Carbon Fiber Benefits?

[KFLEISIG]

I have been noticing how much it adds to the price on knives that are available with carbon fiber scales. Is it worth it? What's so special about it? A specific example that I have been admiring is the Spyderco Military.

 

[enderwiggin]

Carbon fiber is lightweight, strong, and looks good.

I suspect the last part is what's adding most of the price, however I have heard domestically produced carbon fiber becomes more expensive during wartime.

 

[m_calingo]

For me, the major plus is it looks cool. It has a translucent quality that adds a jewel like quality to the knife handle. If the scale finish is textured from bead blasting, or some other method, it aids in the "grip ability" of the knife handle.

It's also light, but in the amounts used for knife scales, that advantage is barely noticeable.

For sheer function, I'd probably stick with G10 or micarta. But for looks, I'd go with carbon fiber.

 

[NickZac]

The fact that is it something different jacks the price up. Is it strong? Absolutely!...but so is G10...

 

[Scott Dog]

I also hear that it is quite a bit harder to work and the dust it puts out can be harmful to those who inhale it like asbestos. I think it looks cool. I also think that it's a more complicated substance and more expensive than say G-10 or Micarta.