Handle Ergonomics and hand measurements

flatgrinder

flatgrinder

Joined
Dec 20, 2005
Messages
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I'm designing a handle for a hunting knife. I'm trying to make the handle as compact as possible, but still fits most people.

If you're measuring your hand, what are the widths of #1 and #2 respectively, according to the diagram?

I'll go first:

#1: 3-1/4"

#2: 3-7/8"

The reason I'm asking is that I've purchased many knives over the years and some have handles that are either too small and others handles that are ill-conceived and too large. Any input would be appreciated! :thumbup:
 
I have a size 9 hand and across the knuckles it's 4" .I have a problem with knives that taper down to the end so it's not just the length .I also want a straight handle , no curve at all ! For me a straight handle ,fatter in the middle and slight taper to the ends is best. Good handles on factory knives for me are Fallkniven S-1 and CS Master Hunter .
 
3.5 & 4.
I have customers grip a broom stick and measure the length that is covered.
 
I would suggest that with any measurement that you go with that you add about 1/2" to the length. The reason is when people become physically active such as hunting, their hands swell. This will make a tightly fitted handle feel awkward.
 
3-3/4" & 4-1/8" For whats it's worth, all of the handles on my full size knives run from ~4"-5" in length (dependant on whether or not there is a guard. And measured across the middle of the handle, ~ 5/8"-3/4" wide, depending on the size of the knife. As usual, there are special circumstances and custom made handles. Those are all a "ballpark figure";)
 
3 1/2 and 4 inches respectively. I agree with those who say a handle should be at least 1/2 inch longer than would appear necessary.
 
Rookie7 said:
3 1/2 and 4 inches respectively. I agree with those who say a handle should be at least 1/2 inch longer than would appear necessary.
Click to expand...

My measurement as well. I also agree with a slightly longer handle that appears necessary. -Matt-
 
Warning- comma parses are straight from the quoted book-In "Knives & Knifemakers", says "the handle should be long enough to cross your palm diagonally. If it does you'll find, when grasping the handle, there may be a spare half-inch or so protruding from the back of your fist...Some makers prefer a slightly slightly longer grip in the belief that it allows the user more hand movement when working the blade." The book also says that many makers ask for outline drawings of your hand and that Rod Chappel asks for glove sizes. I would imagine that they are doing what you are. Why not see which glove size sells the most out of your favorite hunters catalog and take those two measurements off of that glove size? Then again, it really is a custom knife if measurements are taken of the customer's hand.

On a slightly ghoulish note, you may want to befriend a Medical Examiner- they may not be required to record that particular information you want, but they do make mental note of things- like people with a crease on their ear lobe are more likely to die of heart disease as opposed to other natural causes, people with downward creases at the mouth have suffered from depression (quick check the mirror), average organ weights..etc. I'm sure that they have noticed hand measurements. Or talk to a radiologist or sports enhancement dr and find out if they have any references for the average hand. Maybe Ripleys or some comparison website?
 
Mine is 3 5/8" and 4 3/8". I have found that if I make to fit my hand it will fit most. Of course I deviate from that as requested. I like palm swells with the handle being narrower at the front and rear with a shape that prevents the hand fron slipping off.
 
Mine is 4" and 4,5".. when gripping the first measure increases to 4,5".

Not sure about this, but what size handle should I be using then?
 
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