benefits of G-10 compared to FRN

B

bekylane

Joined
Dec 9, 2007
Messages
279
I would like to know what are the benefits of G10 vs FRN for the end users.

On most sites G10 benefits are listed as millable, drillable etc, which are benefits for the knife maker but what are the real benefits for the end user?
 
Good fit and finish (since the factory will be able to machine it easily) and it is pleasing to the touch and to the eye. I believe we're mostly talking aesthetics and possibly better grip and resistance to chemicals, but don't quote me on the last bit.
 
It is sturdier, so it can be used to make slimmer scales, sometimes even without additional liners, it looks better without a "plastic" look, and doesn't feel cheap in the hand (while I don't think FRN does). G-10 comes in sheets, so it can be used for small runs since it doesn't need molds.

In contrast, FRN scales can be injection-molded, so once the molds have amortized, they are cheaper to make, and it is easy to change colors. You can bring FRN in nearly any form you want (think about the integrated clips still to be found on the FRN Dragonfly), which is difficult with G-10. So I do think that in fact FRN is "better" for production knife makers than G-10...

In the end, it comes down to taste though. Some like FRN scales, some prefer G-10.

Dennis
 
It wears out pockets and costs more money.

I'd choose FRN any day :D
 
FRN is cheaper in the long run ($50 Native with S30V). Molds are initially more expensive, but look at all the Salt handles. Basically Delica 3 / Rescue / Endura 3 handles. They are getting a lot of mileage out of those initially expensive molds.

G-10 can be grippier, textured differently, preferred on some knives, more resistant to chemicals, comes in sheets so smaller runs are easier to make cost effective.
 
The only real advantage I've seen that G-10 (or carbon fiber) has over FRN is resistance to heat. Other than that, in my experience, FRN is just as tough and durable as G-10. Unless it gets cut, the finish on FRN really stands up, as does G-10. My carbon fiber knives have all taken scratches, much to my dismay. I think the Volcano grip, as found on the Delica and Endura 4, is more grippy, and makes more sense being directional, than any grip I've felt on any G-10, Micarta or Carbon Fiber handled knife.

The greater structural and tensile strength of G-10 and carbon fiber over FRN is just lost on a folding knife. I don't see how those advantages really come into play in the design of any kind of knife, folding or non-folding, apart from making the knife more beautiful and valuable for that reason.

Esthetically, I think G-10 looks better than FRN, and Micarta looks even better than G-10. Polished carbon fiber looks really cool, but peel-ply carbon fiber doesn't look much different than well made G-10.

For utility, I'm all about FRN, but if you're collecting knives as an investment, or you're looking for bling, carbon fiber is the way to go. For aesthetics, I'm a fan of Micarta.

When it comes down to it, they all work about the same.
 
Last edited:
After two decades of owning Spydies I recently received my first FRN models in a trade - two Enduras and a Pacific Salt.

I guess its always been snobbery that prevented me from buying FRN models before, I've only ever owned G-10 and stainless Spydies up to now but I can honestly say I think I've missed out on a lot.

These knives seem like a fantastic option for the knife freak on a budget. They are light and slim and I don't feel you are losing much in terms of quality.

I guess I did myself a disservice all these years by turning my nose up at FRN!
 
The FRN Stretch and D'Allara have amazing ergos. I would rather have them in FRN any day.

G10 is great and offers amazing traction which is nice for knives that aren't as form-fitting (like the Rookie).
 
The more I use FRN the more it has become the handle material I like the most. Now if I'm going for a real fancy knife then I prefer carved stag bone, wood, or micarta. However for knives that you can throw off the roof of your house, have them land in the driveway, go get it, and have them look and operate like nothing ever happened to it, FRN is where it's at. I dropped my G10 Paramilitary from about 3 feet on my concrete driveway a year ago. It had a few chips out of the G10 where it it the ground. The chips don't affect how the knife performs but regardless. I have dropped my Delica 3 SE from a second story window on accident while up on a ladder and it landed on some pavers that I was making a small walkway out of. Nothing happened to the Delica 3 in FRN.

I think FRN has more advantages than G10 has.

My $.037 ;)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top