What Are Knife Scales? Analyzing These Important Knife Parts

Did you know you can completely customize every aspect of a high-end knife by utilizing the Architect Knives’ Knife BUILDERS tool? Knife enthusiasts can use it to pick out everything from the best blades to the top knife handle scales.

So, what are knife scales? Which materials are used to make knife scales? And how can you choose the right knife scales when you’re piecing together a custom knife?

Find the answers to these questions below before creating a personalized knife with the Architect Knives’ Knife BUILDERS tool.

What Are Knife Scales?

Those who love knives don’t typically refer to the handles on them as “handles.” What are knife handles called, then? They go by several different names, but most experts call them knife scales.

At the same time, you shouldn’t necessarily answer the question, “What are knife scales?” by simply saying, “They’re the handles for knives.” They make up just one part of the handles found on knives.

Knife scales are the parts of knife handles that people hold on to when they have knives in their hands. They’re directly attached to the tangs for knives — the metal parts of knife blades that extend into their handles — and they’re designed to improve the aesthetics of knives while also making them more functional overall.

Which Materials Are Used to Make Knife Scales?

All knife scales are not created equal. The answer to the question, “What are knife handles made of?” changes from one knife to the next.

Whenever you’re customizing a knife, you should think carefully about which knife handle material you select. Choosing the wrong knife scale could negatively impact the appearance of a knife while simultaneously making it more difficult to handle.

Here are several of the best materials used to make knife scales:

• Wood: This has traditionally been the most popular choice for those buying both mass-produced knives and custom knives. Wood handles make knives easy to hold while giving them a gorgeous look.
• Metal: Aluminum and titanium are just two types of metals used to make knife scales these days. Metal isn’t always ideal for those who plan to use knives in extreme temperatures, but you can add texture to these knife scales to make them easier to grip.
• Plastic: This is the least durable option for those wondering, “What are knife scales—and which should I go with when buying a knife?” However, plastic knife handles can deliver better flexibility and grip-ability than other choices.

There are also a couple of out-of-the-ordinary types of knife scales that you can invest in while creating a custom knife through Architect Knives. For example, we carry G10 knife scales made out of a proprietary fiberglass and epoxy blend. We also offer Micarta knife scales that contain a special composite material constructed out of fiber or paper.

How Can You Choose the Right Knife Scales?

Now that you know the answer to the question, “What are knife scales?” you should be ready to choose the right handle for a knife. It can, however, still be overwhelming to make such a difficult decision.

These tips will help you pick the scale that will work best when incorporated into a customized knife:

• Start by seeing the different types of knife scales that Architect Knives offers (G10, Micarta, AmeraGrip, various woods, etc.).
• Consider what look you want your new knife to take on (easy to see or camouflaged, light or dark colored, etc.).
• Hold different types of knife scales in your hands to see how they feel.
• Think about how long you would like a knife to last and compare this to the expected lifespans for knife scales.
• See if a knife scale will be the right size for the knife you’re designing.

Allow Architect Knives to Provide the Perfect Knife Scales

Getting the answer to the question, “What are knife scales?” is only half the battle when putting together plans for a custom knife. You also need to track down a knife scale you love and work it into the design for a knife.

Let Architect Knives help by showing you different knife scales. We can also answer questions that go beyond just, “What are knife handles called?” to assist you in getting a better understanding of the various knife parts.

Contact us to speak with an expert about our knife scales.