Handle Material

[bratch]

Bark River just dropped a run of their bird and trout knives I’m been watching for a while. I think I’m going to pick one up while they are available but am stuck on handle selection.

Historically I’ve went with something basic and practical, micarta or G10 usually. Lately I’ve been on a big orange kick picking up several fixed blade and folders in orange.

I’m actually leaning towards one of the wood handles this time, curly maple has caught my eye.


Intent would be for this to be used as a field knife, be it a light camp knife or the actual bird and trout as envisioned.

Any reasons not to go with one of the wood handles if it’s actually going to be a user and not just a collectors piece? Clean up, resiliency comparable to the other materials?

 

[burrhead]

I've had a Mini Canadian with olive wood scales for something like 15 years. It's strictly a hunting knife for me and I'd guess I've skinned and quartered at least 40 deer with it over the years. No specials treatment; after use I just wash it in soap and water like anything else and it looks great.

The wood did get a little dull looking a few years ago but I just rubbed it with a little tung oil and it shined right up. I've only done that once, not a big deal. Otherwise there's been no warping, chipping, etc. Get the wood if you like, I would again.

 

[nettlle]

For something that's going to be soaked in blood, mud, and goodness knows what else and hauled around in a Kydex sheath in the pouring rain Rucarta is my choice. My most used hunting knife, a Dozier Slim Outdoorsman, has Rucarta scales that still looks like new. The Rucarta is almost as tough as it's D2 blade. I've been using this knife for about 35 years and it still looks like new.

 

[hso]

I'd ask if the maple is stabilized or not. If stabilized there's nothing to worry about.

 

[Valkman]

I'd stick with a bright color so you don't lose it. I love orange!

 

[JShirley]

Canvas micarta is my absolute favorite, but stabilized wood should also be weather resistant, just not as strong.

John