Do you hate FRN / Zytel? I don't.

Death's Head

Death's Head

Joined
Jul 26, 2005
Messages
2,027
I have been doing some reading on different handle materials. Don't get me wrong, G-10 is awesome, but it doesn't take anything away from FRN for me. Also, there are some knives are not offered in G-10 that I love. The new texturing on the new Delica/Endura really does it for me. I just to think of FRN synonymous with being a cheap quality knife.
 
Not at all, and that's not just me.

Sal Glesser doesn't either from what I've read on his posts.

But for sure, there are people who do.
 
I hate it! But just because I mold it all day long at work.

I prefer full steel liners in my folders but I can vouch for the strengh and durability of the glass filled nylons.
 
^^^^must be all those fumes^^^^^ :D

I think it's okay. It's not really my favorite, but it definately has it's place.
 
It is dependent upon the knife in question for me.

I still have a Gerber Legendary Blades Bolt Action that's a keeper. Super light and has been through a lot of travel with me.

But I really look at the knife more closely when these synthetics are used. Most knives utilizing them offer no ELU adjustment, what you buy is what you get. Exception is made for knives with liners, which can be modified with a bit of effort.

Also, I look at price more when these materials are used. As the material is relatively inexpensive, metal and design become more important. As an example: Fallkniven's U2, your paying for the steel in the knife.
 
Nothing wrong with Zytel, as long as there are steel liners under it. I don't like my knives to have scales that flex when I squeeze them.
 
I have a SOG Flash II whose handle is made out of Zytel - It's fine with me. Spyderco FRN folders? I just can't bring myself to like them, they just feel like cheap junk somehow.

(Not a dig against Spyderco, just their choice of handle material)
 
There's a definite place for FRN -- it's hard to beat in terms of weight/strength/price.
 
I love the FRN for light duty EDC. Light in the pocket is preferable especially on larger bladed knives. Also, allows for better blade quality in an inexpensive knive ( i.e. shades of Calypso Jr. ZDP). IMO. For heavier duty use I'll take liners every time (love my Manix, BM 710, MTX2, etc.) but you pay for it in bucks and weight in the pocket (sometimes shredded pockets and pants with G-10 or a sheath on the belt). Only reasonable compromise I've seen is the new Endura and Delica 4's but even they are heavier ... To each his own, but then that's the fun of it. IMO
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top