Feel of Paper vs. G-10 vs. Canvas.

[Nikokurausu]

After seeing all the really cool looking Black Paper Micarta scales on the SJTACs in the other thread, I'm jonesing for some on one of my BATACs but they're not being offered and I can't pony up the money for a Custom right now. So, I was wondering if any of y'all with a Paper Micarta handled knife, preferably a Busse and preferably a TAC handles blade, can compare Paper Micarta to G-10? The pics of the G-10 used on Busses look shiny and I want plenty of purchase on the handle so if you think the pattern on the handles is enough to provide a very secure grip alone, then please tell. Otherwise I'll just stick with good ol' Canvas Micarta even though I'd like one with a darker handle. Also, if anyone could give a quick comparison of the feel of Paper vs. or in referance to Canvas it'd be much appreciated.

Thanks,
Nick

 

[37up]

I have a black paper SJ and a black G-10 FBM.

black paper is smooth, it feels smooth, and it looks smooth. if you run your finger nail across it, you won't have any rough resistance.

G-10 is also smooth, though not as much. you run your finger nail across it and it will drag somewhat. kinda feels like the coated side of school chalk.

i don't have any canvas micarta.

black paper looks great, but g-10 is a lighter but great substitute. you can also darken black canvas micarta (as i have heard).

 

[Ken44]

You said you want plenty of purchase on the grip.
Canvas all the way then. I have used them all, along with many other types over the years.
And Busse has the best micarta of anyone!!! There micarta not the infi is what first got my attention. I Now admire both of course.


You also said you would like the canvas to be darker.... I put mineral oil on my Busse canvas micarta [it does come light and dry looking sometimes], repeat the oil every week for a few weeks.

 

[Tyrkon Lawson]

I like the feel and looks of the black paper hands down. But I'd have to agree that the canvas feels gripier!

 

[rbmcmjr]

Given the same level of finish, I think the only real difference is visual appearance. I have several knives in black paper and black G10 and took a couple pictures to illustrate the point.

To the left is Busse Black Paper Micarta (on an AD) and to the right is Busse Black G10 (on a GW):

To the left is polished G10 (Dervish Bushi/Tanto) and to the right is blasted G10 (Dervish Triton):

As you can see, there is a visual difference in the surface appearance between the paper and G10 but it pales in comparison with the difference between the surface finishes.

G10 is tougher, too.

Now I just need to find someone who wants to swap his black G10 FBM handles for my tigerhides....

Rick

 

[Nikokurausu]

Thanks for the help gents. Looks like I'm just going to have to wait and see with the actual knives if the purchase with G-10 is to my liking compared to the Canvas Micarta.

The best part though, is that this gives me a legitimate reason to own at least one BATAC with G-10 and two with CM to have a backup. WOOHOO!!!

Also, thanks for the Mineral Oil suggestion. I'm going to try that on my M6 (which is Linen Micarta I believe) and see how it goes.