is 5 times the strength of steel!
High Tactility
The last thing you’d want to happen while holding a knife is to have it slip in your hand due to sweat, precipitation, humidity, or other slippery substances. Fortunately, carbon fiber scales have exceptionally high tactility, especially those that are treated with specialized resins that provide a “grippy” finish.
Unique Aesthetic Options
Carbon fiber scales come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, designs, and other aesthetic possibilities! So, not only do they feel and function in a superior manner, but they also look exceptional!
Where to Get the Best Carbon Fiber for Your Knife Handles/Scales
Now that you know the impressive advantages of choosing carbon fiber for your knife scales, you should only purchase the finest of carbon fiber options. That is without a doubt from Protech Composites. No porosity, no voids, no pinholes, UV-stable– all the attributes you want in carbon fiber (and then some!). Browse their products today or give them a call at 360-573-7800.
For more information about Carbon Fiber Knife Handle Material and Carbon Fiber Composite Please visit: Protech Composites Inc.
