Durability of Micarta?

D

David S.

Joined
Jul 2, 1999
Messages
7
Hi,

I'm thinking about getting a Calypso jr. with the Micarta sides (lighter than the stainless steel version). I have never had a knife with Micarta, and I cannot find a Micarta knife in the local shops, so I'm curious as to how durable it is and how slippery it is when your hands are wet?

Thanks,

David S.
 
Micarta's pretty tough stuff, and when Spyderco does steel or Micarta versions, they make the Micarta version a bit thicker, too. Basically, a serious impact that would damage Micarta would also damage steel. The difference is that steel is malleable and will dent, whereas Micarta can chip a bit. The linen laminated into the Micarta means that any chip will remain small, and will never spread into a crack or affect the rest of the knife. Both steel and Micarta scratch; in my experience the Micarta hides it better, unless it's a doozy. It is about as slippery as steel, but has a warmer feel, radiused edges instead of chamfered ones (on Spydies), and the added thickness improves grip a little.

I love the Micarta models. I think they're quite tough enough for uses proper to a folder and are very attractive. My only gripe is that the lighter weight makes opening with "the drop" harder if they're tight.

------------------

-Corduroy
(Why else would a bear want a pocket?)
 
Well stated, Corduroy. But, you forgot to add the REAL reason why people buy micarta knives: you can get a good whiff of that 'carta anytime you need a lift
biggrin.gif
. Hehe. Don't you remember the original "Airplane" movie when the air traffic controller stated, "man, I picked a fine day to stop sniffing micarta!"?
 
No problems with micarta scales other than cracking around the first pin down from the pivot in a full sized Goddard. This was caused by a few flicks, only a few, way back in the day.
smile.gif
 
Also, you should not forget that the Micarta version offers another very significant advantage over the steel-handled version: a flat-ground blade!

David Rock

------------------
Stop when you get to bone.
 
I have the Micarta Handled version and it is a great knife. I once dropped it on the pavement ( before I tied a lanyard to it ) and broke off about 1.5 mm on one edge near the pivot point. I simply grabbed a tiny fingernail file and sanded it smooth. I have used the knife daily for a couple of years now in the field and it is really a fantastic knife. I love the flat grind. Quite easy to sharpen also.

Ken
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top