Handle Materials
I offer my knives in 4 different handle materials. Micarta, Stabilized Wood, G10 Composite, and Stabilized Pinecone (other options may be available upon request).
Micarta: Micarta is a composite material composited of phenolic-based resin and fiber layers. The fiber layer can be linen, canvas, or burlap and the resin is typically dyed black or undyed. This material is one of our favorite handle materials. The fiber layers form both a very grippy texture and visually appealing layers. The material is also completely stable and waterproof.
A santoku chefs knife with black burlap micarta handles.
A paring knife with a black linen Micarta handle.
Stabilized Wood: Stabilized wood is the most visually striking material I use. It is made by forcing a low-viscosity resin into the wood to ensure it will be fully waterproof and will not shift or crack over time. This process also makes the wood more stunning. This material is not as durable as Micarta or G10 composites but it is quite durable and will last a lifetime if properly taken care of. It is best to avoid leaving this material in standing water and it’s good to apply a thin coat of oil to the handle periodically. This is hands down the most unique handle material!
A paring knife with a stabilized wood handle (Boxelder Burl)
G10 Composite: G10 is an excellent handle material that is similar to Micarta but utilizes fiberglass instead of natural fiber layers. This makes for a denser handle material this is completely waterproof and extremely tough. If you occasionally forget your knives in the sink in water or run them through the dishwasher on accident, then this is the handle material for you. It will last many lifetimes with no issues no matter how it is treated. Plus, it comes in very bright colors like Cherry Red!
A santoku chefs knife with a black and grey G10 composite handle.
A paring knife withe a cherry red G10 composite handle.
Stabilized Pinecone: Stabilized Pinecone is similar to stabilized wood except instead of wood, it is built around a real pine cone. The Pinecone is stabilized and then the surrounding area is filled with dyed acrylic. The acrylic can be any color such as white, blue, green, or orange. The pinecone makes for a stunning pattern and texture that almost resembles snake skin! This material, similar to stabilized wood, requires just a bit more care. It is best to avoid leaving this material in standing water and it’s good to apply a thin coat of oil to the handle periodically.
A western chefs knife and a pairing knife, both with blue stabilized pinecone handles.
A santoku chefs knife with a white stabilized pinecone handle.
