Knife Handle Materials

When it comes to knifemaking, one of the most exciting choices is selecting the right handle material. The handle not only determines the functionality and comfort of the knife, but it also impacts its aesthetics, durability, and overall appeal. There are a variety of materials available, each with its own set of advantages and considerations. Some of the most popular handle materials for knifemakers include: Micarta, G-10, Wood, Antler, and Mammoth Ivory/exotics.

1. Micarta

What it is: Micarta is a brand name for a composite material made from layers of linen, paper, or canvas that are impregnated with resin and then compressed under heat and pressure. This creates a dense, durable material that can be used for a wide variety of purposes, including knife handles. Generic versions are widely available and any composite of fabric and resin is often referred to as micarta.

Pros:

• Durability: Micarta is extremely tough and resistant to moisture, which makes it a great choice for outdoor knives.

• Grip: It provides a solid grip, especially when textured.

• Workability: It is easy to machine and shape, making it ideal for knifemakers.

• Price: Micarta is fairly inexpensive

Cons:

• Weight: It can be heavier than some other materials.

• Hard on Tools: Micarta is tough, which means it can be tough on tools and may require some extra effort when shaping.

2. G-10

What it is: G-10 is another type of fiberglass laminate material. It is similar to Micarta but is made from layers of fiberglass cloth combined with epoxy resin, which gives it a very tough and hard composition.

Pros:

• Strength and Durability: G-10 is incredibly strong and resistant to impact, moisture, and temperature changes.

• Lightweight: Despite its strength, G-10 is relatively light compared to some other materials.

• Non-slip Grip: It offers excellent texture, which ensures a firm grip, even in wet conditions.

• Easy to Maintain: Unlike wood, G-10 doesn’t require regular upkeep.

Cons:

• Workability: G-10 is very hard, it requires fresh and sharp abrasives to not burn it. It sands and works fairly easily when using sharp tools however.

3. Wood

What it is: Wood has been a traditional handle material for knives for centuries. It is used for its natural beauty, warmth, and workability.

Pros:

• Aesthetics: Wood provides a timeless, natural appearance that appeals to collectors and those who appreciate craftsmanship.

• Workability: Wood is relatively easy to carve and shape, making it ideal for beginners.

• Comfort: Wood feels warm and comfortable in hand, offering a traditional grip.

Cons:

• Moisture Sensitivity: Wood can swell or warp if it gets wet, so it’s not the best for knives that will be exposed to harsh environments.

• Maintenance: Wooden handles require regular oiling and care to prevent drying out and cracking.

4. Stabilized Wood

What it is: Stabilized wood is regular wood that has been impregnated with resin under pressure. This process hardens the wood and makes it more durable and resistant to moisture and rot. Some wood cannot be stabilized such as desert ironwood.

Pros:

• Durability: Unlike regular wood, stabilized wood is resistant to moisture, cracking, and warping.

• Aesthetic Appeal: It retains the natural beauty of wood, with unique grain patterns that are enhanced by the stabilization process.

• Workability: Stabilized wood is still relatively easy to shape, though it may be slightly harder than untreated wood. Finishing stabilized wood is much more simple than un-stabilized wood. It typically is sanded to a high grit and then just buffed, leaving a high polish finish without any coatings or oiling.

Cons:

• Cost: Stabilized wood can be more expensive than regular wood due to the resin process.

• Grip: Because stabilized wood is most attractive when polished to a high degree, it can become slippery when wet. This makes it less ideal for knives that will be used when wet such as skinning/hunting knives, or kitchen knives. This can be overcome to a degree by texturing certain areas of the handle however.

5. Antler

What it is: Antler is a natural material harvested from the antlers of deer, elk, moose, and other animals. It’s prized for its unique texture and natural beauty.

Pros:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Antler has a distinctive, organic look with unique color patterns and textures. It can also be easily carved and polished to a smooth finish.

• Strength: Antler is lightweight yet quite strong, making it suitable for knives that will see moderate use.

• Historical Significance: Antler handles have a traditional and rustic appeal, often associated with classic or vintage-style knives.

Cons:

• Fragility: Antler is not as durable as synthetic materials like G-10 or Micarta. It can be prone to cracking or chipping under heavy use.

• Pith: Antler by nature has a very porous pith section. It must be filled to stay stable.

6. Mammoth Ivory / Exotic Materials

What it is: Mammoth ivory is fossilized ivory from the tusks of extinct mammoths. It has a distinct appearance, often characterized by unique color patterns and a smooth texture.

Pros:

• Aesthetic Uniqueness: Each piece of mammoth ivory is one-of-a-kind, with intricate colorations and patterns that make it highly sought after by collectors.

• Historical Significance: Mammoth ivory holds a certain historical and artistic value due to its rarity and the fact that it comes from an extinct species.

Cons:

• Cost: Mammoth ivory is expensive due to its rarity.

• Ethical Concerns: While mammoth ivory is legal to use in many places, there can be controversy surrounding the use of ivory, even if it comes from extinct animals.

• Brittleness: Like other ivory materials, it can be fragile and susceptible to cracking or chipping.

Conclusion

Choosing the right handle material for your hobby knife depends on a range of factors, including the intended use, personal preference, and aesthetics, For most knives, stabilized wood (or other wood species that cannot be stabilized such as desert ironwood or African blackwood) are our favorites. For a maintenance free handle material or where the cutting environment will be very wet, G-10 and micarta are our go-to choices.