Custom scales are often quite pricey, can you use 3D printing to make usable scales?

[monkapotamus]

I was looking at getting some different scales for my Spyderco Tenacious to replace the basic black G-10 scales but in googling vendor offerings appear to be limited, and in many cases when available a set of G-10 scales would cost more than buying an entire new knife. I realize this is because they are being piece manufactured and it is a labor intensive process. With 3D printing now being used for all sorts of specialized precision manufacturing with amazing levels of precision I was wondering if it would be a solution for custom knife scales.

 

[Scurvy092]

Sure, if you want to invest in a 3d printer, learn how to program it properly and then have knife scales made from plastic...

 

[Neko2]

Sure, if you want to invest in a 3d printer, learn how to program it properly and then have knife scales made from plastic...

Or metal, wood, polymer etc. You can 3D print in a staggering amount of materials now. Additive manufacturing is really taking off. Some big companies are staying to manufacture parts as needed (gears etc) and specialized parts rather than using older processes that don't lens themselves to one off manufacturing.
Lots of places online will print custom orders (just search) and I know a place nearby that you can join for full access to 3D printers, laser engravers, grinders, CNC, lathes. ..

Do a Google search for 3D printing service and you'll find quite a few places.

 

[ATwistedStaple]

If it's for a popular knife (skyline, mini grip, pm2, etc.) I'd just buy a whole sheet of the material you want and then make a bunch of scales. Sell the extras and make your money back and potentially turn a profit.